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Getting Started With the GPSMAP 66i/86i/86sci
Below is a list of articles that will help you get started with, and get the most out of, your new Garmin GPSMAP® 66i, GPSMAP® 86i, or GPSMAP® 86sci outdoor handheld.
How Do I Get Started?
First, we recommend that you fully charge and register your GPSMAP 66i/86i/86sci. See Charging the Battery to learn how and Garmin Express for registering and updating.
Power on the GPSMAP 66i/86i/86sci by holding on top of the handheld.
Choose your language by scrolling through the list, and select your language with the Enter button.
Choose to activate an inReach satellite messaging subscription (optional), or select Skip.
For activation instructions, see - How to Activate a GPSMAP 66i/86i/86sci.
For more information on using the handheld without a subscription, see - Using a GPSMAP 66i/86i/86sci Without an inReach Subscription.
Once the activation is complete, or you have skipped the activation, the GPSMAP 66i/86i/86sci will display the map page.
We recommend pairing your GPSMAP 66i/86i/86sci with the Garmin Explore app. For pairing instructions, see - Pairing the GPSMAP Series with a Phone or Tablet.
NOTE: inReach subscribers will have additional features such as messaging with the Garmin Explore app.
Learn More About the GPSMAP 66i/86i/86sci
The following articles will help you explore and use the many features of the GPSMAP 66i/86i/86sci.
inReach Features
NOTE: Before leaving for a trip, it is recommended to test that you can send out a text message. For instructions, see - Testing Text Messaging on an inReach Handheld.
Activating an inReach Subscription
Messaging
MapShare & Tracking
SOS
Connected Features
NOTE: Before leaving for a trip, ensure that you are signed into the Garmin Explore app and that the GPSMAP shows as connected in the app when it is powered on and within Bluetooth range.