From what I am told there is much effort and energy being put into migrating the PLB and EPIRB systems to have AIS functionality. I guess there have been several events where the PLB/EPIRB has been activated and notified shore authorities but because of out of date or incorrect data on file for that MMSI the search was delayed. Part of the rationale is recognition that many of us are aware of the vessels near us and likely represent the best asset for assistance.
This line of reasoning has many appealing aspects but also raises some concerns. Have any of you heard of this stuff?
I have used poor man’s AIS (iPhone app when in coverage near shore) and have thought of it as a way to decrease the chances of getting run down while going slow in a channel. I hadn’t really considered all the safety aspects. Whaddya think?