Immediately after acquiring DeLorme in 2016, Garmin upgraded its outdoor offerings to add the inReach series of two-way emergency satellite communication beacons. Two years later, Jiaming improved the design of the inReach, reducing it to a pocket size in the form of an inReach Mini. Now, Caming has introduced its successor, the inReach Mini 2, a palm-sized device that can save you even in the world's most remote, isolated, and backward regions.
The new inReach Mini 2 features the same 3.5 oz (100 g), 4 x 2 x 1 inch (10 x 5 x 2.6 cm) pocket-style casing as the original Mini, making it easy to find a spot no matter how full your backpack is. What really sets it apart is the improved runtime, which lasts 14 days per charge in 10-minute track mode and 30 days in 30-minute track mode.
The inReach Mini 2 uses not only GPS, but also the GALEMO, QZSS and Beidou satellite networks to passively track the user's route. This allows it to access information faster and has more powerful coverage capabilities. If the user gets lost or disoriented, they can go back to the starting point. The device also provides weather forecasts for specific locations.
The inReach Mini 2 really shines in the event of an emergency. Users can immediately send SOS to Garmin's 24/7 Professional International Emergency Coordination Center (IERCC), which will initiate rescue efforts. Unlike the one-way "distress" emergency beacon, the Mini 2's two-way interface means that THEERCC can send messages confirming that rescue is on the way, and Mini 2 users can communicate back and forth to speed up the rescue process.
The inReach Mini 2 can be wirelessly paired with smartphones and Garmin products such as smartwatches and car navigators via Bluetooth or ANT+, simplifying information transfer and allowing information to be shared between devices. The Garmin Explore mobile app allows users to manage their inReach information, plan routes, and more.
The inReach Mini 2 went on sale this month for $399.99, $50 more than the original Mini, and is still on sale. In order to use SOS, messaging, and other communication features, users need to subscribe to a satellite plan. Jiaming offers annual fees and flexible monthly fee options, starting at $11.95/month.