SPOT Satellite Messenger Personal Tracker Review (GPSmagazine.com)

Verdict: Unique Features. A Great Idea. Not Sensitive Enough.

SPOT says it's Personal Tracker device is the world's first satellite messenger. Leveraging both GPS satellite and SPOT's own network, the device is able to report its location to friends and family even in areas without cellular or wireless coverage.

Priced at $169.99 (plus $9.99/month service fee, or $99.99/year), SPOT's Satellite Messenger boasts up to 1 year battery life (using 2 AA lithium batteries), global coverage, the ability to track your position using Google Maps, and 9-1-1 alerting for life-threatening emergencies. The bright orange handheld device is water- temperature -and shock-proof, and has the ability to send pre-defined "I'm OK" emails or SMS alerts. Oh, and it floats too.

1. Features:

SPOT sends your exact GPS coordinates and selected messages over commercial satellites to tell others of your location and status.
Works around the world, independently of cellular networks.
SPOT features four key functions that enable users to send messages to friends, family or emergency responders, based upon varying levels of need:
- Alert 9-1-1 - Dispatch emergency responders to your exact location
- Ask for Help - Request help from friends and family in your exact location
- Check In - Let contacts know where you are and that you're OK
- Track Progress - Send and save your location and allow contacts to track your progress using Google Maps™

2. Specifications

Satellite coverage works around the world, independently of cellular systems
7.37 ounces
Unit Cost: $169.99 USD (MSRP)
Service Fee: $99.99 USD annual OR $9.99 USD monthly subscription charge. Optional features include automatic tracking service (SPOTcasting) and guaranteed extraction service for countries or regions with non-responsive emergency services.
Unlimited SPOTcasting Fee: $49.99 annual (OPTIONAL)
GEOS Search and Rescue Benefit: $7.95 annual (OPTIONAL)
Coverage: SPOT works around the world, including virtually all of North America, Europe and Australia, portions of South America, Northern Africa and Northeastern Asia, and hundreds or thousands of miles offshore of these areas.
Battery Life
- Includes 2 AA lithium batteries; under normal usage a full battery charge should meet or exceed the following
  - Power on, unused: Approx. 1 year
  - SPOTcasting tracking mode: Approx. 14 days
  - 9-1-1 mode: Up to 7 consecutive days
  - SPOTcheck OK/√: 1900 messages
Operating Temperatures: -40°F to +185°F
Operating Altitude: -300 feet to +21,000 feet
Floats in water
Waterproof to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes
Humidity Rated MIL-STD-810E Method 507.3, 95% to 100% condensing
Salt Fog Rated Per MIL_STD 810E Method 509.3, 5% NaCl, 95% distilled water
Vibration Rated Per SAE J1455
Dropped twice on all six sides from one meter onto hard surface.