Previously, we featured here the Beartooth, which is a case designed to turn smartphones into PTT comms or walkie talkies without even the need for a cellular site to make the smartphones communicate with each other in a short distance. Now, another device that can make team communication more efficient with smartphones.

Called the OnBeep Onyx, this is a "communicator" device that will remind us of  the communicator used in Star Trek. It is a wearable device which upon press of the button one can send a voice message to anyone in the network. But unlike the more stylish Star Trek Communicator, Onyx is more of a hockey puck, which will remain that way until its maker, OnBeep, designs a smaller and fashionable version.

How does it work? Onyx connects to iOS or Android devices via bluetooth and the user can create groups to communicate with. Thus, small teams whether proximate to each other or spread out over great geographical locations can communicate at a touch of a button without the need to whip out the mobile phone from their pockets. Prime examples are first responders who need to keep their hands free and Onyx being a wearable device is more convenient to use.

This means that airsoft teams can also use Onyx without the need to purchase radios, and most people nowadays have smartphones. The only problem here is that Onyx will require cellular or wifi connections in order for it to work unlike the Beartooth which does not. Thus, for outdoor airsoft events, Onyx might not work properly if cellular coverage is patchy. If both Onyx and Beartooth can work together, then it will be a good PTT communications system that can be used for airsoft events.

However, the price for Onyx might make you think twice or would rather put your money in cheaper FRS or PMR radios. An Onyx will set you back US$99.00 and for that price, you can already get a pair of cheap two-way radios. But if you have other purposes for the Onyx apart from using it for airsoft, such as for business, managing a team that needs to be always in constant touch, regardless of location, then the price must be a good deal.

The OnBeep Onyx is on pre-order right now with a target release right before Christmas.