Garmin is shaking up the smartwatch scene with the launch of its new flagship, the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro. The release date is September 8, just one day before the expected Apple Watch Ultra 3 unveiling.
The Fenix 8 Pro is built for outdoor athletes. It debuts with a first-of-its-kind microLED display, offering a peak brightness of 4,500 nits. This makes it the brightest smartwatch display to date. For comparison, the Apple Watch Series 10 tops at 2,000 nits, while the Galaxy Watch 8 goes up to 3,000 nits.
Two models are available. The AMOLED version comes in 47mm and 51mm sizes, priced at $1,199.99 and $1,299.99. The microLED version, available only in 51mm, costs $1,999.99. Like other Garmin devices, it also features an LED flashlight for outdoor use.
A standout feature of the Fenix 8 Pro is its mix of cellular and satellite connectivity. With Garmin’s inReach technology, users can contact emergency services, share their location, and send messages through the Garmin Messenger app. Voice calls are supported but only with compatible Garmin inReach devices.
For hikers and adventurers, the satellite connection makes the Fenix 8 Pro valuable in areas without cell coverage. The inReach subscription starts at $7.99 per month. In emergencies, the watch connects to Garmin’s Response Center to assist in rescue operations.
The Garmin Fenix 8 Pro sets a new standard in rugged smartwatches, arriving just in time to rival Apple’s upcoming Ultra release.
