Garmin appears poised to make a significant leap forward with its upcoming Fenix 8 smartwatch series, if recent leaks prove accurate. The new lineup is rumored to feature a sleeker design and crucial display improvements that could help Garmin better compete against premium offerings from Apple and Samsung in the rugged smartwatch market.
 |
|---|
| The competitive landscape of premium smartwatches as Garmin prepares to enhance its offerings with the Fenix 8 series |
AMOLED Arrives
The most notable upgrade for the Fenix 8 is expected to be a shift to AMOLED display technology. This would mark a major departure from the memory-in-pixel (MIP) LCD screens used in previous Fenix models. While MIP displays offer excellent battery life and outdoor visibility, they lack the vibrancy and clarity of AMOLED panels found in competitors like the Apple Watch Ultra series.
Leaked images suggest the Fenix 8 will feature significantly reduced bezels, allowing for larger screen sizes without increasing the overall watch dimensions:
- 47mm model: 1.4-inch display (up from 1.3-inch)
- 51mm model: 1.5-inch display (up from 1.4-inch)
These larger, higher-quality displays could dramatically improve the user experience, especially for viewing maps and data during outdoor activities.
 |
|---|
| The anticipated AMOLED display of the new Garmin Fenix 8 series, showcasing the evolution in smartwatch technology |
Design Refinements
Visual leaks indicate the Fenix 8 will maintain a similar overall aesthetic to its predecessor, but with a more refined and modern look. The thinner bezels contribute to a sleeker appearance that may appeal to a broader audience beyond hardcore outdoor enthusiasts.
Potential Features
While details remain limited, rumors suggest the Fenix 8 might include:
- ECG sensor
- Built-in LED flashlight
- Increased onboard storage
- Offline map support
- Built-in microphone (possibly for voice assistant integration)
Price and Availability
The Garmin Fenix 8 is expected to launch in late August or early September, likely before the IFA 2024 trade show in Berlin. Pricing remains uncertain, but European leaks suggest potential costs of €1099 for the 47mm model and €1199 for the 51mm version. This could translate to US pricing around $1099 and $1199, respectively – a significant premium over the current Fenix 7 series.
 |
|---|
| Leaked images of the new Garmin Fenix 8 models, expected to launch at premium prices this fall |
A New Budget Option?
Interestingly, rumors also point to a potential Fenix E model. This device might retain the more power-efficient MIP display to offer a more affordable entry point into the Fenix ecosystem.
Outlook
The Garmin Fenix 8 appears set to address one of the main criticisms of the otherwise excellent Fenix line – display quality. By adopting AMOLED technology, Garmin could make its flagship outdoor watch more appealing to a wider range of users. However, the potential impact on the Fenix's legendary battery life remains a key question. As the expected launch draws near, we'll likely see more concrete details emerge about Garmin's next-generation adventure watch.