15 Sep, 2023
Staying connected, informed and safe — regardless of geographical location — has become an essential and expected part of our lives. So what makes inReach® satellite communicators stand out? Below are some of the top reasons why it’s advantageous to keep a device with inReach technology active and available1.
The Iridium® satellite network, the world’s largest commercial satellite constellation, is the system that allows inReach devices to work globally. Its low orbit satellites enable inReach satellite communicators to relay messages, provide weather forecasts, navigate and trigger SOS alerts — even when you and your device are well out of range of mobile coverage. Plus, the multidirectional, purpose-built antennas in inReach devices help ensure a prompt connection, which is especially important in an emergency when every second counts.
With an inReach device and an active subscription, you can trigger an SOS message and connect directly to the Garmin ResponseSM team. When an SOS alert is received, team members pinpoint the incident location. Then, via two-way messaging, team members gather information from the user, coordinate the rescue response and connect with emergency contacts.
A unique part of the inReach experience is that SOS activations are managed by Garmin’s in-house emergency monitoring team and incident response coordination centre, Garmin Response. Operating since 2007, Garmin Response is staffed by trained professionals. They use proprietary emergency handling software to manage each SOS alert and work with a private global database of local first responders. The Garmin Response team has handled more than 10,000 inReach SOS alerts.
The last thing anyone wants to consider while recreating is the “what ifs.” To help alleviate those worries, Garmin offers its own Search and Rescue (SAR) insurance plans. With an inReach device and active subscription plan, you can choose from one of four SAR plans that provide financial reimbursement for qualified search and rescue-related expenses incurred during a rescue.
inReach devices are often thought of for navigation or SOS use. However, they are also satellite texting devices that offer flexible messaging options to help you stay connected to loved ones, even if it’s a simple “I’m OK” update. Using the global coverage of the Iridium satellite network, inReach devices can send messages to mobile numbers, email addresses, personal web-based MapShare™ pages or other inReach devices.
Battery life: With battery life ranging from 18 hours with our largest GPS touchscreen sat nav, Montana® 700i, and up to 28 days with our smallest satellite communicator, inReach® Messenger, you can stay on adventures longer. Check the Specs section on each inReach device product page for detailed battery life information.
Rugged construction: inReach devices are tough, durable, impact-resistant and water-rated to IPX7. The manual SOS button is designed to work in wet and cold conditions, most recently proven by this SOS rescue.
inReach to compatible device pairing: Certain inReach devices (inReach® Mini and newer) can be paired with compatible Garmin devices (watches, bike computers, chartplotters, etc.) to control inReach functionalities, including SOS, from the paired device.
MapShare and tracking: Give peace of mind to loved ones by using the tracking feature to share your location at specified intervals, either on your personal MapShare page or embedded into messages (active subscription required).
Weather forecasts: An active subscription and connection to the Iridium satellite network allow you to get detailed weather forecasts for your current location or other destinations on your route from your inReach device, helping you to make better decisions about your adventure. This feature has proven to be invaluable in many extreme weather situations.
inReach devices deliver a lot of powerful features and functionalities. Find out which device is right for you based on your favourite activities.
1Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices. It is the responsibility of the user to know and follow all applicable laws in the jurisdictions where the device is intended to be used.
