Overview
- Garmin released the inReach Mini 3 and inReach Mini 3 Plus, available now at about $449 and $499, respectively.
- The Plus model adds a microphone and speaker for 30‑second voice messages with on‑device transcription and enables photo viewing and sharing via the Garmin Messenger app, while both models gain a color touchscreen with touch texting up to 1,600 characters.
- Interactive SOS messages route to the 24/7 Garmin Response team for two‑way coordination, with the company citing support for more than 18,000 incidents across over 150 countries.
- Battery life is advertised up to 330 hours in 10‑minute tracking (some coverage cites 350 hours), with an impact‑resistant design and IP67 water rating; Android Central reports the Plus carries a MIL‑STD‑810 rating and weighs about 4.4 ounces.
- Coverage indicates Garmin is moving to Iridium Short Burst Data for larger, faster messages, and photo features and broader use require pairing with the Messenger app and a paid satellite plan reportedly starting at $7.99 per month.