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Automatic Switching and Message Charges When Using the Garmin Messenger App
When connected with a compatible inReach® device, the Garmin Messenger™ app automatically switches between transmitting messages over Wi-Fi or cellular data (i.e. internet messaging) and the Iridium® satellite network (i.e. satellite messaging) for seamless communication whether you are at home or out in the backcountry. This automatic switching feature helps to ensure that messages are delivered as quickly and efficiently as possible depending on what networks are available.
Messages that are only transmitted over internet will not count towards your inReach plan's included monthly message allotment, but satellite transmission is still the primary method of communication for inReach products and will still be used whenever there is a benefit to it, even in some situations where Wi-Fi or cellular data may be available. Messages that are transmitted via satellite will count towards your plan's included monthly message allotment. For more details on message charges, see - What Messages Do I Pay For With My inReach Plan?
Examples When Messages Will Transmit via Satellite
NOTE: The following examples do not cover all scenarios or possibilities. Choose an inReach plan that best fits your messaging needs. If you need to change your inReach plan, see - Changing an inReach Subscription Plan.
If a message is received in the Garmin Messenger app while 1) Wi-Fi or cellular data is available, 2) your inReach device is not connected (e.g. out of Bluetooth® range, powered off, etc.), and 3) you do not open the message immediately, then it will be counted as a satellite message.
If you do not open received messages right away, they will also be sent directly to your inReach device via satellite in case you are not able to check the app on your phone for any reason.
If you send a message in the Garmin Messenger app while 1) your inReach device is connected, and 2) Wi-Fi or cellular signal is weak or intermittently available, then it may be counted as a satellite message.
If messages are not transmitting right away via Wi-Fi or cellular data, they will also be transmitted via satellite to ensure no messages go undelivered.
If you send a message in the Garmin Messenger app while 1) your inReach device is connected, and 2) Wi-Fi or cellular signal is unavailable, then it will be counted as a satellite message.
If messages are not transmitting via Wi-Fi or cellular data, they will be transmitted via satellite.
Examples When Messages Will Transmit via Internet Only
If a message is received while 1) the phone has a stable and consistent internet connection, and 2) the inReach device is powered on and has an active Bluetooth connection to the Garmin Messenger app, then it will count as an internet message.
If a message is sent from the Garmin Messenger app while the phone has a stable and consistent internet connection, then it will count as an internet message.
Checking How Messages Were Sent
The following steps can be used to check how a message has been sent or received in the Garmin Messenger app.
Open the Garmin Messenger app.
Select Messages
.Select a message thread.
Select a single message to open the message details.
Scroll down and view Message Type (under Details).
It will say either Internet Message or Satellite Message.
Checking Your Message Usage
When using a compatible inReach device with the Garmin Messenger app, you can select Device in the app to view how many included satellite messages you have remaining for the current billing cycling. If all of the included satellite messages have been used, the app will indicate that there will be additional per message overage charges. Select the plan summary for more information or to manage your subscription.
