Next Gen Communication Device for Skiers

It's over and out to walkie-talkies and stand by for mobiles with the launch of Motion Ultra, a new easy-to-use lightweight comms unit weighing only 100g, combining wide-area LTE push-to-talk, analog radio backup, glove-friendly controls and live location tools, so groups can communicate in the mountains.

Poclink, a U.S.based communications technology company, have created this compact wearable communicator, the Motion Ultra, that will give skiers and snowboarders a fast, usesr-friendly way to communicate while on the mountain, launching via Kickstarter this September.

Poclink is a U.S.based communications technology company developing smart push-to-talk radios and an integrated mobile APP and web management platform for consumer and enterprise users. The company develops its hardware, mobile applications and cloud platform in-house, focusing on practical communication tools for teams operating across changing environments.

What Makes the Motion Ultra Different

Motion Ultra’s key distinction is its hybrid communication architecture, which combines wide-area LTE (Long Term Evolution) push-to-talk and off-grid analog radio in one device.

Wherever supported cellular service is available, users can communicate over LTE across long distances. When a group moves beyond cellular coverage, users can switch to the built-in analog radio as an off-grid backup. Regional radio variants offer a claimed range of up to 35 miles (56k)  in open terrain, subject to local conditions and regulations.

As well as for skiing, the Motion Ultra is designed for hiking, cycling, motorsports and other fast-moving activities where participants may become separated across large areas. Instead of relying solely on smartphones or carrying a conventional handheld radio, users can access both communication modes through a compact device attached directly to their clothing or equipment.

User Friendly Features

You know how annoying, let alone finger-numbing cold, it can be taking your gloves off to use your mobile? Motion Ultra has two oversized push-to-talk buttons designed for easy operation while wearing gloves, along with a rotary control for quick adjustments. It supports five-way full-duplex communication as well as push-to-talk groups of up to 1,000 users.

Also, voice commands allow access to selected functions while skiing, so no need to stop and find your phone, squinting at the screen to make a call in bright sunlight.

Do you copy? Can't hear your mate over the walkie talkie? The Motion Ultra has AI-assisted wind-noise reduction to improve sound clarity.

And, then, with some comms there's the issue of attaching the unit to your ski jacket or helmet. Poclink have this covered with three different mounting options providing a secure way to attach the Motion Ultra unit to outdoor clothing and equipment.

What about the cold? Motion Ultra carries an IP67 rating for protection against dust or water, and is specified for operation at temperatures as low as -20°C. It is powered by a 2,000 mAh battery and supports USB-C charging.

The Global Plan

Through the Poclink mobile application for iOS and Android, group members can access live GPS location sharing, SOS alerts and geofencing tools. These features are intended to help participants maintain awareness of their group and respond when anyone moves outside a designated area.

Global LTE service with regional radio backup, the Motion Ultra will include its Global Plan, designed to provide LTE push-to-talk service in more than 60 countries without a monthly or annual subscription fee. Regional analog radio versions are designed around GMRS protocols in the United States, PMR446 in Europe and UHF CB in Australia. Radio availability, operating range and permitted functions will vary according to local regulations, terrain and environmental conditions.

According to Poclink, cloud-based LTE communications use AES-256 encryption and Amazon Web Services infrastructure. Off-grid analog radio functionality follows the technical capabilities and regulatory requirements of the applicable regional radio protocol. Built on field experience Motion Ultra builds on Poclink’s existing POC-1 Ultra communications platform, which has been deployed by search-and-rescue personnel and competitive fishing teams.

In one field deployment, a fishing team used 20 Poclink radios to coordinate members across approximately 6,000 acres during an international competition. Feedback from field deployments such as this helped inform Motion Ultra’s hybrid communication system, physical controls and mounting design.

Over To Kickstarter For the Launch

Pricing and reward tiers information are on the Kickstarter platform, from this September.

The current estimated delivery window begins in November 2026. Planned colour options include Alpine White, Adventure Orange and Ridge Black. Specifications, LTE service coverage, analog radio compatibility, operating range, pricing and delivery schedules are subject to final campaign terms, network availability, local regulations and production conditions.