Garmin inReach Messenger Plus drops 40%: satellite texting for any Android phone

The Garmin inReach Messenger Plus, a device that enables satellite messaging from virtually any Android or iOS smartphone, is currently available with a 40% discount. Instead of the regular $500, the accessory costs $300, though the deal is available for a limited time.

The gadget addresses the issue of missing cellular coverage: it pairs with a phone and provides access to satellite communication where carrier towers are unavailable. It requires an Android device running Android 8.0 or newer or an iPhone. Once paired, users can exchange text and voice messages and send images through the Garmin app.

The $300 price may seem steep, but in an emergency when someone is stranded in a remote area, having such a device could make all the difference. The author admits that past close calls during hikes led him to stop trekking for a while, and now he would not head out without a satellite device like the InReach by his side.

Beyond the hardware purchase, a subscription is required to use the service. Plans start at $7.99 per month, making constant readiness relatively affordable. The built-in battery lasts up to 25 days, and in critical situations, the owner can contact a dedicated emergency response team.