Key Takeaways
1. Garmin hinted at refreshing popular smartwatches with LTE capabilities, including models like Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8.
2. Confusion arose about which models would receive phone call functions, with speculation mainly focused on the Fenix 8 series.
3. A significant leak suggests Garmin may release multiple LTE-enabled devices, not just the Fenix 8 Pro.
4. The new devices may integrate with Garmin’s inReach series, which uses the Iridium satellite network for messaging.
5. Garmin is likely to develop a wrist-worn device that incorporates inReach features, similar to the existing Fenix and Quatix series.
A few months ago, Garmin hinted that it might refresh several well-liked smartwatches with LTE capabilities. Back in late April, we noticed that Garmin’s Connect app had references to phone functions for models like the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8, but these references were soon erased. Since then, Garmin hasn’t made any official announcements.
Confusion Over New Models
Interestingly, there was a mix-up where it was suggested that the newer Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 could handle phone calls. Still, new whispers emerged claiming that Garmin would only provide LTE features for the Fenix 8 series as part of a Fenix 8 Pro launch. Now, the5krunner has shared that it has what it calls a ‘huge leak’ about Garmin’s future plans for LTE and Satellite tech.
Details from the Leak
According to regular informant @JohnW, the5krunner has put much of this supposed leak behind a paywall. At the moment, there’s no word on when they will disclose this ‘huge leak’. However, we can still pick up some details from what they have shared thus far.
For example, the5krunner mentions that Garmin’s strategy may involve ‘new devices’ instead of just one. This suggests there will be a range of LTE-enabled wearables beyond just the rumored Fenix 8 Pro. Additionally, it appears these new releases are connected to Garmin’s inReach series, which utilizes the Iridium satellite network for worldwide two-way messaging and other functions.
Future inReach Devices
Currently, Garmin offers devices like the inReach Mini 2 or inReach Messenger (currently priced at $249.99 on Amazon) and the more standard GPSMAP 86 or Montana 760. It seems that Garmin is planning to integrate inReach features into a wrist-worn gadget. Consequently, we might see another variant of the Fenix series, similar to the Quatix 8 that was released in June.
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