YARMOUTH, ME — June 24, 2010 — DeLorme, the innovation leader in mapping and GPS technologies, demonstrated all of the ways its eagerly-awaited Earthmate PN-60w with SPOT Satellite Communicator can provide "peace of mind wherever you go" during last night's Digital Experience media event, held at New York City's Metropolitan Pavilion.
DeLorme anticipates strong holiday demand, given the uniqueness of this product pairing and the powerful appeal of its many benefits. It's the world's first handheld GPS with Type & Send outbound text satellite messaging, enabling users to stay connected with friends, family, and emergency services, from locations around the world.
Communication Outside Cell Phone Coverage
Because messages are conveyed via satellite, and are not dependent on cellular phone coverage, the PN-60w with SPOT Satellite Communicator keeps users reliably connected even in difficult-access remote locales. Both devices are designed to be ruggedized and water resistant and thus better suited than most cell phones for the rigors of outdoor use.
"Now there's a completely new way for those who travel off the beaten path to navigate with GPS and also send satellite text messages back home via email and popular social networking sites," said DeLorme Vice President Caleb Mason. "It's a thrill to be able to share your exhilaration, in the moment, when you summit a mountain, kayak through heavy white water, or reach an exciting destination.
"It's also a big stress reliever if you can keep loved ones apprised in case of delays, receive non-emergency help if you encounter problems, or send SOS messages in case of a serious emergency."
Send Messages to a Variety of Platforms
The outbound text messages can be distributed to recipients' cell phones and email addresses, and via social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter, Fire Eagle, SpotAdventures.com, or Geocaching.com. In addition, family and friends can track a user's progress via Google's free online maps. A special interface on the PN-60w connects it wirelessly with the SPOT Satellite Communicator, which was designed exclusively for DeLorme. Messages are created on the PN-60w's internal keyboard, then relayed via satellite for delivery using established SPOT technology.
The Earthmate PN-60w comes with DeLorme Topo North America GPS maps and desktop software included, for topographic and street coverage of the U.S. and Canada. "It also displays DigitalGlobe worldwide high-resolution satellite and aerial imagery, official USGS and Natural Resources Canada topo maps, and NOAA nautical charts, all available from DeLorme via low-cost subscriptions. Navionics lake maps and marine charts (sold separately) can also be displayed.
The text messaging, track progress, and emergency SOS features are all activated via subscriptions available from SPOT.
Product Availability
The new DeLorme PN-60 GPS series will be available at leading outdoor retailers and electronics' stores later in June. The DeLorme PN-60w (wireless) model, including the specially designed SPOT Communicator, is expected to be available in late July. Updated product information can be found by visiting www.delorme.com or calling DeLorme at 800-561-5105.
About DeLorme
DeLorme is the longtime leader in innovative mapping and GPS solutions for both consumer and professional markets. Based in Yarmouth, ME, DeLorme offers a unique set of core competencies across the complex areas of map data creation and management, software development, and integration with GPS. The ability to develop all the critical components necessary to compete in the fast-changing navigation world provides a distinct competitive advantage. DeLorme is one of a handful of mapmakers that still own and produce their own content, and its Street Atlas USA, Topo North America, XMap, and Earthmate GPS products have introduced countless first-to-market innovations. To learn more, go to www.delorme.com.
About Spot LLC
The SPOT product family uses both the GPS satellite network to determine a customer's location and the SPOT network to transmit that information to friends, family or an emergency service call center. SPOT LLC, a subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc. (Nasdaq: GSAT), provides lifesaving communications technology that allows users to communicate from remote locations around the globe. Thanks to this affordable, cutting-edge personal safety device, the company offers people peace of mind by allowing customers to notify friends and family of their location and status, and to send for emergency assistance in time of need, completely independent of cellular phone or wireless coverage. For more information on how SPOT LLC is helping users live to tell about it - from disaster preparedness to outdoor adventure purposes - visit www.findmespot.com.
