Garmin Updates inReach SOS for Suspended Subscriptions - What You Need to Know
Garmin has introduced an important update for owners of its latest inReach satellite communicators and GPS devices. If you occasionally suspend your inReach subscription when you're not using your device, this new feature could provide valuable extra peace of mind.
Previously, if your subscription was suspended, the SOS function was unavailable until you reactivated your plan. That meant forgetting to restart your subscription before heading out into the hills could leave you without access to one of the device's most important safety features.
From June 2026, Garmin has changed this for a range of compatible devices. If you suspend your subscription, the dedicated SOS button will continue to work for up to 12 months, allowing you to contact the Garmin Response emergency coordination centre in a genuine emergency. After 12 months, your device will automatically move back onto Garmin's Enabled plan (£7.99 per month), which must remain active for 30 days before it can be suspended again.
In this video, Andy explains exactly how the new system works, which devices are compatible, and what it means for existing and prospective inReach owners.
In this video you'll learn:
- What Garmin has changed with the inReach SOS service.
- Which Garmin devices receive the new feature.
- What happens when you suspend your subscription.
- How long the SOS function remains available.
- What happens after the 12-month period ends.
- How to keep your device's software up to date.
We also demonstrate our free Garmin inReach Cost Calculator, designed to help you choose the most cost-effective subscription based on how you actually use your device. Simply enter how many months you'll be using your inReach each year, along with your expected messaging and tracking requirements, and the calculator recommends the most economical Garmin plan for you.
Whether you own a Garmin inReach Mini 2, Mini 3, Messenger, GPSMAP 67i, H1i Plus, Montana 700i series or another compatible device, this is an update worth understanding before your next adventure.
If you have any questions after watching the video, please leave a comment below or get in touch with the GPS Training team. We're always happy to help you get the very best from your Garmin equipment.