I'm interested in getting a Spot GPS Tracker not sure what one yet, but I don't completely understand what they do.

-They seem to be cheap enough $75-170. Do you have to pay for a "Plan" or do they just work for free?

-Can you let multiple people track you? (family and friends) as well as delay it to the public or something like that?

-Do they track your route or just find your position when you check in?

I have an iPhone so I think I would like the Spot Connect model.

-Does they phone have to always be connected by bluetooth or can I turn that off and use the device by it's self?

-Would it be better to just go with a more basic model? What are the differences does the Connect do everything and more? or less?

Sorry for all these question I am really intrigued by these and think it would be nice for some solo trips and riding though the forest and hills in the North West. It would keep my family from worrying about me. If anyone has any experience or knowledge about these I would like to know what you think.