Reviews of Garmin Messenger™

By: Garmin

List of user reviews and ratings for Garmin Messenger™

Total ratings

4.35 (Rating count: 5,332)

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Review summary

Most reviews say Garmin Messenger for Android is unreliable: pairing often fails, updates break functionality, and the Garmin app ecosystem is fragmented, making subscription and use frustrating. A minority note the offline messaging capability is beneficial when it works.

Pros

Provides messaging when there is no cellular signal, which is valuable for emergencies.
Some users report the app works and is quick when functioning (i.e., it can work alright).
The app offers core messaging functionality within the Garmin ecosystem when it is working.

Cons

Frequent pairing/connectivity problems: device shows as paired but the app reports not paired, with numerous resets and reinstalls needed.
Updates can break functionality, rendering the app unusable (e.g., 'needs attention', inconsistent pairing states).
Fragmented Garmin ecosystem leads to a confusing, multi-app flow and lack of integration between apps.
Subscription/activation flow is poorly designed or not intuitive, with reports of difficulty subscribing or activating satellite service.
Usability and support issues: hard to navigate, lack of manuals/help, occasional compatibility problems (e.g., Android 13), and intermittent performance.

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User Reviews

Recent rating average: 1.80

All time rating average: 4.35

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31% (74)

Date	Author	Comment
2026-06-20	Be*****	It does what it says, but I don't know how Garmin can continue charging subscription money for something so limited in capability that uses the old iridium network when Starlink is offering free satellite emergency calling to every single newer cellphone on the planet (yes your phone is now sat capable thanks to starlink). Garmin's not the only player in the game anymore and the new guy is giving it away for free out of genuine concern for humanity's wellness.
It does what it says, but I don't know how Garmin can continue charging subscription money for something so limited in capability that uses the old iridium network when Starlink is offering free satellite emergency calling to every single newer cellphone on the planet (yes your phone is now sat capable thanks to starlink). Garmin's not the only player in the game anymore and the new guy is giving it away for free out of genuine concern for humanity's wellness.
2026-06-19	St*****	no option to start subscription in app, no way to do it online.
no option to start subscription in app, no way to do it online.
2026-06-17	Ma*****	Not compatible with mini1. It's nice of you garmin abandoning your older devices.
Not compatible with mini1. It's nice of you garmin abandoning your older devices.