OUR SMARTPHONES CAN already do so much, but one area where they fail is off-grid communications. Journey beyond the reach of a compatible cellular data network or a capable Wi-Fi signal, and your access to the vast telecoms infrastructure disappears.
Going off the grid doesn't even require a trip into the boonies. You can find yourself without access in areas where you have either Wi-Fi or cell coverage, but your connection falters because there are too many users congesting the network—a common occurrence at concert venues and big conferences.
A new product from the Bozeman, Montana-based company Beartooth provides direct off-grid communications between smartphone devices. The pocket-sized transceiver pairs with your smartphone via Bluetooth and allows you to talk to your other Beartooth-carrying friends without having to rely on external infrastructure like Wi-Fi networks and cell towers. The simplest explanation: it turns your smartphone into a texting and push-to-talk (PTT) style voice walkie-talkie. But unlike a walkie-talkie, you get to keep the computing power, touchscreen, and user interface of the smartphone. So while you may be cut off from the Internet in the woods, you'll at least be able to communicate with your friends in familiar ways.
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