Garmin's new SOS device could save your life on your next off-grid adventure

Garmin's new SOS device could save your life on your next off-grid adventure

Garmin has released its latest off-grid adventure device: the inReach Messenger. It's small enough to fit in the palm of your hand and can send an SOS message if you're out of range and need help.

If you're out in the mountains or some other remote location, using one of Garmin's best watches to track your adventure, this new device, which slips easily into a pocket or backpack, could prove invaluable in an emergency.

A follow-up to Garmin's InReach Mini 2, the inReach Messenger pairs with your phone via the InReach Messenger app and automatically switches to a satellite connection when it detects you're out of cellular range.

You can press an SOS button on the side of inReach Messenger in the event of an emergency, and a dedicated emergency response team will coordinate a response from a 24-hour manned center.

The device can communicate with inReach Messenger to notify emergency services, while alerting the user's emergency contacts.

In addition to an SOS device, it also acts as a tracker, so your friends and family can constantly track your location, whether you're hiking up a local mountain or in the middle of nowhere. Resembling a mobile phone charger, the tiny device measures just 3,1" to 2,5" and weighs 14g. It also has a messaging service on its small screen and can even be used to charge your phone.

The $299/$249.99 new addition to the Garmin family can be used on its own, which is useful if your phone is low on battery, but it also pairs with the InReach Messenger app, which even pairs with 80 others. Garmin devices. , including smart watches, wearable devices and browsers.

One of the InReach Messenger's main selling points is its long-lasting battery: when fully charged it can last for 28 days, which is twice the capacity of the InReach Mini 2, meaning you can plan a long adventure without worry. for losing connectivity.

Garmin inReach Messaging

(Image credit: Garmin)

Is the device a game changer for adventurers?

Fitness tech companies are aware that we want more from our devices, including safety features, and this new gadget gives us a bit of peace of mind when embarking on an adventure.

Garmin is not the first to offer this type of technology. Apple Watch has a fall detection system, which alerts your closest contacts or emergency services in the event of a sudden fall. The Apple Phone 14 also allows you, via satellite, to send an emergency text message, if you are out of cellular or Wi-Fi range.

But what really wins is long battery life: few devices these days will last more than a few days, let alone nearly a whole month. The app, on the other hand, is a great addition as it allows you to send longer messages to your friends or family.

Do you want to follow the rest of your adventure? Here's our guide to the best fitness trackers.