Tag: Fenix 8 Pro

  • Garmin Leak Reveals Enduro 4 and Connect+ Features

    Key Takeaway

    – Reference to the Enduro 4 smartwatch found in Garmin Connect APK teardown
    – Unclear if Enduro 4 will match Fenix 8 Pro with LTE/satellite or Fenix 8 Solar
    – AMOLED and solar charging may still not be combined
    – Hints of call categorisation and emergency feature tweaks
    – New capabilities may be tied to Garmin Connect+ subscription

    First Paragraph With No Heading

    The Garmin Connect app is the partner app for Garmin smartwatches and other stuff, handeling data syncronization with Garmin’s cloud and letting you do firmware updates—especialy for gadgets that don’t have direct Wi-Fi. An APK teardown of version 5.26 shows clear hints of a upcoming smartwatch plus new capabilities, though you should treat these findings with some caution. The specifics, first reported by Gadgets & Wearables, are not yet been officially confirmed by the company.

    Discovering the Enduro 4

    Probably the most notable discovery here is a reference to the Enduro 4. The Enduro series is essentally a battery-focused version of the Fenix lineup, usualy having solar charging for longer usage time. It remains not clear weather the Enduro 4 will be more like the Fenix 8 Pro, maybe adding LTE and satelite comunication, or if it goes with the already tested Fenix 8 Solar version. This difference matters a lot, because current Fenix 8 Pro models are useing AMOLED displays, and Garmin has not yet combined AMOLED panels with solar charging technology.

    Phone and Emergency Tweaks

    Additional findings in the APK point to expanded phone functionality, including possible call categorisation. There are also indications of small tweaks to emergency features such as automatic incident detection, and also new capabilities that are tied to the Garmin Connect+ subscription service. These changes are still in development and might look different when released. The code also suggests other small performance improvements that will affect how the app syncs data to the cloud, though this is still under wraps from the company.

    • Enduro 4 name found in APK code
    • Possible LTE and satellite features
    • Call categorisation is being worked on
    • Emergency detection features are being updated

    New Subscription Features

    There are also new capabilities tied to the Garmin Connect+ subscription, which might be a premium service for additional analytics. Gadgets & Wearables, Image Source: Inge Schwabe, Notebookcheck. The pricing for the Enduro 4 is not yet known, and the exact specifications remain uncertain until an official announcement happens. The APK teardown is not a confirmation of any final products, and users should wait for official word from Garmin before makeing any decisions.

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  • Garmin Emergency Features vs Apple: Life-Saving Costs Compared

    Key Takeaway

    – Garmin now offers a reduced-cost emergency satellite call for $7.99 via paused subscriptions, plus a $39.99 activation fee.
    – This change targets average smartwatch users (e.g., Fenix 8 Pro), not just serious outdoor adventurers with inReach handhelds.
    – Garmin appears stingy compared to Apple, which offers free satellite emergency communication for two years with no announced paywall.
    – The pricing may lead to reputational damage and long-term costs, as the choice of smartwatch can be life-or-death in emergencies.

    A necessary change?

    I fully expected this, and now it has happened: Garmin has reduced the cost of inReach in one specific scenario, likely the one most relevant to broad user groups. It is now possible to place at least an emergency call at an effective price of $7.99 by pausing the inReach subscription, and not only with various inReach devices, but also with Garmin smartwatches that support satellite communication. An initial activation fee of $39.99 also applies.

    Potentially problematic for the brand

    The move is not really surprising, but it probably will not protect Garmin from a potential marketing disaster and could end up costing the company more than lost inReach revenue at a lower level. This only partial change to the pricing structure seems problematic for two reasons. First, with the Fenix 8 Pro models, Garmin is targeting average users much more directly than it does with its inReach handhelds, even if those users are interested in sports. Put casually: Anyone who buys an inReach handheld is planning serious outdoor adventures and ideally also knows that such a subscription can be vital for survival.

    A different kind of customer

    That may not always be the case for customers who buy the Fenix 8 Pro or Quatix 8 Pro. Still, even a short hike in a dead zone, or a professional but ultimately not well-organized diving trip, can quickly turn into a fatal horror trip, or into the kind of story told well into old age about a successful helicopter rescue after what ultimately turned out to be a not-so-dramatic broken leg. It’s a bit of a gamble, requiring users to be very proactive about there subscription setup.

    Comparing to Apple

    Garmin looks particularly stingy compared with Apple: Satellite communication is free for the first two years after purchase, and there is no information yet for the period after that. Looking at the situation with iPhones as well, I strongly assume that Apple will at least not put basic emergency communication behind a paywall. This may sound somewhat naive, but in such cases, which are not exactly rare, the choice of smartwatch can quite literally decide between life and death, even if the smartwatch itself technically supports satellite communication.

    Long-term reputational risk

    Beyond the individual tragedy, this could also cause significant reputational damage for the otherwise very successful company and ultimately become much more expensive for Garmin in the long term. Average consumers might not understand why they need to pay extra for a life saving feature, especially when a rival offers it for free. It remains to be seen if Garmin will adjust there polices further, but for now the reaction from the market and potential buyers seems mixed at best.

    • Pricing specifics: $7.99 effective price per month for emergency call capability
    • Additional cost: $39.99 initial activation fee
    • Requires pausing the inReach subscription after activation
    • Works with Garmin inReach devices and select smartwatches (Fenix 8 Pro, Quatix 8 Pro)
    • Apple offers free satellite communication for first two years
    • No pricing information from Apple for period after two years
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  • Garmin Slashes Price on Premium Smartwatch with Satellite and Cellular

    Garmin Slashes Price on Premium Smartwatch with Satellite and Cellular

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin launched the Fenix 8 Pro with a MicroLED display and satellite/cellular connectivity.
    2. The Quatix 8 Pro was introduced for boating and sailing enthusiasts.
    3. Garmin may unveil the Fenix 9 smartwatches later this year.
    4. The price of the Fenix 8 Pro with MicroLED has been reduced by $300, now starting at $1,199.99.
    5. The price adjustment has not been reflected in other regions like the Eurozone or the UK.

    Almost six months ago, Garmin launched the Fenix 8 Pro, which features an optional MicroLED display along with satellite and cellular connectivity for all models. During this time, the company also brought out the Quatix 8 Pro, designed specifically for boating and sailing enthusiasts. Recently, there have been hints that Garmin might be gearing up to unveil its first Fenix 9 smartwatches in the latter half of the year.

    Price Adjustments

    Meanwhile, Garmin has quietly reduced the price of its priciest Fenix 8 Pro model that comes with a MicroLED display. On the other hand, the prices for the AMOLED models have stayed the same. Currently, the Fenix 8 Pro starts at $1,199.99, with the 51 mm version priced at $1,299.99 (available on Amazon).

    Changes in Pricing Gap

    Originally, there was an $800 difference between the 51 mm versions of the Fenix 8 Pro with AMOLED and MicroLED displays. This meant that the only way to access Garmin’s latest ultra-bright display tech was to pay $1,999.99. However, Garmin has now quietly cut $300 from this model, which appears to be a permanent price reduction. Sadly, this 15% price cut has not been matched in other regions such as the Eurozone or the UK.

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  • Garmin Releases New Update for Pro Smartwatches with Improvements

    Garmin Releases New Update for Pro Smartwatches with Improvements

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has been developing the v21.xx public beta for over six weeks without switching to stable software.
    2. The removal of certain functions in Beta Version 21.22 indicates more updates are still needed.
    3. Recent beta updates show limited changes, suggesting Garmin is nearing completion of v21.xx development.
    4. About 50% of eligible smartwatches received alerts for Beta Version 21.22, indicating progress in the update process.
    5. Future updates are expected, as Garmin continues to enhance device features through ongoing beta developments.

    In other words, Garmin has been working on v21.xx public beta for over six weeks now. However, the company doesn’t appear to be nearing a switch of v21.xx builds to its stable software line. The removal of Aviation, Dive, and ECG functions in Beta Version 21.22 suggests that Garmin still has more v21.xx beta updates in the pipeline.

    Changes Indicate Progress

    The low number of modifications seen in recent beta updates implies that Garmin is making progress towards completing the v21.xx beta development. This time, Garmin only reports fixing a problem that prevented Fenix 8 Pro smartwatches from getting GPS signals in CIQ applications. Allegedly, about 50% of qualifying smartwatches have received alerts to download Beta Version 21.22. Therefore, we anticipate Garmin to wrap up its automatic update process in the coming days.

    Looking Ahead

    Garmin’s plans remain somewhat unclear, but the continuous beta updates hint at ongoing developments. Users are encouraged to stay tuned for future updates, as more features may be added. The gradual rollout of Beta Version 21.22 indicates that the company is working diligently to enhance their devices.

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  • Garmin Launches Update for Premium Smartwatches After New Release

    Garmin Launches Update for Premium Smartwatches After New Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is preparing a new stable update for the Fenix 8, Fenix 8 Pro, and other smartwatches while continuing beta development for version 21.xx.
    2. A stable build has been released for Fenix E, Quatix 8, and Tactix 8, reverting back to the earlier v20.xx development with System Software 20.29.
    3. System Software 20.29 replaces 20.24 and is the third release in the v20.xx series, following version 20.19 from November.
    4. The update includes three bug fixes, addressing issues with Dive activity crashes on Tactix 8, display problems with airport lists, and the Contacts button on some models.
    5. Approximately 50% of compatible smartwatches have received System Software 20.29, with full availability expected in the coming days.

    In the past few weeks, Garmin has been preparing a new stable update for the Fenix 8, Fenix 8 Pro (currently priced at $1,139.99 on Amazon), and other related smartwatches. Simultaneously, the company has introduced the Quatix 8 Pro to its collection. Although the v21.xx beta development kicked off over a month ago, Garmin has not indicated that this beta phase is nearing completion, as seen in its recent Beta Version 21.16 release.

    Update Release

    Despite this, Garmin has launched a new stable build for the Fenix E, Quatix 8, and Tactix 8, in addition to the Fenix 8 and Fenix 8 Pro. However, the latest update does not signify the end of the v21.xx development. Rather, Garmin has reverted to the earlier v20.xx development with System Software 20.29. This update replaces System Software 20.24 and is actually the third release in Garmin’s v20.xx development series, following the introduction of System Software 20.19 back in November.

    Bug Fixes Included

    As we look forward to Garmin’s next major stable release, System Software 20.29 is likely to keep Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, Fenix 8 Pro, Quatix 8, and Tactix 8 users satisfied with three new bug fixes. In discussions on forums, Garmin has explained that the latest stable update addresses a problem that could lead to crashes when saving Dive activities on Tactix 8 smartwatches.

    Furthermore, System Software 20.29 aims to resolve issues that affected the display of airport lists and the Contacts button on some models. Garmin has announced that System Software 20.29 has been distributed to about 50% of compatible smartwatches. Therefore, it may take several days for the new update to be available on all models.

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  • Garmin 2025 Recap: Free Updates, Upgrades, and 2026 Smartwatches

    Garmin 2025 Recap: Free Updates, Upgrades, and 2026 Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Garmin Fenix 8 Pro, priced at $1,175, features satellite connectivity for communication without a cellular signal, requiring a subscription.
    2. The Fenix 8 Pro introduces a bright microLED display, moving away from traditional MiP displays that had burn-in issues.
    3. Garmin rolled out significant software updates in 2025, adding features like Health Status, a smart wake alarm, and adaptive workout plans through Garmin Coach.
    4. Sleep Alignment was introduced to help users synchronize their sleep patterns with natural rhythms.
    5. New Garmin wearables, including the Vivosmart 6, Fenix 9, MARQ Gen 3, and Forerunner 170, are expected to launch in 2026, along with the development of the Garmin Connect Plus subscription service.

    Garmin is widely recognized for its smartwatches and wearable devices, many of which have been thoroughly evaluated over the years. For those using Garmin products, the year 2025 was quite thrilling, not only for those who bought the latest gadgets.

    Fenix 8 Pro Features

    In 2025, Garmin introduced the Fenix 8 Pro (starting at $1,175 on Amazon), featuring two major upgrades. The Fenix 8 Pro now offers satellite connectivity, enabling users to communicate even without a cellular signal. This is definitely a fantastic feature for individuals who embark on long hikes or adventures away from urban areas. However, it’s worth noting that a subscription is necessary, which might not be the best aspect of this feature.

    Additionally, the Fenix 8 Pro now comes with a microLED display that is exceptionally bright. This marks a potential shift away from the traditional MiP displays Garmin has used in the past. Surprisingly, it was discovered last year that these MIP displays can suffer from burn-in issues. Apart from the Fenix flagship models, Garmin also released the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 in 2025, catering to dedicated runners.

    Software Updates and New Features

    Throughout 2025, a series of software updates were rolled out, including substantial quarterly updates. These updates brought various new functionalities, such as the Health Status feature, which gives users a summarized view of important health metrics and recent changes. A smart wake alarm has been introduced as well, and Garmin Coach now features adaptive workout plans aimed at helping to avoid overuse injuries, particularly for newcomers. According to the company, Sleep Alignment is designed to help synchronize sleep patterns with the individual’s natural rhythms.

    Future Releases

    It seems quite probable that Garmin will unveil new wearables in 2026. Garmin Rumors recently shared a comprehensive and detailed overview on this topic. The launch of the Garmin Vivosmart 6 appears likely, and we might also see the Fenix 9, MARQ Gen 3, and Forerunner 170 making their debut this year. We also anticipate the further development of the Garmin Connect Plus subscription service in 2026, which may not be well received by all users.

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  • Garmin Launches Major Update for High-End Smartwatches

    Garmin Launches Major Update for High-End Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released a new software update for the Fenix 8 Pro and related smartwatches, moving to Beta Version 21.12.
    2. The update includes over two dozen new features from the previous System Software 20.24.
    3. Beta Version 21.12 fixes 49 bugs affecting various parts of the smartwatch operating system.
    4. There are 10 additional improvements, including faster loading times for viewing activity history.
    5. The Fenix 8 Pro is currently priced at $1,116 on Amazon.

    Garmin has provided a final update to its high-end smartwatch users just in time for Christmas. It hasn’t been long since the release of System Software 20.24 for the Fenix 8 Pro (currently priced at $1,116 on Amazon), which included a fix for a map app issue.

    New Software Branch

    Now, Garmin has upgraded the Fenix 8 Pro and its related smartwatches to a new software version, marking the first significant change since the Beta Version 20.07 was introduced in mid-September. This update moves the Fenix 8, Fenix 8 Pro, Fenix E, Tactix 8, and Enduro 3 to Beta Version 21.12, adding more than two dozen new features from the previous System Software 20.24.

    Bug Fixes and Improvements

    In addition to the new features, Beta Version 21.12 includes 49 bug fixes that address nearly every part of Garmin’s smartwatch operating system. Garmin has also included 10 additional improvements, one of which aims to speed up the loading time for viewing activity history. Below is the complete list of bug fixes, enhancements, and other updates:

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  • New Garmin Fitness Tracker with Built-In GPS Unveiled

    New Garmin Fitness Tracker with Built-In GPS Unveiled

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched the Index Sleep Monitor and expanded the Fenix smartwatch line with the Fenix 8 Pro.
    2. The company is set to unveil the Vivosmart 6, replacing the Vivosmart 5 after over three years.
    3. The Vivosmart 6 will feature built-in GPS and support for over 30 sports activities.
    4. A placeholder for the Vivoactive 6 has appeared on Garmin Sweden’s website, indicating further developments.
    5. A new fitness tracker model A04986 has received certification in South Korea, suggesting updates to the Vivosmart line may come in early 2026.

    Garmin has taken some new paths this year, including the launch of the Index Sleep Monitor. Additionally, they have expanded their premium smartwatch line with the Fenix 8 Pro. Now, it appears that Garmin is getting ready to bring back the Vivosmart line after a long hiatus.

    Upcoming Vivosmart 6

    Sources suggest that Garmin is close to unveiling a new model to replace the Vivosmart 5 (currently priced at $149.99 on Amazon). The Vivosmart 5 features a small monochrome OLED screen and was released over three years ago, offering up to 7 days of battery life along with various health monitoring capabilities. While the design of the successor is still a mystery, Garmin Rumors has found a description on Garmin’s Indonesian site:

    The Vivosmart 6 is described as a fashionable sports watch that can be used by both men and women. It will have built-in GPS and over 30 sports applications. This watch is capable of tracking activities like walking, running, cycling, swimming, and even wheelchair use, making it a great option for daily activity tracking.

    Vivoactive 6 and Other Developments

    In addition, a placeholder for the Vivoactive 6 has appeared on Garmin Sweden’s website. While this listing doesn’t clearly indicate a fitness tracker, it does mention the Vivosmart 6. Furthermore, a new Garmin fitness tracker with the model number A04986 has received certification from the National Radio Research Agency (NRRA) in South Korea. Although it doesn’t specifically mention the Vivosmart 6, all indications are pointing towards a Vivosmart update early in 2026.

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  • Garmin Year-in-Review Locked Behind Paywall, Users React

    Garmin Year-in-Review Locked Behind Paywall, Users React

    Key Takeaways

    1. The 2025 Garmin Connect Report provides insights into fitness and health habits of Garmin users globally, including total steps, calories burned, and sleep scores.
    2. The new Garmin Rundown feature offers a personalized yearly summary but requires an active Garmin Connect+ subscription priced at $6.99 monthly or $69.99 annually.
    3. Garmin Connect+ provides additional features such as a performance dashboard, AI-driven fitness suggestions, and exclusive fitness badges for social media sharing.
    4. User reactions on platforms like Reddit show frustration and confusion over the subscription requirement for a feature that many expected to be free.
    5. Potential buyers of high-end Garmin smartwatches should consider the extra cost of the Garmin Connect+ subscription in their purchasing decision.

    The 2025 Garmin Connect Report has arrived, presenting valuable insights into the fitness and health habits of Garmin users from all over the world. A new addition to the Garmin Connect smartphone app is the Garmin Rundown, which provides a personalized summary of the past year. This report includes details like total steps taken, calories burned, average sleep score, and the most common activities performed.

    Subscription Requirement

    However, Garmin Rundown can only be accessed with an active Garmin Connect+ subscription. This subscription is priced at $6.99 monthly or $69.99 annually and offers various extra features, such as a performance dashboard with customizable stats, AI-driven fitness suggestions, and access to exclusive fitness badges for sharing workout results on social media. It’s no surprise that many Garmin users feel frustrated that a seemingly simple function like Garmin Rundown now requires a subscription.

    User Reactions

    On platforms like Reddit, users are not only voicing their displeasure but also confusion, as year-end reviews from other companies, like Spotify, are typically provided for free, encouraging users to share them online. By implementing this change, Garmin is hinting that even small updates may now only be offered through a subscription model in the future. For anyone looking to purchase a high-end smartwatch, such as the Fenix 8 Pro, it’s important to consider the additional cost of the Garmin Connect+ subscription when making a decision.

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  • Garmin to Launch Advanced Digital Crown on New Fenix Smartwatch

    Garmin to Launch Advanced Digital Crown on New Fenix Smartwatch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched new smartwatches in 2023, notably the Fenix 8 Pro, featuring advanced microLED display technology.
    2. The Fenix 8 Pro enhances Garmin’s LTE connectivity service for improved communication.
    3. Garmin is developing a digital crown for future smartwatches, utilizing a Hall effect sensor for rotation recognition.
    4. The digital crown is expected to offer haptic feedback and inertial scrolling, similar to features in other smartwatches.
    5. The timeline for the release of the smartwatch with the digital crown technology remains uncertain.

    Garmin has introduced a variety of gadgets this year, especially smartwatches that have broadened its Outdoor Recreation and Sports & Fitness categories. Among the latest arrivals, the Fenix 8 Pro (curr. $1,299 on Amazon) has likely introduced the most groundbreaking features to Garmin’s smartwatch lineup, including advanced microLED display technology.

    Expanding Connectivity

    Moreover, the Fenix 8 Pro has also enhanced Garmin’s LTE connectivity service. However, it appears that Garmin is already moving forward with another significant update for its smartwatch collection. Recently, Gadgets & Wearables disclosed information about technology Garmin is looking to incorporate, specifically a digital crown in an upcoming smartwatch.

    Innovative Features

    In essence, the site mentioned that the mechanism utilizes a Hall effect sensor to recognize rotations instead of traditional mechanical parts. Now, Gadgets & Wearables claims to have obtained new insights regarding this hardware advancement, yet it does not specify which smartwatch will feature it first. Earlier, the site hinted that a new Venu or Vivoactive model might showcase the digital crown. Still, the concept images displayed above and below resemble a potential future Fenix smartwatch more than any other model.

    Future Uncertainties

    On a different note, Gadgets & Wearables insists that the digital crown will offer haptic feedback, along with enabling inertial scrolling. Interestingly, the latter feature is already present in several contemporary smartwatches, such as the latest Apple Watch and Pixel Watch models. Supposedly, the digital crown will also include a hardware button, ensuring that its functionality will not be compromised compared to Garmin’s existing five-button setup on watches like the Fenix 7 and Fenix 8 series. Unfortunately, it is still uncertain when this technology will actually be featured in a commercially available device.

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    Garmin to Launch Advanced Digital Crown on New Fenix Smartwatch

     

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