CES is going on, and we’re getting a sneak peek at some amazing tech from companies around the world. Among the companies, we have HMD. This company has been releasing some interesting smartphones throughout the year, but this brand is looking to branch out. HMD introduced the OffGrid, a portable device that can connect you to a satellite when you need it most.
Satellite connectivity is all the rage nowadays, and it’s easy to see why. Satellites offer much more coverage than cell towers, and this can come in handy when you’re in the middle of nowhere. Hikers, mountain climbers, sailers, and other types of adventurers can benefit from consistent connectivity. If an emergency happens, and they’re outside of a cell tower, then the worst could happen.
Thankfully, the HMD OffGrid can provide satellite connectivity
Right now, smartphone companies and carriers are working on bringing satellite connectivity to your smartphone, but the process is rather slow. This is where the OffGrid comes in. This is a physical device that you carry around with you while you travel. It will bridge the gap between you and the satellites.
The OffGrid is a rugged device sporting the MIL-STD-810H military protection rating. This means that it can withstand harsh environments and tough impacts. Along with that, it will give you up to three days of battery life on a single charge.
Keeping up
Using the HMD OffGrid app, you’ll be able to send text messages to other people. These messages will go through the OffGrid, which will send them through a satellite and to the recipient. So, if you’re hiking, and you want to keep in touch with your loved ones, you can. Also, if something happens to you, you will be able to keep people up to date. Using the app, you’ll be able to send text messages to up to five numbers.
Folks at home want you to be safe, so there’s a neat feature that will make it easy for people to keep up with you. You’ll set the OffGrid to automatically send location updates to your contacts so that they can keep track of you. You’ll configure the device to send messages at consistent intervals. These range from every four hours to every three minutes.
The Check-in feature will allow you to send a pre-crafted message to your recipients letting them know that you’re safe. So, you can send a message letting your recipients know when you made it to your destination.
However, if the situation becomes dire, then you’ll be able to contact the local search-and-rescue teams. They’ll be able to pinpoint your location through your phone and rescue you.
Price and plans
The HMD OffGrid comes in at $199, and you’ll be able to pick one up later this month. There are two payment plans that give you access to satellite connectivity. The $14.99/month Unlimited plan will give you unlimited messages and check-ins. If you want the SOS service and live tracking, that will be an additional $4.99/month.
Next, there’s the $79.99/year Freedom plan. This will give you 350 text messages with unlimited check-ins and live tracking for an additional $0.10/ring.
