Garmin introduces inReach Mini 2

Garmin has introduced the inReach Mini 2, a satellite communication device with two-way texting and SOS capabilities (with a subscription).

The inReach Mini 2 provides up to 30 days of battery life, as well as integrated location and situational awareness features, such as TracBack navigation and compatibility with the Garmin Explore Mobile app.

The inReach Mini 2 provides two-way text messaging, location tracking, and weather updates with a subscription to the global Iridium satellite network. Additionally, should an emergency occur, users can trigger an interactive SOS message to Garmin’s emergency response coordination center.

Situational awareness

inReach Mini 2 automatically records a user’s activity and stores their route. If a user becomes disoriented, they can simply engage TracBack and an on-device digital path will retrace their movements and guide them back to their point of origin.

It also features an electronic compass that displays an accurate heading even when stationary. In addition to the GPS satellite network, inReach Mini 2 also leverages GALILEO, QZSS and BeiDou satellite networks for faster initial satellite acquisition time and more coverage in challenging environments than GPS alone, according to Garmin officials. 

Garmin compatibility

inReach Mini 2 can pair with more than 80 Garmin devices, including aviation systems and smartwatches. When paired, users can view incoming messages, respond to messages, or control the inReach Mini 2 to start and stop tracking and — in the event of an emergency — trigger an interactive SOS directly from the paired device.

Users can enhance the navigation and communication of their mobile phone with inReach Mini 2 by downloading the Garmin Explore Mobile app. Customers can use their mobile device to type messages, get up-to-date weather information, download maps, review their trips, and use the new Course Creator to mark their start and finish to receive an automatically generated course line.

24/7 emergency response 

Thanks to a dedicated SOS button on inReach Mini 2, users can quickly declare an SOS should an emergency occur. inReach Mini 2 will send a distress signal to the Garmin International Emergency Response Coordination Center (IERCC), a 24/7 emergency response coordination center. The IERCC can communicate with the inReach user and then notify the applicable search and rescue organization to respond. The IERCC will deliver a confirmation that help is on the way and provide updates on the status of the response effort. The IERCC may also reach out to the user’s designated emergency contacts. 

The InReach Mini 2 is available now for a suggested retail price of $399.99. 

To communicate using an inReach Mini device, an active satellite subscription plan is required. A variety of plans are available, starting at $11.95 a month.