Gadget Fu: Beartooth Off Grid Commo Platform

Bozeman, MT based Beartooth is releasing an eponymous device-with-app that turns your cell into a walkie-talkie even if there's no service, allowing you to talk or text — though only with other Beartooth users, if we're understanding correctly. The platform is now open for preorder. We'll let you know how they perform if we get a chance to try them out.

Here's how they describe it (more detail and specs below):

“Beartooth is a small device that works with your existing smartphone to communicate when you have no service. With Beartooth, you can talk, text, use maps, and share location to Beartooth users within range when you have no cellular service. Beartooth also works as a backup battery for your smartphone.

Whether you are skiing fresh powder in the backcountry or dancing at Coachella, you can now reliably stay in contact with your group in ways that were previously unavailable.”

From the Beartooth Off Grid Commo Platform release:

No cell service? Separated from your group? Battery is low and there is no way to contact anyone? We all feel this frustration when encountering no service. Today a new hardware startup, Beartooth, is launching pre-orders for their off-grid communication device, ensuring you’re always connected with those around you. With Beartooth, users can talk, text, and find friends on a map, all without cell service or Wi-Fi. Beartooth, which is slightly larger than a deck of cards, pulls double-duty as a backup battery for your smartphone.

Unlike traditional handheld radios that are cumbersome and difficult to use, Beartooth pairs with your smartphone to quickly and simply connect with other Beartooth users in range. No need to worry about confusing channel settings, radio protocols, and button sequences. All of Beartooth’s powerful functionality is available at the touch of a finger in a format easily recognizable to the user. Download the app, pair the device, and go explore.

‘Beartooth was born in Bozeman at Bridger Bowl Ski Area. Company cofounder, Kevin Ames, and I were separated with no service,' said Michael Monaghan, Beartooth CEO and cofounder. ‘After several hours we finally re-connected and promptly started working on a solution. Kevin is a former smokejumper and radio communications operator who spent his career working in environments with no cellular or Wi-Fi service. It was natural to enable the smartphone carried daily to communicate off grid.'

Whether you are skiing fresh powder in the backcountry or dancing at Coachella, you can now reliably stay in contact with your group in ways that were previously unavailable. During the limited 30-day pre-order campaign, Beartooth is available for $249 per pair, 40% off the MSRP of $399.

Beartooth specifications:

2.44in x 4.0in x 0.49in
4.5oz
3000 mAh Li-ion battery
USB Type-C charge port
Sub-1GHz license free bands
Works with iOS and Android Phones
Average range of two miles
Beartooth features:
Individual and group push-to-talk voice
Individual and group text messaging
Automatic or on-demand GPS location sharing
Offline maps: High quality 24k topographic and street maps
Battery backup: Recharge your smartphone
Beartooth will start shipping to US customers late 2016. Pre-orders can be placed at www.beartooth.com.

Learn more about the Beartooth Off Grid Commo Platform online, on Facebook or via Instagram (@beartoothradio).