Garmin has made a significant move in the smartwatch market with the launch of its new Fenix 8 series, offering both AMOLED and Memory-in-Pixel (MIP) display options in a single product line. This strategic decision marks the end of the Epix series and consolidates Garmin's high-end offerings under the Fenix brand.
A Display for Every Preference
The Fenix 8 comes in three sizes - 43mm, 47mm, and 51mm - with the choice between a vibrant AMOLED display or a solar-charging MIP display. This flexibility allows users to prioritize either visual appeal or extended battery life. The AMOLED models boast a battery life of 10 to 29 days, while the MIP versions can last between 29 and 48 days.
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| The Fenix 8 series offers a range of sizes and display options, catering to different user preferences from exploration to visual aesthetics |
Dive-Ready and Feature-Rich
One of the most notable upgrades is the Fenix 8's dive capabilities. With a 40-meter water resistance rating and dedicated scuba and freediving modes, it's clear Garmin is positioning the Fenix 8 to compete with specialized dive watches. Jon Hosler, Garmin Fenix 8 product manager, confirmed that the watch functions as a full-fledged dive computer.
Other new features include:
- An internal speaker and microphone for phone calls and voice commands
- An improved LED flashlight
- Enhanced solar charging (50% more efficient than Fenix 7)
- Leakproof buttons for improved water resistance
- Updated software with refreshed graphics and map interface
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| The Fenix 8 is equipped with advanced features including dive modes and a detailed map interface, designed for outdoor and underwater exploration |
The End of Epix
The introduction of AMOLED displays to the Fenix line effectively renders the Epix series redundant. Hosler confirmed that the Epix line is dead for now, as Garmin focuses on consolidating its product offerings under the well-established Fenix brand.
Pricing and Availability
The Garmin Fenix 8 series is available for pre-order with prices starting at:
- $999.99 / £869.99 / AU$1,699 for the smallest AMOLED model
- $1,199.99 for the 47mm solar MIP model
Enduro 3: For the Ultra Athletes
Alongside the Fenix 8, Garmin also introduced the Enduro 3, targeting ultra-endurance athletes. Priced at $899.99, this 51mm watch boasts an impressive battery life of up to 320 hours in GPS mode and includes the same software improvements as the Fenix 8.
As Garmin continues to innovate and streamline its product lineup, the Fenix 8 series represents a significant step forward in combining advanced features with user choice, solidifying the company's position in the high-end smartwatch market.