Spot connect with smart phone

[Catch and Release]

I'm traveling to Alaska for 4 months this summer. Has anyone had any experiences with "SPOT Connect"? In conjunction with a smart phone it provides communication coverage using gps and global satellites to allow you to send text messages to 911, Facebook, Twitter etc. for what appears to be very reasonable fees.

[Shadowcatche]

This appears to be rather new and some what buggy. I have been looking at it as well, see the reviews, particularly the last one SPOT Connect Satellite Communicator at REI.com
It is not a substitute for a sat phone, but has good features. You can rent a SPOT for a limited time which might fulfill you need.
There are evidently some serious problems with the SPOT customer service and some hinky billing practices http://www.rei.com/product/784892
"I would recommend buying a "real" Personal Locator Beacon for $300-400 and here's why.My first gen SPOT unit worked fine and I enjoyed the service - until I dropped it ONCE and it broke.I quickly found out this company has TERRIBLE customer service. So far I've lost [$] on the first unit because it broke and they do not repair or replace or even give you a discount on a new one. (now they offer a replacement insurance for $20 per year but they didn't when I bought my unit in 2008) I've lost $57 on service that they charged me unknowingly for after I called and reported it broken...they threatened me with sending my past due balance to collections, and repeatedly told me this was my fault for not calling to cancel the renewal on my service (which I did not know was happening and thought I signed up for one year of service - I have since found out that they force you to sign up for auto-renewal on your registered credit card in the terms & conditions and the card I had registered was no longer valid). AND, now I've also possibly lost another [$] that I paid for the second gen unit which I may not be able to return since it's been a while since I ordered it. (I REFUSE to use this service any longer)Their representatives are rude, they don't know what customer service means, and they are more interested in taking your money than saving lives.You will save money in the long run on a PLB because SPOT charges you $100 minimum per year to use their service - with forced auto renewal. PLB's cost more up front but are free to use: The SAME authorities and rescue services are notified in an emergency!!! You can also buy rescue insurance from other sources (such as the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Search & Rescue card). The only thing you are giving up is the cute little website that shows your location. Well, I will miss that but I'm not willing to pay hundreds of dollars to get it. All I want is to be able to call in the cavalry if I get in trouble. Just a warning...you are taking your chances with this service!!!Bottom Line No, I would not recommend this to a friend"