sQuidd.io supports AIS for member-to-member position tracking

The Automatic Identification System (AIS) is an automatic tracking system used on ships and by vessel traffic services for identifying and locating vessels by electronically exchanging data with other nearby ships and AIS Base stations. While originally intended for large cargo and passenger ships, low-cost AIS transponders are becoming more affordable and are increasingly popular among pleasure boaters. In addition to providing a vital anti-collision warning service, the AIS has enabled the advent of an accurate and inexpensive peer-to-peer position tracking system, particularly useful in areas where cellular coverage is poor or nonexistent.

sQuiddio is enhancing its popular Follow-me feature by adding AIS support. The Follow-me feature allows members to constantly advertise their position and track their friends' boat's position on a map. You can also  post position updates on your Facebook page. 

IMPORTANT: sQuiddio relies on AIS position updates available on the Internet and provided by a network of private and independently operated AIS Base stations around the world. Coverage is therefore limited to certain areas, mostly within a 20-50 mile radius of heavily populated areas. THIS SERVICE IS THEREFORE PROVIDED ON A BEST EFFORT BASIS and should not be relied upon when sharing your position with others at all times is critical. Check our AIS service provider's coverage map to find out what areas are currently served. To update your follow list in areas not covered by AIS you should continue to rely on cellular phone or satellite phone updates.

To enable AIS tracking, simply add your MMSI to your sQuidd.io Boat profile (please allow between 10 and 30 minutes for the first position update to be reflected on sQuidd.io).

Check our FAQ for additional information on Follow-lists ans AIS.