Garmin inReach Subscription Changes For SOS Usage
John DeRosa
In a move that shows the power of competition, Garmin has just announced that inReach satellite communicator device subscribers who have suspended their plans will continue to get emergency SOS access for up to 12 months. That’s a pretty massive shift for Garmin, who has long maintained that inReach devices must have a paid subscription even for SOS purposes. This covers devices like Garmin’s inReach Mini 3 series that came out last fall, as well as numerous other devices that have inReach plans.
Here’s the statement from Garmin’s Connor Hoffman:
“Garmin is introducing an update to its inReach suspend option offering free SOS access for up to 12 months even when a subscription is suspended. Because when it matters most, every second counts. When you’re beyond cellular range, Garmin inReach helps keep you connected to emergency help when you need it the most. The device enables two-way satellite messaging with family and friends from anywhere in the world, and can send an interactive SOS alert to Garmin Response℠, a 24/7 international emergency coordination center.”
Eric Greenwell
