Off-Grid Communication

Stay connected
anywhere.

When mobile coverage ends, satellite technology gives you another way to call, message, share your location and get help — whether you're travelling, working or exploring somewhere remote.

Explore off-grid communication
Communication beyond mobile coverage

Your phone signal doesn't have to decide where you can go.

Mobile networks are part of everyday life, but there are still plenty of places where conventional coverage becomes weak or disappears completely. Satellite communication gives you another way to stay connected when that happens.

The right device depends on what you need to do. Make direct calls with a satellite phone, send and receive messages with a satellite communicator, or use a simple tracker to share your location and send pre-set updates while you're on the move.

01

Call from remote places

Satellite phones provide direct voice communication when conventional mobile networks are unavailable.

02

Message beyond coverage

Compact satellite communicators let you exchange messages, share locations and access emergency support.

03

Let people follow your journey

Satellite trackers can send location updates and pre-set messages without relying on your phone signal.

Recommended for staying connected off-grid

Three different ways to stay connected.

Need to make a proper phone call, exchange messages or simply let people know where you are? These three devices cover the most common ways to stay connected when mobile coverage isn't available.

Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone
Satellite phone

Iridium 9555

A compact and proven satellite phone providing global voice calling and SMS over the Iridium network when conventional mobile coverage isn't available.

Best for: anyone who wants straightforward, direct voice communication from remote locations.

Garmin inReach® Mini 2
Satellite communicator

Garmin inReach Mini 2

A compact satellite communicator offering two-way messaging, location sharing, tracking and interactive SOS over the global Iridium satellite network.

Best for: travellers and adventurers who want lightweight two-way communication without carrying a satellite phone.

SPOT Gen4 Satellite Tracker
Satellite tracker

SPOT Gen4

A simple satellite tracking and SOS device for sharing GPS locations, sending pre-set Check-In messages and raising an emergency alert beyond mobile coverage.

Best for: users who mainly want tracking, simple pre-set updates and SOS without two-way conversation.

Expert advice

Not sure how you need to stay connected?

A satellite phone, two-way messenger and GPS tracker all solve slightly different problems. Tell us where you're going and whether you need calls, messages, tracking or emergency support, and our team can help you choose the right device.

Off-grid communication FAQs

Staying connected beyond mobile coverage.

Satellite phones, messengers and trackers all work differently. The right choice comes down to whether you need to talk, message, share your location or simply have another way to raise the alarm.

How can I stay connected when there is no mobile signal?

Satellite communication gives you an alternative to conventional mobile networks. Depending on the device, you can make voice calls, exchange messages, share your location, send tracking updates or trigger an emergency alert from remote areas.

What is the difference between a satellite phone and a satellite messenger?

A satellite phone such as the Iridium 9555 is designed primarily for direct voice calls and SMS. A satellite messenger such as the Garmin inReach Mini 2 focuses on two-way text messaging, location sharing, tracking and interactive SOS in a smaller device.

What is the difference between the inReach Mini 2 and SPOT Gen4?

The inReach Mini 2 supports two-way satellite messaging, so you can send and receive replies. SPOT Gen4 focuses on GPS tracking, pre-programmed Check-In and Help messages and SOS alerting. SPOT does not provide incoming two-way messaging.

Do satellite devices work anywhere in the world?

Coverage depends on the satellite network and device. Iridium products such as the 9555 and Garmin inReach Mini 2 use the global Iridium network. SPOT Gen4 uses the Globalstar satellite network, so its coverage area is different. Always check the relevant coverage map before travelling.

Do I need a subscription or airtime plan?

Yes. Satellite phones require suitable satellite airtime, while devices such as Garmin inReach and SPOT Gen4 require an active service plan for their satellite messaging, tracking and SOS features. Available plans and charges vary by product.

Which type of satellite device should I choose?

Choose a satellite phone if direct voice calling is important. Choose a two-way communicator if you primarily need messaging, tracking and SOS in a compact package. A simpler tracker such as SPOT Gen4 can suit users who mainly want location sharing, pre-set updates and emergency alerting.