Bivy Stick Satellite Communication Device

ByKen J. Last Update
Bivy Stick satellite communication device for 2 way messaging

The Bivy Stick is a satellite 2 way communication (text messaging) device. It works with your cell phone (iOS/Android App) and is a satellite phone alternative.

It uses the global Iridium satellite coverage for two-way SMS text messaging and email, GPS tracking, maps and navigation, emergency SOS, weather reports, and location sharing when enabled.

The Bivy Stick is a simple-to-use Iridium global satellite 2 way communication device by ACR Electronics. ACR is the same manufacturer who makes life-saving EPIRB and PLBs! You can rest assured knowing that the device you are using to send important or critical text messages, GPS, and weather updates is being produced at the highest standards.

Made in the USA, manufactured in the state of Florida.

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Bivy Stick Satellite Communication Device Uses

Cell phone coverage is widespread these days. However, rural and sparsely populated regions may be sketchy or non-existent depending on where you’re at. A satellite communication device is perfect for the adventurous who travel beyond the reaches of modern-day cell coverage.

Also, this type of device is a great emergency backup for the prepper/preparedness-minded.

  • Text messages via Iridium Satellite Network anywhere in the world
  • Comes with a unique dedicated cell phone number, share your number with others and they can text you
  • Able to send text messages to phone numbers or email addresses
  • Full featured App for iPhone and Android
  • Hiking off-grid, Hunting/Fishing/Camping in the wilderness, Boating offshore, literally anywhere
  • Maps, TOPO Terrain, Trails, Waterways
  • Download maps for offline /off-grid use
  • Quick Check-in button with your own pre-configured texts (e.g., “Yes I’m fine, all is well”)
  • Tracking data for others to follow your path, pace, mileage, altitude, more…
  • Track and save routes, Waypoints, share with others
  • SOS Distress Call Button – International

When typing your message, you can also choose to share your location. GPS coordinates will become part of the text with a URL that will let the recipient see your exact location on a Bivy map.

Bivy Stick Monthly Fee

As with all satellite communication devices, there is a monthly fee for the service.

You need to use the Bivy app to manage your Bivy Stick plan (choices depend upon your usage needs). To sign up for a Bivy Stick monthly fee, use the Bivy app, navigate to the ‘Stick’ menu, select your desired plan and payment information.

As of this writing, the Bivy Stick ACR monthly fee plans range in price depending on choices of an annual plan or monthly plan and their three tiers of usage (Basic, Plus, Unlimited).

Basic ($15/$20)
Plus ($30/$35)
Unlimited ($55/$60)

Bivy Stick picture

The Bivy Stick Turns Your Cell Phone Into A Satellite Communication Device

Anywhere you have a view of the sky, you can communicate with the Bivy Stick. 2-way text messaging, SOS, location sharing (when enabled), detailed weather reports are sent straight to your cell phone from space via the Iridium satellite network (described below). When you are off the grid, without cell service, the Bivy Stick keeps you in communication with your loved ones, and provides peace of mind.

About the Iridium Satellite Network Constellation

The satellites of the Iridium network cover the entire earth. It consists of 66 active satellites used for worldwide voice and data communication from hand-held satellite phones and other transceiver units.

The global mesh of the Iridium constellation is in Low Earth Orbit, approximately 485 miles above the earth. This provides stronger signals and faster connections through smaller antennas with lower power requirements.

The Iridium network uses L-band frequencies, which are more resilient to weather than the frequencies used by most GEO networks.

Each satellite is cross-linked to four others, providing reliability, resiliency, optimization, and redundancy.

The Iridium network gateway processes the message, then delivers it to the carrier, internet, or customer.

[ Read: Best BaoFeng Antenna Upgrade for Ham Radio or GMRS, FRS, MURS Bands ]