If a tree falls in the woods, but no one is there the question is asked, “does it make a sound?” But what if you’re lost in the forest, all alone, and you cry out for help. No one will hear you, not unless you have DeLorme’s new inReach device.
Essentially this satellite-enabled device is your hiking, backcountry panic button for those times when you need help and have no cellular coverage. The device can send a general SOS message to the GEOS International Emergency Response Coordination Center, and users can also send pre-loaded text messages to additional parties as well. The latter messages don’t have to be warnings, but updates – such as “I’ve reached the summit.”
For those times when you need urgent help the device, which features GPS technology, can regularly transmit its coordinates at regular intervals. The inReach can also be liked up with an Android device via Bluetooth and allow for two-way text communication, sending/receiving of email and even provide access for Facebook and Twitter updates.
httpv://youtu.be/4eu-AZK-2fE
It also provides access to DeLorme Topo North American maps of Canada and the United States. The DeLorme inReach can also take a licking or two. The device is waterproof and even floats, and is impact-resistant. It runs on a pair of AA lithium batteries and can operate continually for about 60 hours. The palm sized push-button DeLorme inReach is available for $249.95, while required subscription plans range from around $10 to $50, but for those who plan to trek into the wilds it could be priceless.
DeLorme Official Website
[Via Cnet: $250 gadget helps you stay InReach when off the grid]