28 Comments

1. 

   @lynwoodjones

   January 9, 2025 at 3:58 pm

   ????

   Reply
2. 

   @ArtGeek2817

   January 9, 2025 at 4:04 pm

   This exactly pretty useful

   Reply
3. 

   @EvansFormica

   January 9, 2025 at 4:08 pm

   I’m guessing that it does not work on the subway. Is there any device that would give coverage on a subway?

   Reply
   • 

     @More_Row

     January 9, 2025 at 4:30 pm

     you are literally underground there brother.

     Reply
   • 

     @deluge6479

     January 9, 2025 at 4:34 pm

     Not unless they build cell towers and satellites underground, no

     Reply
   • 

     @danieldevine

     January 9, 2025 at 4:40 pm

     Yeah, your phone. carriers just need to put small cells in. Not that hard, places have it already. The tunnel between england and france has 4G

     Reply
   • 

     @Fatman305

     January 9, 2025 at 4:51 pm

     Likely a signal booster external device. YMMV though…

     Reply
4. 

   @rosariodagosto6484

   January 9, 2025 at 4:21 pm

   200for a SMS plus 89 dollars no thanks sweetee

   Reply
5. 

   @Nimac91

   January 9, 2025 at 4:26 pm

   Imagine paying more for this device while buying a used iPhone 14 is cheaper than 280 dollars and does all this for free unlimited times without a Simard in it….

   Reply
   • 

     @iLuseMy1v1s

     January 9, 2025 at 4:51 pm

     Aren’t they supposed to start charging for satellite access?

     Reply
   • 

     @Fatman305

     January 9, 2025 at 4:56 pm

     You can’t sms your mom without SIM on iphone 14, not even in emergencies….
     —
     If you’re using an iPhone 14 without a SIM card, the Emergency SOS via Satellite feature still works, but it remains restricted to emergency use only. The satellite feature is not designed for general communication and does not offer unlimited usage, even without a SIM card. Here’s how it works:

     1. Emergency SOS Messages: You can use satellites to contact emergency services when you’re outside of cellular or Wi-Fi coverage. However, this is not for regular messaging or non-emergency communication.

     2. Find My Location Sharing: You can share your location via the Find My app over satellite, but again, this is limited to specific circumstances like when you’re in a remote area and not for continuous or unlimited use.

     3. Limitations:

     Satellite communication requires clear skies and a direct line of sight to the satellite, so it’s not available everywhere.

     The feature doesn’t allow regular internet access or general texting/calling.

     After the initial free period (typically two years), continued satellite access may require a paid subscription.

     In short, even without a SIM card, you cannot use the satellite feature for unlimited communication; it’s strictly for emergencies or limited location sharing.

     Reply
   • 

     @TheAegisClaw

     January 9, 2025 at 5:00 pm

     Only in the US…

     Reply
   • 

     @Sw33tBabyRays

     January 9, 2025 at 7:32 pm

     It’s only for emergency and they are going to start charging for it.

     Reply
6. 

   @SusanAErbetta

   January 9, 2025 at 4:29 pm

   Sweet!

   Reply
7. 

   @Mr.Coffee20255

   January 9, 2025 at 4:37 pm

   I think it Kool so far

   Reply
8. 

   @vpnconsult

   January 9, 2025 at 4:42 pm

   Would prefer the Garmin Inreach

   Reply
   • 

     @Fatman305

     January 9, 2025 at 4:53 pm

     Wayyy too expensive…
     —
     The Garmin inReach devices are renowned for providing reliable satellite communication, including emergency SOS capabilities, in areas without cellular coverage. Here’s a breakdown of the costs associated with these devices and their subscription plans:

     Device Cost:

     Garmin inReach Mini 2: This compact satellite communicator is priced at approximately $399.99.

     Garmin inReach Messenger Plus: An upgraded model offering additional features, available for $499.99.

     Subscription Plans:

     As of December 2024, Garmin has streamlined its inReach subscription offerings into three primary month-to-month plans, each requiring a 30-day commitment:

     1. Essential Plan:

     Monthly Cost: $14.95

     Included Messages: 10 per month

     Overage Fee: $0.50 per additional message

     2. Standard Plan:

     Monthly Cost: $34.95

     Included Messages: 60 per month

     Overage Fee: $0.50 per additional message

     3. Premium Plan:

     Monthly Cost: $64.95

     Included Messages: Unlimited

     These plans are designed to cater to varying usage needs, from occasional messaging to frequent communication.

     Annual Cost and Message Allowance:

     Essential Plan:

     Annual Cost: $14.95 × 12 = $179.40

     Included Messages: 10 messages/month × 12 months = 120 messages per year

     Standard Plan:

     Annual Cost: $34.95 × 12 = $419.40

     Included Messages: 60 messages/month × 12 months = 720 messages per year

     Premium Plan:

     Annual Cost: $64.95 × 12 = $779.40

     Included Messages: Unlimited

     Additional Considerations:

     Activation Fee: Garmin may charge a one-time activation fee when initiating a new subscription.

     Suspension Option: Previously, Garmin offered a suspended service option for a reduced fee during periods of inactivity. As of the latest updates, this option has been replaced with an $8/month “Enabled Plan,” allowing users to maintain their account at a lower cost when not actively using the device.

     Conclusion:

     For users seeking the most economical option, the Essential Plan at $14.95 per month offers 10 messages monthly, totaling 120 messages annually, with an overage fee of $0.50 per additional message. This plan is suitable for those with minimal communication needs, primarily relying on the device for emergency situations.

     Note: Pricing and plan details are subject to change. It’s advisable to consult Garmin’s official website or contact their customer service for the most current information.

     Reply
9. 

   @Fatman305

   January 9, 2025 at 4:59 pm

   After filtering out the idi0tic suggestions in this comment section, this device clearly goes on my hurricane prep list…though Starlink is higher on that list…

   Reply
10. 

    @gmaximenko

    January 9, 2025 at 5:10 pm

    Motorola Defi it’s is (aka Bullit)

    Basic Communications App: Free

    Satellite Monthly Plans: $4.99-29.99 per month, for 12 month contract

    Satellite One-time Plan: $59.99 (valid for 12 months, includes SOS assist, 250 messages)

    Reply
    • 

      @Fatman305

      January 9, 2025 at 5:23 pm

      Not the prices on their (toyish) site… Where did you get these prices?

      Reply
11. 

    @7_of_9

    January 9, 2025 at 5:11 pm

    It’s cheaper if I put upmy own satellite in space using Rocket Lab and have unlimited dedicated service

    Reply
12. 

    @dangitnicky

    January 9, 2025 at 6:13 pm

    This is super sick for Canadians, much of Western Canada has large towns with nothing in between them. Makes travelling quite dangerous during the winter time.

    Reply
13. 

    @CNET

    January 9, 2025 at 7:05 pm

    Read more on CNET.com: Give Any Phone a Texting Hotspot Connection Using a Satellite, Just Like iPhone 16

    Reply
14. 

    @ChrisGraves1119

    January 9, 2025 at 7:37 pm

    Beyond stupid if you can just buy a new phone with gps for less than that ????

    Reply
15. 

    @BruceLeeRoy26

    January 9, 2025 at 7:38 pm

    Pixel 9 series and iPhone 15 and newer have this for free (for now). I’m glad to see this technology becoming more popular, I think it’ll take over cellular as the main signal in the next decade. Imagine being able to have service virtually anywhere, no new SIM cards needed or spending money on a cell plan when going overseas. These are great for natural disasters too.

    Reply
16. 

    @joecampo1770

    January 9, 2025 at 8:02 pm

    That satellite technology that is so far existing in the iOS devices is marginal at best, if you’re anywhere that has even a tiny bit of service that is nonfunctional it won’t engage satellite messaging so until they fix that there’s a wide open market for devices like this

    Reply
17. 

    @HeyMavDak

    January 9, 2025 at 8:05 pm

    Nobody is going to spend $200 on instead of buying a new phone.

    Reply
18. 

    @thenotoriousgryyn342

    January 9, 2025 at 8:17 pm

    Cool

    Reply