T-Satellite

[billconner]

Seems the cell phone may replace the Garmins, Spots, Zoleos, Etc.

Is T-Mobile’s New Satellite Messaging Service the End of the Dedicated Satellite Messenger?

The cellular provider’s Starlink-assisted “T-Satellite” is the most fully-featured satellite service yet.

www.backpacker.com

I like the idea of sending photos.

 

[Erica]

Seems the cell phone may replace the Garmins, Spots, Zoleos, Etc.

Is T-Mobile’s New Satellite Messaging Service the End of the Dedicated Satellite Messenger?

The cellular provider’s Starlink-assisted “T-Satellite” is the most fully-featured satellite service yet.

www.backpacker.com

I like the idea of sending photos.

Technology is changing so fast.

In the comments section it is pointed out that if the phone is being used for a variety of other tasks, it is more likely to be lost than a dedicated sat device kept in a secure location.

Also, the batteries on a cell phone are going to be exhausted more frequently.

 

[Punkinhead]

What I like about a cell phone is it's always with me so I don't have to remember to pack it. I camp, hike, canoe, dirt bike, ATV, etc. All things where some type of satellite communication in an emergency would be helpful. My gear for those various hobbies is stored in different places. With a waterproof, satellite capable phone I wouldn't have to remember to get it from wherever it was stored after the last trip. And now I have a single device to communicate, take pictures, look up information, navigate, entertain myself at camp, and have emergency communications capability that I won't forget because it's always with me. It's true that battery usage could be an issue but the number one battery killer is the screen and I don't look at mine very often so the battery lasts for days. In fact, during most of these activities my phone is powered off. Plus there are lots of portable recharging options.

 

[Tryin']

Once a phone manufacturer includes a dedicated no-screen-function-required SOS button, they would probably get my dollars. The current requirement of a functional screen precludes my purchase. Of all the things to break, that big piece of glass is high on the scale.

Edit: No, pressing the power button five times in a row and then a confirming press doesn't count. Dedicated button, dedicated status LED.

 

[dramey]

I don’t know if T-Mobile services Alaska. AT&T is the big one in Alaska, with limited Verison.

 

[tketcham]

Also, the batteries on a cell phone are going to be exhausted more frequently.

That's the number one reason I will continue to bring a Garmin inReach device. Plus, it's far more durable and reliable than my "smart" phone. I do like the satellite capability of my phone when I'm traveling through or car camping in areas without coverage.

 

[Marten]

Cost in the future will put a lid on how many will be using their phones. My Garmin subscription is still $12 so not much their for me. Quality of coverage above 60 degrees will.be an issue for a while. Will be looking for reviews of its use out in the bush this year.