ZOLEO Satellite Communicator - Global SMS & Email (ZL1000)

Pros:

• Rugged and GPS location-aware device
• Dedicated US SMS phone number and email address
• Automatic location sharing and breadcrumb trail viewable in a map with an add-on subscription
• Lithium-ion battery lasts for 200+ hours/8+ days
• Users can suspend their monthly subscription for just $4/mo

Cons:

• Monthly subscription required
• Messages cost $0.50 per satellite message
• Check-in always goes through a satellite message
• No way to check how many messages you have left or have sent over satellite
• Device does not seamlessly switch between communication channels for check-ins

Product FAQ:

Q: What are the monthly subscription plans? Can I cancel service when I’m not using it?
A: ZOLEO offers monthly subscription plans starting at $20 per month, with options for 25, 250, or unlimited satellite messages. Cellular, Wi-Fi, and SOS messaging are included in all plans. After the initial three-month commitment, you can suspend your service for just $4 per month. However, you must pay for at least three months of the contract price before you can suspend service. Plans are currently available in the USA, Canada, and Australia but work globally.

Q: Can I keep my regular cellular carrier for when I’m not using the ZOLEO device? I only want to use it when I go to a cabin off-grid.
A: Yes, you can keep your regular cellular carrier for when you’re not using the ZOLEO device. The ZOLEO app is designed to work using your cell connection, Wi-Fi connection, or the ZOLEO Communicator’s satellite connection. When you’re in range of cell or Wi-Fi, the ZOLEO app will send messages using those connections. When you get out of range, connect the app to the ZOLEO Communicator, and you’ll have seamless global coverage with the Iridium Satellite Network!

Q: Can you send pictures over the SMS satellite link?
A: No, you cannot send images via the ZOLEO app. The messages may include alphanumeric text and emojis, perfect for quick check-ins and longer conversations. The app is free to download and use over Wi-Fi or cellular so that you can check out messaging before making a purchase.

Q: Can I still send an SOS without my smartphone?
A: Yes, you can still send an SOS without your smartphone. The ZOLEO Communicator has a physical SOS button allowing an SOS to be triggered even if you don’t have access to the ZOLEO app. The ZOLEO Communicator also has a physical Check-In button to send updates quickly.

Q: Can I satellite text someone who uses a Garmin for satellite texting?
A: You can send ZOLEO messages via SMS, so if their Garmin account can provide such a destination, it seems like it would be possible.

Q: How can you check your number of messages used? If this is lacking, it seems disingenuous and on purpose.
A: Currently, there is no option to view the usage on the ZOLEO App, but there are plans to add this feature in the near future. The ZOLEO app will note all messages sent by satellite with a small icon next to the time stamp. Check-in messages and weather forecasts retrieved by satellite will also count as messages. ZOLEO will be rolling out a message use notification feature in the first quarter of 2021 to help manage the usage on non-unlimited plans.

Q: Can I send a message to a landline phone number?
A: Most landlines don’t accept text messages from cellphones or other devices. In cases where someone does not have a cellphone, they can run the free ZOLEO app on an Android or iOS Tablet (iPad) to complete app-to-app messages or they can use an existing email address.

Q: Can you check somewhere what your message credit balance is? Assuming you do not have an unlimited plan, does the app show you how many msgs are left?
A: Currently, there is no option to view the usage on the ZOLEO App, but there are plans to add this feature in the near future.

Q: Can I check my Gmail account or only the ZOLEO email account?
A: The ZOLEO app and communicator do not allow you to check existing email accounts. ZOLEO will allow you to send messages by ZOLEO app-to-app, to and from a ZOLEO SMS (text) number, and by ZOLEO email address.

Q: How much do the top-up bundles cost in the US for the $20/month plan?
A: There is a 20 Message Top-Up for $8.00 and a 75 Message Top-Up for $15.00.

Overall, the ZOLEO Satellite Communicator is a rugged, GPS location-aware device that links with the free ZOLEO app on your smartphone or tablet to keep you connected when outside cell coverage. With monthly subscription plans starting at $20 per month, you can send and receive messages globally, declare an SOS in case of emergency, check-in with loved ones to let them know you’re OK, and request detailed weather information to help you stay safe. The device is built to last with long-lasting Lithium-ion battery life and MIL-STD 810G shock-resistance and superior dust- and water-resistance (IP68).