Maritime safety remains one of the biggest drivers of SOS call-outs on Garmin’s inReach devices, and the company is responding with a model that puts richer communication at the centre.
The new inReach Mini 3 Plus adds voice messaging, photo sharing and a colour touchscreen to the long-running satellite communicator line, aiming to give boaters and other remote users clearer ways to explain a situation during routine check-ins or emergencies.
“We understand just how important it is to stay connected during both short and long adventures,” says Susan Lyman, Garmin vice president of consumer sales and marketing.
Designed for users operating beyond mobile coverage, the Mini 3 Plus allows 30-second voice messages, text messages up to 1,600 characters, group chats and photo sharing when paired with the Garmin Messenger app. It retains the core inReach safety function: the ability to trigger an interactive SOS to the Garmin Response centre, its team coordinates with emergency contacts and local rescue services. Voice and photo messages can be transmitted during an SOS, giving responders additional detail.
Garmin’s latest inReach SOS Insights report found boating remains one of the top activities associated with SOS activations. With that in mind, the Mini 3 Plus is built for harsh use, including an impact-resistant housing, IP67 water rating and operation in extreme temperatures. Battery life is quoted at up to 330 hours in ten-minute tracking mode, reducing the need to carry additional power on multi-day trips.
The device integrates with the Garmin Explore app for planning routes, navigating courses and retracing tracks. LiveTrack location sharing allows contacts to follow progress, including distance, time and elevation data.
The inReach Mini 3 Plus is available now with a suggested retail price of £439.99, and requires an active satellite subscription. Full details are available on the company’s website.
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