How much does it cost to have a satellite phone?

Satellite phone service differs from each different service providers. It can Range from $39.99 a month up to $629.99 a month for post paid options. Pretty much all service providers offer you an option of monthly service and pre-paid options as well.

Do satellite phones work everywhere?

The Iridium satellite service provider offers the only global coverage. Other satellite phone service providers offer wide coverage but they are not global.

Can I use my cell phone to connect via satellite?

Your cell phone can’t connect directly with a satellite network because it simply isn’t designed to do that. Optionally, you can use a device like the Iridium GO! to connect your smart phone or tablet to the Iridium Satellite Network. Your phone basically acts as your keyboard and screen, while the GO! connects you to the satellites.

Why is using a satellite phone so expensive?

Satellite Phone usage is more expensive than cell phones or landlines because of supply and demand and the billions of dollars required to develop, build, launch, and maintain these intricate satellite networks for the major providers: Iridium, Inmarsat & Globalstar.

Are satellite phones illegal?

Satellite Phones are not illegal in most of the world. Some countries do ban them for political reasons, but this is the exception, not the rule. Countries that have satellite phone restrictions India The only satellite phone and network that India allows is Inmarsat and you must obtain permission before your trip. If you do not have a permit and you bring one you may be imprisoned and you will lose the satellite phone. Sri Lanka If you do not have a permit and you bring a satellite phone to Sri Lanka you may be arrested and it will cost you thousands and a confiscated phone. Cuba Satellite phones or GPS communications system are forbidden in Cuba unless you have taken all the steps necessary to obtain a permit from the Cuban Ministry of Informatics and Communications. Sudan Sudan bans most electronic devices. We highly suggest looking into this matter when you are applying for your Visa or other travel paper work. North Korea North Korea does not allow you to bring satellite phones with you. Nigeria Nigeria has banned satellite phones in certain areas due to terrorist groups. It’s unclear what the law is there about satellite phones but looking into the matter is highly encouraged. Myanmar There has been much unrest and infighting in Myanmar/Burma. In the past most communications was disabled and outside communications was not allowed. This is a country where you have to do your own checking before renting or buying a sat phone. Chad Chad restricts the use of a satellite phone or possessing one. Russia Requires registration prior to bringing the satellite phone in. Satmodo will help you with this step. Iran Iran has restrictions on many electronic devices, like satellite phones and drones. If you are planning to travel to Iran, it is recommended that you first contact the Iranian embassy or consulate to familiarize yourself with the regulations. Libya Certain satellite phone networks were banned in the past and current laws are unclear. Please look into this before committing to a sat phone.

Can I buy a satellite phone?

Yes you can. We have all the best sat phone options available for you, regardless of your destination. Make sure to take a look at our selection. Please let us know if you have any questions.

Can satellites phones be traced?

It is possible. The government has every right to contact the satellite network to reveal the user identity. However, because you would purchase the phone through Satmodo Satellite Phones, the satellite network would simply tell the authorities that it was a Satmodo phone.

What are good satellite phones for international travelers?

The Iridium 9555, Iridium 9575 Extreme, Iridium PTT and Iridium GO! all operate and connect on Iridium's global network which will keep you connected anywhere on the planet. These units are available for Rental or Purchase.

Can satellite phone conversations be tapped?

It is possible. It would take very specific information about the phone's SIM card to work, but it is definitely possible.

Can a satellite phone use WhatsApp?

The standard satellite phones like the Iridium 9555, Iridium 9575 Extreme, Iridium PTT, Iridium GO!, Inmarsat Isatphone2 and Globalstar GSP-1700 are great for making & receiving calls, or sending & receiving text messages, and some can even send SOS signals and GPS coordinates. That being said... nope. They don’t work with WhatsApp.

How does a satellite phone work?

The right satellite phone can work anywhere on earth because the primary infrastructure is orbiting the planet and does not use any cell towers or repeaters to make the connection possible. Your connection is directly to the satellite in the sky.

What are the uses of satellite phones?

Satellite phones can be used almost anywhere for any reason. Many people use satellite phones in remote areas while traveling for hunting, hiking, fishing, off-road racing, and cruises. Satellite phones are critical for relief work in the event of a natural disaster, like a hurricane, wildfire, earthquake, or tsunami. Traditional communications, like landlines and cell phones, are often negatively impacted in these events, so a sat phone becomes the only reliable form of communication for the rescue workers and first responders rushing into these risky scenarios.

What is the best satellite phone to buy?

The best satellite phone you can buy is: Iridium Extreme Iridium 9555 Iridium GO! IsatPhone 2 Isatphone Pro Globalstar GSP-1700

Is there a monthly fee for satellite phones?

Satellite phone providers offer a monthly and a prepaid service option. With the monthly service option you would simply pick the amount of minutes you need a month and the option to add on special features like a USA phone number and rollover minutes.

2022 Satellite Messenger Buyer’s Guide For The Best Satellite Messenger

What is a satellite Messenger ?

A satellite Messenger is a GPS tracking device that uses the satellite network to provide text messaging and GPS tracking depending on the subscription type purchased.

Why do people need satellite Messengers?

Users can rest assured that if something goes wrong or sudden medical problems arise, they will get help. Messages also allow the recipient to see exactly where they are on a map. For the user, satellite messengers also offer flexibility.

Which satellite Messenger has the best coverage?

Satmodo only works with the best networks to offer you reliable service around the globe. Bivystick, Garmin, Spot, and Zoleo all have broad coverage areas, with Garmin being the one network offering complete global coverage.

What is the best satellite Messenger?

Garmin inReach Mini 2 is one of the best satellite messenger no matter where you are, two-way messaging lets you connect to the ones who matter. Sends interactive SOS alerts anytime, globally.

Satellite Messenger Comparison Chart 2022

We've put together a satellite messenger comparison chart below to make it easy for you to shop for an affordable satellite messenger and package best suited for your needs including quality of service (QoS), potential limitations, and advantages one satellite messenger may have over another.

← Swipe →

Compare	Garmin inReach Mini	ACR Bivy Stick	ZOLEO Satellite Communicator	SPOT Gen 4
Pricing (approx)	$349.99	$249.95	$199.99	$149.99
Satellite Network	Iridium	Iridium	Iridium	Globalstar
Coverage	Global	Global	Global	Global (Non-Polar)
Weight	100.0 g \| 3.5 oz	102 g \| 3.6 oz	150 g \| 5.3 oz	142 g \| 5 oz
Size	2.04” x 3.90” x 1.03” (5.17 x 9.90 x 2.61 cm)	4.83cm x 2.29cm x 11.4cm \| 1.9" x .9" x 4.5"	8.89cm x 6.6cm x 2.54cm \| 3.5" x 2.6" x 1.0"	3.48 x 2.66 x 0.93
Battery Life	Up to 90 hours at 10-minute tracking (default) Up to 35 hours at 10-minute tracking with 1-second logging Up to 24 days at 30-minute tracking power save mode Up to 1 year when powered off	200+ when checking messages every 12 minutes	4hr talk / 36hrs standby	Up to 168 hours of tracking
Waterproof Rating	IPX7 (splashes & weather proof, nonsubmersible)	IP67	IP68 (water resistant)	IP68 (water resistant)
2-way Messaging Available via Cellular/Wifi?	No	No	Yes	No
2-way Messaging?	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
GPS	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Emergency SOS	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Learn More

Compare

Garmin inReach Mini

ACR Bivy Stick

ZOLEO Satellite Communicator

SPOT Gen 4

Pricing (approx)

$349.99

$249.95

$199.99

$149.99

Weight

100.0 g | 3.5 oz

102 g | 3.6 oz

150 g | 5.3 oz

142 g | 5 oz

Coverage

Global

Battery Life

Up to 90 hours at 10-minute tracking (default) Up to 35 hours at 10-minute tracking with 1-second logging Up to 24 days at 30-minute tracking power save mode Up to 1 year when powered off

200+ when checking messages every 12 minutes

4hr talk / 36hrs standby

Up to 168 hours of tracking

Size

2.04” x 3.90” x 1.03” (5.17 x 9.90 x 2.61 cm)

4.83cm x 2.29cm x 11.4cm | 1.9" x .9" x 4.5"

8.89cm x 6.6cm x 2.54cm | 3.5" x 2.6" x 1.0"

3.48 x 2.66 x 0.93

2-way Messaging Available via Cellular/Wifi?

No

Yes

No

2-way Messaging?

Yes

No

Waterproof Rating

IPX7 (splashes & weather proof, nonsubmersible)

IP67

IP68 (water resistant)

GPS

Yes

Satellite Network

Iridium

Globalstar

Emergency SOS

Yes

Learn More

The Best Satellite Messenger for 2022

Satmodo is one of the best satellite phone service providers bringing you the top products on the most reliable networks. These are the top satellite messenger you can get your hands on in 2022.

Garmin inReach Mini 2

Satmodo offers an incredible lineup of satellite messenger , one that works for every budget and every need. But when it comes to the best of the best, we narrowed it down to the Garmin inReach Mini 2. Here’s why.

This compact satellite communicator1 helps you keep home with you when you’re off the grid — adding peace of mind to every adventure, without adding weight to your pack.

Global satellite coverage keeps you connected when cellphones can’t.In an emergency, send an interactive SOS message to our coordination center. You can still connect to the ones who matter, even without cellphone coverage. With TracBack® routing, find your way back if you happen to get lost. Expand the capabilities of your inReach device by using the Garmin Explore™ app. Stay on adventures longer with up to 14 days of battery life in 10-minute tracking mode.

TWO-WAY MESSAGING:

Exchange text messages with loved ones back home, post to social media or communicate inReach to inReach in the field.

INTERACTIVE SOS ALERTS

In case of emergency, trigger an interactive SOS message to the Garmin IERCC, a 24/7 staffed emergency response coordination center.

LOCATION SHARING

Share your location with loved ones back home at any time using your MapShare™ page or with your coordinates embedded in your messages.

GLOBAL SATELLITE NETWORK

Instead of relying on cellphone coverage, your messages, SOS alerts and location tracking are transferred via the global Iridium® satellite network.

FLEXIBLE SATELLITE AIRTIME PLANS

To access the Iridium network and communicate with your inReach Mini 2, an active satellite subscription is required. You can opt for an annual package or a flexible month-to-month plan.

COMPACT, RUGGED DESIGN

Don’t let the 4” x 2” size and 3.5 oz weight fool you. inReach Mini 2 is tough, durable, impact resistant (MIL-STD-810) and water-rated to IPX7.

TRACBACK ROUTING

The TracBack routing feature navigates you back to your starting point the same way you came, should you get lost — right on your device.

DIGITAL COMPASS

Get accurate heading information — even when you’re not moving.

BATTERY LIFE

The internal, rechargeable lithium battery gives you up to 14 days of use at the default 10-minute tracking mode and up to 30 days with a 30-minute tracking interval.

ACR BIVY STICK

The smallest, most simple satellite communication device in the world weighs just 100 g about half the weight of your cell phone.

2-WAY TEXT SATELLITE COMMUNICATION
Able to send text messages to phone numbers or email addresses.

LOCATION SHARING & TRACKING

Keep your loved ones up-to-date on your progress or share a single location when you reach camp.

CHECK-IN BUTTON

The Check-in button on the device sends unlimited free preset messages and your location without using your phone.

100% GLOBAL SATELLITE COVERAGE

Works anywhere you can see the sky.

SOS COMMUNICATION ON THE APP & ON THE DEVICE

The dedicated SOS button on the device is protected from accidental use. Emergency service provided by Global Rescue.

COMPATIBLE WITH ALL GOPRO MOUNTS

Secure your Stick to your vehicle, pack, bike, or anything else you have in mind using the GoPro ® mounting system.

IPX7 INGRESS PROTECTION RATING

Rest assured the Stick can handle whatever mother nature (and you) can throw at it.

Comprised of the Bivy Stick and Bivy App, the Bivy Platform pairs feature-rich hardware and software to create the perfect blend of safety and convenience. Ideal for adventures and off-grid activities of all shapes and sizes, utilize the Bivy Platform to plan your experience, stay on track for the duration of that experience, and remain in contact with everyone that matters throughout, all while knowing that help is always available at the simple push of a button.

Use the Bivy Stick to turn your cell phone into a satellite communication device. With global satellite coverage via the Iridium satellite network, anywhere you have a view of the sky, you can communicate through the Bivy Stick.

While conveniently compact, the Bivy Stick still offers a comprehensive feature set including two-way text messaging, SOS, location sharing, one-touch Check-in, and detailed weather reports sent straight to your cell phone via satellite. Additionally, offering a feature not provided with many other satellite communicators, the Bivy Stick provides users with a dedicated phone number and email.

This important feature allows unsolicited incoming messages, meaning that those that are most important to you can reach you at any time, without the need for you to initiate contact.

The value of the Bivy Stick is further enhanced via key accessories such as the large variety of available mounting options. The many available mounts allow users to attach the Bivy Stick to any vehicle, backpack, or structure and make it an ideal device for adventurers who find themselves going from one activity to another.

The available portable and lightweight solar panel also provide for greater flexibility of use. Featuring intelligent charging technology, the solar panel allows users to efficiently harness solar power and conveniently extend the battery life of the Bivy Stick while off-grid.

Bivy App’s Role

The Bivy app has more than 50,000 adventures ready to be explored. No matter what you like to do in the outdoors, you can find a place to do it with the Bivy app. With twenty different adventure types all at your fingertips, the Bivy App is a versatile tool that can facilitate all your adventure needs. The Bivy App also allows you to keep track of all your adventures. Track your pace, mileage, altitude, and more. Plus get access to detailed offline maps everywhere in the world. Always know where you are, even without cellular service.

As a leader in life-saving products for both professional and recreational use, ACR’s Bivy Stick brings the safety and peace of mind of affordable and reliable satellite communication to everyone.

ZOLEO Satellite Communicator

ZOLEO is the first messaging solution of its kind to be based on Iridium® Short Burst Data® (SBD®), cellular and Wi-Fi® standards, providing users a uniquely seamless messaging experience over the Iridium network. A free smartphone app offers users a familiar text messaging experience with no training required. Personal safety features like check-in, hyper-local weather forecasts, and 24/7 worldwide SOS alerting, provide extra peace of mind when venturing off the grid.

ZOLEO works with your smartphone or tablet to provide truly global messaging that follows you out of cellular coverage, and back again. It also includes added safety features you can count on worldwide, and a dedicated SMS number and email address to make it easy for contacts to get in touch.

Two-way SOS Alerting:
Location included 24/7 expert monitoring

Check-In:
Check-in with one press, including location to within 8 feet

GPS Location:
Share GPS location including breadcrumb trail displayed in a map

Connectivity Beyond Cell Coverage:
Truly global coverage via the Iridium® satellite network with no coverage gaps

Stay in Touch:
Send and receive SMS/text, email, and app-to-app messages

Easy to Use:
Easy to use right out of the box, access your contacts and start messaging

Device Sharing:
Easy device sharing between users eliminates the need for reassignments

Optional Add-On Accessories:
Compatible accessories enable ZOLEO to be worn on a belt or backpack or secured in a vehicle or vessel

SPOT Gen4

SPOT Gen4 gives you a critical, life-saving line of communication when you travel beyond the boundaries of reliable cellular service. SPOT Gen4 lets family, friends, and colleagues know you are OK, or if the unexpected should happen, sends your GPS location to emergency responders all with the push of a button. Add this rugged, pocket-sized device to your essential gear and stay connected wherever you play or work.

SATELLITE GPS MESSENGER

SPOT Gen4 lets family, friends, and colleagues know you are OK, or if the unexpected should happen, sends your GPS location to emergency responders by utilizing the Globalstar satellite network.

MEANT FOR ADVENTURE

S.O.S.

With the push of a button, FocusPoint International, Inc. provides emergency rescue coordination and monitoring through their dedicated search and rescue coordination centers. – for example, contacting 9-1-1 responders in North America and 1-1-2 responders in Europe. The S.O.S. button is for emergencies only.

TRACKING

Customized tracking features take your adventure to the next level. Choose motion-activated tracking regardless of the level of service you choose and set up a vibration sensor to tell your SPOT to send track updates when you are moving and to stop when you do.

CHECK-IN

Send a pre-programmed text message or an email with GPS coordinates to up to 10 contacts with your location. Your waypoint is stored in your SPOT account for later reference. Your stored waypoints can be easily integrated into a shared view.

Set up custom messages before your next adventure to send to your list of pre-determined contacts. Use this feature as a secondary OK message or transfer your personal help alert to this message function if you are using a SPOT S.O.V. service on your Help button.

HELP/S.O.V.

Alert your personal contacts that you need help in non-life-threatening situations. Or, use SPOT S.O.V. for professional vehicular services on land. (Additional service required)

SPOT Gen4 lets users check in with managers and colleagues by sending pre-programmed text messages or emails with their GPS coordinates. Users also have a life-saving line of communication if the unexpected should happen; Gen4 sends your GPS location to emergency responders with the push of a button.

The SPOT Gen4 is a rugged, pocket-sized device that’s roughly the size of a deck of playing cards. It’s mostly plastic with rubber accents and you’ll notice there’s no display on it. Instead, you’ll interact with the SPOT Gen4 using a series of buttons you’ll find on the front.

Three of these buttons are easily accessible while two of them are “locked” away under protective flaps so you don’t accidentally push them by accident.

The three easily accessible buttons are tracking check-ins and custom messages. Basically, the check-in and custom message buttons are to let those on your contact list know that you’re still OK. This is good if you’re in an area where there’s no one around, such as the woods or up in the mountains.

The tracking button allows you to enable map tracking so that you and your loved ones always know where you are.

That brings me to the two buttons that are hidden away under flaps. The first button is a help/help s.o.v. which will send an alert to specific contacts that you need non-life-threatening help or roadside assistance.

The second button is for more life-threatening situations where S.O.S. is needed. This button sends an S.O.S. to the 24/7 GEOS International Emergency Response Coordination Center and provides them with your exact GPS location coordinates so that local response teams can find you and send help.

This is why both these buttons are protected from accidental presses because the last thing you want to is cry wolf. The SPOT Gen4 is powered by 4xAAA batteries.

You’ll need to unscrew the backplate to get to where the batteries go so I recommend always having some kind of multi-tool with you if you’re venturing into the great unknown. Don’t forget those extra batteries either.

Satellite Messenger FAQ

What is a satellite messenger ?

A satellite Messenger is a GPS tracking device that uses the satellite network to provide text messaging and GPS tracking depending on the subscription type purchased.

Does spot gen3 satellite gps messenger need a subscription ?

The SPOT Gen3 device requires an active service subscription in order to properly perform messaging, tracking, S-functions and all other device functions. All subscriptions are automatically renewed at the end of the contract period.

What is a spot satellite gps messenger ?

SPOT is a GPS tracking device that uses the Globalstar satellite network to provide text messaging and GPS tracking. It has a coverage area that encompasses much of the planet except for the extreme northern and southern latitudes and parts of the Pacific Ocean

What is spotx 2-way satellite messenger ?

SPOT X provides 2-way satellite messaging when you’re off the grid or beyond reliable cellular coverage.

What is satellite messenger?

A satellite messenger is a device that uses satellite communication to send and receive messages in areas without cellular coverage.

How do satellite messengers work?

Satellite messengers work by connecting to satellites orbiting the Earth and transmitting messages via satellite signals. These signals are then relayed to a ground station or other satellite messengers.

What messaging app uses satellite?

Zoleo is an example of a messaging app that uses satellite communication. It allows users to send and receive messages even in remote areas without cellular coverage.

Can you text via satellite?

Yes, you can text via satellite using satellite messengers or devices like Zoleo, Garmin inReach Mini, or SPOT Satellite Messenger. These devices enable two-way communication through satellite networks.

Any satellite texting app?

Zoleo Satellite Communicator, Garmin inReach Mini, SPOT Satellite Messenger, and Garmin Satellite Communicator are some examples of satellite texting apps or devices.

What is zoleo satellite communicator?

Zoleo Satellite Communicator is a satellite messaging device that allows users to send messages and access various communication features in areas without cellular coverage.

What is personal locator beacon?

Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) is an emergency device that uses satellites to transmit distress signals, providing your location to search and rescue teams in case of emergencies.

What is garmin satellite communicator?

Garmin Satellite Communicator is a device that enables two-way messaging, tracking, and SOS functions using satellite networks. It allows communication even in remote areas without cellular coverage.

What is spot satellite messenger?

Spot Satellite Messenger is a compact device that uses satellite technology to send pre-defined messages, track your location, and provide SOS capabilities in areas without cellular coverage.

Best satellite communicator for backpacking?

Garmin inReach Mini is a compact and lightweight satellite communicator that offers messaging, tracking, and SOS functions. It allows backpackers to stay connected in remote areas without relying on cellular networks.

Garmin inReach Mini is often considered one of the best satellite communicators for backpacking due to its compact size, lightweight design, and reliable satellite connectivity for messaging and emergency situations.

Satmodo LLC is offering this information to be helpful and informative. This is not being offered as legal advice in any way. We highly encourage you to do your own research and contact the embassy or consulate for the country that you will be traveling too.