ICOM IC-M510 VHF WITH WLAN

In these pages, we often discuss the safety advantages of VHF radios over mobile phones during an emergency at sea. But now the forms of communication appear to be merging in Icom’s new state-of-the-art ICM510 fixed-mount VHF with WLAN (wireless local area network) functionality.

It offers wireless control of the radio using a smart device such as a mobile phone. By downloading the Icom RS-M500 app on an Android or iOS device, you can turn your mobile phone into a wireless mic or a remote control for the M510 VHF. Using the app, it can connect with up to three smart devices. This VHF also includes an available built-in AIS receiver and GPS. Your mobile phone on its own still does not take the place of a VHF radio in a distress situation, but with the Icom M510 VHF with WLAN, your phone can serve as a vital piece of onboard communications equipment. $599.99; icomamerica.com