Though it might seem too soon to anticipate a Fenix 8, rumors are already popping up about the following watch from Garmin. With the recent release of the Marq Gen 2 raising the bar of expected features and quality improvements, the pressure is on for the Fenix 8 enthusiasts.
Have you tried the Garmin Fenix range before? The Fenix 7 is an amazing sports watch with a transflective display that is clear under the sun. Epix Gen 2 is another similar capable watch that offers an AMOLED alternative.
The latest watch in the Fenix range is the Fenix 7; a premium sports watch only released January 2022. This watch was highly anticipated, and fans of the brand were pleased with the updates. The Fenix 7 is an amazing sports watch with a transflective display that is clear under the sun. The Fenix 7X comes in solar versions and has a built-in torch. We definitely expect the Fenix 8 to follow suit with these features but not sure about which display technology it will incorporate.
The Fenix 6 was released on April 2019, and the Fenix 7 was released on 18 of Jan 2022. So if we follow this schedule, we can only assume that Garmin Fenix 8 will be launched around 2024. Adding to this prediction we now heard rumors that the FCC is already studying three new watches by Garmin for approval. The Fenix 8 is probably one of them.
However, we’re always excited to speculate about what is coming next, and many of you are already curious about which features will appear on the next model. Whether you’re already a Fenix user or considering a Garmin watch, keep reading! We’ve researched possible upgrades for the Fenix 8, so you don’t have to.
What We Know About the Fenix 8
At a glance, here’s what we’re expecting from the Fenix 8:
- An estimated release in 2024
- Price is expected to sit around $700-1000 (£600-900)
- The Fenix 8 is expected to be another multi-sports watch with premium features.
Fenix 8- What Features Do We Expect?
Here are essential updates we’ll be on the lookout for.
Pre-Loaded Maps
The Fenix range is known for its GPS accuracy and sports-mapping tools (Garmin, in general, is known for its GPS smartwatches), so we’re expecting the 8th watch in this series to feature even more navigational tools than ever before. A free map pack is available with the Fenix 7, but we think the next Fenix model will come with more built-in maps and more storage for downloadable maps, too.
Health Features and ECG Sensors
ECG sensors in smartwatches are becoming a mainstream feature, so it would be a misstep for Garmin to overlook their importance. Electrocardiogram features allow users to monitor their heart rate and electrical activity. This is ideal for any user who wants to stay on top of their health and fitness. To compete, Garmin will need to offer this feature soon. It is very likely to see the ECG feature in the release of the Garmin Fenix 8. This is because recently the FDA has approved the ECG monitoring on the Garmin Venu 2 Plus. This feature is only available in the US for now by downloading the ECG APP on Garmin Connect. To be able to record our ECG Garmin has added a special optical sensor ring to the Venu 2 Plus. We believe this feature would be enrolled by Garmin in all its next releases, including the Fenix 8.
By 2024 we also believe top-of-the-line smartwatches such as the Fenix from Garmin should include blood pressure, temperature sensors and sugar level monitoring. These features are of course TBD as also Garmin is more focused on sports but these features could help differentiate the Fenix range.
Wireless Charging
Garmin has recently released the new Vivomove Trend watch. With this new release, Garmin has introduced for the first time the Wireless charging function. We believe that Garmin will enroll this new feature to its leading devices such as the Fenix.
Fenix 8- Display Updates
The recent Fenix 7 is the first watch in the Fenix range to offer a touchscreen and solar panels. This exciting update hints at future updates for next model, as we expect to see a touchscreen AMOLED display (like the Epix screen) on the next installment. It would also be great to see a screen that doesn’t drain the charge so quickly, allowing users to go longer without frequent charging stops.
Other Key Updates
Here are some more critical updates we’re excited to see on the next Fenix watch:
- Different watch size options
- A built-in microphone for voice assistance and making calls.
- More storage for music and maps
- Maybe Garmin will add Blood Pressure Monitoring?
The Bottom Line
We can’t be sure when this watch will hit the stores or when it will even be launched, and we can’t predict exactly what it will offer, either. For now, all we can do is speculate.
If you can’t wait until 2024/5 for a new premium sports watch, make sure you check out the Fenix 7. There are many options to choose from. This watch is relatively new and offers the latest updates in the Garmin Fenix range. You could also consider the Epix (gen 2) or even the new Marq (gen 2) if you can afford it.
Keep checking the latest smartwatch news to ensure you’re the first to know when the Fenix 8 gets released!
What do you think of the Fenix range? Let us know in the comments.
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Last Updated on May 17, 2023
Isobel is a freelance copy and content writer who regularly contributes to Superwatches. Well-versed in all the ins and outs of the smartwatch industry. Isobel specializes in Fashion and design and is a First Class fashion design graduate.
Currently lives in Bournemouth, United Kingdom.