Garmin inReach Messenger: Easy-to-use satellite communicator provides messaging and security when outside of cellular coverage

Rhea-AI Summary

Garmin has introduced the inReach® Messenger, a compact, lightweight device designed for global communication in areas without cellular coverage. Weighing only 4 oz. and offering two-way texting, location sharing, and SOS capabilities, this device can operate independently or in conjunction with the new Garmin Messenger app. The inReach Messenger features a dedicated SOS button, sends distress messages to Garmin's 24/7 emergency response center, and supports group chats. Available now for $299.99, it boasts up to 28 days of battery life and is resilient against water exposure.

Positive

• New inReach Messenger device enhances global communication for users without cellular coverage.
• Supports both standalone use and smartphone pairing for added convenience.
• Offers a dedicated SOS feature linked to a 24/7 emergency response center.
• Available at a competitive price of $299.99 and boasts 28 days of battery life.

Negative

• None.

Weighing only 4 oz., device allows you to send and receive messages, trigger an interactive SOS and be notified that help is on the way -- even without a cellphone

OLATHE, Kan.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Garmin^® International, Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NYSE: GRMN), today announced inReach^® Messenger, a new communication-focused device with global two-way texting, location sharing, and SOS capabilities¹. Built for those who want a quick and easy way to reach loved ones when they’re without cellular coverage, inReach Messenger provides seamless satellite communication either as a standalone device or when paired to the new Garmin Messenger companion app for smartphones. This new app leverages Wi-Fi®, cellular and satellite connectivity for two-way texting and group messaging. The Messenger companion app will automatically choose between Wi-Fi, cellular or satellite connectivity to ensure every message is sent and received. In the event of an emergency, the inReach Messenger and Messenger App² can send an SOS message to the 24/7 staffed Garmin International Emergency Response Coordination Center (IERCC).

Garmin inReach Messenger provides messaging and security when outside of cellular coverage (Photo: Business Wire)

“Garmin inReach devices are trusted by hundreds of thousands of users globally for communication and peace of mind. The new inReach Messenger is no exception, but with its multiple communication networks, ease-of-use, and smartphone compatibility, it is a perfect device for those who want to easily keep in touch when outside of cell coverage,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales. “Like all inReach devices, inReach Messenger has the ability to send an SOS message to the Garmin IERCC, which has responded to more than 9,000 inReach SOS incidents.”

Streamlined Communication

When paired with the inReach Messenger, users can sync with their smartphone’s contacts list with the companion app to make staying in touch even easier. For the most efficient messaging, the companion app will send messages, post to social media or communicate with fellow adventurers through a cellular or Wi-Fi connection when available, then automatically switch to the 100% global Iridium® satellite network when no longer in cellular or Wi-Fi range.

To keep all friends and family up to date on a trip, the new Messenger companion app supports group text chats with friends and family, even those without inReach devices. Users can continue in-app conversations at home using their Wi-Fi or cellular connection without having to change settings.

inReach Messenger operates as a fully functional, standalone device and does not require a cell phone. Users can check-in to easily notify contacts of their trip progress, send location updates, start or stop tracking, and declare an SOS directly from the device.

There When You Need It Most

Thanks to a dedicated SOS button on inReach Messenger, users can quickly declare an SOS should an emergency occur. Once an SOS is declared, inReach Messenger will send a distress message to the IERCC, a 24/7 Garmin staffed professional emergency response coordination center for response coordination. The IERCC can communicate with the inReach Messenger user in addition to notifying the applicable search and rescue organization or other resources. The IERCC will deliver a confirmation that help is on the way and provide updates on the status of the response effort. The IERCC may also reach out to the user’s designated emergency contacts and will continue to monitor the incident until it is resolved.

Using Garmin’s new “Safety Charging” feature, if a user’s smartphone runs out of battery, the user can simply connect inReach Messenger to their smartphone for enough charge to send custom text messages from the Garmin Messenger app.

See what happens when an SOS is triggered on an inReach device

Built For Adventure

inReach Messenger provides up to 28 days of battery life in default settings. The impact-resistant inReach Messenger fits in the palm of your hand, measuring just 3.1” x 2.5” and weighing 4 oz. Water rated to IPX7, inReach Messenger can withstand incidental exposure of water up to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes.

To enhance any adventure, inReach Messenger can be paired with more than 80 compatible Garmin devices including smartwatches, handhelds, navigators and more. Once paired to a compatible device, inReach Messenger allows users to send and receive messages, share their location, receive smart notifications, and declare an SOS from the paired device.

inReach Messenger represents the newest innovation in Garmin’s expanding family of global satellite communication devices and is available now for a suggested retail price of $299.99.

Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionized life for adventurers, athletes, and outdoor enthusiasts everywhere. Committed to developing products that enhance experiences and enrich lives, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday.

For more information, visit Garmin's virtual Newsroom, email our press team, connect with @garminoutdoor on social media, or follow our adventures at garmin.com/blog.

¹ Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communications devices. It is a user’s responsibility to know and follow all applicable laws in the jurisdictions where the device is intended to be used
² Messenger companion app must be paired to an inReach device to declare an SOS

About Garmin International, Inc. Garmin International Inc. is a subsidiary of Garmin Ltd. (NYSE: GRMN). Garmin Ltd. is incorporated in Switzerland, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. Garmin and inReach are registered trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries.

Wi-Fi is a registered trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance.

All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

Notice on Forward-looking Statements:

This release includes forward-looking statements regarding Garmin Ltd. and its business. Such statements are based on management’s current expectations. The forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this release may not occur and actual results could differ materially as a result of known and unknown risk factors and uncertainties affecting Garmin, including, but not limited to, the risk factors listed in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 25, 2021, filed by Garmin with the Securities and Exchange Commission (Commission file number 0-31983). A copy of such Form 10-K is available at https://www.garmin.com/en-US/company/investors/earnings/. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and Garmin undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220927005060/en/

Rehan Nana

913-397-8200

media.relations@garmin.com

Source: Garmin International, Inc.

FAQ

What is the Garmin inReach Messenger and its main features?

The Garmin inReach Messenger is a satellite communication device that offers two-way texting, location sharing, and SOS capabilities for users in areas without cellular coverage.

How much does the Garmin inReach Messenger cost?

The Garmin inReach Messenger is available for a suggested retail price of $299.99.

What is the battery life of the inReach Messenger?

The inReach Messenger provides up to 28 days of battery life under default settings.

How does the inReach Messenger improve safety during emergencies?

The device features a dedicated SOS button that sends distress messages to Garmin's 24/7 emergency response coordination center, ensuring users receive timely assistance.

Can the inReach Messenger be used with other Garmin devices?

Yes, the inReach Messenger can be paired with over 80 compatible Garmin devices to enhance functionality and communication.