Garmin’s New Satellite Communicator Features Touchscreen and Photo Sharing
▼ Summary
– Garmin has released the new inReach Mini 3 Plus satellite communicator, featuring a color touchscreen, voice messaging, longer texts, and photo sharing capabilities.
– The device costs $499.99 and requires an additional monthly subscription, ranging from $7.99 to $49.99, to use its satellite communication features.
– The touchscreen and new 1,600-character limit are designed to make text messaging easier, while voice messages can be sent or transcribed for silent reading.
– Although it lacks a camera, the device can pair with a smartphone via an app to send photos, which can be useful for rescue situations or troubleshooting equipment.
– Battery life lasts up to 350 hours for tracking, and a cheaper Mini 3 model is available for $449.99 without voice messaging and photo features.
Garmin has unveiled a significant update to its popular satellite communicator line with the new inReach Mini 3 Plus, a device designed to keep outdoor adventurers connected far beyond the reach of traditional cell service. This latest model introduces a color touchscreen, enhanced messaging options, and the novel ability to send and receive photos, marking a substantial evolution from previous button-operated versions.
Priced at $499.99, the Mini 3 Plus represents a notable increase over the $399.99 Mini 2. While basic navigation functions are accessible without a subscription, the core satellite communication features require a monthly Garmin inReach plan. These plans vary from $7.99 to $49.99, with costs scaling based on the number of messages a user expects to send.
A key upgrade is the intuitive color touchscreen, which promises to streamline communication. Earlier models required laboriously scrolling through letters with physical buttons to compose texts. The new interface, coupled with a vastly expanded 1,600-character limit for typed messages, should make staying in touch far less cumbersome. For even greater convenience, the device supports 30-second voice messages. It includes a built-in microphone and speaker, and offers a thoughtful transcription feature that converts voice recordings to text for silent reading in sensitive environments.
Perhaps the most practical new feature is photo sharing. Although the Mini 3 Plus lacks its own camera, it can pair with a smartphone via the Garmin Messenger app. This allows users to transmit images that could prove critical in an emergency, such as a photo of their exact location for rescue teams or a picture of damaged gear needing repair.
The device maintains versatility for all conditions, as it can still be fully operated with buttons while wearing gloves. It also functions as a satellite link for a paired smartphone, extending its connectivity. Battery life is robust, rated for up to 350 hours when tracking location every ten minutes, or approximately 95 hours during intensive use of all new communication features.
For those who may not require the full suite of advanced capabilities, Garmin offers a slightly more affordable alternative. The inReach Mini 3, priced at $449.99, retains the color touchscreen and text messaging but omits voice messaging, transcription, and photo-sharing functions.
(Source: The Verge)