I think Garmin's plan prices are ridiculous considering iPhone and Pixel have both begun adding satellite SOS free for two years. For a lot of casual adventurers a dedicated device on an expensive plan is going to become more of a want than a need once their phone has satellite. Garmin don't seem to be doing much to get ahead of the wave. I previously owned a different emergency satellite messenger and I already ditched the subscription and threw it in a drawer now that I have a pixel 9 and would have only used it for emergencies anyway. Redundancy? My wife is usually with me and also carries her phone. Do the math. The cost of this device plus the subscription cost for a year pays for your brand new iPhone/Pixel.
@@mrdiggie3321 agree with you. I have a Zoleo and it bothers me that I have to pay $4/month just to retain my # on the off season. I am updating my phone at Christmas and will be getting one with SOS. I predict having to pay for SOS capabilities on the cell phone in the future but I'd rather just have the one device to carry vs two and hopefully it will be something I can turn on and off as needed.
Appreciate the in-depth information on this. I did a two day backpack trip in San Gorgonio this weekend with my dad(he is 81) and we talked about how useful your videos are. He really enjoys them and finds them super useful as I do. Thanks for all the hard work.
For hiking? Probably still a good fit to have a dedicated device for satellite. For us car campers Starlink and satellite messaging directly from our cell phone is enough if not overkill.
I feel like there are many cheaper options then that $50/month plan. How many emojis can you send on that plan? Why do humans need to send emojis to we mergency responders? Or is this all just to justify the high cost so you can text the kids on their level while help is on its way? I thought the wilderness was partially about unplugging.
Thanks Chris for the real world review and feedback. I’m near end of life for the Delorme Explorer+ (used for an Alaska trip a decade ago), and I’m contemplating just relying on the iPhone satellite features for my adventures on mostly well traveled trails along with the awareness and skills from a few thruhikes.
If you can afford it, I'd get the enabled plan with the Explorer and have it just in case, especially in place like AK where you have coverage and potential bad weather, which can make the iPhone touchscreen challenging.
After years (over a decade I think) of InReach on a number of backpacking trips, I finally retired it and stopped paying the annual "fee." Took my iPhone on a backpacking trip (over 10,000 in the Sierra Nevada) and tried it out cold turkey, with no clue if it would work or not. Turns out, it worked great. Had to do a fun little "spin dance" to keep it pointed at the satellite, but I was able to text back and forth a bunch with my wife. It DOES drain battery, so you have to discipline yourself not to use it a ton or bring a larger power bank. But I don't feel I was missing a thing. I definitely didn't miss paying the Garmin fees for a quick trip. Honestly, I felt a bit free, if that makes sense. Anyway, for me, iPhone is not perfect but it was a viable solution for me, and I'll stick with it at this point.
@@openskyphotography Good to know, thanks for posting that. I have my 67 on "enabled" but am considering just going with the PLB and iPhone. That combined with paper maps and my Fenix watch offers great redundancy on comms and navigation.
@@openskyphotography I agree. I have used the Apple Sat Messaging on day hikes along the Colorado Front Range with success. Additionally, my brother has been using the satellite messaging to keep his wife posted while volunteering in the TN flood areas. Before shutting off my inReach, I want to try the iPhone Sat Messaging in a few canyons in Utah. I don't have an expectation that it will work in the narrow & deep slots where the inReach also has issues, but I want to know if it is possible to get a out at all.
Well, for the substantial cost increase for device and subscription, it sure sounds like rather minimal to modest improvements. Thanks for the honest review!
Another very informative review, and *timely* too! (for such a new product). Thanks much! For me, it is too pricey. But for those who are less budget sensitive, I could see it being attractive. I definitely look for items at the bottom of the price scale, or at least a very good value price point. For example, emergency satellite contact for a mid to upper-mid range Samsung phone cannot come too soon for me. 😊
Great review thank you, I was unaware of the upgrades. I know we are all use to our smart phones but it really is amazing to see what technology they are able to put into satellite communicators
I think the fact people pay such a high subscription fee is the amazing part. The minimum is $15/month ranging up to $50. Also why monthly fees for devices use for days in a year? Dont get me wrong i like and use garmin products. But i can only view this as trash. Garmin prices are why my gps is an app on my phone. I do like their bike computers and watches though. You can track your dogs with gps using either, you can even install a "beers earned app" for the enebriators amongst us.
Thanks, Cris, very helpful as usual. Your reviews are so information-packed that I feel like I should take notes, as there are multiple points I want to comment on. 😃 In short, I’m still undecided about my next steps in this space. I would like to upgrade my old “Explorer” unit (it still says DeLorme on it!!) but with the emerging iPhone capabilities it lessens the urgency. However I still pay for the Garmin SAR50 plan and in a rescue situation that could mean the difference between a huge financial impact, or not. Capability-wise I like the idea of being on the “new” service as it’s probably their future path. I wonder what frequency it uses (asking as a licensed amateur radio & gmrs user) and whether it’s different than the earlier devices. Anyway, thanks for the updates.
Thanks again Bill, appreciate it. - Not sure of the frequency but my guess is same L-band, just different protocol. - I think you can stick with the Explorer, it's still solid and a good unit. If you have that and an iPhone, I'd move the Explorer to the "Enabled" plan, keep the insurance, and use the phone for non-emergency texting. That way you'd have good redundancy.
Great video, editing, and camera work! I could always read the inReach's display even in challenging environments. The weather feature used to offer extended and/or marine for an additional cost, but now the extras are included in the base forecast.
Like what you cant wait until you hit a pack station to get your voicemail? Do we need to send emergency crews emojis to better describe our pain level or something based on the pain level face chart? I just dont get why, i feel like its more about trying to justify exorbitant subscription fees.
I think for most people, they need a power station that have more DC outputs. I still have not found one on the market has a lot of DC outputs especially high amp outputs where you can connect to another bus bar in the vehicle. Ask Anker to make one
Navigation is important, not going to get this for this reason alone. I would get the next InReach Mini 3, since if my IPhone 15 pro is lost or broken or whatever, I have a secondary ultralight standalone navigation + SOS device. Hopefully they have a more descriptive map showing on a slightly larger screen on the next InReach Mini. If they can get a vivid map on a watch, they can do it on a future InReach Mini, matter of time.
This is really great, thanks for the review! I have a 67i. Do you know if that can send voice messages and images, or does it only apply to this new device?
@@Hikingguy Thank you. That is actually pretty helpful. I didn’t realize that the 67 came out in 2023, so there is a good chance it will be a little while.
Apparently Garmin listened a little bit about the app anyway. I got a notification today that the Explore App was going to be updated, including the maps. Fingers crossed.
I have an 8 year old inreach that I use just to let my family know where I'm at. Not interested in upgrading until the battery finally dies. I wish they had a 3rd party person for a new battery. But I am happy with it even though it's big. But i need reading glasses even though the screen is a little big
Thanks for the review! but not for me, happy with my 66i. Shame the new system sucks power, I would have preferred longer battery life. I’ll also be interested to see the upgraded 67i but doubt it’ll suite me better, esp if power hungry.
No option for external battery or antenna. Given the lithium battery, it likely has a narrow operating temperature band. Glad it doesn't have a touch screen.
Any such device that relies on a smart phone is only as good as the smart phone particularly in cold wet weather? Have you tested it in cold wet conditions yet ?
@hikingguy Do you have to be stationary for messages or track points to go through? I’m thinking of a use case where I am mountain biking and having it send track points at 10 minute intervals. Is it going to have trouble if I am moving? Would the marginal gains of the Messenger Plus over the Messenger make a difference? Thanks for your review.
Nah it'll work when moving. I send messages when hiking all the time. Might take a couple of minutes but it'll go through 99% of the time. If you want to future-proof and have the $$$, the Plus is probably smarter, otherwise the Messenger on sale for $250 is solid.
I used my original Mini to get a guy helicopterd out of Grand Canyon last May. Probably 40 messages back and forth with S&R before the chopper arrived the next morning. I only trust Garmin with this stuff; my experience with Globalstar on the Spot was terrible. You can only really trust Iridium, sorry iPhone people. But, do you think an upgrade to standard Messenger (not this) is worth it? (I really dislike Earthmate and have a Venu 3 and am a Gaia guy)
Glad you were able to help that guy out. Another great reason to carry one. The Messenger has a higher transmit power than the original Mini and seems to be a bit quicker with more battery life. I'd say if you're not using the Mini for navigation and okay with mainly using your phone to control the Messenger, then yes, probably a good move. I've seen it on sale now that the Plus came out too.
@@Hikingguy Thanks. I've never used the Mini for nav because it is so bad compared to Gaia. And I always carry a paper map just in case (on this trip this group I interacted with did not have a backup map) I just don't want to buy it and find out a Messenger 2 comes out in 3 months. The Pro doesn't seem worth the uplift.
At this point given the ability to carry, would it be better to use a Starlink device like the new mini satellite WiFi router over this? I’m debating to get one or the other for camping.. what’s your opinion guys?
It depends on how much you need data and how much you're willing to carry. The Starlink Roam is pretty big and clunky for a regular hiking carry, but if you're staying at camp a while it could make sense. I'd say wait it out a bit, there will probably be more options in the near future.
Thanks for video.. But I am very new to any GPS devices like these. Can you please explain the difference between this Messenger plus and InReach 2? Thanks in advance
If I’m traveling with my Husband who has this messenger..will I be able to connect my phone as well? In other words, can multiple phones be able to use 1 Garmin messenger device?
These legacy satellite service providers and specialized SOS devices are going to disappear. We’re gettin close to global high quality SOS and general internet service from the smartphone in your pocket.
Can the inreach messenger plus show coordinates in UTM format? My paper maps use UTM. I have an etrex20 to know my position in white out conditions, but would like an inreach for communication.
My thoughts are, Garmin Inreach subscription plan changes and leaning towards new 'Send Selfies everywhere' influencer lifestyle gear, makes me feel much less inclined to purchase one of their outdoor watches. Crap. Not a single psychologist at Garmin available, who can explain how serious 'cognitive dissonance' can ruin your customer base? Weird.
4:34 WTF Is that thing on the desk to her left? Is that her keychain?! Keys are supposed to give you access to places, ideally as fast as possible rather than fiddling with a dreamcatcher while the boogie man creeps up on you 😅
I had to completely turn off my Samsung Galaxy S10e to get the reverse charging to work. With the phone turned on, my phone would instead start charging the InReach Messenger Plus.
@@CarlosJose-o6g This is done through the USB port right? Maybe it depends on selecting the type of USB connection you made on the phone when you first plug it in 😕 I think it shows up in the notifications.
@@snatr You're probably right. Yes, I plugged in the USB-C to USB-c cable to the phone and the Messenger Plus. I was just testing the feature. So I'm not going to try and figure out why it won't reverse charge with the phone turned on. I doubt it will ever be used unless the phone is completely dead and already turned off.
I don't get it. It's late 2024....why do we not have live video? It's for emergencies, for gosh sakes. Starlink is now providing satellite-to-phone communication. Live video is a no-brainer.
Yes, it’s possible, but you have to type by selecting each letter individually, similar to how you type on a TV using a remote. It works in an emergency, but it’s not very convenient.
InReach service is way too expensive. Elon "Monopoly Buster" Musk is coming and Starlink devices will be far less in cost and service plans. I'll wait.
Are Garmin’s days numbered? I doubt it. Their devices are built to military standards and have daylight readable screens and buttons work better than wet touch screens. Even if Apple can fix its aim and tracking feature, no one knows how much they will eventually charge for their satellite service after the free service. What if Garmin makes their own phone and I’m sure Samsung will soon provide satellite service too. Not everyone likes Apple. My Apple devices have lots of problems. Probably too many tinker toy features for kids.
Garmin's days are numbered...Sure you can't send images or voice recordings with Apple, but they will will eventually get there. With Garmin changing their inReach plans, I won't invest in another Garmin device
@@melissasmess2773 If cellular doesn't work, the new iOS 18 update and any new iPhone 14 or higher has satellite iMessage, that's what enabled people to send/receive messages in Asheville, when the hurricane took out all power and cellular
Whatever. I have ALWAYS received great support from Garmin, replacing devices for free, free shipping for repairs, EVERYTHING has always been great. I'm sure Garmin will survive without you.
@@melissasmess2773 Apple has satellite connectivity and will be opening more and more of those features over the next year or two. Not much reason to invest in Garmin. And Apple doesn’t charge a fee to send messages or emergency calls via satellite.
Lucky you DO NOT live in Australia as the In Reach Mini 2 costs anywhere up to $625 Australian Dollars. A fucking Rip Off. So, this new one will most likely cost us $1000+.
What do you guys think? Upgrade?
Not me. I just bought the 67i last year 💵 😖
I think Garmin's plan prices are ridiculous considering iPhone and Pixel have both begun adding satellite SOS free for two years. For a lot of casual adventurers a dedicated device on an expensive plan is going to become more of a want than a need once their phone has satellite. Garmin don't seem to be doing much to get ahead of the wave. I previously owned a different emergency satellite messenger and I already ditched the subscription and threw it in a drawer now that I have a pixel 9 and would have only used it for emergencies anyway. Redundancy? My wife is usually with me and also carries her phone. Do the math. The cost of this device plus the subscription cost for a year pays for your brand new iPhone/Pixel.
@@mrdiggie3321 agree with you. I have a Zoleo and it bothers me that I have to pay $4/month just to retain my # on the off season. I am updating my phone at Christmas and will be getting one with SOS. I predict having to pay for SOS capabilities on the cell phone in the future but I'd rather just have the one device to carry vs two and hopefully it will be something I can turn on and off as needed.
@@Hikingguy No sir!
@@Hikingguy I'm staying with my inReach mini 1 and the existing annual plan.
Appreciate the in-depth information on this. I did a two day backpack trip in San Gorgonio this weekend with my dad(he is 81) and we talked about how useful your videos are. He really enjoys them and finds them super useful as I do. Thanks for all the hard work.
Thank you, really appreciate that 👍🏻
I work in the wilderness,and say what you want about frustrating features on some products but garmin devices are rugged and reliable.
Also more convoluted than need be with a price to match.
For hiking? Probably still a good fit to have a dedicated device for satellite. For us car campers Starlink and satellite messaging directly from our cell phone is enough if not overkill.
I feel like there are many cheaper options then that $50/month plan. How many emojis can you send on that plan? Why do humans need to send emojis to we mergency responders? Or is this all just to justify the high cost so you can text the kids on their level while help is on its way?
I thought the wilderness was partially about unplugging.
Thanks Chris for the real world review and feedback. I’m near end of life for the Delorme Explorer+ (used for an Alaska trip a decade ago), and I’m contemplating just relying on the iPhone satellite features for my adventures on mostly well traveled trails along with the awareness and skills from a few thruhikes.
If you can afford it, I'd get the enabled plan with the Explorer and have it just in case, especially in place like AK where you have coverage and potential bad weather, which can make the iPhone touchscreen challenging.
After years (over a decade I think) of InReach on a number of backpacking trips, I finally retired it and stopped paying the annual "fee." Took my iPhone on a backpacking trip (over 10,000 in the Sierra Nevada) and tried it out cold turkey, with no clue if it would work or not. Turns out, it worked great. Had to do a fun little "spin dance" to keep it pointed at the satellite, but I was able to text back and forth a bunch with my wife. It DOES drain battery, so you have to discipline yourself not to use it a ton or bring a larger power bank. But I don't feel I was missing a thing. I definitely didn't miss paying the Garmin fees for a quick trip. Honestly, I felt a bit free, if that makes sense. Anyway, for me, iPhone is not perfect but it was a viable solution for me, and I'll stick with it at this point.
@@openskyphotography Good to know, thanks for posting that. I have my 67 on "enabled" but am considering just going with the PLB and iPhone. That combined with paper maps and my Fenix watch offers great redundancy on comms and navigation.
@@openskyphotography I agree. I have used the Apple Sat Messaging on day hikes along the Colorado Front Range with success. Additionally, my brother has been using the satellite messaging to keep his wife posted while volunteering in the TN flood areas.
Before shutting off my inReach, I want to try the iPhone Sat Messaging in a few canyons in Utah. I don't have an expectation that it will work in the narrow & deep slots where the inReach also has issues, but I want to know if it is possible to get a out at all.
Well, for the substantial cost increase for device and subscription, it sure sounds like rather minimal to modest improvements. Thanks for the honest review!
Good review. Covered all the details. I use mine as a tracker on a sailboat. The ability to get better weather would be great.
Love your reviews. Keep up the great work!
Love your videos. Get some sun block when hiking !
Another very informative review, and *timely* too! (for such a new product). Thanks much!
For me, it is too pricey. But for those who are less budget sensitive, I could see it being attractive. I definitely look for items at the bottom of the price scale, or at least a very good value price point.
For example, emergency satellite contact for a mid to upper-mid range Samsung phone cannot come too soon for me. 😊
Yea, hang tight, I'd imagine within a year or two almost everyone will have some sort of SOS via sat on their phone
Great review thank you, I was unaware of the upgrades. I know we are all use to our smart phones but it really is amazing to see what technology they are able to put into satellite communicators
I think the fact people pay such a high subscription fee is the amazing part. The minimum is $15/month ranging up to $50. Also why monthly fees for devices use for days in a year?
Dont get me wrong i like and use garmin products. But i can only view this as trash. Garmin prices are why my gps is an app on my phone. I do like their bike computers and watches though. You can track your dogs with gps using either, you can even install a "beers earned app" for the enebriators amongst us.
Thanks, Cris, very helpful as usual. Your reviews are so information-packed that I feel like I should take notes, as there are multiple points I want to comment on. 😃
In short, I’m still undecided about my next steps in this space. I would like to upgrade my old “Explorer” unit (it still says DeLorme on it!!) but with the emerging iPhone capabilities it lessens the urgency. However I still pay for the Garmin SAR50 plan and in a rescue situation that could mean the difference between a huge financial impact, or not.
Capability-wise I like the idea of being on the “new” service as it’s probably their future path. I wonder what frequency it uses (asking as a licensed amateur radio & gmrs user) and whether it’s different than the earlier devices.
Anyway, thanks for the updates.
Thanks again Bill, appreciate it.
- Not sure of the frequency but my guess is same L-band, just different protocol.
- I think you can stick with the Explorer, it's still solid and a good unit. If you have that and an iPhone, I'd move the Explorer to the "Enabled" plan, keep the insurance, and use the phone for non-emergency texting. That way you'd have good redundancy.
Great video, editing, and camera work! I could always read the inReach's display even in challenging environments. The weather feature used to offer extended and/or marine for an additional cost, but now the extras are included in the base forecast.
Thank you!
Looks great! Definitely liking the voicemail capabilities
Like what you cant wait until you hit a pack station to get your voicemail?
Do we need to send emergency crews emojis to better describe our pain level or something based on the pain level face chart?
I just dont get why, i feel like its more about trying to justify exorbitant subscription fees.
I think for most people, they need a power station that have more DC outputs. I still have not found one on the market has a lot of DC outputs especially high amp outputs where you can connect to another bus bar in the vehicle. Ask Anker to make one
Super helpful, thanks!
Navigation is important, not going to get this for this reason alone. I would get the next InReach Mini 3, since if my IPhone 15 pro is lost or broken or whatever, I have a secondary ultralight standalone navigation + SOS device. Hopefully they have a more descriptive map showing on a slightly larger screen on the next InReach Mini. If they can get a vivid map on a watch, they can do it on a future InReach Mini, matter of time.
This is really great, thanks for the review!
I have a 67i. Do you know if that can send voice messages and images, or does it only apply to this new device?
Only this new device or using Messenger app in Wifi/Cell range
Do you have any idea when the updated 67i (68i) is going to be released? Thank you for the very helpful video!
No idea - 66 was 2019, 67 was 2023, so 2027? Guessing given the new tech it's before then.
@@Hikingguy Thank you. That is actually pretty helpful. I didn’t realize that the 67 came out in 2023, so there is a good chance it will be a little while.
What about attaching it to your pack? Does it come with some sort of carabiner or holster?
@@JeremyOdom I just bought a case off amazon for my inreach messenger
Sold separately, as usual.
They fit nicely into tactical cigarette pouches, just double check the measurements: amzn.to/3BFQbTt
Why do old InReach device users have to pay the more expensive InReach plan rates without access to faster data/new features.
We are helping pay for the upgrades. 😅 🍆
Garmin shareholders need their profits.
I was told that I would stay at my current plan/rate unless I changed my plan or stopped my service
@@EchoBase-Music they will automatically migrate you to the new plan after Dec 2024
7.99/month and 50 cents per message, unlimited sos is a new alternative
Apparently Garmin listened a little bit about the app anyway. I got a notification today that the Explore App was going to be updated, including the maps. Fingers crossed.
Yea, keeping an eye on it, will post something as soon as I see it.
I have an 8 year old inreach that I use just to let my family know where I'm at. Not interested in upgrading until the battery finally dies. I wish they had a 3rd party person for a new battery. But I am happy with it even though it's big. But i need reading glasses even though the screen is a little big
Thanks for the review! but not for me, happy with my 66i. Shame the new system sucks power, I would have preferred longer battery life. I’ll also be interested to see the upgraded 67i but doubt it’ll suite me better, esp if power hungry.
it is disconcerting that the prices have been hiked up for the old service. Looking forward to Starlink direct to phone anywhere on the planet ...
No option for external battery or antenna. Given the lithium battery, it likely has a narrow operating temperature band.
Glad it doesn't have a touch screen.
Any such device that relies on a smart phone is only as good as the smart phone particularly in cold wet weather? Have you tested it in cold wet conditions yet ?
When do you think the next updated garmin in reach device will come out to the market? Aprox date ? Thank you!
Your guess as good as mine, no idea really. Maybe before holidays? Or before next spring hiking season?
@hikingguy Do you have to be stationary for messages or track points to go through? I’m thinking of a use case where I am mountain biking and having it send track points at 10 minute intervals. Is it going to have trouble if I am moving? Would the marginal gains of the Messenger Plus over the Messenger make a difference? Thanks for your review.
Nah it'll work when moving. I send messages when hiking all the time. Might take a couple of minutes but it'll go through 99% of the time. If you want to future-proof and have the $$$, the Plus is probably smarter, otherwise the Messenger on sale for $250 is solid.
nice review
I want to ask, do devices that use the iridium network also have to subscribe to use the function? Or just buy the device and the network is free.
Yes, you have to pay for a subscription through Garmin
@@Hikingguyno, I'm sorry. I meant devices you mentioned at 0:47
@@wil4783 Ahh - yes, those devices also either pay a 3rd party or work with Iridium directly
I used my original Mini to get a guy helicopterd out of Grand Canyon last May. Probably 40 messages back and forth with S&R before the chopper arrived the next morning. I only trust Garmin with this stuff; my experience with Globalstar on the Spot was terrible. You can only really trust Iridium, sorry iPhone people. But, do you think an upgrade to standard Messenger (not this) is worth it? (I really dislike Earthmate and have a Venu 3 and am a Gaia guy)
Glad you were able to help that guy out. Another great reason to carry one. The Messenger has a higher transmit power than the original Mini and seems to be a bit quicker with more battery life. I'd say if you're not using the Mini for navigation and okay with mainly using your phone to control the Messenger, then yes, probably a good move. I've seen it on sale now that the Plus came out too.
@@Hikingguy Thanks. I've never used the Mini for nav because it is so bad compared to Gaia. And I always carry a paper map just in case (on this trip this group I interacted with did not have a backup map) I just don't want to buy it and find out a Messenger 2 comes out in 3 months. The Pro doesn't seem worth the uplift.
At this point given the ability to carry, would it be better to use a Starlink device like the new mini satellite WiFi router over this? I’m debating to get one or the other for camping.. what’s your opinion guys?
It depends on how much you need data and how much you're willing to carry. The Starlink Roam is pretty big and clunky for a regular hiking carry, but if you're staying at camp a while it could make sense. I'd say wait it out a bit, there will probably be more options in the near future.
My iphone 15 does not work with Usb-C to C cable that comes from Garmin. No clue why.
With satelite texting now on Apple iphones & late 2025 Starlink satelite to any phone texts to start, is there any real reason to buy this.
None have photos or voice notes yet, so this will probably be the only device of it's kind until those capabilities come, prob later in 2025
Thanks for video.. But I am very new to any GPS devices like these. Can you please explain the difference between this Messenger plus and InReach 2? Thanks in advance
This one has photos and voice notes, no other inReach (as of now) has those, they only have text messages
@@Hikingguy Thanks..not sure if its worth more just for photos/videos
The higher power if for the increased bandwidth to send the larger amounts of data. Narrow bandwidth lower power. Wide bandwidth higher power
Regular phones are getting sat com soon. I do not know the details.
Yup, stay tuned to my news, I'll keep everyone updated on the latest
I read that the Iphone only has satellite connectivity in the US and Canada right now.
Thanks!
Thank you so so much, couldn't do it without your support!
Battery life is the most important thing, a cell phone lasts a day or so. I want a stand alone device that lasts a week
If I’m traveling with my Husband who has this messenger..will I be able to connect my phone as well? In other words, can multiple phones be able to use 1 Garmin messenger device?
No, just one phone per device at a time
@@Hikingguy got it. Tyb
Is there anything that displays the signal strength to the satellites?
No, just an icon for "transmitting data" like the last Messenger
These legacy satellite service providers and specialized SOS devices are going to disappear. We’re gettin close to global high quality SOS and general internet service from the smartphone in your pocket.
Only able to send voice and pictures to another inreach account is a deal killer, send to any cell I would buy it.
Only $40 a month! lol I'll use my iphone.
Can the inreach messenger plus show coordinates in UTM format? My paper maps use UTM. I have an etrex20 to know my position in white out conditions, but would like an inreach for communication.
Not seeing a setting for that on this device
Can you activate the subscription on the device when you don't have other cell services?
nope
Iridium based? No Starlink? Some cellular providers (T-Mobile) can connect to Starlink directly from your phone, making this device redundant.
Yup, talk about it on my channel all the time
My thoughts are, Garmin Inreach subscription plan changes and leaning towards new 'Send Selfies everywhere' influencer lifestyle gear, makes me feel much less inclined to purchase one of their outdoor watches.
Crap.
Not a single psychologist at Garmin available, who can explain how serious 'cognitive dissonance' can ruin your customer base? Weird.
4:34 WTF Is that thing on the desk to her left? Is that her keychain?!
Keys are supposed to give you access to places, ideally as fast as possible rather than fiddling with a dreamcatcher while the boogie man creeps up on you 😅
starlink mini if your not backpacking
$500 ?
Like a bag joke 😂
No need to upgrade. I only use preset messages.
Transcript of an actual Emergency Voice Message: “Help me, Obi-Wan Kenobi; you're my only hope.”
Tatooine: ua-cam.com/video/UEzm3IUudvQ/v-deo.html
I think you might have had more success at reverse charging if you would have temporarily put your phone in airplane mode. Maybe 🤔
I had to completely turn off my Samsung Galaxy S10e to get the reverse charging to work.
With the phone turned on, my phone would instead start charging the InReach Messenger Plus.
@@CarlosJose-o6g This is done through the USB port right? Maybe it depends on selecting the type of USB connection you made on the phone when you first plug it in 😕 I think it shows up in the notifications.
@@snatr You're probably right. Yes, I plugged in the USB-C to USB-c cable to the phone and the Messenger Plus.
I was just testing the feature. So I'm not going to try and figure out why it won't reverse charge with the phone turned on. I doubt it will ever be used unless the phone is completely dead and already turned off.
@@CarlosJose-o6g Yeah, I was thinking the same thing. I'm sure it would charge properly then 😉
In thought in reach was for when phone was FUBAR….
Doing a check-in message or starting the SOS process is very easy with just the device. You don't need the phone.
Garmin software is an absolute nightmare
I don't get it. It's late 2024....why do we not have live video? It's for emergencies, for gosh sakes. Starlink is now providing satellite-to-phone communication. Live video is a no-brainer.
Can you text without the phone?
Yes, it’s possible, but you have to type by selecting each letter individually, similar to how you type on a TV using a remote. It works in an emergency, but it’s not very convenient.
Yea, it's not the easiest experience
InReach service is way too expensive. Elon "Monopoly Buster" Musk is coming and Starlink devices will be far less in cost and service plans. I'll wait.
Are Garmin’s days numbered? I doubt it. Their devices are built to military standards and have daylight readable screens and buttons work better than wet touch screens. Even if Apple can fix its aim and tracking feature, no one knows how much they will eventually charge for their satellite service after the free service. What if Garmin makes their own phone and I’m sure Samsung will soon provide satellite service too. Not everyone likes Apple. My Apple devices have lots of problems. Probably too many tinker toy features for kids.
still hate the form factor
The apps are total ass. Main reason I wont upgrade from my mini v1.
Garmin's days are numbered...Sure you can't send images or voice recordings with Apple, but they will will eventually get there. With Garmin changing their inReach plans, I won't invest in another Garmin device
It's still a good back up communication device if cellular doesn't work. Grid down capabilities?
@@melissasmess2773My phones GPS doesn’t need cellular network be up for it to work. 🙄🤔
@@melissasmess2773 If cellular doesn't work, the new iOS 18 update and any new iPhone 14 or higher has satellite iMessage, that's what enabled people to send/receive messages in Asheville, when the hurricane took out all power and cellular
Whatever. I have ALWAYS received great support from Garmin, replacing devices for free, free shipping for repairs, EVERYTHING has always been great. I'm sure Garmin will survive without you.
@@melissasmess2773 Apple has satellite connectivity and will be opening more and more of those features over the next year or two. Not much reason to invest in Garmin. And Apple doesn’t charge a fee to send messages or emergency calls via satellite.
it's days are numbered, soon smart phone will tie up with starlink, or starlink will have an apps that can be downloaded
This device seems like a pointless and underwhelming “upgrade” to the original messenger typical for Garmin lately.
Lucky you DO NOT live in Australia as the In Reach Mini 2 costs anywhere up to $625 Australian Dollars. A fucking Rip Off. So, this new one will most likely cost us $1000+.