This was our second inReach Mini. I bought the first two years ago. I was taking up to three hours to acquire a GPS signal in the cab of our truck. Our Garmin Overlander, iPhones, and even my FitBit locks on in just a few seconds. And I can’t get a GPS lock at all if driving through deep valleys or tall trees line the road. It loses signal even while hiking in the open desert if hanging from my belt.
I bought a second this past month hoping the first was just a bad unit, but no difference. I took it back for refund and will just keep using the original.
All that said, the Iridium connection has worked flawlessly. But if you want position information be sure to turn the unit on at least 30 minutes before starting out and have an unobstructed view of the sky.
Response from GarminBy Garmin, Outdoor, January 5, 2022
Thank you for your review and experience with the inReach Mini. We would like to discuss this further over email. If you would please email us at product.support@garmin.com. Thanks Jenny
Purchased primarily as a device to track solo backpacking/hikes. Overall, happy with initial use and testing. There is a learning curve! Basic messaging is straight forward. App is a bit confusing but with more use/exposure it will be figured out.
Response from GarminBy Garmin, Outdoor, January 3, 2022
Bought this device for my wife as a Christmas present. She is very enthusiastic being a solo skier, hiker, and mountain biker. Getting facile in operating the device, as with any digital equipment, takes some time and effort. Having used a GPS Map 76 for decades, I know this takes a while.
Response from GarminBy Garmin, Outdoor, January 3, 2022
The dog and I regularly take day hikes in hills without cell phone coverage. This used to worry my wife. The amazingly small Inreach mini allows her to see where we are and know we are OK (or can request help, if needed).
Response from GarminBy Garmin, Outdoor, January 3, 2022
The Garmin in reach mini what is a game changer. It was awesome to have a form of communication with friends and family members while on our overland trip. They knew where we were at all times and I always felt like I had a safety net if needed.
Response from GarminBy Garmin, Outdoor, January 3, 2022