What’s different about inReach handhelds?
Next time your adventure takes you off the beaten path, stay connected with an inReach® handheld
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 have an inReach handheld available1.
Connection to the only satellite network with global coverage
The Iridium® satellite network, one of the world’s largest commercial satellite constellations, is the system that allows inReach handhelds to work globally. Unlike Garmin smartwatches with built-in inReach capabilities, the Iridium network system in handhelds uses low-orbit satellites that enable inReach satellite communicators to relay messages, provide weather forecasts, navigate, and trigger SOS alerts — even when you and your handheld are well out of range of cellular coverage. Plus, the multidirectional, purpose-built antennas in inReach handhelds are designed to establish a reliable connection, which can be especially important in an emergency.
Interactive SOS
With an inReach handheld 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.
Internal emergency response coordination
A unique part of the inReach experience is that SOS activations are managed by the Garmin in-house incident response coordination center, Garmin Response. Operating since 2007, the center is staffed by trained professionals who use proprietary emergency handling software to manage each SOS alert and work with a private global database of local first responders.
Optional search and rescue insurance
The last things anyone wants to consider while recreating are the “what ifs.” To help alleviate those worries, Garmin offers its own search and rescue (SAR) insurance plans for select regions. With an inReach handheld and active subscription plan, you can choose from one of three SAR plans that provide financial reimbursement for qualified search and rescue-related expenses incurred during a rescue.
Three messaging types to stay connected to friends and family
inReach handhelds 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 handhelds can send messages to cellphone numbers, email addresses or other inReach handhelds.
Send photos and voice messages with inReach Plus technology
When used with the Garmin Messenger™ app, handhelds with inReach Plus technology, like GPSMAP® H1i Plus and inReach® Mini 3 Plus, have a built-in speaker and microphone for exchanging voice messages and can send and receive photos2 — no cell coverage needed.
Other valuable inReach handheld functions
Battery life: With the battery life of select inReach models lasting up to 30 days, you can stay on adventures longer. Check the specs section on each inReach handheld’s product page for detailed battery life information.
Rugged construction: inReach handhelds are tough, durable, and impact-resistant, with select models water-rated to IPX7. The manual SOS button is designed to work in wet and cold conditions, as proven by this SOS rescue.
inReach to compatible device pairing: Certain inReach handhelds (inReach® Mini and newer) can be paired with compatible Garmin devices (watches, cycling computers, chartplotters, etc.) to control inReach functionalities, including SOS, from the paired device.
LiveTrack™: Give peace of mind to loved ones by using the tracking feature to share your location at specified intervals, either on your personal tracking page or embedded into messages (active inReach plan 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 handheld, helping you to make better decisions about your adventure. This feature has helped users make informed decisions in many extreme weather situations.
inReach handhelds deliver a lot of powerful features and functionalities. Find out which device is right for you based on your favorite activities.
1Active plan required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit satellite communication devices; it is the user’s responsibility to know and follow all applicable laws.
2Photo and voice messaging requires use of the Garmin Messenger app on your paired smartphone
