How to Activate a GPSMAP 66i/86i/86sci in the Garmin Messenger App

NOTE: This article is intended for users who have not yet activated an inReach subscription for their GPSMAP® 66i, 86i, or 86sci handheld. If you have already activated an inReach® subscription for the device, see - Pairing a GPSMAP 66i/86i/86sci With the Garmin Messenger App.

Before you can use the messaging and SOS functions on an inReach device, you must create an account and activate a service plan for it. If you are having issues logging into your inReach account or creating a new account, see Related .

IMPORTANT

• The software on the GPSMAP handheld may need to be updated before it can be used with the Garmin Messenger™ app. For instructions, see - Updating the Software on Your Outdoor Handheld With Garmin Express.

• You cannot add additional users to Consumer Plan inReach accounts. To have multiple users with assigned devices on a single account, you need a Professional Flex Plan.

• Activation fees are non-refundable. Read and view the following before starting to set up your account - Difference Between inReach Consumer and Professional Plans. Pick the plan that is best for your usage.

• The GPSMAP handheld cannot be activated using the Garmin Messenger app for professional accounts. If you need to activate the device on a professional account, see - Setting Up a New inReach Professional Account.

• If you already have an inReach account and need to move your service from your old device to the GPSMAP handheld, you will be prompted to transfer your service when pairing with the app.

• When you first set up the Garmin Messenger app, you are prompted to verify your mobile phone number on the mobile phone that will be used. From that point on, any inReach messages sent to your phone number will be routed to the Garmin Messenger app instead of your phone's default text messaging app.

Pairing and Activating a GPSMAP 66i/86i/86sci

If you are activating a brand new device, proceed with the steps below. If you have an inReach device that was acquired second-hand, it may need to be reset before proceeding with these steps. To reset the device, see How to Reset the GPSMAP Handheld Devices.

1. Setting up the Garmin Messenger App

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2. Pairing the GPSMAP 66i/86i/86sci

1. In the Garmin Messenger app, select the profile icon or in the top left.

2. Select Add Device (or Devices > Add Device).

3. Allow any app permissions when prompted.

4. When powering on the GPSMAP for the first time, you will be prompted to select a language, then activate, and it will automatically start looking for the Garmin Messenger app.

   • If you are not prompted to pair with Garmin Messenger during the initial setup, update your software.

   • If you had skipped this previously, you can enable pairing mode from the main menu on the GPSMAP by selecting Setup > Bluetooth > Continue.

   • If your GPSMAP is currently connected with another Garmin app on your phone, skip to step 5.

5. In the Garmin Messenger app, select Connect It and enter the 6 digit code from the GPSMAP when prompted.

3. Activating an inReach Plan

ACH NOTE: Credit or debit card information needs to be provided in order to complete the activation steps below.

1. After completing the steps above for pairing, if necessary select Device in the lower right, then select Activate when prompted.

2. If prompted, sign in again.

3. Choose between inReach Essential, inReach Standard, and inReach Premium plans.

   Tap Select This Plan for the chosen plan.

4. SOS step:

   • Read through the included SOS benefits, then click Next.

   • If desired, choose Add for one of the Search and Rescue (SAR) insurance plans. This is not required. SAR insurance plans are available for purchase in the US, Canada, and US Territories (American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands). Once finished, select Next or Skip.

5. Select the box to agree to automatic renewal, enter the names of the insured individual and beneficiary if SAR was added, then select Next.

6. Review the terms and conditions, then select Accept & Continue.

7. Enter your billing information, then select Next.

8. Enter your emergency information (or select the box for Same as Billing Info), then select Next.

   • Emergency Notes is a good place to add information of any known medical concerns. If you have additional coverage for medical evacuation or search and rescue, you can include that and how to get in contact with the company providing that service. Example:

      

9. Add Emergency contacts information, then select Next.

10. Review all entered information to confirm it is correct, then enter your payment information.

11. Check the box to authorize use of this payment method for future account charges, then select Complete Activation or Confirm Purchase.

12. Once the activation is processing you can select Close.

    

Next, ensure that the inReach has a clear view of the sky or a connection to the Garmin Messenger app and wait for the activation to complete on the device.

Registering Your inReach

Your inReach is registered automatically during activation of service to the device, or adding it to your Garmin Explore account. 

The GPSMAP 66i, 86i, and 86sci can receive software updates through Garmin Express. Adding these devices to Garmin Express to update them will also register them. For more information, see - Updating the Software on Your Outdoor Handheld With Garmin Express.