Certain, there’s some buzz gaining volume in the smartwatch community, as users have uncovered hidden mentions of the Fenix 8 Pro and Fenix 8 MicroLED within Garmin’s Connect app.
The listings have since disappeared, but their brief appearance has given way to a growing level of interest-and speculation-about what could be in store for the future of Garmin’s smartwatch lineup.
Here is a closer look at what this might mean.
The Unexpected Reveal
Considering the Fenix 8 series has just been launched, it is quite a surprise to see the early appearance of the Fenix 8 Pro.
Based on past patterns seen from Garmin, releases for Pro models-like the Fenix 7 Pro that launched over a year from the Fenix 7-it doesn’t seem that one would be due for the Fenix 8 for some time. Why the early mention of it, then?
Possible Implications
Launch Imminent: Garmin may be about to launch the Fenix 8 Pro considerably earlier than expected, which will make for a remarkably quick successor to the standard Fenix 8.
Early Leak: The Pro model may still be in development, and this listing could be an early leak to show us a hint of what Garmin has in store for the future.
Accidental Listing: The models may have been incidentally listed; this might relate to a prototype rather than a ready-to-go product.
The MicroLED Innovation
But far more interesting is the name-drop of MicroLED display. If Garmin seriously considers this technology for the Fenix 8 series, it could further be a sea change in smartwatch display technology.
So here is why MicroLED will change everything:
Advantages of MicroLED
Better Contrast: MicroLED have a higher contrast ratio, meaning true blacks and more vivid colors.
Brighter Displays: MicroLED screens are well-known to be very bright; hence, for readability in direct sunlight, they are better.
Faster Refresh Rates: The technology supports faster refresh rates, which may lead to a more fluid and responsive user experience.
No Burn-In Problem: Being distinct from OLEDs, MicroLEDS do not face the Burn-In issue-a situation arising when static images leave their permanent mark on the screen.
Improved Battery Life: MicroLED screens use less power compared to regular LEDs or even OLEDs, hence an increase in battery lives.
What’s Happening in the Tech World
MicroLED technology has been a point of focus for several key tech companies. While Apple had been exploring MicroLED for its Apple Watch Ultra, recent reports say they have changed course and will instead rely on third-party suppliers for this technology.
Garmin joining the fray with MicroLED adoption places their brand in an elite spot to be one of the first in the smartwatch market with the advanced display technology ahead of their competitors.
What’s Next?
With the time of the Fenix 8 Pro’s possible arrival along with MicroLED displays, smartwatches get very interesting. Keep in mind that Garmin can always be one of the first to implement MicroLED. Only time will tell.
For now, all eyes will again turn to Garmin as an official announcement or extra tidbits arise regarding this future news. For more updates and an in-depth analysis regarding the latest moves by Garmin, continue watching Smartwatch Insight.
