Van The5KRunner:
Key highlights and new features include:
Displays and Sizes: Choose between models with a brilliant AMOLED display or a power-saving MIP display with a solar-charging lens. The fēnix 8, in its 51 mm version, delivers 50% more solar power than its predecessor. The AMOLED models are available in three sizes: 43 mm (1.3″), 47 mm (1.4″), or 51 mm (1.4″), while the MIP versions come in 47 mm (1.3″) or 51 mm (1.4″).
Durable Design: All models feature waterproof metal buttons, a new side-mounted sensor guard, and have been tested to U.S. military standards for heat, shock, and water resistance. High-end materials such as titanium or stainless steel bezels and scratch-resistant sapphire or Gorilla Glass withstand even the toughest conditions.
Speaker and Microphone: Paired with a smartphone, you can make calls directly from the watch. Even without a phone connection, voice commands like “Start a strength training,” “Set a timer for 5 minutes,” or “Save waypoint” activate important and frequently used functions.
LED Flashlight: The flashlight’s brightness can be easily adjusted via the display. Different intensities, a red light, and a strobe mode help improve visibility in dark environments, whether during a training run, finding your phone in a backpack, or navigating a dormitory at a hut.
Sport-Specific Training Plans: Numerous training plans tailored to various sports, such as trail running, help improve strength and endurance while reducing the risk of injury.
Diving Functions: Supports recreational diving (single gas) and freediving up to 40 meters deep, thanks to official diving certification and waterproof, inductive buttons.
Garmin Messenger App: This free communication app allows you to send text messages directly from the smartwatch to friends and family.
Premium Maps and Dynamic RoundTrip Routing: Stay on track with pre-installed topo maps for Europe, as well as Golf and SkiView maps with piste and cross-country skiing information. Additional maps can be easily downloaded via Wi-Fi. Enter your desired distance during training or exploration, and the watch will guide you there and back within the set time. If you stray from the originally planned route, it will automatically recalculate, considering the target distance to the starting point.
Garmin Share: The new function allows easy and quick sharing of planned routes, workouts, and locations with other compatible Garmin products.
In mijn ogen een erg magere update met amper hardware verbeteringen en wat leuke software gimmicks die ongetwijfeld ook naar de 7 gebracht worden. Wel een price bump.
Dit lijkt een aandeelhouders gedreven release te zijn (net als Apple en Samsung overigens).