DeLorme, the innovation leader in personal satellite messaging, tracking and navigation technology, has announced the release of a major upgrade for inReach two-way satellite communicators. inReach users can download the latest firmware version to their inReach devices at no cost. Major product improvements and enhancements in the new release include extended battery life and recharging options.

In addition, the newly-updated Earthmate app enables world topographic map downloads.

Introduced to the market in November 2011, inReach is the first affordable satellite communicator offering two-way personal text messaging with delivery confirmation, SOS alerting and Follow-Me/Find-Me tracking and location.

inReach operates over the Iridium satellite network for truly global coverage, high network reliability and fast data connections with end-to-end message delivery in less than 60 seconds anywhere on Earth.

inReach pairs with most popular smartphones and tablets for two-way global messaging in the 90 percent of the world's surface not served by cellular phone networks. The ruggedized handheld inReach device has an IP68 waterproof and dustproof rating, is impact resistant and works under extreme high and low temperatures.

inReach users can choose AA-size Lithium, Alkaline or rechargeable Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries to power the device. With the new upgrade, battery life has been doubled from 60 to 125 hours for standard Lithium AA batteries, with ten-minute reporting intervals.

When running on Alkaline batteries, which are lower cost and readily available at retail stores everywhere, battery life is now extended up to 72 hours. For maximum flexibility and minimal environmental impact, the rechargeable NiMH batteries can run up to 75 hours between charges and can be recharged up to 500 times. When connected to commercially available solar chargers, NiMH batteries provide an extremely cost-effective solution for long trips away from electrical power sources.

The Earthmate app now enables downloading of seamless topographic maps of the world from DeLorme's new Digital Atlas of the Earth (DAE). Users can download and store all the maps they need for travel all around the world.

DAE detail includes elevation contours, land cover, place names, major roads as well as connectors and urban streets, railroads, transportation hubs and places of interest including museums, landmarks, dams, stadiums, ports and more. The extensive river and stream detail makes DAE one of the premier hydrography data sources in the world.

"DeLorme is committed to a program of continuous improvement for our products," said Patrick Shay, DeLorme vice president and general manager. "We listen carefully to the voices of our customers when developing upgrades that will enhance the inReach experience."

inReach users can download the new firmware free here. The latest Earthmate app is available at no charge from the companion device's online app store.