The SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger (SPOT II) is the second generation of the supremely popular SPOT, a GPS device considered “The world’s first satellite messenger.” As far as personal trackers went, the SPOT was revolutionary; it operated on two different networks – the standard GPS satellite network and SPOT’s own network – and the idea behind the system was that it would be able to function just about anywhere in the world, regardless of whether or not cell phone coverage would be available.

The SPOT II follows the same success its predecessor enjoyed. Here’s how it works: According to its manufacturer, this product is meant to provide “a vital line of communication with friends and family when you want it, and emergency assistance when you need it.” The SPOT II has five powerful functions that give you the comfort and security to travel the world. They are as follows:

• SOS/911: As the name implies, this function is meant to be used during life-threatening situations. With the push of a button, in addition to notifying your predetermined emergency contacts, SPOT II will send your specific coordinates along with a distress message to the GEOS International Emergency Response Center every five minutes until either the batteries have been completely drained or you cancel the call. This will ensure the immediate response of emergency services.

• Help: Similar in concept to the above function, this one is meant for dangerous but non-emergency situations. In such a case, SPOT II will locate your coordinates and send them via either text message or email to your pre-selected personal contacts, and will inform them every five minutes for up to an hour, or until cancelled, that you are in need of assistance.

• Check-in/OK: This function is a means for you to let your contacts know that you are safe and are doing alright. SPOT II will send a message to up to 10 people of your choice via email or text, and they will also receive a link to Google Maps with a display of your location.

• Custom Message: Quite similar to the previous function, this one allows you to actually customize the message you send (along with your coordinates) to your contact, instead of simply having a text/email sent that reads “OK”.

• Track Progress: This function enables your pre-determined contacts to track your progress in near real-time using Google Maps. In case you want to look over these images and routes at some later time, they can be saved for later accessibility.

Faster than its predecessor, the SPOT II is also quite compact. Measuring only 2.6 x 3.7 x 1 inches and weighing only 5.2 oz., any inconvenience caused from relative bulkiness is automatically removed. This is great because often when you’re getting ready to hit the road, issues of limited space present themselves, and with so many things to pack and so little room, items invariably must get left behind. Thanks to SPOT II’s size, you won’t ever have to be faced with that dilemma again.

The SPOT II also features great battery life, capable of lasting up to three months with one set of batteries. Compounded with the impressive ability to sustain extreme temperatures (-22F to 140F) and altitudes (-328ft to +21,320ft), this product is not only durable, but a great investment and an excellent buy. And with many possible applications, you will always be discovering new ways to use this product. While the SPOT II certainly isn’t the cheapest product out there, the peace of mind it can offer you, your family, and your friends undoubtedly makes it not only a worthwhile investment, but also a priceless one.

SPOT Pricing and Service 

The SPOT II annual fees for data communications are listed below.

• $99.99 USD/year: Basic satellite service subscription, which includes:

1. SPOT Alert 911: Dispatch emergency responders to your location. Unlimited usage included.
2. SPOT Check In: Informs contacts where you are and that you're okay. Unlimited usage included.
3. SPOT Ask For Help: Request help from friends and family to your location. Unlimited usage included.

• $7.95* USD/year:  SPOT Insurance, GEOS Search, and Rescue Benefit. This plan provides up to $100,000 of search and rescue resources, including helicopter extraction and reimbursement benefits for any emergency service expenses incurred. (*Price if purchased at initial activation; $150 afterwards)

• $49.99 USD/year: Tracking Upgrade Option. This plan allows you to send and save your coordinates as well as allow contacts to track your progress using Google Maps. This upgrade is highly recommended for anyone who’s going to be using the SPOT Track progress feature. Do not forget to get insurance so that you’re not billed for your rescue!

• $30 USD/year: Roadside Assistance Option.  With this option, all you have to do is press the Help button in order to receive 24/7 roadside assistance from the Nation Safe Driver system, all for a price lower than OnStar. The assistance is sent directly to your current GPS location. Even if you have no cell service, you will still be able to request roadside assistance using SPOT. Services include: roadside towing, auto-accident assistance, fuel services, tire repair, battery service, and lost keys or lockouts.