Spot 2 GPS Messenger Recall

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from the Spot Messenger web site

Spot LLC will be conducting a voluntary return on any new model SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger™ (SPOT 2) purchased since October 1, 2009. During recent testing, we discovered that some of the new SPOT 2 devices might not meet battery and messaging operating specifications.

To see if your SPOT-2 unit is affected by this issue, please do the following:

• If you have activated your SPOT-2 unit, login to your account at, click on the My GPS Locations tab and a message will display indicating if you have an affected SPOT-2 unit.
• If you have not activated your SPOT-2 unit, do not activate. We highly recommend you return your product for replacement at your earliest convenience.

Replacement units are anticipated to be available in early 2010. If you exchange your eligible unit, you will also receive 1 additional month of your current SPOT service plan and associated services.

See Spot Exchange for complete information.

Alltel Wireless Introduces GPS Application For Outdoor Enthusiasts

Trimble Outdoors also captures photos, audio and video, which allows for GPS-tagged online journaling. (photo from Alltel)

a news release of Alltel Wireless

Alltel Wireless customers going over the river and through the woods can now also go wireless. Outdoor enthusiasts can now take full advantage of advanced GPS features directly on their GPS-capable phones with the Trimble Outdoors application from Alltel Wireless, America's largest wireless network.

The Trimble Outdoors application turns a wide range of Alltel GPS-enabled handsets into a versatile, off-road navigation and journaling tool for hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, hunting and many other outdoor activities.

The application, available for a daily rate of $1.99, allows customers to review and plan trips online. It also enhances user safety and navigation by sending trekking routes, maps and waypoints wirelessly to the phone for use as a guide during trips.

Customers can track their current and previous routes with a GPS "bread crumb trail," mark and edit waypoints during their journey, and utilize a built-in digital compass to display coordinates, speed and heading. Maps generated by Trimble Outdoors can be accessed in topographic, street and aerial views.

"Without any additional equipment to carry around, Alltel customers can enjoy the freedom to explore new and exciting parts of the country," said Kristi Crum, director of data and content services at Alltel Wireless.

"With our new Trimble Outdoor application, customers can have more fun while staying safe and connected to friends and family who want to share in the adventures."

Trimble Outdoors also captures photos, audio and video, which allows for GPS-tagged online journaling at trimbleoutdoors.com or for sharing recreational pursuits with other outdoors enthusiasts. Additionally, users can browse an online library of professional and user-generated trekking tips and customize trips done by others.