Users of the newly released Fenix 8 AMOLED smartwatches have encountered issues linked to cold water. Customers on platforms like the Garmin Forum and Reddit have reported that the smartwatch tends to shut down or restart when exposed to cold water, such as during ice baths or swimming sessions.
Model Specific Issues
This issue appears to be limited to the Fenix 8 AMOLED models in 47mm and 51mm sizes; the MIP Solar versions do not seem to be affected. Users have noted problems in water temperatures ranging from 6° to 13°C (43° to 55°F). According to the user manual, Garmin states that the smartwatch can function properly in water temperatures between 0° and 40°C (32° to 104°F). Therefore, users experiencing these problems shouldn't be facing such issues. Additionally, the Fenix 8 is promoted as being dive-certified to a depth of 40 meters (approximately 131 feet), where water temperatures are likely to be cold.
Company Response
Some users who reached out to Garmin reported that the company attributed the issue to software problems, while other sources claim it is a confirmed hardware fault. As of now, Garmin has not officially recognized the issue, leaving users without a clear explanation or solution at this time. If you own a Fenix 8 smartwatch and are facing this problem, it is advised to get in touch with Garmin Support for assistance.
