At this year’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Garmin has launched multiple standout new products. Among them, the Iridium-powered outdoor handheld GPS communicators: InReach SE+ and InReach Explorer+ have garnered considerable interest from consumers.
The Iridium-powered handheld GPS communicator InReach retains Garmin’s traditional handheld design but features a color, high-visibility screen, supports IPX7 waterproofing, includes a barometric altimeter and a 3-axis electronic compass, and offers an impressive battery life of up to 100 hours—with up to 30 days in power-saving mode—making it well-suited for extended outdoor activities.
Notably, the Iridium-powered handheld GPS communicator InReach utilizes the latest satellite communication technology. The new InReach SE+ and InReach Explorer+ leverage the global Iridium satellite network, which covers both the North and South Poles, enabling two-way messaging and the ability to receive SOS distress signals from anywhere on Earth. Both models come with built-in GPS for location tracking and basic navigation. Additionally, the InReach Explorer+ comes preloaded with DeLorme topo maps, an electronic compass, a barometric altimeter, and an accelerometer.
No need to worry about the InReach becoming as useless as a phone in harsh outdoor environments — its high-precision GPS antenna ensures reliable performance even in extreme conditions. InReach provides communication, location sharing, navigation, and emergency rescue services for those passionate about jungle exploration and global adventure. In case of an emergency in the wild, the dedicated SOS system built into InReach allows users to send global two-way distress messages via text or email with SOS location data, instantly alerting rescuers to the user’s position for rapid assistance. When cell phones lose signal in remote areas, InReach can still send short messages to family or friends, keeping them informed of the user’s status no matter whether you're on land, at sea, or in the air—allowing everyone back home to know you’re safe.
“Satellite communication has been a highly requested feature among Garmin users, and we’re excited to introduce Garmin’s first InReach handheld device,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin’s Vice President of Global Sales. “The InReach SE+ and InReach Explorer+ are designed for those who want to explore every corner of the world and stay connected with loved ones no matter where they are.”
Relying on the globally connected Iridium satellite network, the InReach SE+ and InReach Explorer+ can send and receive regular SMS messages and emails, as well as interact with other InReach devices. This enables use in a wider range of environments. Both handhelds feature interactive SOS functionality, capable of triggering the GEOS (24/7 Search and Rescue Coordination Center) for emergency response. Once an SOS signal is received, users can communicate directly with GEOS and receive real-time confirmation during rescue operations. If emergency contacts are pre-set in the device, they will also be notified of the SOS event.
Both the InReach SE+ and InReach Explorer+ come with high-sensitivity GPS, offering basic navigation, positioning, and tracking data services. Users can plan routes, mark waypoints, and use electronic tracking to find their way back to the starting point. The InReach Explorer+ adds more robust navigation features, including the preloaded DeLorme topo maps, a built-in electronic compass, a barometric altimeter, and an accelerometer.
Like previous DeLorme devices, the InReach SE+ and InReach Explorer+ are compatible with web-based map-sharing platforms. With this feature, InReach devices can send trip data—such as updated tracks and waypoints—to the cloud. Friends and family can then view the user’s real-time location and access the latest information.
Additionally, the InReach SE+ and InReach Explorer+ can sync with a free smartphone app called Earthmate, making operation even more convenient. With the Earthmate App, users can access weather updates and advanced weather data packages. Moreover, every InReach device comes with free access to a cloud-based server interface, allowing users to plan trips and waypoints in advance, manage the device in the cloud, and store all tracking data.