Satellite communication support is now integrated into the iPhone and Google Pixel phones with a primary focus on emergency response notification and basic text messaging. On Tuesday, Garmin announced its new inReach Messenger Plus one of the first satellite communicators to provide photo and voice messaging capabilities in addition to text messaging, location sharing, and SOS communications.

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The first generation Garmin inReach Messenger was released in 2022. According to the Garmin 2023 inReach report, people used the SOS service for a variety of reasons, hiking accidents being the most common. Now with the inReach Messenger Plus, people in trouble will be able to provide more context to emergency responders and possibly administer more helpful first aid to remediate the issues.

The inReach Messenger Plus isn’t just for SOS notifications, however. When paired with the Garmin Messenger app on your smartphone, you can share photos of your adventures with family and friends — a great way to let them know you are doing well and enjoying your outdoor adventure.

In addition to photos, you can send 30-second long voice messages and text messages up to 1,600 characters including emojis. Your route and GPS location can be shared so that family and friends can follow you on your trek. Users can also access weather forecasts via the connection to the inReach Messenger Plus, making it a vital tool for those who explore the world.

The inReach Messenger Plus can also be used as a stand-alone satellite communicator. If your smartphone battery dies or is damaged in an accident, you can still notify a contact of your status, share your location, and initiate an SOS message. Given the inReach Messenger Plus’ rugged durability and IPX7 water-resistant rating, it is likely to survive an accident better than a glass sandwich.

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The battery of the inReach Messenger Plus can last up to 600 hours, even with the device sending your location every 10 minutes. At a lower use frequency, it can last for weeks to months, or longer. 

It is available now for $499.99 with monthly subscription plans starting at $14.99 per month. You can sign up for a monthly or annual plan, which is great for seasonal hiking or other activities.