DeLorme inReach stays connected at 2012 Outdoor Retailer Summer Market
Sometimes, when walking the Salt Palace Floor during the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market, you see something that makes you stop and go, “holy s#$t that’s incredible! The inReach 2-way satellite Communicator by DeLorme is one such item.
The DeLorme inReach 2-way Satellite Communicator at 2012 Outdoor Retailer Summer Market. (Photo: Jared Hargrave – UtahOutside.com)
The inReach is basically like those GPS enabled emergency beacons that you can use to call in the calvary in case you, say bust a hip on a scree field 50 miles away from civilization… and you’re alone. But those devices are only one way, with no indication that your SOS ever made it home. All you can do is push the emergency button and pray. But with the DeLorme inReach, you have a 2-way communicator that can not only send, but receive text messages anywhere in the world. Think of it not as a satellite phone, but a satellite text messager!
Tons of functions make the DeLorme inReach head and shoulders above the competition. (Photo: Jared Hargrave – UtahOutside.com)
The inReach is also great because you get delivery confirmation when you send a message, and it uses follow-me/find-me tracking so your loved ones can keep tabs on your location at any time if you’re humping it up Everest, or paddling down the Amazon.
In addition, the inReach syncs with smartphones and tablets to make 2-way messaging even easier, rather than having to rely on sending a generic, “I’m fine” or “Help.” texts. Along with all that, the inReach comes with free apps and maps via Earthmate so you can download topo maps and NOAA nautical charts for GPS navigation wherever you happen to find yourself.
The inReach even synchs with smartphones and tablets. (Photo: Jared Hargrave – UtahOutside.com)
Of course, calling for a rescue is the most important reason to carry something like this, so it has the 2-way SOS Lifeline. You can describe the nature of your emergency and exact location, and even send updates if your situation changes. Also, emergancy crews are able to send instructions, ETA and other crucial info when they’re dispatched.
There’s a lot more to say about the DeLorme inReach, but I’d have to write a pamphlet to describe it all. Needless to say, this decive is a game changer. I envision it replacing SPOT trackers and even satellite phones as the number-one satellite emergency comminucator in the world… it’s really that cool.
For more information, check them out at www.inreachdelorme.com
That’s way cool. We purchased a McMurdo FastFind PLB a couple years ago for backup – but as you say, it’s just push and pray. The SPOT device is unreliable, but the inReach looks very promising. Love that they have options for use with smartphones or GPS units.