How to Activate inReach on an Alpha 200i with the Garmin Messenger App

The Garmin Messenger™ app is an Android and iOS mobile application that optimizes inReach® messaging to use the cellular connection of your compatible smartphone when it is available, then switches to 100% global Iridium® satellite connection with a compatible inReach device when you go beyond available cellular coverage range. It also allows you to control and customize certain functions and settings for the connected inReach device.

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.

NOTE: In order to pair your Alpha® 200i dog tracking handheld, a data connection is required on the phone and then software on the Alpha 200i handheld may need to be updated. For instructions on updating your Alpha handheld before pairing it in the Garmin Messenger app, see - Installing Software Updates to the Alpha 200 and Alpha 300 Series Handheld

If you are pairing a new device, proceed with the steps below. If you have an Alpha 200i handheld that was acquired second-hand, it may need to be reset before proceeding with these steps. To reset the device, see - Master Reset for Alpha 200 or Alpha 200i Handheld.

1. Setting up the Garmin Messenger App

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2. Pairing the Alpha 200i Dog Tracking Handheld

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 Alpha handheld 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 on the Alpha by selecting  > Setup > Bluetooth > Continue.

   • If you Alpha handheld is currently connected with the Garmin Alpha 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 Alpha handheld when prompted.

If an inReach® plan has not yet been activated, continue with steps below to activate. If an inReach plan was already activated previously, you will not be prompted to activate and the Alpha handheld will be ready to use with the app.

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.

    

After completing the steps in the app, follow the prompts on the Alpha® handheld to complete the activation. If this was skipped on the handheld previously select to reach the main menu then select inReach > Activate.

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