Yeah it is sort of like that but will include the sat com element with it. That way you have short range coms with your group but can reach out with the sat com to anywhere. I don't know if they will even build it but I was thinking it is an interesting trend.

I would like a device that was a GPS, 'smart' phone with a bunch of apps, short range radio, has wi-fi and can receive short wave and weather and sat coms too. Along with that please include a full blown computer ability, a TB or two of memory (don't forget the camera) and a fold up keyboard... oh yeah and keep it under $200.00 with a 10 day battery life at a pound in weight (think Star Trek Tri-Corder on steroids)

Hey, if I'm going to dream I may as well go big!