Recent leaks and official hints suggest Garmin is preparing to debut the Fenix 8 Pro and Fenix 8 Pro MicroLED, two flagship multisport smartwatches targeting endurance athletes and outdoor enthusiasts who demand robust connectivity and advanced features.
The MicroLED variant, in particular, is being promoted as the brightest smartwatch ever, reportedly boasting a display capable of reaching up to 4,500 nits thanks to more than 400,000 microLEDs. This ensures high visibility in direct sunlight, a factor critical for users navigating challenging outdoor environments.
The new generation of the Fenix series is expected to offer two distinct display options. The standard Fenix 8 Pro will be available with a 47mm or 51mm AMOLED display, while the MicroLED technology will be exclusive to the 51mm size.
Both displays feature always-on capabilities, high pixel density, and crisp visuals, but the MicroLED version is positioned as a premium offering intended for users who need the strongest outdoor performance even under bright ambient light.
The introduction of microLED is also expected to reduce burn-in risk compared to OLED, although this premium option comes with a hefty price tag of $1,999.99, compared to $1,199.99 for the AMOLED variant.
A key technological leap for the Fenix 8 Pro series is its integrated LTE and satellite connectivity. For the first time, Garmin is including direct LTE support in the Fenix line, allowing users to make two-way voice calls, send text messages, and share live location data without carrying a smartphone.
This capability is ideal for users engaged in wilderness adventures, mountain treks, or water sports, where phone coverage may be inconsistent or unavailable. Satellite messaging via Garmin’s InReach service is also supported, enabling users to send check-ins, text messages, and SOS requests from virtually anywhere with open sky access.
LTE connectivity runs on LTE-M bands, optimized for low power usage to maximize battery life while maintaining a robust connection in most urban and rural regions.
These connectivity features are managed through Garmin’s Messenger app, which is needed by contacts to receive calls or messages from a Fenix 8 Pro user. The addition of real-time weather, LiveTrack, and Garmin Response emergency assistance via LTE and satellite further establishes the Fenix 8 Pro as a go-anywhere communication device.
The Fenix 8 Pro continues Garmin’s tradition of offering rugged construction with 10ATM water resistance and a thick chassis. Built-in speakers, microphones, and an LED flashlight expand its utility, while comprehensive fitness tracking remains central.
Users gain access to advanced metrics, guided training plans, TopoActive maps, ECG readings, heart rate monitoring, and multiple sport profiles. Battery life for the AMOLED model is quoted at up to 27 days, while the MicroLED model is projected at up to 10 days, reflecting the energy demands of the brighter display.
Garmin is also rolling out new subscription pricing for LTE and InReach satellite access. The standard InReach plan starts at $7.99 per month, covering unlimited cellular texting, voice calling, LiveTrack, and complimentary satellite SOS alerts.
Non-emergency satellite messaging and weather updates are available for additional fees. In Europe, combined LTE and satellite plans will cost around 9.99€ monthly.
Current details indicate the Fenix 8 Pro and MicroLED variant are launching in the United States on September 8 through Garmin’s website, with a global rollout expected to follow.
This release places Garmin in direct competition with other premium wearables, notably the Apple Watch Ultra line, which is also rumored to be adopting microLED technology.
