Garmin Messenger™ Customer Service

Garmin Messenger™ Positive Reviews

A reasonable insurance PolicyI travel a *lot* and we’re in some pretty crazy times. The cost of a Mini 2 and a monthly service fee seems pretty reasonable. Its initial setup and operation are intuitive to an adult. It’s reassuring to know I won’t be caught without the means to communicate if there is some sort of crisis. The backup navigational capability when away from home is huge to me. Also, as a pilot, it’s worth the cost for emergency backup NAV and COMM. Hopefully it will remain safely at the ready in arms reach in my suitcase, but I take it out periodically to make sure everything is working, I remember how to access the features I need, and to keep the battery charged. Would recommend..FlyinawaVersion: 2.1.1

If you need help please see thisSo press the back button, your gonna skip activation, you will go back to where your on a Home Screen. There’s an icon in the corner you will just press okay. Go down to settings. Press the phone Bluetooth button. Then press okay and okay again. Then pair your phones..AtomicdameVersion: 1.16.2

Shows potential but not quite there yet…I like the idea but when you have competitors like apple out there offering a complete different experience with messaging, then this app feels like 5 years behind. Even the way the keyboard is displayed in your watch when replaying to a message… it felt like using an old nokia phone. I also don’t like that I can only reply to messages received through the app and not whatsapp or other messaging apps. It limits the user to one messaging platform which is VERY limited in functionality at this time, for example: keyboard display, just messaging and no emojis or ways to react, I was also unable to customize my automatic reply options.DSZ1984Version: v1.19

Very useful app, but could be improvedThe InReach device and accompanying app are excellent in the case of an emergency, to call for help. App could be better designed where I can monitor my sons travels out in the open ocean. For example, receive text or email notices of his movement and locations from time to time. Currently, the inReach and website can show you a map of the person’s locations. However, one has to log into the website map in order to see the person’s location as opposed to… it would be nice having notices sent to me via text or email of his locations along his journey..Dralph01Version: 1.12.1

Linking to FacebookI have just started configuring this device. When attempting to link to Facebook, I had some difficulty because I have Facebook pages which I manage. This app wanted me to pick a page to post to. I didn’t want this app to post to either of those pages and it would not allow me to just post to myself because my Facebook account isn’t a separate page. So I had to go in and create a separate page so that I could pick that from the list. Thought you’d wanna know..HSchuergerVersion: 1.15

Activation BugsDuring activation of a 67i device while the app was asking me to enter basic info (name, address, phone numbers) the app either would not display portions of the interface after scrolling or would be unresponsive when editing fields or trying to hit the next button. Proceeded to have issues until letting the app transfer an update to the garmin device. After that, no issues..DShaull315Version: v1.19

MessagesMy husband just took this on a weeklong solo backpacking trip. Then happy I can track his movements and he can send pre-programmed messages that he’s OK but those messages are supposed to be unlimited For our package. I can’t find a way to contact customer service..Kathy Ann 55Version: 1.13.1

Garmin GPS vs Smartphone Location serviceGarmin apps work great overall but it would sure be nice if the Garmin apps could pull GPS location information from compatible Garmin device rather than relying on smartphone’s location services. On multi day trips I have to turn off my phone’s location service to save battery. What’s the point of having two separate GPS systems running simultaneously???.J in burqueVersion: 1.13.1

Mini 2 CheckI’m still figuring it out. So far, everything seems to be working well. When I updated my Check in messages, it tells me to make sure to sync. Not sure what that means!.Michael HaddonVersion: 1.17.3

RobertWhen our son goes hunting two miles high in the Rocky Mountains and freezing temperatures every year, we now have more peace-of-mind, given two way communications plus the coordinates. Four other men along with him Thank you, Garmin Messenger!.Purduex3Version: 1.15

Following son in WY.I’m 77 an use to be an avid white tail hunter….i live in Ks an like to follow an keep in contact with son - Elk hunting in Wy…this app allows me to stay in contact with him an see his area he is hunting in…..Tom OldfatherVersion: v1.19

Can’t activateI have scoured the app and the inReach messenger device and the words “pair device” do not exist. This should be a priority and I’ve wasted 30 minutes trying to pair this thing. Activating an account should be easy too but those words are only on the device, not on the app….Ty&bellaVersion: 1.17

Apple Watch capatabilityThis app would be great if there were an Apple Watch widget. I am the black sheep in the family without an Apple Watch. The ability to be able to communicate via wearables would be marvelous..12368ihudrbjycVersion: v1.19

Awesome start.Let’s now be able to have anyone on or off the messenger app be able to send us garmin watch users a text and us be able to respond from our watches!! That would be even better..Melly MeL 19Version: 1.18.1

One problemI like it but it could pair with other messenger apps so it can message across apps.Yt fhgjdfjjffjfhVersion: 1.15

Not worth the effortVery confusing instructions and app/watch responses yield less than modest capacity to text to contacts. Not designed for practical texting..HEC81Version: v1.19

Descent appDoesn’t allow you to text while working out.Jzgrandprix76Version: 1.18.1

In reach mini 2I’m total contacted were their is no live wire for 100 km totally unbelievable till your out their..UnsealthVersion: 1.18.1

Not accurateThe app says I’ve used 2 messages of my 40 but I haven’t used it yet so I’m not sure what’s happening..DylanphilionVersion: v1.19

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Garmin Messenger™ Negative Reviews

Cannot delete messages on watchFor those who do not know, if you have your Garmin watch linked to your InReach via the Messenger app, you will not be able to delete any messages from your watch. It does not matter if you delete them from your phone, the Explore website, or even the InReach itself, those messages are on your watch for good. It’s lazy design that is unacceptable for a paid subscription service. It’s also very inconvenient!! Anytime I use my InReach, in the back of my mind I’m thinking “well, there went some storage that could be used for maps”. It also makes searching for and responding to current conversations very difficult, because you have to sift through all the garbage you do not want and that you have already deleted off your phone. I know this was a rant, but the current user interface really takes away from any positive experience..ArtamisfowlVersion: v1.19

The app keeps glitching trying to sign inI keep trying to sign in unsuccessfully. I have the correct password and my account is verified. It just won’t accept my password when I am at the screen it takes me to after trying to submit my personal information. It is like signing my out and then asking me to sign back in but denying my correct password. This sort of thing really has me bummed that I purchased a product that I thought made work well right out of the box. I have a newer IPhone and don’t suspect that is the problem, likely the app. If I can’t get it to work I will be returning my purchase for a competing alternative..App doesn’t let you sign inVersion: v1.19

Worst App on the PlanetI made the mistake of installing this junk app because it's required with an Inreach Mini 2. Pairing the Mini 2 device through the app literally took hours. Once paired, I tried to manage my Garmin subscription, but for some reason that option isn’t available - after multiple attempts, all I get is a blank screen on the app. So now you’re trying to tell me that I’m supposed to use this Garmin device and nonfunctional app to contact help when I’m in the wilderness when they don't even work in the comfort of my own home?!? Junk junk junk and a complete waste of time and money. Garmin’s Messenger app is a scam..Ghlatta3Version: 1.18.1

DangerousDon’t download this app to a secondary device like an iPad. My friend tried to check in from the field and the messages went to an iPad we hardly use and I didn’t see it for nearly a day. Once I downloaded the app to my phone, I could see meaages but could not respond from the app. Also, deleting the app does not restore your texting capability; you need to first “deactivate” your account. This option should be labeled something more accurate like “unlink phone number from Garmin Messenger” because I also have an InReach and I didn’t want to deactivate *that* account..BG_SeaVersion: 1.12

No messages! Waste of good moneyMy family has acquired Garmin satelite mapping services in order to let us know when and where they are. Some in the family have received messages while others have not(we are at the 60:40 mark) while the set-up is reasonably costly, the service is miserably failing. Any in the family have the same setup in their respective phones, in order to clarify any misperceptions. Garmin Customer service is failing, absent! Don’t waste your money, there must be an alternative to an otherwise good idea..Copete rojoVersion: v1.19

App not able to activateFor over two hours the app unsuccessfully tried activating. I’m not sure if it is the app that isn’t working or the inreach messenger device. Another user’s phone app and separate device had no issues activating so I’m not sure what’s wrong on my end. Update: It finally activated a day or two later on its own but I’m now trying to change the subscription plan and I keep getting the message “Plan change failed” through the app and the subscription portal..Sam8740000000Version: 2.1.1

Setup Is ImpossibleI recently purchased an inReach MINI 2 at REI and attempted to set up Garmin’s Messenger app which is required for the inReach. For some unknown reason, I have been blocked by Cloudflare, the company responsible for Garmin’s online security. There is no way to reach out to Cloudflare for assistance to correct the problem. Judging from other reviews, I am not alone in my frustration. Sorry, Garmin. Your $400 inReach device will be returned to REI tomorrow. This is the least user-friendly device I have purchased in a very long time..Sooroo77Version: 1.18.1

Astonishing. Some of the worst software I’ve ever seenTry to activate. Asks me to log in, but I have no account. No button to create account. Try again. This time I get a create account page. Type in info, and the website hangs forever without creating an account. Try laptop. Same thing. I have never seen something so shoddy. This total failure is without even getting to the satellite messaging or GPS stage. I can only imagine what a treat that will be..ZmcdarghVersion: 1.18.1

Extremely difficult to useLike so much software these days, Garmin’s suite of software for its satellite comm devices is overly complex. Garmin should be thinking about two things, and greatly simplify the interfaces: 1. Almost all users are casual users. We access the software once every few months, to set it up for a trip. 2. Occasionally the software will be used during a trip. Users are distracted, anxious, under pressure; have no access to a laptop or desktop system; and may have power or communication issues. Please think a little more seriously about how this stuff looks to someone who is packing for a trip or has already started the trip..Left Coast BillVersion: 1.18.1

Not impressed with the messages appThe map for me comes up as the Apple Maps, which if someone is in the deep wilderness, the detail is not there. I have the old inreach explorer which everyone has said it’s very easy to see where your at. I personally will not update to this model. I will stick with the inreach explorer model for the time being..The Solo Canoe tripperVersion: 2.1.1

Poor device support and lost messagesGarmin supports a weird subset of the inReach devices with this Messenger app — in particular no support for the original inReach mini. This app also suffers the iMessage problem in that if you’ve used it once it will default to send all text messages there rather than to SMS, even if you’ve since uninstalled the app..00HeinVersion: 1.13.1

Creepy unwanted connectionsSome of my work contacts in my phone have popped up as having Garmin accounts. Please give an option to either share or NOT SHARE, to either connect or NOT CONNECT. Just because someone is in my address book with their cell number does not mean I want them to a) know that I have a Garmin messenger or b) be able to contact me in the backcountry. This is freaky..BeckaslcVersion: v1.19

Useless when neededI tried to use the app while in the backcountry with no cell signal. It required authentication, which I couldn’t give, you guessed it, without a cell signal! What good is this app if it doesn’t work when I need it? The reason I bought the device and pay for a subscription is that I can communicate when I am where there is no cell signal!.Ronald HCVersion: 1.13.1

Garmin AppGarmin makes difficult to find what you need, no easy way to stop subscription service, go here, go there dead ends after dead ends. Trying can le service on a lost Mini in reach. No luck and on wild goose chase trying to stop service. Stay clear of Garmin subscription services..Mr Mac in ArizonaVersion: v1.19

Intentionally annoyingThey make you go to the website to pause your account, and I you want nonstandard messages, you can get them but only after calling. Why? Why not just allow customers to do both easily through the app?.SJ195784367Version: v1.19

Activation keeps blanking outThere’s a bug in the app - I can’t activate my subscription in the app. It keeps not loading the full screen and I’ve had to uninstall and reinstall multiple times. Still can’t get this to work. May have to return the whole device and use a different satellite communicator..Misschiff800Version: v1.19

Beyond difficultWhat a waste Trying to sync up contacts update billing. Flipping between two different websites and two different apps. Messenger and garmin this think is horrible right now. You update and add contacts but they don't show in the messenger app. The app is slow. Idk what the heck is going on but the service is horrible.ZaknjVersion: v1.19

Garmin messenger for inreachMy wife bought a garmin inreach for an up coming backpacking trip. She cannot figure out how to program it after days of trying. We are taking it back. The lack of information on how to program it is appalling. And she works at REI which sells these. She will not be recommending them to customers from this point forward..Donnyhead007Version: 1.13.1

Won’t pair anymoreUsed to be an easy to use app, now seems more focused on accessing my contacts and most frustrating is that it simply will not connect with the app even though the inreach and my phone both show paired. Very disappointed in the updated app..CaptSteveAVersion: 2.1.1

Useless!I used to send InReach starting and safely stopping messages to my people. But now they have to download test I another messenger app, this d time from Garmin. Why should they? It used to work just fine with whatever messaging apps they have on their phone. Garmin basically bricked my $600 InReach device..Garmin bricked my InReachVersion: 1.18

The actual device is fine but you people need to learn how to make an appWhat a disgusting, over-complicated piece of garbage this is. 20 unnecessary steps and multiple accounts that you need to create. I can’t imagine a normal person allowing this to happen..No Screen NameVersion: 1.18.1

Very poorI need to suspend me freedom recreation plan. However, the directions given through the app and online do not match the images that appear on my phone screen. I am exceedingly disappointed and unhappy with this product..Hon GranJanVersion: 2.1.1

No support/ horrible instructions onlineNothing works because it will not upload software. Absolutely no tech support except online videos which can't solve this problem. There is no one to call. It's horrible..AmjdhfbVersion: 1.13.1

InReach mini won’t pairI can pair to my phone (iPhone 14) via standard Bluetooth connect. I can see on my inreach that it is paired. However it never pairs in the app. I have updated the firmware to latest on the mini. Very disappointed as the device is not old at all….D_aylVersion: 1.13.1

Check in errorIt wont allow me to delete my check in contacts.. i can get into it and delete them, then hit save but they never go away.. pretty disappointed right of the gate...Tappedout15Version: v1.19

So hard to syncImpossible to sync to make changes. Really frustrating that I pay for this and I can’t sync to change my auto messages. Strongly considering finding a different satellite communicator..KendallKendall1Version: 1.18.1

Faulty.Can’t respond back to contacts. They message you and then the app displays they are no longer available on the app. But they are. Garmin - This should be much easier in this age of technology. Let’s get the act together..TheKevinSrVersion: 1.18.1

It was great until I tried to erase dataI’ve had my watch for 2 years, all of a sudden, it’s saying memory is full. I can not do anything to erase data or even see what time it is 😆.., It’s time to get an Apple Watch!.Lisa TallahasseeVersion: v1.19

Something went wrongTry again later. Useless app does not work at all and tech support not able to fix. Returning very expensive paperweight back to the store..KaptainkrizVersion: 1.15

Hard to useWatched videos. Still can find “maps” or a good tutorial on using messages. I’ve wasted a couple of hours and have given up..Tom hates appVersion: 1.18.1

Update AppI have just tried to un-suspend my subscription but then then app says I need update. I checked and there is no update available. This is frustrating as I need to us the messenger today..JumboGVersion: 2.0

HorribleGUI is confusing and not reliable. Like other Garmin product the company needs to complete UXUI exercises. Messenger is equally UNSAT. My contacts are unable to respond to my messages. Good help is far far away - standard for Garmin products..Festus500Version: v1.19

Errors trying to verify phone numberCountless attempts but error saying “Something went wrong. Try again later.” Useless at this point..OpticagentVersion: 1.15

Cannot verify my accountI get an app error. :(.G638475Version: 2.1.1

SMS validation doesn’t workBeen trying for days and read all of their info and still can’t get my phone number verified. Tried another number and still doesn’t work..FanboyDannoVersion: 2.1.1

Old app was betterLiked the old app better when you could send messages to phone numbers and the recipient didn’t have to be on the messenger app.Outdoors 1111Version: 2.0

Did not workDid not work on my 8 day North Coast Trail hike where there is zero cell coverage.Pieter_8126Version: v1.19

Set up not easy.Spent hours and can’t get it to work on my phone with the new app downloaded..Pemfer omnium 1 matVersion: v1.19

Not user friendlyA device that has so many great features except the ability to help pair!.StevejhVersion: v1.19

When are you planning to fix the weather so that it shows on phones?Any help?.CF nav userVersion: v1.19

Never paired with miniTry as I might this app never paired with my inreach mini. Tried all the troubleshooting tips but no joy. Pored fine with Explore, but I don’t need yet another navigation app when all o want to do is send a quick message or request help. Come on Garmin do better..ZrigVersion: v1.19

Not worth it.Difficult to set up; clunky interface. Get a different product if you can..N2345xxxVersion: v1.19

Another App for the same Thing??Why does this app exist if Garmin Explore could do the same thing? Why do so many different gaming devices need so many different apps? I have two Garmin devices and 5 different apps to! (Between my watch and my inReach mini, I have to install: Explore, Messenger, Connect, ConnectIQ, Golf. I’m luckily I don’t have to use an older device at work because the. I’d have to install the Earthmate app as well! 2 stars for a functional, but superfluous app, and bringing that down to 1 star for advertising the ‘new messaging app feature’ for Fenix watch as though I would be able to actually sms/iMessage/WhatsApp/etc. text people from the watch..KentbernadetVersion: 1.18.1

ConnectivityYou can only message people on Garmin Messenger, what good is that if you require help, should be able to send to anyone or any platform ie Messenger or iMessage.GregckingstonVersion: 1.18.1

TraductionMettre en français les phrases rapides pour répondre svp..Iphone bad boyVersion: 1.18

UX in 2024I bought about 15 units, a blend of mini 2, 66i and explore+. Unfortunately they all need one of 5 or 6 different apps to function well via Bluetooth. Absolutely atrocious user experience. A complete mess of a platform. The stand alone device works well enough so we’ll continue to use them. Only by virtue of having spent ~$15,000 on the units total. Do not recommend. Try Zoleo, Starlink, anything but this..Company purchaserVersion: 1.17.2

Wouldn’t pair with my inreachTried pairing it with my inreach mini and followed troubleshooting recommendations in the app. No luck. Tried another app, and it paired in seconds. Not sure why this app won’t. Might be the age of the inreach?.FallfactorsVersion: 1.17

Neds CarPlay compatabilityThe idea of being able to use this messaging app from start to finish of a trip on cellular and wifi as well as satellite is great but a lot of these trips for me involve driving including off the grid. If this is going to be the app I tell my contacts to rely on then it also needs to work for me while driving which means it needs to be compatible with carplay just like other messaging apps..Du323Version: 1.16.2

Can’t pairPoor instructions on how to pair. Now in 2nd hour without any luck..CardioChefVersion: 1.16.2

No Verification Code???Didn’t receive verification code to my phone so could not set up the app. Tried many times. :-(.LifelessonsVersion: 1.16.2

Never receives a verification code so it doesn’t workNever receives a verification code so it doesn’t work..JB00800Version: 1.15

Not working when you need itHorrible, this device needs further testing before you bring it out there, so bad. Garmin in reach messenger.Eric SID 123Version: 1.15

Purposely excluding bran loyal clientsI’ve had my inReach Mini (not Mini 2) for just a few years, and all really Garmin are excluding a model that you can still find in store. Only the Mini 2 is supported in this app..MJQuesnelVersion: 1.13

AnnoyingShouldn’t have to re add all my contacts from the other garmin apps..dddfgVersion: 1.12.1

Does not work for old folksCould not finish setup without changing text size. Good app developers consider larger text size. App developers must hate old people..RusselltoVersion: 1.10

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