Spot Introduces New Messenger With Added Features

Spot, a handheld satellite GPS messaging unit, is now shipping in its latest version, distribution manager Greg Wilkinson told AVweb on Monday. The new version is smaller than the original unit, weighing in at only 5.2 ounces, with added features. The Spot taps in to the company's own global satellite network, which covers most of the world's surface. It can transmit tracking information to the company's Web site, where others can follow a traveler's progress. A message function will send e-mails to up to 10 addresses to announce that you have departed on a flight. The unit also has an SOS/911 feature that sends an distress signal that is received at the company's emergency center in Houston. Wilkinson explained more about the unit's capabilities in a video interview with AVweb at Sun 'n Fun; click here to view it.

The new units originally began shipping in October, but Spot then initiated a "product return program" asking buyers to return all of the units for replacement. According to the Spot Web site, "During recent testing, we discovered that these SPOT 2 devices may not meet battery and messaging operating specifications. We were not 100% satisfied with the performance of this unit." Units shipping now are not affected by the recall.