We often discuss the safety advantages of VHF radios over mobile phones during an emergency at sea. But now the forms of communication appear to be merging in Icom’s new state-of-the-art IC-M510 fixed-mount VHF with WLAN (wireless local area network) functionality.
It offers wireless control of the radio using a smart device such as a mobile phone. By downloading the Icom RS-M500 app on an Android or iOS device, you can turn your mobile phone into a wireless mic or a remote control for the M510 VHF. Using the app, it can connect with up to three smart devices. This VHF also includes an available built-in AIS receiver and GPS. Your mobile phone on its own still does not take the place of a VHF radio in a distress situation, but with the Icom M510 VHF with WLAN, your phone can serve as a vital piece of onboard communications equipment. $599.99; icomamerica.com