SPOT Gen4 Support

How quickly will a message go out after pushing a button?

After your GPS location has been acquired, messages may reach their destination(s) within 2 to 5 minutes.  We recommend that when sending messages from your SPOT to allow the message cycle to complete.

• Check In and Custom: Acquires your GPS coordinates and sends 3 messages in a 20-minute period.
• Help: Sends a message every 5 minutes with updated GPS coordinates for 60 minutes, unless the Help message is canceled or the device is turned off.
• SOS: Sends a message every 5 minutes with updated GPS coordinates until the batteries are depleted, the SOS message is canceled, or the device is powered off.  Please note: If the SOS messaging mode is initiated, turning off your device does not cancel the SOS request.  

Please keep in mind that even when the SPOT system sends messages, message delivery is dependent on the status of your providers SMS and email networks. This could mean that messages, like any email or SMS messages you send and receive everyday, could be delayed. Please contact your mobile phone service provider, internet service provider or system administrator if you suspect irregular performance.