Garmin Epix Gen 3: release date, features we would like to see

The Epix is one of Garmin’s most advanced and premium series. It combines a rugged design with a touchscreen AMOLED display and a slew of features for outdoor adventurers. We saw the release of Gen 2 in 2022, followed by an interim edition in 2023. Many Garmin fans, however, are looking forward to Epix Gen 3.

The company has yet to make an official announcement about this product. But we can make some educated guesses based on previous release patterns and customer feedback.

Garmin Epix Gen 3: When will it arrive?

Let’s take a look at the release schedule so far.

• The Garmin Epix (Gen 1) was released in January 2015.
• The Garmin Epix (Gen 2) was released in January 2022.
• The Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) was released in May 2023.

As can be seen from the above, it took Garmin a full seven years to update the first generation Epix watch. But have no fear, Epix Gen 3 will come well before 2029!

The company has implemented a strategy of updating its devices every two years or so. There are occasionally interim editions, in which case the wait time is reduced. The debut of Epix 2 Pro, last year, is a great example.

Based on this, we anticipate the release of the Garmin Epix (Gen 3) in Q4 of 2024 or Q1 of 2025. CES 2025 in Las Vegas, might actually present an excellent opportunity for the device’s launch. Or shortly after. To remind, Epix was launched in late January 2022, a couple of weeks after CES closed its doors.

Garmin Epix Gen 3: Features we are likely to see

Epix 2 and the Pro iteration of the same are fantastic timepieces. However, this does not mean that there is no room for improvement. Some of these will occur as a result of the natural state of affairs. Wearables get better with each new generation. This means you can expect features like improved navigation, health and performance tracking enhancements, improved notifications, more music storage, better contactless payment support, and much more.

Essential reading: Garmin Epix 2 vs Fenix 7 – here’s how they differ

As we near the official launch for the Epix 3, expect a few leaks to come through. We’ll make sure to report on them. In the meantime let’s look forward to some of the features we would like to see, including functionality that customers have requested or suggested for the Epix Gen 3.

Larger display and thinner bezels

The Fenix 7 has a transflective screen that shines brighter in direct sunlight, whereas the Epix 2 has a stunning AMOLED display that shines brighter indoors. While we don’t anticipate that changing, a screen that makes better use of Garmin real estate would be nice.

Solar and/or QI charging

The Fenix 7 supports solar charging, whereas the Epix 2 does not. Garmin employs a Power Glass solar-charging lens that is optimized for the spectrum of sunlight and can charge more quickly when exposed to direct sunlight.

Solar technology has advanced to the point where it is no longer just a gimmick and actually improves battery life. It is particularly useful for outdoor enthusiasts who spend long periods of time in difficult environments and require reliable tracking and navigation features. And those that live in sunny regions of the globe.

QI charging, which uses electromagnetic induction to transfer power to your device, was also introduced recently on the Garmin Vivomove Trend. The elimination of wires and the prevention of wear and tear on your device’s charging port are some of the advantages of Qi charging on smartwatches. Furthermore, it is simple and convenient to simply place your smartwatch on a charging pad.

Both of these additions would be nice on Epix Gen 3.

Speaker and microphone for phone calls / voice assistance

Unlike the Venu 2 Plus, the Epix 2 lacks a speaker and a microphone. Both would be beneficial to include.

Even if there was no cellular version of the watch, it could be used to answer a call without having to take your connected smartphone out of your pocket. The Epix watch currently only displays the caller’s name or phone number and allows you to decline the call from your wrist. Voice assistance is also not available in the Epix 2 series.

New performance metrics

New performance metrics are, of course, are given. Garmin recently acquired the king of performance metrics, Firstbeat Analytics. That means it’s in a great position to keep churning out the goods.

Additional sensors

It’s been a while since we’ve seen something truly innovative in the sensor space. Garmin covers the fundamentals well and includes nearly everything available on the current crop of wearables. This includes heart rate, blood oxygen levels, respiration, and more.

Then there’s ECG. Only a select few of Garmin watches come with this feature. Granted, an ECG is not the top of our wishlist. Most people will take one or two readings and then forget about the feature. Nonetheless, it would be useful.

Other sensors are also a possibility. For example, glucose monitoring, blood pressure monitoring, and hydration monitoring. They will most likely not be ready in time for Epix Gen 3 of the watch, but rather Gen 4 or 5. But we can always hope to see them sooner.

LTE version

We’ve been hoping for a cellular Garmin watch for quite some time. Sure, we’ve made some half-hearted attempts with the Forerunner 945 LTE and the Bounce watch for kids. These, however, do not represent true cellular connectivity, as you cannot make or receive calls. Garmin has so far only used the functionality to support safety features.

Is Epix the right watch for this kind of technology to debut? Perhaps it is as a high-end device. However, there are other watches where this would be a more natural fit, such as the Venu collection.

We hope that Garmin will take customer feedback into consideration and deliver a product that meets or exceeds expectations. What are your thoughts on the Epix Gen 3? What features do you want to see in the next edition? Please let us know in the comments!

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