Garmin’s New Device: A Game-Changer for Survivalists or Just a Gimmick for the Rich?
$499.99 is a Small Price to Pay for the Ability to Beg for Help in Style
Garmin has just announced the inReach Messenger Plus, an upgraded version of their satellite communicator that finally allows users to send pictures and audio clips, alongside text messages, through the Iridium satellite network. Because what’s an emergency without a selfie or a voice note, am I right?
So, Who Needs This Much Help?
The original inReach Messenger, which was launched in 2022, was a decent offering for those who just need to send some basic updates to loved ones. It was a reasonable $299.99, but still a bit pricey for a device that only sends plain text messages. But if you’re willing to pony up the extra cash – a whopping $499.99 – you can join the ranks of the ridiculously prepared and send photos and audio clips to those who would surely be more concerned than impressed.
The True Cost of Emergency Preparedness
And let’s not forget the cost of these "subscriptions" that you’ll need to pay monthly to use the device. From $11.95 to $49.95 per month, it’s a small price to pay for the luxury of worrying about your safety. Pro users, like search and rescue teams, will have to shell out even more – because, of course, they’re already making more than enough from their rescues.
The Garmin Messenging App: Because You’ll Need More Ways to Beg for Help
The inReach Messenger Plus doesn’t function as a data-sharing hotspot, so you’ll still have to rely on your phone’s data plan to actually send those selfies and audio clips. But hey, at least you’ll be able to update your followers on Instagram about your remote location.
The Future of Emergency Response: It’s All About the Insta-Rescue
Garmin’s new device promises to make it easier for rescuers to locate you and understand your emergency. Because what’s a better way to get found than by sending a frantic voice note and a panicked selfie? The added GPS location updates will surely impress the rescue teams, especially if you’re stuck with a broken leg and nothing to do but send an SOS.
The True Power of the inReach Messenger Plus
The biggest advantage of this device, of course, is the ability to drain your smartwatch’s battery while away from civilization. Because, let’s be real, the last thing you’ll be thinking about in a survival situation is your smartphone’s battery life. Up to 600 hours of sending text messages and GPS location data, and up to 250 photos or audio clips on a full charge – it’s the perfect accessory for the modern, self-absorbed emergency preparedness enthusiast.
