|
Tuesday January 13, 2009
|
Born of the satellite solutions provider Globalstar Inc, the SPOT Assist roadside GPS safety network is positioned to give OnStar a run for its money.
The company says that it is the world's first satellite-based roadside GPS safety service. Unlike OnStar -- a cellular based emergency system offered electively on GM models -- the SPOT Assist relies on GPS tracking and satellite communications. Its Track Progress feature even sends and saves locations and allows emergency contacts to track progress using Google Maps.
There is only one problem: Though the scheme transcends cellular limitations, it does not seem to have been designed strictly with automobiles in mind. Using SPOT Assist means taking a bulky-looking hand-held GPS unit along for the ride. OnStar, on the other hand, is a vehicle-integrated module, located right above the driver and activated at the touch of a button.
Showcasing the service at this year's CES, Tom Colby, COO of Globalstar and President of SPOT LLC, summed it up perfectly: "Our customers have been using SPOT primarily off-road and outside of cellular range to check-in with loved ones or to get help in a real emergency resulting in increased safety and security for outdoor enthusiasts."
|
|
|
Stumble
Digg
del.icio.us
Slashdot
January 14, 2009 8:55 AM
it may be a little bulky but you cant take onstar on a hike with you onstar only has one purpose the car where spot can be used car mountain practicly anwhere I bought my spot from http://www.bluewatersecurityprofessionals.com and I would't think about changing it for onstar.
January 14, 2009 10:29 AM
When I looked at the SPOT a while back:
http://www.gearlog.com/2008/04/hands_on_the_spot_satellite_me.php
I essentially used it primarily in the car (I wasn't about to go get myself lost in the woods testing it!) and it worked pretty well, but you're right - what it doesn't do terribly well is in-motion tracking. When you tell the device to record your location or check in, it does it to the best of its ability, but if you're in motion and you're 5 miles away before it gets signal, it'll record the wrong place.
That being said, it could be great for emergencies where you're stopped or stuck in the vehicle, like when you have an accident or you're lost.
Even so, it's not THAT bulky. ;) Fit on my waist pretty well, and even better in my glove compartment!