The youyeetoo LoraSecrt Is a Meshtastic-Inspired, Rugged, Multi-Functional Emergency Communicator
With text messaging, push-to-talk, and location tracking, this mesh LoRa network node targets adventurers.
Chinese startup youyeetoo has turned to crowdfunding to realize a vision for a Meshtastic-inspired long-range emergency communication gadget based on LoRa connectivity: the LoraSecrt.
"What if you can't call 911? LoraSecrt is your emergency communication solution," claims youyeetoo founder 玉平赖 (Yu Ping Lai) of his company's creation. "Even without a signal, LoraSecrt maintains stable communication over 10 kilometers [around 6.2 miles], helping you quickly reconnect with teammates. LoraSecrt operates without relying on satellites or base stations, featuring low device costs and extended battery life. It serves as a portable communication tool, enabling users to initiate distress calls at any time."
The heart of the LoraSecrt is, as the name implies, a LoRa transceiver — a sub-gigahertz radio designed for long-range, low-power operation with a low peak throughput. Using this, and a companion app running on the user's existing smartphone, the LoraSecrt can create a peer-to-peer mesh network to allow for text messaging, push-to-talk messaging, and location tracking even without a cellular connection.
If that sounds familiar, that's because there are several existing community-driven mesh networking initiatives that work in the same way — with Meshtastic and Meshcore being the most well-known. The LoraSecrt may share the core concept and central hardware, but youyeetoo has not yet announced whether it is interoperable with existing Meshtastic/Meshcore devices and networks.
While there's a question-mark over interoperability, youyeetoo is hoping to tempt people across to the LoraSecrt platform with a comprehensive ruggedized design: the handset includes an impressively-capacious 10Ah with USB Type-C charging, a built-in flashlight, a hanging point for mounting on clothing or equipment, an interchangeable external antenna, and can charge your phone as a USB battery or wireless charger. There's even a solar panel on the rear — but at a peak 1W output, it would appear to be more decorative than functional.
The LoraSecrt is now funding on Kickstarter, with physical rewards starting at $199 for a single node; "early bird" backers can pick up a two-pack for $329, a claimed 45% off the device's planned retail price. Additional information is available on the company's wiki. All hardware is expected to ship in May this year, though as is always the case with crowdfunding delivery is by no means guaranteed.