We are living in the
age of smartphones. There are even some people who can claim that they won't be
able to go a day without them. We use our smartphones primarily to communicate
with our loved ones and keep them updated with the goings-on in our lives. So
it is vital that we are always wired and connected. Unfortunately, there are
instances wherein you will be stuck in an area where there is poor or
nonexistent cellular or data network. In this case, your smartphones will be
deemed useless.
goTenna is a handy
pocket-size communication accessory that enables smartphones to communicate
with each other without the need for cellular or data network — even in
Airplane Mode. So there is no need to worry about being off-grid, you can still
remain connected.
goTenna works by
pairing with your smartphone thru Bluetooth LE. It only needs to be within 20
feet of your smartphone
in order to work. It uses low frequency signals
(151-154 MHz) to send off text messages through a proprietary app to other
goTenna users for free, and it claims to have a range of up to 50 miles
depending on the terrain. goTenna can also be used to send detailed offline
maps of your current location free of charge. It also offers location pinging
and end-to-end encryption. As a safety feature, all messages will be deleted
when another smartphone tries to connect to it. goTenna can only be connected
to one smartphone at a time, which is a major drawback.
It measures 5.8 inches
in length and weighs 2 ounces. When the antenna is extended, the length extends
to 8 inches. Its casing is made of high-grade, durable metal, nylon, and
silicone. It is designed to be water-resistant and dust-tight. Inside, you will
find a circuit board, radio chips, a custom antenna, and a lithium-ion battery,
which can be recharged using any micro-USB cable.
goTenna has posted the
following features and specifications:
Key App Features
- Send & receive text
messages for free
- Share locations on detailed
offline maps
- Instantaneous transmission
within range
- Automatic message retry &
delivery confirmation
- Individual & group
messaging
- ”Shout” broadcasts to anyone
within range
- Proximal friend map &
location pinging
- Emergency chat
- End-to-end encryption
(RSA-1024) & self-destructing messages
- Compatible with iOS &
Android
Key Hardware Specifications
- Antenna
- 2-watt radio
- Flash memory good for 1000’s of
messages
- Rechargeable Lithium-ion
battery
- Micro-USB connector
- Bluetooth LE data interface
- Status indicator lights
- Nylon attachment strap
- Water-resistant
- Dust-tight
