Garmin inReach Messenger: Hands-On Details/Walkthrough!

Here's everything you need to know about Garmin's new inReach Messenger, and how it compares to the iPhone 14 Emergency SOS via satellite. Garmin’s just announced a new model in their inReach satellite communicator lineup – the inReach Messenger ($299). And with it, also a new app called Messenger, which will soon work with a number of recent inReach devices. This new app aims to more seamlessly mesh your network connectivity so that it’ll use satellite messaging as previously, but also leverage cellular/WiFi networks if within range. This is ideal when you’re in sometimes viable cellular coverage, saving you satellite messages/time. Meanwhile, the new Messenger device is an entirely different form factor for Garmin, which has historically put inReach antennas in their handheld lineup, as well as more recently in some higher-end mainly off-road vehicle dashboards (Tread series). Further, from a hardware standpoint, the new Messenger can also charge your phone/devices, acting as an emergency battery bank. Obviously, that’s something you’d want to use very carefully so you don’t kill the one things’ battery you might need, but, it’s a great option.