iPhone vs Garmin inReach - Emergency SOS Tested
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The iPhone 14 satellite Emergency SOS connects you to 911 directly through satellites when you have no cell signal. I compare it to the Garmin inReach after a month of backcountry testing with both. The iPhone works without overthinking coverage and includes car crash detection and Apple Watch integration. The inReach offers two-way messaging, custom contacts, and tracking features the iPhone lacks. Both have tradeoffs in functionality, subscription costs, and who they're built for. I walk through real-world use cases, show how each device handles an emergency, and recommend which option fits different backcountry users.
00:00 iPhone Emergency SOS
02:50 How SOS Works
05:15 Message Transmission
08:12 Globalstar Satellites
10:29 Performance Testing
13:13 Emergency Response Centers
14:37 Find My Location
17:21 Coverage & Limitations
20:05 Search & Rescue
22:23 Garmin inReach Advantages
28:21 Which Device to Choose
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Some of these links are affiliate links where I'll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you. I only recommend gear I actually use and trust.