DeLorme announced the Fall 2011 release of the DeLorme inReach, the first Iridium-based device to integrate personal two-way satellite messaging, delivery confirmations, SOS capabilities and remote tracking, for reliable communication anywhere in the world.

Iridium is the world’s farthest-reaching satellite network. The inReach incorporates Iridium’s new-generation 9602 short-burst data technology. Iridium communication capabilities and pole-to-pole global coverage deliver features (two-way messaging, delivery confirmation) and worldwide reach that no other consumer-accessible satellite system can offer.

The GPS-enabled inReach can be used by itself or paired with either an Android smartphone or a DeLorme Earthmate PN-60w.

As a standalone device, the inReach can send pre-loaded text messages to designated recipients, and activate remote tracking, allowing others to follow the user’s travels online via a continually-updated “bread crumb” trail. In case of emergency, users can trigger an SOS key—when not in use, the keyis protected by a “safety” to prevent false alarms.

When paired with either an Android smartphone or the DeLorme Earthmate PN-60w GPS, users enjoy full-featured two-way text messaging (up to 160 characters per message), to and from email addresses and cell phones. Messages can also be posted to Facebook and Twitter. In case of emergency, users can describe their predicament so responders can better prepare, and the sender and responders can also maintain an ongoing dialog for mutual status updates.

All SOS messages, whether relayed from a standalone or a paired inReach, will automatically trigger remote tracking. That allows rescuers to efficiently zero in on the senders, whether they’re stationary or on the move.

Android users can drive the inReach GPS signal to their phone. That improves positional accuracy to within 10 feet and also eliminates the significant battery drain that results when the phone’s native GPS is engaged. A free application with DeLorme Topo North America maps will also be available for the Android. Maps can be downloaded to the Android so users won’t need to rely on unpredictable cell phone coverage to access the navigation detail.

DeLorme Topo North America comes included with the Earthmate PN-60w.

The inReach is compact, lightweight, waterproof, floatable, and impact-resistant, and it can maintain satellite signal lock even in difficult GPS environments. Annual subscription plans begin at just $9.95 per month.

The DeLorme inReach will be available in October. There are separate models for Android and DeLorme users. Suggested retail price is $249.95