New Satellite Messaging Device Designed to Work With Smartphones Via App

Globalstar subsidiary Spot announced Monday a next-generation two-way satellite messenger device that connects to a smartphone via Bluetooth to send and receive messages. The $249 device (starting at $11.99 for monthly service) is designed to provide satellite communications and emergency notifications to adventurers and remote workers from a device equipped with a QWERTY keyboard, said the company. Users see satellite messages via a phone app. It includes 14 preprogrammed messages and directly connects to the GEOS International Emergency Coordination Center.