Garmin inReach Messenger Plus sends photos, voice memos and group chats

Satellite communicators just got a major upgrade with Garmin’s new inReach Messenger Plus, launching today. This new device uses different technology than its predecessors to send and receive photos and voice messages, in addition to the text messaging, GPS tracking, weather forecasting and SOS features you’ve come to expect. We got our first look at the inReach Messenger Plus , and here are five things you need to know about the latest device for off-grid communications.

Key Features

• Weight: 4.1 ounces
• Dimensions: 3.1 x 2.5 x 0.9 inches
• Satellite network: Iridium for communication, GPS/Galileo/QZSS/Beidou for others
• Price: $500

1. You can send and receive photos and voice messages

Until now, Garmin’s inReach line has used Short Burst Data (SBD) to send messages, but with all-new hardware, the Messenger Plus uses Iridium Messaging Transport (IMT) to send messages that are 300 times larger than SBD. That means it can support photos, 30-second voice memos, and 1600-character text messages (previous inReach text messages could only be 160 characters long).

If you have a weak signal, as indicated by the device’s progress bars, a shorter text will still be transmitted faster than a novel-length message, photo or voice recording. The sound quality is clear and on the receiving end you can get a transcription of the voice message.

2. Photos and voice messages don’t have to cost extra

You will need to purchase the new device to access these features, but the subscription price plan is the same. Depending on the plan you choose, the essential, standard, and premium subscriptions include 10, 25, or 50 photos and voice messages on top of your allotted text messages or weather forecasts. I like that Garmin treats photos and voice memos as bonus messages and doesn’t count against your text count. But if you share too many, it costs $1 each.

3. You can group chat

You can also share photos and voice messages in a group chat with friends back home or other inReach Messenger Plus devices. Update everyone following your adventure at once, or if you’re out of service, let your group know what you’re seeing and where inReach is going.

4. Charge your phone in case of emergency

The Messenger Plus’ battery lasts for 600 hours in low-power messaging mode, even if you send a check-in every 10 minutes. Depending on usage, a fully charged battery can last weeks or months. That’s why Garmin is now giving you the opportunity to share the wealth. You can charge your phone using the Messenger Plus as a battery. While I wouldn’t treat such an important safety device as a power bank, it’s crucial if you need to adjust a text message on your phone to reach friends, family, or to call for help.

5. Integrate GPS location into texts, photos and voice memos, or use live tracking

When you check in, Messenger Plus lets you include your location in every message you send. And it enables live tracking, so it’s never been easier to share your route in real time.

First look in the field

When I first heard about the inReach’s new updates, I initially had dystopian thoughts about satellite Snapchatting in the backcountry. Is there no end to how available we need to be, even off the grid? But once I opened the Garmin messaging app on my phone and had the option to share photos or record my voice, my eyes opened to the possibilities of sharing a detailed trip report without having to type it out or share a photo to prove to my mom I’m still alive.

It’s a great way to include your loved ones on long trips, or to get more personal updates from home while you’re out and about. On a more practical note, if you’re meeting up with a group, you can share a photo of where you’re headed. If you need help identifying a plant, call a friend. “Do you think this needs stitching?” The possibilities are endless.

I was impressed with the audio quality of the voice memos and the group chat feature is especially nice. The weather forecast is also incredibly detailed. I got an hourly 3-day forecast and a daily 7-day forecast that matched my phone’s weather app.

Check back for a full review as I continue to use the latest features in satellite reporting with The Garmin inReach Messenger Plus.