use your cell phone without cell coverage

[rodro123]

FireChat it works without a data plan and where there is no Internet connection or cellular phone coverage. It even works on a plane or on a cruise ship or inside your RV. It creates its own communication network that’s free and doesn’t rely on traditional networks. and the app is a free download.

You don't have to do anything special: just use your phone and FireChat. This is game-changing since you can create local communication networks at zero cost and also stay connected during sports games, rallies, in RV parks or while boon docking with zero cell coverage at music events and in disaster situations.

I first heard about this a few weeks ago when I reading a story on burning man that this was the way to stay connected. I downloaded it and installed it then I was camping in a remote area so I tried it out and it worked as stated.
Fire Chat - Rods RV Needs

[jasoncw]

How far away were you from the person when you tested it out? I don't see much need for it at a campground. If they are within 70m of you, you don't really need your phone to communicate with them. But of course, it would be good with kids, since they like to sit next to each other while they are texting... sigh

[Camper_bob]

Originally Posted by jasoncw

How far away were you from the person when you tested it out? I don't see much need for it at a campground. If they are within 70m of you, you don't really need your phone to communicate with them. But of course, it would be good with kids, since they like to sit next to each other while they are texting... sigh

+1 on the question. But I would disagree that you might not need it at close ranges. A few weekends ago I hurt my back outside the trailer while my wife was inside with the baby cleaning and jamming out to the radio. I had to call her to come help me.

Added: where we were last weekend, I had NO signal, so who knows how long I would have been out there before I got help.

[RoyBraddy]

Maybe sit your cell phone in a WILSON SLEEK CRADLE with the external antenna and your local coverage range should be greatly improved...

I'll have to try that with my CELLPHONE WIFI connections when not in a service area...

I use my VERIZON MIFI unit sitting in a WILSON SLEEK CRADLE when camping and it really gives us a very LARGE footprint around our parked trailer using our tablets and other WIFI enabled devices...etc

Roy Ken

[RoyBraddy]

Does this APP only work on IPHONEs? Will it work on my DROID CELL PHONE?

[jasoncw]

They have an Android version as well according to their website. Just do a search for the app in Google Play.

[rodro123]

I was in a very remote area I saw no one around for over 1/2 mile but Linda's phone was on she was in the tt and I was sitting outside. I have no clue how this worked so well but it did. We could text to each other or others around the USA. We don't use iphones we use Samsung S-3's. (older smartphones)

[RoyBraddy]

Thanks for info... Will have to look into this APP... Might be a good one to have around...

Roy Ken