The latest version of Garmin's flagship Fenix outdoor watch introduces a potentially lifesaving capability: no-phone messaging and emergency alerts using 4G LTE or orbital connections.
This Fenix 8 Pro builds upon the previously outstanding Fenix 8 by adding new cellular technology, along with an available state-of-the-art microLED screen in a limited edition. This is Garmin's top device and designed to be the single gadget required to venture virtually anywhere and monitor every activity.
That positions it as an extremely pricey option, starting at £1,030 (€1,200, $1,200, A$2,300) for the 47mm OLED model and reaching a substantial £1,730 (€2,000/$2,000/A$3,399) for the 51mm edition with microLED display – nearly double the price of the regular Fenix 8.
Users receive a significant functionality for your investment, with best-in-class workout, movement and adventure tracking. Its complete offline maps of the world can automatically guide you back to the path if you get lost absent a phone, and look great on the large, sharp and super-bright display.
This Fenix 8 Pro is exclusively offered in 47mm or 51mm case dimensions, not the more compact 43mm version available in other models, so it is a big watch for larger wrists. However the 47mm OLED model as tested boasts an additional day of smartwatch battery life even with the display always active, lasting a solid eight to nine days between charges.
Phone-Free Messaging, Calls and Real-Time Location
Garmin operates its own inReach LTE (4G) and satellite subscription plan rather than relying on a watch plan tied to your mobile provider, like other smartwatches. But in contrast to Apple or Google's satellite-capable products, SOS messaging is not included for free.
Instead, plans begin from £7.99 or similar a month, which provides limitless LTE text and audio messaging, calls and LiveTrack position sharing – so your friends or family can monitor you while engaged in running, cycling or comparable pursuits – plus emergency satellite SOS alerts.
Check-ins and texts via orbital are then billed on top, with more expensive plans including various quotas of satellite use, increasing to a £50 a month unlimited plan. The watch includes a 30-day trial period so you can evaluate the functionality.
After you have completed setup, you just venture outside without your phone and the watch will connect to LTE. You cannot use it for streaming music or comparable activities, but you are able to make and take calls, send texts and generally stay connected with your relatives and companions.
When you text someone, Garmin dispatches them an SMS from a random phone number, which they can reply to directly to your watch. If they download the Garmin Messenger app, you can then communicate back and forth via text or spoken communications, and initiate voice calls. Your contact does not need a Garmin profile to use the Messenger app, just a phone number is enough to register for texts.
Texting on the watch functions adequately but typing out texts on the small on-screen keyboard is slow. It has a collection of personalizable canned replies you can send to expedite communication. Voice messages and calls perform OK, although as with most smartwatches, you’re unlikely going to wish to use it for extended conversations as the audio clarity is not fantastic.
LiveTrack is the most useful function. You can configure to on its own send a URL to chosen contacts whenever you begin an exercise, so they can track your live location on a map. It’s excellent for monitoring competition progress, but it primarily serves as a utility for someone you rely on to know your location in case an incident occurs. It has generally worked effectively, though the real position has occasionally lagged when transitioning in and out of strong LTE signal.
These capabilities are available on other Garmin devices if you carry your phone with you, but in locations where LTE does not reach, the satellite kicks in on the Fenix 8 Pro to send texts, location updates and SOS SOS.
A guide displays you how to locate the clear view to the orbital system, which then sends and receives communications within about 10 to 30 seconds. It was surprisingly easy to use and could be a vital lifeline, though it is essential to remember that satellite coverage is restricted to the US mainland, the majority of Canada, and the majority of Europe excluding parts of Scandinavia above 65 degrees latitude.
Environmental Impact
The watch is generally repairable with services available through the customer service site. The battery is certified to retain at least 90% of its initial capacity after two years of weekly charging. The watch lacks any reused components. Garmin provides recycling programs on recent purchases.
Price
This Fenix 8 Pro costs from £1,029.99 (€1,199.99/$1,199.99/A$2,299). The additional Garmin inReach subscription packages cost from £7.99 (€9.99/$7.99/A$13.50).
Conclusion
The Fenix 8 Pro takes a excellent adventure watch in the standard Fenix 8 and adds LTE for messaging, calls and LiveTrack – plus orbital communication, check-in and SOS SOS for when you’re out of signal.
Outcome is an even more impressive adventure tool for those that want to be phone-free. If you want to have someone monitor you from afar while exercising out at night or in the remote areas, the Garmin does so without requiring additional gear.
This is very freeing to be outside without a phone, but that functionality carries a significant price, both in terms of the colossal cost of the watch and the recurring fee of the inReach plan to enable the service. At least it isn’t reliant on your phone provider so works with any brand of smartphone and network.
The Fenix 8 Pro is a top-tier device for someone who dislikes being burdened by their phone when running, biking or trekking, but nevertheless wants to be trackable and reachable. For other users, it is a lot of money when the excellent Fenix 8 already exists.
Pros: LTE and orbital communication, super-bright OLED display, monitors everything with best-in-class GPS, integrated torch, voice and standalone commands, 8+ day endurance, Garmin Pay, complete offline maps and routes, offline Spotify, 100-metre water resistance and 40-metre underwater use, physical controls and touchscreen.
Cons: extremely costly, LTE and orbital functions require monthly payment, restricted Garmin Pay bank support, speech capabilities are sluggish, basic wearable features compared with competing watches.
