Great stuff (but he missed the best day)
On the lock screen of the phone, if there is a message: "emergency calls only" you can get out to the authorities. But we generally don't want them involved in a retrieve.
InReach is a far superior method of communication than (certainly the present) SPOT. Before getting stuck in the middle of nowhere, install the Earthmate app and use it to connect via bluetooth to the InReach. Texts can then be sent to anyone using the touch keyboard of the phone. No, voice to text won't work as you're out of range.
My InReach is in a container attached to a hard point on the parachute harness. Both made by a parachute rigger.
Jim