How did the new SPOT II perform? Every message that I sent out made it to the pre-determined emails I set up for the unit. Each “OK” message was checked for location and time against a waypoint set on my GPS at the time that it was sent. Had there been a life-threatening emergency at any of those locations and the SOS feature activated, I can be pretty certain that the SPOT “911” center would have gotten the signal. This makes me pretty confident that if the message function works in a place like Canyon De Chelly, it will pretty much work anywhere else that I travel. The tracking feature was satisfactory, not as perfect or precise as my $800 GPS unit but still good enough for people tracking my progress at home.
Related: Magellan’s GPS Toughcase for iPhone & iPod Touch
I didn’t get the SPOT II for its tracking feature but it is a bonus. The main reason to consider owning a SPOT II is its ability to summon Search and Rescue in the event of a life-threatening emergency and it does the job. The new SPOT II is easier to use and is well worth the cost to buy and maintain or to upgrade from your old SPOT Messenger Device. Your SPOT will cost $99 a year for the minimum service level but considering that your $99 annual investment could save a life, possibly yours, it’s well worth it.
Related – Defender Series Case for Android/iPhone by Otter Box
* Published by JPFreek Adventure Magazine – The leader in Jeep and adventure enthusiast publications.