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Using an Alpha 200i and the Garmin Explore App Without an inReach Subscription

There are a number of inReach® satellite communication features that require an active subscription.1 Outside of those features, all other functions of an Alpha® 200i dog tracking handheld can be used without a subscription. This is helpful for those that want to become familiar with the handheld itself before committing to a subscription, or those that simply choose to use the handheld without a subscription.

When powering on the handheld, you will receive the following message: "Welcome inReach communication features require activation". From this screen, select Skip, and the handheld is ready to use. See below for additional information on using the handheld without a subscription.

Using the Garmin Explore™ App With an Alpha 200i Handheld That Does Not Have a Subscription

NOTE: Before you can use the Garmin Explore website, your Alpha 200i handheld must be registered by pairing it in the Garmin Explore app. The same sign-in credentials you create when registering the handheld in the app can later be used to sign in to the Garmin Explore website. For more details, see Pairing the Alpha 200i with the Garmin Explore App.

The Garmin Explore app works together with certain inReach handhelds and the Garmin Explore website. This app allows you to:

  • Sync data between the Garmin Explore website and handheld
  • Create and edit waypoints and routes
  • Review recorded tracks and activities
  • Download maps to your mobile device
  • Organize user data into Collections
  • Access online device support

You can download the app from the app store on your mobile device. Once downloaded, the following articles provide instructions for pairing and syncing the handheld:

Activating an inReach Subscription Later

If you decide you want to activate an inReach subscription, you can log in to the Garmin Explore website with your current account and do so from there. For steps, see - How to Activate InReach Messaging and SOS on an Alpha 200i.

1 Communication features include: SOS, messaging, location requests, weather, and MapShare tracking

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