inReach Mini 3 - Recent Threads

RE: How update firmware on Mini 3+ ?

Garmin - PW — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 15:10:48 GMT

You may use the Garmin Messenger App or Garmin Explore App on a smartphone to update the software in an inReach Mini 3 series device. If you would prefer to use a computer, Garmin Express is also an option.

Updating the Software on Your inReach Mini 3 Series Device

How update firmware on Mini 3+ ?

1811259 — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 18:20:28 GMT

My device shows firmware 6...x not the new 7.01. When I go to Software Update however it says I'm up to date. How do I update the firmware?

RE: How update firmware on Mini 3+ ?

geoffmurray — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 20:51:21 GMT

Google has the instructions...

inReach Mini 3 and Mini 3 Plus Software version v7.01

Garmin-Christopher — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 18:26:25 GMT

Change Log

Added handling for unsolicited Bluetooth pairing
Added preview in message threads for incoming images
Added active subscription warning page to device reset flow
Fixed units for descent in activity and course review
Fixed possible shutdown when using the map for a long time
Fixed image viewer for outgoing messages
Fixed possible device lockup when exiting Bluetooth pairing flow
Fixed colors for critical battery alert
Fixed lag when reacting to or deleting messages

inReach Mini Software Version 6.05

Garmin-Christopher — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 21:10:41 GMT

Change Log

Fixed possible boot-loop

So…say someone steals your in reach. If they are using it can it be located?

9183738 — Sun, 21 Jun 2026 16:27:15 GMT

If stolen can your in reach be found if they are using it?

RE: So…say someone steals your in reach. If they are using it can it be located?

Garmin - AL — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 17:18:14 GMT

Here is a great article that will walk you through steps to locate a lost or stolen inReach device: Locating My Lost or Stolen inReach Device

RE: So…say someone steals your in reach. If they are using it can it be located?

skyeye — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 12:08:33 GMT

sure, one of the basic functions

InReach Mini 3 / Mini 3 Plus Software version V6.04

Garmin-Christopher — Thu, 28 May 2026 15:25:17 GMT

Change Log
: Fixed backlight timeout in SOS countdown
Fixed possible shutdown if tones files are corrupted
Fixed waypoints notes transferring with Garmin Share
Fixed missing power-on points in TracBack
Fixed missing start and end activity points in TracBack
Fixed issues with pin compare in Garmin Share
Fixed course ascent and descent in activity loop
Fixed issues that could cause keyboard buttons to shrink
Fixed 'Wait for GPS' page showing up when requesting weather for known locations
Fixed satellite weather requests possibly failing after losing internet
[Plus] Fixed possible shutdown when downloading photos

Aside from screen, same basic design as inReach mini 2?

6125703 — Sat, 21 Feb 2026 18:14:00 GMT

I looked at the online manual for the inReach Mini 3 and it seems like it has the same basic experience as the inReach Mini 2, ignoring details like color touchscreen or the Plus model voice/image functions?

Does anybody else think Garmin missed the mark here by not having the new model be more aligned with the watch ecosystem? E.g. having a UI with "glance loop", multiple activity types instead of just "generic tracking", customizable activity data pages, ConnectIQ apps and data fields, Connect syncing of courses/activities, and Connect-based device management like firmware updates?

RE: Aside from screen, same basic design as inReach mini 2?

Volker — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 21:23:41 GMT

Yes, I think so, too. No need to upgrade from a Mini 2 to a Mini3. The Mini 3+ offers a lot more for only 50 bucks more. And, if you buy a subscription, you pay if using a Mini 3 (non plus) even for stuff you can’t use (pics, voice messages).

RE: Aside from screen, same basic design as inReach mini 2?

Snow_Leopard — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 13:40:26 GMT

Judging from the lack of posts on this forum It sure doesn't look like many have bought the mini 3. Not even a post from Garmin advising people about a first software update.

RE: Aside from screen, same basic design as inReach mini 2?

Volker — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 06:48:12 GMT

It makes absolutely no sense for me to buy a Mini 3 (without the plus), as the price difference to the Mini 3+ is only €50. In Germany, the Garmin website doesn't even offer the Mini 3 (without the plus).

RE: Aside from screen, same basic design as inReach mini 2?

Snow_Leopard — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 15:12:42 GMT

My thoughts exactly. But I guess if it were too close in function to the H1 plus or various watches then those sales would suffer. I’m sure it’s all based on marketing projections. I’m sure Garmin gets tons of input on desired features from their user forums, but most of them seem to fall on deaf ears. Personally I don’t collect every Garmin made, and never buy the first generation of anything as they are experimental and far from being refined. The poor mapping capabilities of the Mini 3 is a big deal breaker for sure. A previous post even commented on its inability to show its current position without first saving it as a waypoint. The mini 2 will show its current position on the Navigation screen.

RE: Firmware Update Change Log?

atlas_cached — Sat, 14 Feb 2026 15:05:03 GMT

Thank You!

Firmware Update Change Log?

atlas_cached — Sat, 14 Feb 2026 12:22:48 GMT

What changes were made in recent firmware update, please?

RE: Firmware Update Change Log?

grr — Sat, 14 Feb 2026 14:54:27 GMT

Can we get release notes for Firmware 5.03?

Somebody posted them here above

RE: Mini 3 or Mini 3 +: which one should I choose? Or perhaps a Mini 2?

7000518 — Sat, 10 Jan 2026 13:41:50 GMT

Im currently trying to decide and cant help feel garmin have been short sighted here. I cant justify the mini 3 on features, its pros are touch screen and voice with better antenna but no difference from 2 otherwise.

The current mini 3 plus should be the basic model and a mini version of the inreach gpsmap H1i plus should have been the mini 3 plus, including topomaps, bluechart, connect iq store etc would be a fantastic standalone device. i would pay extra for that. I think alot of people would esp those not in the garmin eco system.

I think it has to be inreach 2 for me, esp as I have a fenix that fills in the rest. Its a Shame because the restrictions on the mini 3 plus are clearly not technical.

Mini 3 or Mini 3 +: which one should I choose? Or perhaps a Mini 2?

Volker — Sat, 13 Dec 2025 08:01:13 GMT

What does the Mini 3 (non +) have that the Mini 2 doesn’t?

Larger screen,
touchscreen (can be disabled, also operable via buttons only),
color display,
base map,
text input via touch possible,
various keyboards for text input,
satellite setting for “all + multiband”,
Garmin Share
IPX 67

What does the Mini 3+ have that the Mini 3 doesn’t?

send (via mess app)/receive photos/forward received pics via M3+
voice messages
voice notes
siren
text messages up to 1600 characters (Mini 3 (and Mini 2) only up to 160)
more free memory

As an aside: 3 out of 4 consumer plans already include a number of photos/voice messages (10/25/50 per month), which you can’t use on a Mini 3 non plus (or a Mini 2).

Of course the current Mini 2 sale price ($/€ 249) is a really good offer. But for a more up to date device, I would go for a Mini 3+, especially because the price difference M3+ ($/€ 499) : M3 ($/€ 449) is only 50$/€ (side note: the M3+ comes within carabiner loop ($/€ 15), which even makes the difference less).

I have chosen the M3+, but that’s only my opinion. I have upgraded my Mini 2 and for me it is really a big step forward (but the Mini 2 is still a good device!). Perhaps this post helps someone. But people may see it different. This is only intended to be a possible aid in the decision-making process.

I haven’t mentioned Messenger/Messenger+ because the display is too small (my opinion) and for a comfortable use you will need the Messenger app/phone ( also my opinion). Mini2 and M3/M3+ are more useful for standalone use, M3+ even more than the Mini 2.

RE: Mini 3 or Mini 3 +: which one should I choose? Or perhaps a Mini 2?

9695440 — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 15:45:09 GMT

For me, the Mini 3+ makes the most sense if you want the latest features: more memory, longer text messages, photo/voice sending. The Mini 3 is okay, but you miss those messaging perks. The Mini 2 is solid and cheaper, but less future-proof.

RE: Mini 3 or Mini 3 +: which one should I choose? Or perhaps a Mini 2?

JungleJim — Sat, 13 Dec 2025 12:52:27 GMT

It looks like in some countries (like Netherlands, Germany, probably other EU countries as well?), Garmin doesn't even offer the inReach Mini 3, only the inReach Mini 3 Plus. For example in the Netherlands, there's only a inReach Mini 3 Plus product page on the Garmin website, with no option to switch between Plus and non-Plus version. So that may impact your buying decision as well.

Other than that not much more too add. I guess it depends on how much money you're willing to pay and how you intend to use the device. The Mini 2 is a good deal right now, though...

RE: Compatibility with. Fenix 7 (non-pro)?

Volker — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 05:43:51 GMT

Btw: I would consider to buy the Mini 3+ (only $/€50 more), because 3 of 4 consumer plans have some pics/voice message included (10/25/50), but you can´t use them with a Mini 3 (non plus).

Compatibility with. Fenix 7 (non-pro)?

6703919 — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 19:37:57 GMT

I was looking at the compatible devices for the new inReach Mini 3. The Fenix 7 Pro is there but not the Fenix 7 Sapphire Solar (my watch). No other Fenix 7 model is listed either. Interestingly enough, the Fenix 6 is listed as compatible as well as some Fenix 5 models. The Fenix 8 is compatible also. Seems odd some of the Fenix 7 lineup is missing. This would mean that if I got the Mini 3 I would also have to get a new (or older than the Fenix 7) Garmin watch if I wanted to use the two devices together. I'm hoping Garmin just made an error.

RE: Compatibility with. Fenix 7 (non-pro)?

Volker — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 05:39:52 GMT

Take a look at the German website for this:

https://www.garmin.com/de-DE/p/1756582/#devices

I think they just have (as so often happens) forgotten to update the (US) webside correctly.

RE: Compatibility with. Fenix 7 (non-pro)?

johnrg56 — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 03:06:49 GMT

I'm sure it's compatible. I expect to use with my Epix Gen 2.