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SPOT offers satellite messengers and trackers for outdoor enthusiasts and remote workers. Learn how SPOT products can help you stay safe and connected in the backcountry.
- Support
Need help with your Saved by SPOT device? Get the answers...
- Products & Services
SPOT Trace allows you to track anything at any point in time...
- SPOT Life
Read about SPOT Adventures, SPOT rescues and more. Toggle...
- View Ambassadors
Over the years, our SPOT device has given peace of mind to...
- Spot My Account
To cancel your service, please send an email to...
- Spot Trace
SPOT Trace allows you to track your most valued assets, from...
- Spot and FocusPoint Partnership
SPOT offers peace of mind, using 100% satellite technology....
- How It Works
SPOT connects you to GEOS Rescue Coordination Center in an...
- Spot X
SPOT X two-way satellite messenger connects to your smart...
- English
Log in to your SPOT Account in the SPOT App to display your...
- Support
- Jurassic GPS
- Satellite Communicators & How They Work
- The Spot Gen 4 Instruction Manual – 5 Basic Functions
- Gen 3 vs Gen 4 – Specs & More
- Battery Life
- Subscription Service Plans – Cost & Fees
- Setting Up The Gen 4 Device
- Use in The Field: Spot Review
- Your Turn
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Before we get started, it’s worth noting that I think the days are numbered for GPS beacons such as this. Late in 2022, Apple announced that the iPhone 14 series would include a 911 function via GPS – basically the equivalent of what’s found in SPOT and Garmin devices. Dedicated devices like these still offer a wider range of useful functions like ...
Most of us carry cell phones on our hikes, but reception is often spotty or non-existent (and aren’t we thankful for that?!). But if you get in to trouble (especially a life or death situation), you may be a long way from help. This is where a satellite communicator can save your butt. SPOT’s release of its first-generation device was a game-change...
The Gen 4 device is used for 5 primary GPS location functions. 1. You can send an SOS message to a 911 center. 2. You can send a “Help” message to a pre-arranged list of contacts. 3. You can send a pre-customized “I’m OK” message to a pre-arranged list of contacts. 4. You can send an additional pre-customized message to a pre-arranged list of conta...
I’ve been using a Gen 3 device since 2013. SPOT released its new Gen 4 device in 2020. The Gen 4 is essentially the same product as the Gen 3, simply redesigned in a new, tougher shell. If you already own a Gen 3 and it works properly, there is no need to upgrade. Otherwise, you can buy a new Gen 4 directly from SPOT. Retailers often sell them for ...
The batteries last for more than a reasonable length of time. The longest I continuously used the tracking feature was for 6 consecutive days, all day every day. There was battery life to spare at the end of the hike. If you leave the device turned off, and only use the OK message once every 24 hours, the batteries will last for much longer. I have...
The SPOT Gen 3 and Gen 4 devices both require a service plan, and both operate under the same terms. There’s 2 offered plans – a “Contract” plan and a “Flex” plan. The Contract plan is for year-round use, whereas the Flex plan is for more seasonal use. Both have an activation fee of $19.95, but the Flex plan tacks on additional $24.95 “flex charge”...
Once you’re in possession of your new SPOT device, you’ll go to their main website and create an account. It was years ago when I created my own account so I don’t recall the exact activation process, but they have a good website that will walk you through it. Once your device is activated, you’ll click on the MY DEVICES tab in the main menu. You’l...
Overall I’ve found my SPOT Gen 3 device to be reliable on long hikes. I continue to keep a subscription in spite of its lack of 2-way communication, and I like using it because of this quality. It’s main competitor (Garmin InReach) is generally more expensive, too.
Do you carry a GPS emergency beacon, and if so, what is your preferred device? If you use a Gen 3 or Gen 4, how do you like to preset the custom messages?
Learn how to use the SPOT Gen 3 and Gen 4 devices for emergency beacon, tracking, and check-in messages. Compare the features, functions, and pros and cons of these satellite communicators for hiking.
Aug 15, 2020 · MEANT FOR ADVENTURE: Spot Gen4 provides critical, life-saving line of communication when you travel beyond cell towers; Let family know you're ok or push the SOS button to send your GPS to emergency responders if you need help.
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Jan 19, 2023 · A detailed review of the SPOT Gen4, a satellite messenger for emergency and tracking purposes. Compare its features, pros and cons, and alternatives with other devices.
