Garmin has launched the new inReach Mini 3 Plus, a small but powerful satellite communication gadget that could save lives. It's around £90 more expensive than the previous model, but it comes with extra features that make it worth the price. The previous inReach Mini 2 (2022) was a favorite of adventure riders like Itchy Boots.
The new Mini 3 Plus has a larger color screen, so you can now send and view photos using the Garmin Messenger app. It also has a microphone and speaker for 30-second voice notes, which can also be sent in SOS mode. All SOS alerts first go through the Garmin Response Center before being forwarded to emergency services and your contacts.
Text messaging is also easier with a touch screen for typing—a far cry from the slow scroll-and-click system of the old model. There's also support for emojis, reactions, and group chats. With live tracking, you can see not only location—but also distance, time, and elevation.
The device also has the ability to translate voice messages. Despite the added features, its battery life drops slightly to 13 days and 18 hours in the most power-saving mode. It also has an IPX67 rating, making it dustproof and can be submerged in water for up to one hour at a depth of one meter.
The Garmin inReach Mini 3 Plus is available now for £439.99 on the Garmin website. A monthly subscription is also required for the services to work, starting at £7.99/month.
