Garmin InReach Messenger Plus Adds Picture and Voice Messaging to the Satellite Communicator

Garmin’s InReach line of satellite messengers offer arguably the best way to maintain communications when going fully off-the grid, which is why it’s become a staple gear in many adventurers’ stash. The Garmin InReach Messenger Plus takes the popular backcountry communicator and takes its functions up a notch.

Like its predecessors, the device supports SOS messaging, two-way texting, weather information, tracking points, and location pings, affording you some barebones way to keep in touch even in the furthest reaches of the planet. Unlike them, this new version allows photo and voice messaging, enabling much fuller communication than other satellite messengers can offer.

The Garmin InReach Messenger Plus actually looks pretty different compared to their previous InReach devices. While those took on a form factor resembling walkie-talkies, this one takes on a more standard box shape. It also has a smaller display for this iteration, which, we’re guessing, means they’re trying to push you to pair it with your smartphone, so you can use the companion app instead, which, let’s be honest, is so much easier than using the limited interface on the device. Basically, you only want to use the screen and controls on the device itself if your smartphone battery drains out.

Of course, the big change for this iteration is the addition of photo and voice messaging, neither of which can be done from the device itself. That’s right, they didn’t actually install a camera or a mic array on the communicator. Instead, you’re supposed to use your phone for both those functions, since they’re both stuff your phone does all the time already. They have a 30-second limit for voice messages and, most likely, an image size limit for photo messaging, although it isn’t listed on the product page. At any rate, this should allow for better two-way messaging, since sound and images just communicate so much better than good, old text.

The Garmin InReach Messenger Plus, of course, still supports two-way text messaging. In fact, it now allows up to 1,600 characters per message, including emojis, making it incredibly easy to stay in touch both with fellow adventurers (in case you get split up) and your people back home. It also supports interactive SOS messaging to Garmin Response, the outfit’s emergency coordination center. According to the outfit, this is staffed 24/7, so you can easily call for help any time you get in trouble in the wild. Similarly, you can activate live tracking, so people can monitor your GPS location and route in real-time, as well as pair with the Garmin Explore app for tracking yourself on a map, among other functions.

As with previous versions, the new satellite communicator is designed for rugged function, so it’s impact-resistant, IPX7 waterproof, and capable of operating in extreme temperatures, Other features include 25 days of battery life, power bank function (you can charge your phone using the communicator), weather reports, free check-in messages (doesn’t count towards your quota), group messaging, and trackback routing, in case you need help finding your way back.

The Garmin InReach Messenger Plus is available now.