FlashMorse - Emergency comms with Morse code
· vV1.0
About
FlashMorse is an app watch that uses the device's flashlight/LED to transmit pre‑defined messages in Morse code.
Users can select from a list of common messages—such as SOS, I'm OK, Need Help, On My Way—and the watch will flash them automatically using the correct Morse timing (dots, dashes, spacing).
This app is intended to be simple, fast to use, and helpful for outdoor, safety, or fun/novelty use cases.
What's new
FlashMorse transforms your watch into a Morse code transmitter, using the device's LED flashlight or screen flash to send messages. Perfect for emergency situations, outdoor adventures, or anyone who wants to communicate using this time-tested signaling method.
FEATURES
Real LED Flashlight Transmission
On supported devices (Fenix 7/8 series, epix Pro), FlashMorse uses your watch's actual LED flashlight to transmit Morse code patterns. The bright LED can be seen from significant distances, making it effective for signaling and emergency communication.
Automatic Screen Flash Fallback
For devices without LED flashlight capability, the app automatically falls back to screen flash mode, using a bright yellow full-screen display to transmit Morse patterns. This ensures the app works on all compatible Garmin watches.
Dual Mode Support
On devices with LED flashlight, you can toggle between LED and screen flash modes using the DOWN button. Choose LED mode for maximum visibility at distance, or screen mode for closer-range communication or battery conservation.
Pre-defined Message Library
Access 15 commonly-needed messages organized into logical categories:
Emergency Messages: SOS, Emergency, Need Help, Help Me
Status Messages: OK, Yes, No, Stop
Social Messages: Hello, Goodbye, Thank You, Please
Essential Needs: Lost, Water, Fire
Custom Message Input
Use your watch's text input feature to create and transmit custom Morse code messages. Type any text, and FlashMorse will convert it to proper Morse code timing and transmit it via your chosen output method.
Standard Morse Code Timing
FlashMorse follows international Morse code standards:
- Dot: 200ms light pulse
- Dash: 600ms light pulse (3x dot length)
- Symbol gap: 200ms between dots and dashes
- Letter gap: 600ms between letters
- Word gap: 1400ms between words
This standard timing ensures your transmissions are recognizable to anyone familiar with Morse code.
Auto-Repeat Transmission
Each message automatically repeats 3 times to increase the likelihood of detection. This is especially important in emergency situations where the receiver may not be watching continuously.
Visual Feedback
The transmission screen shows:
- The message being transmitted
- Current transmission mode (LED or Screen)
- Light indicator (yellow circle when flashing)
- Clear instructions for controls
- Transmission progress
Responsive Design
The interface automatically adapts to different screen sizes, from compact 240x240 displays to larger 280x280+ screens, ensuring optimal visibility and usability across all supported devices.
Devices with LED flashlight hardware will provide the brightest signaling. All other devices can use screen flash mode.
HOW TO USE
1. Launch FlashMorse from your apps menu
2. Select a pre-defined message or create a custom message
3. Press SELECT to start transmission
4. On devices with LED, press DOWN to toggle between LED and screen modes
5. Press SELECT again to stop transmission
6. Press BACK to return to the message menu
EMERGENCY USE
While FlashMorse is designed to be easy and fun to use, it can also serve as a genuine emergency communication tool. The SOS message (... --- ...) is universally recognized as a distress signal. In an emergency situation where voice or radio communication is not possible, visual Morse code signaling can alert rescuers to your location.
TECHNICAL NOTES
NOTE: Always carry proper emergency equipment and communication devices. FlashMorse is a supplementary tool and should not be relied upon as your only means of emergency communication.
Learn Morse code basics to make the most of this app,