SAT MESSENGER SPOTX WITH BLUETOOTH

THE UPLINK: With a SpotX two-way satelitte messenger, a keyboard lets you transmit an international SOS via the GEOS satellite network, along with your position using built-in GPS. Private monitoring bases coordinate a response. You can also send and receive messages with a Bluetooth connection to your cellphone. Operational battery life is 240 hours for this compact device.

THE DISCONNECT: Unlike an EPIRB or PLB, SpotX requires a subscription plan, starting at $11.95 per month.

PRICE: $249.96 (plus service plan); findmespot.com