Garmin has made several substantial updates to the InReach Mini series. Its latest offerings are the Mini 3 and Mini 3 Plus units. Both have also added a host of new features to the compact satellite communication and tracking device.
The InReach Mini 3 Plus has all the features. At the top of the list, it can send or receive a 30-second voice message globally, and hence a built-in speaker and microphone have been added. You can also send and receive photos globally via messages. Photos you send must be taken on your mobile phone, which is synced to the InReach Mini 3 Plus via an app. Received images, however, come directly to the Garmin unit.
Both Mini 3s have the same body, which is similar in size to the previous models but with a slightly larger antenna and a much larger display screen — up from 23mm square to 39 x 29mm. The display is now a touch-screen, too, so you can operate the Mini 3 through it or the using the buttons. This feature makes typing a message a lot easier than having to scroll through letters via a button.
But for my money, a voice message is a lot quicker.
The Mini 3 series has a navigation base-map but it is more intended for other uses, including the two-way messaging, live-tracking weather reports, SOS satellite communication and tracking, compass readings and so on. All these settings are now visible in colour, as opposed to the old black-and-white display.
To get started, you need to activate the unit by downloading the Garmin Messenger app and activate your device, then choose a monthly plan to access features like SOS, weather, tracking and more. Like all Iridium devices, the InReach Mini 3 Plus requires an active satellite subscription. Garmin offers some flexible subscriptions that start from as little as $13.50 a month at the time of writing.
To trigger an SOS message in an emergency, simply press the button and a co-ordinated rescue can be planned with Garmin Response, a 24/7 staffed centre where you can have a two-way conversation with a real person. The button is protected by a cover so you can’t accidentally trigger it.
When away hunting, you can share your location via Livetrack to other hunters in the area for a possible rendezvous or even friends at home to give them your current location. Livetrack can be set to send your live location to others every 2, 5, 10, 20, 30 minutes or even longer. To set up connectivity to your phone or other Garmin compatible devices via InReach Remote, simply go to settings.
The navigation function is also useful, allowing you to go to a pre-saved waypoint or location, or to track back.
The battery life of the Garmin InReach Mini 3 Plus is up to 350 hours, but this will vary depending on use and settings.
And finally, you can save and send your activities for reference to your Smartphone via the Garmin Explore App.
To find out more, including current pricing, ask at your local gun shop or visit the Garmin website.
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