The Fenix 8 is here with new features, and it also marks the end of the Garmin Epix lineup, at least for now. But don’t worry, this is just a name change, as Garmin has combined the products under the Fenix brand. There are still options with both MIP and AMOLED displays, though the prices have gone up.
The Fenix 8 brings two main hardware upgrades: a built-in speaker and microphone for phone calls, offline voice assistance, and voice note creation. Plus, it adds a depth gauge for scuba diving and free-diving. The Solar editions with MIP displays also get better battery life thanks to an improved solar panel.
Most of the changes in the Fenix 8 are focused on its user interface, which now blends parts of the Forerunner 965 and Epix Pro interfaces. This update simplifies widgets, settings, and navigation, making it easier to use, especially for newcomers to Garmin. However, in my opinion, the results are mixed.
What’s New:
This Fenix release is a bit different because the "What’s New" section isn’t very extensive, especially in terms of major features. The main update is more about brand naming than actual hardware changes:
- The Fenix series with MIP displays is now called ‘Fenix 8 Solar.’
- The Epix series with AMOLED displays is now simply called ‘Fenix 8,’ and the Epix name is being phased out.
In the end, Garmin has just merged two watches with the same software and features (but different displays) into one brand name. Simple, right?
Now, let's talk about the changes in the Fenix 8, and in simple terms, there are really just 4.5 key updates:
- Added microphone and speaker for calls and personal assistants.
- Added a depth gauge and diving-related features.
- Increased display sizes for smaller models (from 1.2” to 1.3”, and 1.3” to 1.4”).
- [Solar edition only] Improved solar panel for better clarity and significantly better solar-powered battery life.
- [Solar edition only] Discontinued the smaller 42mm variant (Fenix S models).
That’s basically it. While there are a bunch of software updates, most are minor changes to the user interface.
Here’s a rundown of all the smaller changes with the Fenix 8 (some are more significant due to the hardware updates mentioned earlier):
- Hardware: AMOLED now comes in three sizes: 43mm, 47mm, and 51mm.
- Hardware: Solar editions are available in two sizes: 47mm and 51mm.
- Hardware (Solar edition only): New edge ring solar panel is more efficient and no longer covers the display, improving clarity.
- Hardware: New sensor guard protects the microphone and barometer (between the buttons).
- Hardware: New leak-proof button design with inductive buttons, meaning no actual holes in the case.
- Diving features: Added recreational scuba diving and apnea (freediving) features, certified to 40 meters with EN13319 compliance.
- Added diving no-fly and surface time tracking (via widgets and data pages).
- Added voice assistant access through the watch’s microphone and speaker (with your smartphone).
- Added ability to take phone calls using the watch’s microphone and speaker (with your smartphone).
- Added a voice notes recorder.
- Added a new offline voice assistant.
- Maps updates: New zoom UI, North Up quick toggle, and layer selection quick access menu.
- Added quick access touch unlock feature (to temporarily unlock touch features during a workout, such as for maps).
- Added new ‘Active Navigation’ system while following a course or waypoint.
- New ‘Saved’ feature to easily access saved routes and waypoints.
- Added dynamic round-trip routing that adjusts routes mid-way to hit a target distance (e.g., if you go off course for a 5-mile run).
- Added a ‘Set a Target’ feature that reminds you to turn around after reaching halfway. – Added ski difficulty tracking.
- Added strength training plans (4-6 weeks, available through Garmin Connect).
- Introduced a new watch face editor and new watch faces.
- Added a countdown app for tracking days to important events.
- Added Focus Modes for specific tasks.
- Introduced online GPS track processing, which uses sensor data to correct inaccurate GPS data.
- Major redesign of the user interface, including changes to widgets, settings, and activity/workout screens.
- Revamped Notification Center to include notifications from Garmin, such as Morning Report or Daily Summary.
The user interface overhaul is hard to summarize into a few points, as many of the changes are subtle adjustments (like the North Up toggle for maps). On the other hand, features like the dive sport profile are extensive and on par with what you’d find in Garmin’s Descent MK3.