I had the inReach for years as I used it for off-road motorcycling in remote areas as well as for sledding.    After the iPhone started providing satalite service, I sold the inReach.   The inReach can be attached by a carabiner to your outer jacket so it's easier to activate if you're injured.   But on the other hand, the iPhone automatically sends out a 911 call either by cell tower or satelite if it detects a fall or accident, great if you get knocked out.   And you can always call out to Siri if you are immobile and cannot move, something you can't do with the inReach.   The iPhone will not provide bread crumb tracking for your friends or family at home, but the Find Me option on the phone will work as long as there is cell service, or wifi.   With the iPhone you have no subscription fee.  I'm not sure if the Android phones have something similar, but I suspect they do.        

Today may be different, but I had a sat phone from 2000 to 2020 (roughly). It was great starting out, but coverage went south, and was spotty at best. And the monthly was $100 USF in the later years. But I could stand outside at Halfway - talking to Mrs. O, and watching the Northern lights at the same time.   I now have an InReach for $12 USF, and I get good service.   .

Wise, yet a very uncharacteristic thing for a guy to do…😂  

I think we'd all do ourselves a favor in getting back to understanding the whole picture of what these kinds of things are all about. It's about a lot more than the latest/greatest blah blah blah. My son is not quite 17 - a lot of things he's doing, seeing, etc. - are for the first time, so I try my best to remember that, shut my mouth, and let him see things for himself without my pre-judgement.  It's been great    

A guy I ride with does, never used but on trips let you know he has it and where it is should something happen.  that’s about the extent of my exposure … lol   anyone ever use satellite mode on their cell phone?