The personal satellite tracker market is getting crowded, and we always thought these relatively inexpensive devices are a worthy investment for pilots who fly in remote areas not served by cellular service. The latest Garmin inReach Messenger Plus—priced $200 more than the entry-level Messenger—is no exception if you can swallow the not insubstantial data costs.
Like the other inReach models in Garmin’s lineup, the latest $499.99 Messenger Plus uses the subscription-based Iridium satcomm network, and it’s optimized to also use a cellular connection from the paired smartphone. The device offers global two-way messaging capability, plus an interactive SOS function that pings Garmin’s IERCC (International Emergency Response Coordination Center) that’s staffed 24/7.
Same footprint, SOS
Like the more basic Messenger (which is still in Garmin’s lineup), the latest Messenger Plus weighs 4 ounces and is self-contained in a 3.1 by 2.5 inch impact-resistant chassis that’s water-rated to IPX7 standards, which means it can be exposed to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes.
The control set is minimal and there’s no touchscreen or keypad. Rocker keys scroll left and right through the shallow display menu, and there’s an Enter (OK) key. Texting is done through the Garmin Messenger smartphone app (which syncs with your contacts list), while the small on-device display is used for status icons, to confirm that messages have been sent, activating the service plan and for using the TracBack feature. This is for navigating back to the beginning of your recorded path/points if you get lost. You can also view messages onscreen. The SOS key is on the right side of the case and protected by a cap. Hold the button and wait for the SOS countdown.
The device sends a default message (and you can set custom ones) to the emergency response service with details about your location, plus you can also initiate an SOS (and interact with Garmin IERCC) through the Messenger app. Canceling an SOS is done by pressing and holding the button and waiting for the cancellation prompt.
It has a lithium-ion battery that keeps the device running for up to 25 days when set for a 10-minute refresh tracking interval. Plus, it’s smart enough to conserve power when you need it the most. Initiate an SOS and for the first 10 minutes an updated location is sent every minute, and reduced to every 10 minutes thereafter. The device continuously listens for new messages in Performance messaging mode. In Low Power messaging mode, when you send a message, the inReach listens for replies for 10 minutes. You can also force a check for messages by manually checking for messages, sending a message or sending a track point.
There’s a USB-C port on the side of the case for recharging/computer interfacing. If your smartphone battery goes flat, there’s a “safety charging” feature from a connected Messenger that provides just enough reverse charging juice to send a custom text message from the phone.
Photos, Voice, Weather
The Messenger Plus can send 30-second voice messages or texts with up to 1600 characters, plus emojis. You can also embed your GPS coordinates with your text, photo or voice messages. Some subscription tiers allow for weather forecasting where the device can send an inReach message to request weather forecasts for your current location or a new location, such as a saved waypoint. But these weather forecasts incur data charges or additional charges on your inReach satellite subscription. After the device finishes downloading the data, you can view the forecast at any time until all of the information in the forecast has expired. You can also update the forecast at any time.
For those looking for utilitarian tracking and communications outside cell coverage, we think the entry-level inReach Messenger still makes sense. But for those who are used to sending photos during their travels, the $200 upsell could be worth it. Monthly subscription plans start at $14.95, plus data usage.
See more at www.garmin.com.
