Garmin code reveals Fenix 8 Pro LTE & satellite subscription tiers
Garmin is getting ready to launch four subscription tiers to support LTE and satellite features directly from the wrist on the Fenix 8 Pro. Hidden code in the Connect app offers early clues about what each level will include.
Four subscription tiers?
We’ve looked through Garmin Connect version 5.16.1 and spotted four names: inReach Enabled, Essential, Standard and Premium. While nothing has been officially announced, the names align closely with Garmin’s existing inReach satellite service. The difference is that these new plans will be tied directly to a watch. The company looks to be repurposing of the inReach tier structure.
Enabled is likely the starting point. That could mean LiveTrack, some limited messaging and the ability to trigger Assistance Plus over LTE. It would offer just enough to leave your phone behind during a run or ride without feeling cut off. It’s likely LTE-only and doesn’t include satellite features.
Essential might be where satellite kicks in. So if you’re hiking or out of range, this tier could give you access to SOS through Garmin’s emergency response team and maybe a few one-way check-ins to let people know you’re okay. It’s probably focused on safety rather than back-and-forth messaging.
Standard sounds like a mid-level plan that adds two-way communication. That would let you send and receive messages even when there’s no LTE signal, most likely through satellite. You might also get expanded LiveTrack options and more flexibility around who you can message. It would suit people spending time in areas with patchy or no coverage.
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Premium is probably the full package. This is where voice calling over LTE could show up, along with unlimited messaging, broader safety tools and possibly priority support. It’s aimed at users who want full independence from their phone whether they’re training, travelling or heading deep into remote areas.
The app also confirms that only one device can be linked to a subscription at a time, though you’ll be able to transfer between devices if needed.
LTE and satellite will soon be managed through Garmin Connect
The strings make it clear that Garmin Connect is being repositioned as the place to activate, manage and transfer subscriptions. Assistance Plus also gets an upgrade, and now requires LTE to function independently. Without it, alerts will only work when your phone is nearby and running in the background.
“Your device safety features can notify others if you need help. To use Assistance Plus, you must set up an LTE Subscription. Without LTE, you can only alert assistance contacts if you have your phone with you in an area with data coverage with the app running in the background.”
There’s mention of onboarding, subscription setup, emergency contact selection and trial messaging. The app even includes flows for transferring an LTE subscription to a new device. Garmin appears to be aiming for a seamless setup experience where all safety and communication tools are activated from the app and handled by the watch.
What’s missing is an official launch. But all signs suggest these plans are designed to debut with a new watch that supports both LTE and satellite connectivity. Based on timing and past hardware cycles, the Fenix 8 Pro is the most likely candidate. Or perhaps the Venu 4.
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