RaTa

RaTA tracks your current position via the telephone's GPS, cellphone towers and wifi and periodically sends location updates via the SMS network to your contact list. Up to three contacts can be added. The app is aimed at backcountry enthusiasts who want to keep in touch with their friends and family in areas where cellphone signals are often poor.

The SMS system is used because unlike data it can work on an intermittent and weak signal, frequently the case in mountain or forested terrain or when cell towers are few and far between. SMS is often provided for free, or low cost, with standard cellphone packages.

As well as sending a periodic update the app can be set to reply with your location to anyone in your contact list who sends an SMS message with the word: rata in it. You don't have even have to turn on periodic updates. Tracking stays operational after a telephone reboot.

A "touch base" function lets you send an immediate position update to your contacts.

You can also monitor GPS satellite numbers and signal strengths.

RaTa also helps with preparing a help message in case of an accident.

Note: The App uses the SMS network, you may be charged for sending messages. Please check your phone plan before use.