Garmin 970/570 may be the final nail in the Forerunner MIP coffin

A few days ago Garmin launched the Forerunner 970 and 570. Both came with AMOLED displays, putting to rest any hope that we’d see updated MIP variants.

This is a shift that’s been brewing for a while. But with these two new models, it feels like a line has been crossed.

Garmin is moving on

For years, the Forerunner line was known for using MIP screens. They were simple, effective and ideal for outdoor use. The Forerunner 55, 255 and 955 were the last of their kind. All of them came out in 2022 or earlier. That’s now around three years ago. And since then, every new Forerunner has arrived with a high-contrast AMOLED.

There was speculation that Garmin would release a 970 with an MIP and a 975 with an AMOLED display. The same was expected for the updated version of the 255. That would keep MIP for those who prefer battery life and sunlight visibility. But that hasn’t materialised. At this point, it probably won’t.

It’s a similar story elsewhere in the Garmin ecosystem. The Vivoactive line used to offer MIP displays as a budget-friendly, battery-stretching alternative to the Venu range. But with the arrival of Vivoactive 5 and more recently the 6, that difference has vanished. Both now feature AMOLED screens.

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Earlier this year, Garmin launched the Fenix 8 and Instinct 3. These offered more flexibility. Instead of splitting AMOLED and MIP into separate models or product lines, Garmin let users choose their preferred screen type. The Epix Pro, which was once a premium AMOLED version of the Fenix, is now gone. The new Fenix and Instinct both come in three screen versions: a regular MIP-based “E” variant, a Solar version with power glass, and an AMOLED model.

That might be the new strategy going forward. Rather than fragmenting the range with separate product names, Garmin may just start offering screen options across one single watch line. That way, those of us who still prefer MIP won’t be totally left behind.

MIP still has its place

Garmin has led the charge in developing and perfecting MIP screen tech for wearables. Compared to AMOLED, MIP displays are far less flashy. But they’re incredibly power efficient and very readable outdoors. The simplicity is part of the appeal. There’s no need to crank up brightness to check your stats on a sunny trail. No fear of screen burn-in. And battery life stretches out for days or even weeks.

Other brands do still use MIP tech. Some Suunto and Polar models still rely on it. Casio’s rugged smartwatches also go that route. But no one has leaned into it the way Garmin has. It’s what made many of their watches feel more like tools than toys.

I personally wear a Forerunner 955. I’ve had it for a while now. And yes, I like the MIP screen. It’s always on, it doesn’t try to impress. It just works. I don’t have to think about battery life or toggle power saving. It feels focused. The screen reflects what the watch is built for – performance, training, and reliability over style. I, for one, will not be looking forward to upgrading to something with an AMOLED display.

Will MicroLED be next?

There’s a good chance Garmin’s long-term play involves MicroLED. It would allow for AMOLED-like vibrancy with MIP-level efficiency. That kind of screen could mark the next chapter, and early hints suggest the Fenix line may be where it debuts.

But we’re not there yet. And in the meantime, the gap is widening between those who want the flair of AMOLED and those who miss the practicality of MIP.

It’s fair to say that we may have already seen the last Forerunner with a MIP display. And for those of us who value simplicity, long battery life, and always-on readability, that’s a shame. I’ll keep using my 955 as long as I can. When the time comes to switch, I’m not sure any AMOLED will feel quite the same.

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