Garmin Fenix 8 users report cold water malfunctions

The newly released Garmin Fenix 8 smartwatch is facing scrutiny from users who have encountered unexpected shutdowns when the device is exposed to cold water. Multiple owners have reported that their watches turn off or restart when submerged in water below approximately 8°C (46°F), raising concerns about the device’s suitability for cold water activities and diving.

Users across various online platforms, including Garmin’s official forums, Reddit and Facebook, have shared similar experiences. The issue appears to affect the AMOLED Fenix 8 version. Some users have reported that even exposure to cold water droplets from a shower can trigger a restart or shutdown!

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This problem is particularly concerning for those who purchased the Fenix 8 for its advertised diving capabilities. In Europe, dive instruments are required to function at temperatures down to 0°C to be marketed as such. The apparent 8°C threshold for malfunctions falls well short of this standard. This suggests a software or a hardware bug that is potentially limiting the watch’s usability in colder climates and waters.

Potential workaround and Garmin’s response

Interestingly, some users have noted that after an initial shutdown due to cold water exposure, the watch can often be rebooted and continue to function, even when the displayed water temperature remains below 8°C. This behavior has led to speculation about whether the issue is related to the sudden temperature change upon entering cold water rather than sustained exposure to low temperatures.

The cold water problem is compounded by reports of increased touch sensitivity when the screen is wet, which some users find frustrating. That’s not really something that you want from a $1,000+ watch!

Garmin’s response to these reports has been limited so far. Some users who have contacted customer service have been offered replacements, suggesting the company may be aware of a hardware issue. However, there has been no official statement addressing the issue.

The Fenix 8 has been littered with bugs since its release, and one can’t help but feel it may have been rushed out. Quite possibly to make it available before the all-important end-year holiday shopping period.

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