Garmin: New smartwatch subscription for satellite messaging, LTE phone calls and SOS features planned

In order to access all features of a modern Garmin smartwatch like the Fenix 8 (from $799 on Amazon), users currently need a Garmin Connect+ subscription, which costs $6.99 per month or $69 per year in the US. Access to premium maps with Garmin Outdoor Maps+ costs another $4.99 per month or $49 per year.

According to a new report from Garmin Rumors, the well-known wearable maker is now planning another smartwatch subscription called "Get Fully Connected". This new subscription will be required to access the satellite connectivity that has been rumored for several weeks. Users who subscribe will be able to receive and send text messages via satellite, make satellite emergency calls, make phone calls via 4G LTE, share their live location and even send photos and voice messages over the cellular network.

All of this supposedly works without a smartphone in Bluetooth range, provided the Garmin smartwatch has both an LTE modem and satellite connectivity. Users can try this subscription for free for 30 days, but the pricing after that has not been unveiled thus far. However, the Garmin inReach subscription might offer a hint at the price. For example, the inReach Consumer Essential plan costs $14.99 per month and includes unlimited emergency calls and check-in messages, as well as 50 text messages and 10 photo or audio messages per month.

To combine all these features into one app, Garmin is reportedly transforming its messenger into a communication hub. The subscription will supposedly be manageable directly in this app, and it will also provide more information regarding satellite and LTE usage.