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Call it a watch, a fitness tracker, or a smartwatch — one thing the Garmin Fenix 8 will be is premium.
After Garmin released its latest smart cycling device, the Edge 1050 in June 2024, excitement is beginning to build around the Garmin Fenix 8 release — and considering the legacy of its predecessors, it is understandable.
The Fenix 6 Pro, for instance, introduced a solar charging lens and enhanced battery life, and all the models before and since are designed with the fashion-conscious and intrepid explorer alike.
Based on the information available, the Garmin Fenix 8 should be available in three sizes, feature advanced health metrics tracking, and possibly introduce an AMOLED display.
While we await exact details, let’s examine what we know about the Garmin Fenix 8 release date, features, specs, and price point.
What is Garmin Fenix 8?
Next Iteration of the Garmin Fenix Series
The Garmin Fenix 8 is the next generation of Garmin’s premium multisport GPS smartwatch series. While its predecessor, the Fenix 7 packed a lot of features for both sports and adventure features, it is expected that the Fenix 8 would offer much more in design and spec.
Garmin Fenix watch lineups are often used by athletes, outdoor enthusiasts, and tech-savvy individuals who demand premium watches.
When is the Garmin Fenix 8 Coming Out?
Expected Release Date: September 2024
Garmin has historically followed a somewhat predictable release cycle for its Fenix series, typically introducing new models every 18 to 24 months.
The Fenix 7 series was launched in January 2022, with the Fenix 7 Pro following in May 2023. This pattern suggests that the Garmin Fenix 8 release date is nigh.
Recent leaks from Florian, a fitness tracking devices reviewer at Fitness Tracker Test, point to a potential Garmin Fenix 8 launch date in September 2024.
According to Florian, a Finnish online shopping platform Multitronic already has the Garmin Fenix 8 in its listing, with a possible September release.
While Garmin hasn’t said anything to confirm a release date for its next Garmin Fenix watch, another leak on X shows that Fenix 8 has already been registered in the EU/UK in a declaration of conformity.
We expect a release date in September, but we will update accordingly if this changes.
Garmin Fenix 8 Design and Specs
Three Sizes, Amoled Display, Battery Increase
The Garmin Fenix 8 is expected to build upon the successful design elements of its predecessors while introducing innovative features to maintain its competitive edge.
Florian suggests that Garmin may offer the Fenix 8 in three size variants: 43mm, 47mm, and 51mm, catering to a wide range of wrist sizes and preferences.
Another key change contained in the Garmin Fenix 8 leaks is the potential shift in display technology.
While Garmin has traditionally used Memory-in-Pixel (MIP) displays for its sunlight visibility and power efficiency, there’s speculation that the Fenix 8 might incorporate AMOLED technology, similar to what we have on Garmin Forerunner 165 released last February.
Florian in his report, claims he spotted another listing on “Garmin’s Icelandic website, where Amolded was written on the product name”, and these listed products include not only the Fenix 8 but a Fenix E.
The Fenix E rumor could well be true as another leak posted on social media depicts Garmin Fenix 8 in three models: Garmin Fenix 8 (Solar), Garmin Fenix E, and Garmin Enduro 3 with AMOLED screens. We will update as we find out more about these models.
If you would like to see more of these alleged leaks, you may also want to check out this Reddit thread.
What We Want to See in a Garmin Fenix 8
Solar Charging, Loss of Pulse Detection, More Accurate Heart Rate Monitoring
The Fenix series has always had strong battery life, beating the rumored Apple Watch Series 10 and the current Apple Watch Ultra. The latest version in the Fenix series, Garmin Genix 7 Pro, offers up to 18 days of battery life when smartwatch mode is turned on.
We expect the Fenix 8 to continue this tradition, however, with advancements in power management functionalities and possibly larger battery capacities.
With a little battery uplift, users might see even longer intervals between charges, especially for ultra-endurance athletes and extended expeditions.
In terms of health and fitness features, we want to see the watch monitor more health metrics.
The Genix 7 Pro currently has some health-related features like heart rate, fitness age, all-day stress, and hydration level monitoring. However, users will be looking forward to more enhancements around these health metrics and the potential inclusion of loss of pulse detection recently introduced in Google Pixel Watch 3.
While we haven’t heard anything official about a solar model like we have in its predecessors, we would like to see the upcoming Fenix 8 wearing an AMOLED display supported by Garmin’s solar battery-extending power glass technology.
Garmin Fenix 8 Price
Expected Price: $1099.99
The Garmin Fenix 8 price is rumored to start at $1099.99 for the 43mm Fenix 8, with the 47mm model at the same price point and the larger 51mm variant potentially reaching $1199.99.
The Garmin Fenix series has always positioned itself in the premium segment of the smartwatch market, and the Fenix 8 is expected to continue this trend. Hence we would not be surprised if the Fenix 8 series might see a slight increase compared to its predecessors.
Should I Wait for the Apple Watch Series 10 or Garmin Fenix 8?
If you’re deciding between waiting for the rumored Apple Watch Series 10 or the Garmin Fenix 8, I would say: consider your priorities.
The Apple Watch Series 10 is expected to offer enhanced integration with the Apple ecosystem, improved health tracking, and new features like a microLED display.
On the other hand, the Garmin Fenix 8 is likely to focus on advanced fitness metrics, superior battery life, and rugged durability for outdoor activities.
If you need a versatile smartwatch for everyday use, the Apple Watch might be worth the wait. For serious athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, the Garmin Fenix 8 could be the better choice.
Apple Watch Series 10 vs Garmin Fenix 8
| Features | Apple Watch Series 10 (Rumored) | Garmin Fenix 8 (Rumored) |
|---|---|---|
| Display | MicroLED | AMOLED |
| Battery Life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 18 days |
| Health Tracking | Advanced health metrics | Comprehensive fitness metrics |
| Integration | Seamless with Apple ecosystem | Compatible with multiple platforms, including Apple and Android devices |
| Durability | Water-resistant | Rugged, water-resistant |
| Price | Could start around $399 | Could start at $1099.99 |
The Bottom Line
The Garmin Fenix 8 is shaping up to be an exciting addition to the world of premium multisport smartwatches.
With its rumored September 2024 release, improved display options, enhanced health tracking features, and rugged design, the watch could probably make some waves just as the Pixel Watch 3 is making.
While the expected price point remains premium, the Fenix 8 promises to deliver value through its advanced capabilities and durability. Although we are yet to see any official announcement from Garmin, the rumors and leaks have certainly set high expectations.
