Garmin lets you share photos and voice notes via satellite
Garmin has announced the new inReach Messenger Plus, one of the first Iridium satellite communication devices to offer voice and photo messaging capabilities in addition to text messaging, location sharing and SOS communications.
Satellite communications support is now present on Apple's iPhone and Google's Pixel phones, with the primary focus being emergency response notifications and basic text messages.
Garmin launched the first generation of the inReach Messenger in 2022, and it's still available for $300 for those who rely on texting only.
According to a 2023 Garmin report, people used SOS for a variety of reasons, with hiking accidents being the most common.
People experiencing problems can now provide additional information to emergency responders and administer helpful first aid to address problems with inReach Messenger Plus.
The inReach Messenger Plus also features an SOS button that connects you to Garmin's 24/7 Emergency Coordination Center and automatically shares your current location.
The inReach Messenger Plus uses more than just SOS notifications. You can share photos of your adventures with family and friends when the device is paired with the Garmin Messenger app via your smartphone, a useful way to let them know you're safe and enjoying your outdoor adventure.
In addition to photos, you can send 30-second voice messages and text messages of up to 1,600 characters, including emoji.
Your route and location can be shared via GPS so family and friends can follow you on your journey.
Users can also access weather forecasts by connecting to the inReach Messenger Plus, making it a vital tool for those exploring the world.
The inReach Messenger Plus can also be used as a standalone satellite communicator.
If your smartphone battery runs out or is damaged in an accident, you can still notify a contact of your condition, share your location and start an SOS message.
Given the inReach Messenger Plus's rugged durability and IPX7 water resistance rating, it's more likely to survive accidents than smartphones.
The inReach Messenger Plus battery lasts up to 600 hours, even with the device sending your location every 10 minutes. With less use, the battery can last weeks, months, or longer.
Garmin is offering the device for $500 with monthly subscription plans starting at $15 per month. You can sign up for a monthly or annual plan, which is useful for seasonal hiking or other activities.