ever wished that you can text freely with your iPhone in the most remote part of world? keep dreaming cos’ that’s not going to happen. in reality, you will need a satellite-connected device such as the DeLorme inReach SE Satellite Communicator to do so. do not mistaken the inReach SE for a phone – it is not. the inReach SE (the ‘SE’ here stands for ‘Screen Edition’) is essentially a GPS device that allows you send and receive text messages (up to 160 characters per message) to and from any cell phone number, email address or social media page even when you are off the grid. now, that’s what we call always connected. additionally, when used with DeLorme’s Earthmate app, you can wirelessly pair with today’s popular smartphones and tablets to access topographic maps and NOAA charts, and a more convenient texting experience. in that way, your smartphone wouldn’t be all that useless when you find yourself out of the cell range.
another interesting feature is the follow me/find me tracking feature that provides GPS position updates allowing your family and friends to follow your trip as it progresses. with this feature, they can log into a dedicated MapShare page to follow your detailed breadcrumb trail, ‘ping’ for your location, and exchange messages with you. other highlights include SOS trigger with remote tracking, color display with easy-to-use UI and predictive text input-capable virtual keyboard, LED indicator for satellite availability, audible message notifications, a rugged go-anywhere design (it’s rate IP67 for water submersion and MIL-STD-810F for impact resistant, btw), and it packs a rechargeable lithium battery that has 100 hours usage when on the 10-minute tracking mode. the DeLorme inReach SE Satellite Communicator carries a retail sticker of $299.95, plus an annual satellite subscriptions starting from $9.95 per month.
