Does ZOLEO work without a phone?

Only for SOS and check-in messages. Two-way texting and email require the ZOLEO app on a paired smartphone; without one, you can’t read or answer incoming messages.

How much does the Garmin inReach Mini 2 cost compared with ZOLEO?

The inReach Mini 2 carries a US list price of $349.99, down from $399.99 at launch, plus a monthly or annual satellite subscription. ZOLEO costs $199.99 with its own separate monthly plan, $150 less.