GoTenna Lets You Stay Connected Without Phone service

GoTenna has developed a service that allows users to communicate even when they don’t have any cell signal, whether it’s because they’re in a place with bad coverage, or they are traveling or for any reason at a. The company launched a preorder campaign midway through 2014, and now the product’s officially available for purchase.


Early users have tested goTenna for things like hiking, snowports and silent outdoor activities like hunting and fishing. First, the app was downloaded. Next it was paired with an iOS and Android device before testing it without cell service of WiFi connection.

Users were able to send both one-on-one messages as well as within groups or broadcast to nearby people. It also enables users to send their GPS location which can be viewed and downloaded.

GoTenna allows users the ability to send just text and location for now. The devices are light, weighing only 1.8 ounces, and designed to be clipped to a backpack or other gear. On a single charge, the device should be able to send 700 messages, and receive many more than that.

GoTenna devices cost $199 for a pair, significantly less than a fancy satellite radio. Even better, there’s no subscription fee. It certainly will come in handy in cases of natural disasters.