Garmin inReach Messenger Plus - Send Photos

[Aushiker]

On the heels of the iOS 18 satellite messaging capability announced yesterday, Garmin has officially released its all-new Garmin inReach Messenger Plus device, offering the ability to send photos and voice memos, which is a step above the Inreach Messenger we reviewed last year. Garmin claims the Plus version has a battery life that lasts for weeks, reliable satellite communication as a standalone device or when paired with the Garmin Messenger mobile app, and allows users to send group texts, photos, voice messages, and share their location.

More details at Backpacking.com

[warthog1]

A bit unrelated, but I have noticed my Garmin 1030+ will receive and send messages when connected to the phone. Comes up with message received, then you press play to read it. It will then come up with a selection of simple responses; yes, great, okay, no etc.
It says sent from my garmin device, so people know you are riding when they receive it.

[CmdrBiggles]

A bit unrelated, but I have noticed my Garmin 1030+ will receive and send messages when connected to the phone. Comes up with message received, then you press play to read it. It will then come up with a selection of simple responses; yes, great, okay, no etc.
It says sent from my garmin device, so people know you are riding when they receive it.

Pretty much all computers today have a linked-to-phone messaging/call facility.
I have turned this off on my iGS800 — there are quite enough distractions for a rider without having the eyes glued to a computer to read a message. Nothing that cannot wait until the next stop. If it is really urgent, the phone knows how to get my attention with a specific vibration pattern.

[warthog1]

Pretty much all computers today have a linked-to-phone messaging/call facility.
I have turned this off on my iGS800 — there are quite enough distractions for a rider without having the eyes glued to a computer to read a message. Nothing that cannot wait until the next stop. If it is really urgent, the phone knows how to get my attention with a specific vibration pattern.

Haven't used anything but a garmin. My 1000 didn't afaik. The 1030 is 2 models from the newest but I am happy with its' functionality and battery life.
It is handy for me being able to answer. It is my wife texting.
I am on rural roads and pick my time. Use the radar to determine no cars approaching from behind and generally on a shoulder..

[g-boaf]

A bit unrelated, but I have noticed my Garmin 1030+ will receive and send messages when connected to the phone. Comes up with message received, then you press play to read it. It will then come up with a selection of simple responses; yes, great, okay, no etc.
It says sent from my garmin device, so people know you are riding when they receive it.

Hmm, I never tried that.

What would be good is a Garmin that lets you answer a phone call easily. Still see people riding along holding phone up to their ear.

Having a text message appear on the garmin screen doesn't really distract me, often I don't see them because I don't always look at the Garmin screen.

[warthog1]

Hmm, I never tried that.

What would be good is a Garmin that lets you answer a phone call easily. Still see people riding along holding phone up to their ear.

Having a text message appear on the garmin screen doesn't really distract me, often I don't see them because I don't always look at the Garmin screen.

Phone needs to be connected obviously, but pretty sure the notification of the message stays there until you acknowledge it.
Handy. My wife often texts whilst I am out riding. Nobody else does though.