Explorer + GPS

Former Member over 8 years ago

All,

Reading a couple of reviews from CES 2017, they claim the GPS is always active and usable without the monthly subscription?? I have no issue paying for the texting and SOS features at a monthly rate, but as I'm looking at this product for my Oregon 450T (old dog) replacement; I can't quite chew a monthly payment for using the GPS.

Can any owners of the unit or the prior branded Delorme unit verify the GPS usage ability without a subscription?

Honestly, if Garmin wants these to fly off the shelf and have constant back order, having the GPS capability free of subscriptions would be a winner !

-M

0 CowboySlim over 8 years ago

IM(not so)HO, the monthly subscription fee is for the communication capability via the Iridium Satellite Telephone system, such as a monthly cellphone or landline phone bill.

0 twolpert over 8 years ago

Can't say I've ever actually tried this after canceling a plan. I do know that out of the box, a brand new unit requires activation. When you power it up, it leads you through the activation process, which involves purchasing a plan and verifying it over the satellite network. Until you do that, the unit does nothing but sit on the activation screens.

It might be different if you cancel a plan and do not sync the unit afterwards. But i suspect that sooner or later, it's going to phone home, find out that it no longer has an active plan, and return to activation mode.

If you can post a link to the review that mentions this, please do.

0 Former Member over 8 years ago

Garmin Explorer Update and link

Tom,

The answerI received was from Andrew Skurka (blogger) who was at the 2017 CES show. I will try to provide the link below, but if not google "Inreach Explorer+ reviews", and look for Andrews blog.

I asked the question to him on Feb21, 2017 in the comments section below the blog and review. You will see his answer from his Garmin contact.

http://andrewskurka.com/2017/preview-garmin-delorme-inreach-se-explorer/

Best,

Mike

0 twolpert over 8 years ago

Calle locale

Thanks for the info. So not only is it a new feature with the "plus" line, it's also a future feature ;) It'll be interesting to see how it shakes out once we can all get our hands on a device.

0 Former Member over 8 years ago

Yes, When they finally release the darn the unit....I have heard 2/28/2017, but no guarantee..

-M

0 gaijin over 8 years ago

Garmin USA site shows the inReach Explorer+ available to order with the note, "Processing time is 7-10 business days."

Looks like we're in business!

HTH

Link to site: https://buy.garmin.com/en-US/US/p/561269

0 Former Member over 8 years ago

Yes, When they finally release the darn the unit....I have heard 2/28/2017, but no guarantee..

-M

These are now shipping. Mine is due to arrive tomorrow from Amazon.