Garmin Fenix 8: All the rumors so far
In late summer and early fall, brands like Apple, Garmin, Google and Samsung are launching their best smartwatches. While Google and Samsung only recently unveiled their hands (wrists?), we’re expecting new models from Apple – namely an Apple Watch Ultra 3 and an Apple Watch 10 (or X) – as well as Garmin soon.
One of Garmin’s most anticipated releases this year is a successor to the high-end Garmin Fenix 7 watch. We may also get an updated Garmin Enduro 3, but don’t count on new Epix models. We explain why below.
I’ve been following all the leaks and rumors about the Garmin Fenix 8. Here’s everything we expect, including possible details on price, design, features, and more.
Garmin Fenix 7 cheat sheet: The biggest rumors
- Release date prediction: End of August or beginning of September 2024
- Price prediction: From approx. 649 USD
- Design: AMOLED screen, more onboard memory, built-in microphone, two or three size options
- Features: Support for offline maps, ECG sensor, possibly solar charging
Garmin Fenix 8: possible price and availability
The Garmin Fenix 7 starts at $649 for the standard version in 42mm and goes up to $999 for the Pro Sapphire Solar Edition in the largest size, 51mm.
Like its predecessor, we expect the Fenix 8 to be available in many different configurations, including 42mm, 47mm and 51mm sizes, and possibly with or without solar charging and/or a sapphire crystal display.
Perhaps the starting price of the Fenix 8 will increase slightly, from $650 to $699 or more. Or Garmin will follow Samsung and Google’s lead and keep the price of its base model at the same level as its predecessor. The Pixel Watch 3 starts at $349, like the Pixel Watch 2, and the Galaxy Watch 7 starts at $299, the same as the Galaxy Watch 6.
Of course, the Fenix line correlates more closely with the Galaxy Watch Ultra ($640) and the Apple Watch Ultra 2 (starting at $799).
Rumor has it that there will also be a cheaper model of the Garmin Fenix E, which will presumably cost less than the entry-level Fenix 8, although an improved screen will likely be omitted for cost reasons.
Industry insiders also expect the new line of Fenix devices to be unveiled ahead of the IFA 2024 technology conference, which is scheduled to open in Berlin on September 6, and that the devices will ship before the holiday season.
Garmin Fenix 8: Feature and technology upgrades
The biggest upgrade we expect to see in the Garmin Fenix range is an AMOLED screen on all models except the budget Garmin E, which may or may not be available. Currently, all Garmin Fenix 7 models use MiP (memory in pixel) LCD technology, which is nowhere near as bright, saturated, or nice to look at as AMOLED, although MiP screens are less battery intensive.
Of course, anyone who wants a Fenix 7 with an AMOLED screen right now can also opt for the Garmin Epix 2. Aside from the display technology, the two devices are essentially on par. Here is a more detailed comparison of the Garmin Fenix 7 with the Epix 2.
Where does the Garmin Epix range fit into the brand’s portfolio now that the Fenix range has received an AMOLED screen? Rumours suggest that this is not the case; this is the end for Epix and we probably won’t see an Epix 3.
In addition to display improvements, the Fenix 8 could also offer a new ECG sensor, an LED flashlight and more onboard storage. A built-in microphone for hands-free access to, for example, Amazon’s Alex assistant could also be in the plans.
As for features, offline maps support also seems to be in the pipeline. This information all comes from a leaked report published on the website Fitness Tracker Tests in July.
There is no information yet on the potential battery performance of the Fenix 8, but given the likely switch from MiP to AMOLED, there could be some losses here.
Garmin Fenix 8: Upgrade wishlist
Given the Fenix’s reputation as one of the best watches for marathon runners and its hefty starting price of $650, upgrading to a modern AMOLED display seems like a no-brainer. The benefit of a brighter display for runners is obvious: you’ll be able to read your watch’s stats in direct sunlight, even while on the go.
I also hope Garmin keeps a solar-powered Fenix 8 option in the portfolio. Brighter screens require more battery power, and solar charging is more convenient than traditional charging.
I would like to see Garmin copy Samsung and Google and keep the starting price of the latest Fenix watch at the same level as its predecessor. Apple, if you’re reading this: the same goes for you and your watch.
After all, many of the best smartwatches rely on AI to provide tailored health and fitness insights and tips, such as the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7. Garmin would be wise to do the same or it would be overshadowed by the competition. This is a flagship model, after all.
Garmin Fenix 8: Outlook
With who knows how many new Garmin Fenix 8 models to release, possibly weeks away, we know surprisingly little about what upgrades the new lineup might bring, aside from perhaps a better screen, an ECG sensor, and an integrated LED flashlight.
Will these improvements be enough for the Fenix 8 to compete with the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra, Apple Watch Ultra 2, or the also upcoming Ultra 3? We’ll see.
