The new Garmin Fenix 8 Pro is out with improved connectivity features and a new display option.
A big feature of the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro comes with LTE connectivity, allowing you to make and receive phone calls and texts, so you can go for a run without carrying your phone.
Having built-in LTE also lets you use the LiveTrack location sharing, see the weather forecast, and more, even without your phone. Garmin uses the LTE-M network for low consumption.
What’s more, the watch features the Garmin inReach system, allowing you to send short messages even without a cell signal. This SOS satellite feature was co-developed with Google.
Bear in mind, though, that the LTE connectivity and satellite messaging are only available in select regions (the Philippines not included).
The Consumer Enabled Plan costs USD8.00/mo (~Php400), which has basic emergency SOS, but an additional USD0.10 (~Php6.00) for each check-in message and USD0.50 (~Php28.00) for satellite text messaging. The Consumer Essential plan costs USD15/mo (~Php850) with unlimited check-ins and 50 texts over satellite. Both come with unlimited texts and voice calls over LTE.
Another upgrade here is the option to have a microLED display, which boasts a peak brightness of 4,500 nits. It is only available for the 51mm model. Sadly, it has a battery life of just up to 4 days with Always-On Display (AOD) enabled.
Meanwhile, the OLED version is available in 47mm and 51mm versions and can last for up to 8 days and 15 days with AOD enabled, respectively.
The Garmin Fenix 8 Pro microLED, only available in 51mm, has an SRP of USD1,999.99 (~Php113,500), while the AMOLED version starts at CNY1,099.99 (~Php62,400) and comes in 43mm, 47mm, and 51mm. Release details in the Philippines are yet to be known.