HMD OffGrid, off grid connectivity, 24/7 search & rescue, real-time location sharing, reviewed

We look at the interesting HMD OffGrid, which clearly has some practical and relevant use-case scenarios. See more about the device on their website here. 

HMD OffGrid, off grid connectivity, real-time location, reviewed

It is pretty clear when a device like this could be super useful. Currently many outdoors enthusiasts go into potentially dangerous locations, relying, riskily only on their normal smartphone having coverage if they fall into any possible negative situations. Simply driving around rural Ireland, you can fall into blackspots far more quickly than you might thing – south of and into Durrus, yes we are looking at you here. Therefore a product like this has a clear and useful value, especially if it is robust, hard wearing and with good battery life. F

Fortunately it has a three day battery life, which is then something you can plan around, and it has a tough design, billed as being military grade level. For a first walk about the HMD OffGrid seems pretty good. You will need to decide which package you are going to sign up to activate the satellite connection, so you will need to put some thought into that. The lower priced one seemed sufficient, though if you are perhaps a member of the mountain rescue team, it could also become an issue if you hit your messaging capacity too, so this is something that you will need to think about. Perhaps slightly determined by whether this is a for-work, or for occasional adventures device.

The price of the device itself is not astronomical, so it might be something worth getting now, and then, 12 months later, assessing how it has fared, both in terms of it’s own durability, and what else might be available on the market by then. For now our testers felt it is a good, useful, potentially life saving piece of gear, albeit with some consideration needed around which data plan is going to work the best for you.

Stay Connected Anywhere with HMD OffGrid

More about the HMD OffGrid

Cutting-edge satellite technology offers off grid connectivity with 24/7 search & rescue and real-time location sharing

Human Mobile Devices has today announced its entry into Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) Communications with the launch of HMD OffGrid. The cutting-edge technology from HMD aims to bridge the gap between cellular and satellite networks with 70% of Earth’s landmass remaining outside the reach of mobile networks.1

HMD OffGrid uses ultra-reliable L Band satellite radio spectrum, enabling any AndroidTM or IOS® user to connect directly to satellites, even in the world’s most challenging environments. The device delivers satellite connectivity and features 24/7 emergency response, three-day battery life2 and MIL-STD-810H military grade-durability at a very accessible price point of €199.

The device weighs a mere 60g and easily fits in the palm of your hand, making it ideal for adventurers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone prioritising connectivity, security and peace of mind. HMD OffGrid allows people to stay in touch whilst ‘Off Grid’ via the OffGrid app, enabling two-way messaging and live location tracking for up to five recipients. It also has a ‘check in’ feature, allowing you to send a pre-configured message to friends and family in just a click of a dedicated button.

Jean-Francis Baril, Co-founder, Chairman and CEO, at Human Mobile Devices, said: “HMD OffGrid is a new, affordable, portable and easy-to-use offering that’s both empowering and reliable – especially when it matters the most. We’re proud to continue innovating products that prioritise human connection whilst still allowing people to switch-off. So, whether you’re hiking in the mountains or skiing off-piste, HMD OffGrid ensures you’re never truly off grid.”

HMD OffGrid also comes with Overwatch x Rescue™, the premium SOS service by?FocusPoint International?that includes 24/7 multi-lingual emergency response coordination and fully funded assistance for customers that live, work, and play off the grid.

With flexible subscription plans tailored to various levels of adventure, off-gridders can stay connected no matter their budget. All plans provide critical support with access to a premium search and rescue service and detail the following:

HMD Unlimited Plan: €17.99/month or €167.99/ year for unlimited messages, check-in, and SOS services. Optional unlimited live tracking for €5.99/month. One time activation fee of €11.99.
HMD Freedom Plan: €95.99/year (one-time payment) with up to 350 text and check-in messages. Optional unlimited live tracking for €5.99/month. One time activation fee of €23.99.
The set-up of HMD OffGrid is quick and simple. Upon receiving the device, users will find a QR code to help them easily activate their subscription plan and get started. The OffGrid app provides a seamless interface for managing messages, location sharing and SOS features.

Greg Pearson, Founder and Chief Executive Officer at?FocusPoint International, says: “Together with Human Mobile Devices (HMD), our hope is to expand the possibilities for exploration whilst prioritising safety for all. We have proven experience and direct access to the global search and rescue network providing peace of mind to anyone adventuring beyond traditional mobile network coverage.”

HMD OffGrid is priced at €199 on hmd.com. It comes in a compact, durable package designed for easy portability, making it the ideal companion for your next big adventure. See more information at https://hmd.com/hmd-offgrid.

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