Using a GPSMAP 66i/86i/86sci Without an inReach Subscription

There are a number of inReach® communication features that require an active subscription.¹ Outside of those features, all other functions of a GPSMAP® 66i, 86i, and 86sci outdoor handhelds 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 a GPSMAP 66i, 86i, or 86sci Handheld That Does Not Have a Subscription

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 article provides instructions for pairing the handheld:

• Pairing the GPSMAP Series with a Phone or Tablet

For more on using the Garmin Explore app, see Syncing a GPSMAP 66i/86i/86sci with the Garmin Explore Website and App.

Using the Garmin Explore Website With a GPSMAP 66i, 86i, or 86sci Handheld That Does Not Have a Subscription

NOTE: Before you can use the Garmin Explore website, your GPSMAP 66i/86i/86sci must be registered. Registration can be done either by pairing it with a phone or tablet, or by using our Garmin Express™ program on a computer. The same sign-in credentials you create when registering the handheld can later be used to sign in to the Garmin Explore website. For more details, see Pairing the GPSMAP Series with a Phone or Tablet or How to Register a Dog or Outdoor Product With Garmin Express.

The Garmin Explore website works together with the Garmin Explore app. The website allows you to:

• Sync data to and from the Garmin Explore app

• Create and edit waypoints and routes

• Review recorded tracks and activities²

• Measure distance on the map

• Organize data into Collections

• Import data from outside sources

• Export data to be saved elsewhere as a backup, and/or used with third-party applications

If an inReach subscription is activated for the handheld, it will then also allow for managing the account and subscription, viewing conversation history, creating and syncing Contacts/ Check-In Messages (formerly known as Preset Messages)/Quick Text messages through the Garmin Explore app, and setting up LiveTrack™ tracking or MapShare™ tracking. If you decide you want to activate, see below for more information.

If you experience login issues, see - Issues Signing into the Garmin Explore Website.

If you do not have or do not wish to have a subscription but are being prompted to activate when logging in, pair with the Garmin Explore app first then try to log in.

Activating an inReach Subscription Later

If you decide you want to activate an inReach subscription, you can do so through the Garmin Messenger™ app. For steps, see - How to Activate a GPSMAP 66i/86i/86sci in the Garmin Messenger App.

If you experience issues activating, see Issues Activating an inReach Product.

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

² Any activities without GPS information will not sync with the Garmin Explore app, but will sync through the Garmin Connect™ app. Also, you cannot sync tracks or activities back to the handheld.