This is similar to existing satellite messengers like Garmin inReach and others that use Iridium network. This one is different in that uses GEO seems to be Inmarsat. It is also cheap, $99 for device and $5/mo for 30 message plan, which is a lot less than existing ones.
This might do well cause of price, or might get steam rolled by Apple and others including in phone. I was going to get inReach and now not sure.
Yeah, the other existing communicators seem overpriced for infrequent adventures and/or emergency use.
Even Motorola's $60/year seems excessive if you'll never use it. I wish there was an entry-level, pay-as-you-go option with less subscription cost and instead a per-use cost. E.g. something like the roadside assistance coverage you can add to some car insurance plans for more like $5-10 per year, or the old prepaid cell plans where you could spend very little per year to keep a spare SIM active, but get charged for every message or voice minute.
But, if it is robust and reliable, this does also seem competitive with the personal locator beacon (PLB) market where you might spend $400 for a device with a 5 year shelf life, which you hope to never activate. If Motorola's device can give you comparable emergency rescue support, and also allow for some casual/non-emergency messaging in the meantime, it seems pretty attractive.
The other satellite messengers do allow you to pause service. They also allow sending SOS for free. Can save money by only enabling for long trips and leave off for short hikes.
I think the satellite messengers are better for most people than PLB. PLB is reliable and provide beacon, I would carry one while doing something risky like mountain climbing. Messenger allows you to tell the rescuers details. And can deal with problems that aren't emergencies like a flat tire. Also, can share location with people which can help find you.
This might do well cause of price, or might get steam rolled by Apple and others including in phone. I was going to get inReach and now not sure.