New Product: Keeping in touch when out of range of cellular network

The new Garmin inReach Messenger provides satellite communication as a standalone device or when paired with your smartphone, and has a few other neat features that look promising for anyone hiking away from cellular coverage in the great outdoors.

The latest communication device in Garmin’s inReach lineup is the new Garmin inReach Messenger and Messenger app.

The inReach Messenger is a satellite communication device that provides global two-way texting, location sharing, and SOS capabilities.

It can be used alone or paired with their new Garmin Messenger companion app for smart phones, making messaging loved ones or getting help even easier.

The app will automatically choose between Wi-Fi, cellular, or satellite connectivity to ensure every message is sent and received.

Considering the size of the device, it’s impressive that you can still get most of the functionality as a standalone device. You can check-in with contacts, send location updates, start or stock live tracking, and declare an SOS directly from the device. It uses the Iridium satellite network to offer 100% global coverage, and when using the app, will automatically switch to Wi-Fi or cellular coverage when available.

The device also offers a Safety Charging feature that allows smart phones to be powered if their batteries die, providing enough juice to send a custom text from the app. The device can be paired with over 80 compatible Garmin devices too, from smart watches to handheld navigators and more.

Keeping in touch when out of range of cellular network In order to activate and operate the InReach Messenger, you’ll need to purchase a subscription. The subscription options are broken up into four categories: Safety, Recreational, Expedition, and Extreme. Each plan offers different per month messaging limits (pre-sets are unlimited across every plan) along with other usage differences. The device utilises your mobile but also the Iridium network for when you are out of cellular coverage. Messenger is perfect for those that are not looking for the device as a means of navigation or activity tracking. Keep at your remote cabin, on the dash of your vehicle and boat, or slip it into your backpack’s pocket for those off-grid adventures and camping trips. Messenger is the companion device that shines at keeping you in touch easily using the messenger app, sharing your location via Mapshare and always ready for the unexpected with SOS. Smart switching between Wi-Fi, LTE and Satellites. Always ready to communicate with loved ones or emergency responders via SOS button The retail price of Garmin inReach Messenger is $549.

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