Satellite navigation experts Garmin have today unveiled the second generation of the popular inReach mini device – an all-in-one satellite communicator, personal locator beacon (PLB), and navigation tracker housed in an ultra-light, compact package. The inReach Mini 2 costs £349.99 and includes several upgrades to the original model. Here are the full details.
The inReach Mini 2 is a dinky satellite communication device with two-way texting and SOS capabilities. It provides up to 30 days of battery life, as well as integrated location and situational awareness features such as TracBack navigation (more on that below) and compatibility with the Garmin Explore app.
For off-grid adventures, the global Iridium satellite network provides two-way text messaging, location tracking and weather updates. In a life-threatening emergency the inReach Mini 2 can trigger an interactive SOS message to the Garmin IERCC, a 24/7 staffed professional emergency response coordination centre.
“It enables you to check location updates, weather alerts and messages ‘faster than ever before’”
The inReach Mini 2 features up to 14 days of continuous run time in the default 10-minute tracking mode, or in 30-minute tracking mode this extends to 30 days – ideal for long, off-grid adventures. The device automatically records a user’s activity and passively stores their route. If a user then becomes disoriented, they can simply engage the feature and an on-device digital path will retrace their movements and guide them back to their point of origin. To further aid in navigation, the inReach Mini 2 features an electronic compass, and utilises the GALILEO, QZSS and BeiDou satellite networks for faster initial satellite acquisition time and more coverage in challenging environments than GPS alone.
