Garmin Fenix 8 features that will not trickle down to older watches
In addition to the consolidation of the Epix and Fenix line, the release of the Garmin Fenix 8 has brought some new features to the popular multi-sport watch line. If you are holding on to a predecessor generation model, you might be wondering whether some of these will trickle down to your device. While the company has not provided a definitive list of features that will remain exclusive to the Fenix 8, most elements are likely to stay unique to the new generation.
Uncertain rollback plans
The rollback plans are currently uncertain. This is what Garmin has said. The company typically releases software updates on a quarterly basis, leaving the possibility open for some bits and pieces to make their way to previous models. The next quarterly update cycle is due to commence soon.
The hardware can’t be the reason some of these features will not rolling back. After all, the new watches are not that different as compared to old in terms of the tech. Garmin says is is the different code base of the new platform generation makes it incompatible with the other generations.
But one only needs to look at the launch of the Epix Pro 2. That timepiece had features that were exclusive to the device at the time – but in subsequent months Garmin released those extra features on older watches through updates.
User interface overhaul
Granted, even if they are not rolled back – you will not be missing much as one of the most noticeable changes in the Fenix 8 is its fresh user interface (UI). While the core layout remains similar to previous models, there are some changes in how users interact with the watch.
This includes:
- A redesigned notifications system that’s easier to navigate
- Display of grouped notifications as virtual “post-it” notes
- Reorganized settings menu for improved usability
- Greater separation between exercise tracking modes and additional features like the music player or Connect IQ store apps
That’s the jist of it as far as UI changes. It is actually difficult to summarise into a few points, as many of the changes are subtle adjustments.
The company says the redesigned UI on the Fenix 8 range will be the base for watches going forward. But is unlikely to be rolled back.
Hardware-dependent features
Some of the Fenix 8’s new features rely on hardware additions, making them impossible to implement on older models through software updates alone:
- Built-in microphone and speaker, enabling:
- Access to phone assistants
- Voice call functionality
- Voice note recording
- Offline Garmin Voice Assistant, expanding on features from the Venu series
- Recreational scuba diving and apnea features (EN13319 certified for depths up to 50m). This functionality is extensive and on par with what you’d find in Garmin’s Descent MK3.
- QZSS and BEIDOU support (we are uncertain if this is a hardware or software adjustment).
Our takeaway
The Fenix 8 range was more about a design overhaul and consolidation of two watch ranges than about introducing new software updates. Which is kind of a disappointment and very unlike the predecessor years when new health and fitness features were a given with each new generation of the watch.
Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets
My guess is that very few people with the Fenix 7 / Epix Gen 2 have actually upgraded to the Fenix 8 line. Why would they? Unless they are a diver or someone who plans to use the microphone/speaker on a regular basis – there is not need to. Especially given the price. To remind, the base Fenix 8 model starts at $1,000.
Has Garmin reserved the innovative new features for its upcoming watches? A recent leak is a strong indicator they may have the Fenix 8 Pro and Fenix 8 MicroLED in the works. Perhaps it will take another six months or so before we see these watches. Hopefully they will have some interesting functionality that will make its way to older generation watches.
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