Garmin Fenix 8 Pro Claims Brightest Smartwatch Title, Boasting Potential Life-Saving Features
Garmin has just released the Fenix 8 Pro, the latest addition to its popular Fenix 8 series of watches. The Fenix 8 Pro comes with two variations, both featuring inReach communication and cellular connectivity.
The Fenix 8 Pro's inReach satellite communication system utilises Skylo satellites, covering the continental U.S., parts of Canada, and most of Europe. This feature allows for sending messages, location pings, and SOS alerts using the Garmin Messenger app. When connected to LTE, the system enables voice calls and location broadcasting through LiveTrack.
The Fenix 8 Pro is available in two sizes: 47mm and 51mm, with the microLED version only available in the 51mm size. The microLED Fenix 8 Pro is the most expensive Garmin watch not part of the Garmin Marq luxury range, priced at $1,999.99. The AMOLED versions cost $1,199.99 (47mm) and $1,299.99 (51mm).
The microLED technology in the Fenix 8 Pro offers ultra-high peak brightness and per-pixel lighting similar to OLED screens. However, the microLED version of the Fenix 8 Pro is expected to last only four days in its always-on screen mode, compared to the AMOLED version's 15 days. The AMOLED watch is rated for 27 days of use or 15 days always-on.
The Garmin InReach service for the Fenix 8 Pro models starts at about 10 euros per month in Europe, providing satellite communication capabilities like emergency SOS, location sharing, and messaging without a smartphone. There is no annual subscription option currently.
The Fenix 8 Pro microLED watch comes with a darker toned titanium bezel, setting it apart from other models. It can reach up to 4,500 nits of brightness, higher than the current Apple Watch Ultra and Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra.
The Fenix 8 Pro arrives before the expected launch of the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Watch Series 11 on September 9. Both microLED and AMOLED versions of the Fenix 8 Pro will be available starting September 8.
It's important to note that the real-world use brightness of the Fenix 8 Pro may be different from the spec sheet numbers. The pricing and battery life details provided are based on the information available at the time of writing.
With its innovative microLED technology and advanced inReach communication system, the Fenix 8 Pro is set to redefine the boundaries of smartwatch functionality.
