Step by step
- You lose signalGPS comes from satellites, not cell towers, so your phone keeps logging where you are. Positions are saved on the phone until they can be sent.
- Your family's map pausesIt shows your last position and how long ago it arrived. After 30 minutes with no update, it says so in plain words, shows how far and which direction you were from the launch, and explains that no signal or sitting at anchor is the usual reason. That alone is not an alarm.
- Signal comes backThe saved positions upload on their own and the map fills in the path you took while out of range.
- If you're past your back-by timeOur server checks every minute. 15 minutes after your back-by time with no check-in, your family gets the overdue text with your last position, your boat's description and what to do. If there's still no check-in 45 minutes later, they get a firmer second text. None of this needs your phone.
Questions
How far out does signal reach?
It depends on your carrier, the weather and where you are. Near Tampa Bay it often reaches several miles offshore, then fades. Plan on no updates once you're past cell range, and pick your back-by time with that in mind.
What if I'm running late with no signal?
You can't push your back-by time without signal, so set an honest time with a buffer before you leave the ramp (30 to 60 minutes is common). The moment you get a bar, tap +30 min or Running late, and your family gets "all good" before anyone worries.
What if I tap Help with no signal?
Headed In saves the request and sends it the moment your phone gets any signal. In a real emergency with no signal, don't wait for it: call the Coast Guard on VHF channel 16 or use your PLB or EPIRB.
What does my family see while I'm out of range?
Your last known position, the time it was sent, and a clear note that you're probably out of signal. If the map is quiet but it's still before your back-by time, that's normal. The overdue text is the signal to act.
What if my phone dies?
The overdue text still goes out on time with the last position we received, because it's sent from our server. If your battery drops to 12%, your family gets a heads-up text. At 10%, Headed In stops sharing your location to save the phone for calls.
Will the app notice if tracking stopped?
Yes. If your phone hasn't logged a position in 90 minutes, it reminds you to check the app. That catches cases like the app being swiped closed.
Does iPhone satellite texting help?
Not for Headed In. iPhone's Messages via satellite and Emergency SOS via satellite work without cell service, but apps like Headed In can't send data through them. If you go past cell range regularly, carry a VHF radio, a PLB or EPIRB, or a satellite messenger like a Garmin inReach or ZOLEO.
Before you head out
- Start your trip at the ramp, while you have signal, so your family gets the map link.
- Set a back-by time with a buffer.
- Tell your family roughly where you're headed. The overdue text gives your last position, and knowing your plan helps.
- Keep the phone charged and out of direct sun.