GPSOZ

When is SPOT 2 expected to be released in Australia? There doesn't seem to be too much info about it. So how much better is it supposed to be over the current SPOT.

Late this year early next year. Stocks will be very limited.

Smaller, lighter, faster gps lock on, custom message button, international button symbols. No new fuctionality except for new customr message type.

Also higher price....

cheers
brian

Hi Brian. Yes, I am aware of all that, as this is what the Spot website shows as the new features. I was more interested in how much faster the GPS lock on is. Reason for asking is that I thought it was a satelite phone connection that was the more important issue with missed positions.

You also say higher price! The current Spot has been reduced (I assume to clear out stocks) in ready for the release of Spot 2. I see that the recommended price for a Spot 2 in the USA is USD170. On current conversion that is AUD195. With the associated costs with importing, are you suggesting that the new price will be higher than the current Spot price before the price reduction?

I like the new dimensions, in particular the depth. The current one is quite thick at 4.4cm, so it is good to see the new unit's depth almost half its thickness at 2.5cm. I also notice that SPOT 2 is using 3 AAA instead of 2AA lithium batteries. I assume this is a thickness issue as AAA's are thinner. However, the specs indicate that the new Spot will only transmit on SOS (911) for 4.5 days continually against the current Spot at 7 days. So long as we carry a spare set of batteries, this is not an issue. BTW, I am still carrying my spare batteries for my current SPOT which is still running on its first batteries (that is 12 months - not bad!)

I do like the extra message capability. It will allow me to send a message to my contacts to remind them to check on where we are. Great addition.

So finally, when do you expect it to be available at GPS Oz?

Laurie

SPOT 1 prices have also dropped in Aus. We do them now for A$229 so thats better than importing one. SPOT are saying SPOT 2's in Aus in November. I;m guessing we *may* see them by Christmas. Guessing a price a around A$280-A$300 not formal yet.

GPS chip is different, the algorithms are a little different too, eg each tracking message is sent only once but also includes current and previous two positions, so you may get bursts of updates on your tracking map.

Personally don;t like the AAA's and the lack of SOS transmission time. But 4.5 days is *should* be enough to get at least one SOS message out..... Price and availability of AAA's vs AA's is not so good.

Still I'll probably upgrade!!

We are expecting stocks of SPOT this week, both silver and orange. Details at http://www.gpsoz.com.au/spot/spot_2.htm

RRP $279, plus free 12 month tracking plus $25 rebate

cheers
brian