The latest iteration of the top-tier Fenix adventure watch includes a life-saving capability: phone-free communication and emergency messaging via 4G LTE or satellite links.
The Fenix 8 Pro enhances the already impressive Fenix 8 by incorporating cutting-edge mobile tech, along with an optional state-of-the-art microLED display in a special edition. It is Garmin's premier model and designed to be the single tool needed to explore virtually anywhere and track every activity.
This makes it an extremely expensive option, starting at £1,030 (€1,200, $1,200, A$2,300) for the 47mm OLED version and reaching a colossal £1,730 (€2,000/$2,000/A$3,399) for the 51mm variant with microLED display – almost double the cost of the standard Fenix 8.
You do get a significant features for your investment, with industry-leading workout, activity and outdoor tracking. Its complete offline mapping of the globe can seamlessly direct you back to the path if you lose your way without a phone, and appear great on the sizable, sharp and super-bright display.
This Fenix 8 Pro is only available in 47mm or 51mm case dimensions, not the more compact 43mm size found in other models, so it is a large watch for larger wrists. But the 47mm OLED model as tested boasts an additional day of smartwatch battery life despite the display always active, lasting a reliable eight to nine days between charges.
No-Phone Texting, Calls and Real-Time Location
Garmin operates its proprietary inReach LTE (4G) and orbital subscription plan rather than relying on a watch plan tied to your phone provider, as with other smartwatches. However unlike competing satellite-enabled products, SOS messaging is not included for free.
Rather, subscriptions begin from £7.99 or similar a month, which provides limitless LTE text and voice messaging, call functionality and LiveTrack position tracking – so your friends or family can monitor you while engaged in jogging, cycling or similar pursuits – plus SOS satellite SOS alerts.
Location updates and messages via orbital are then charged on top, with more expensive plans including various quotas of satellite use, climbing to a £50 a month unlimited plan. The watch comes with a 30-day trial period so you can evaluate the service.
Once you have got it set up, you simply head out the door without your phone and the watch will connect to LTE. You can not use it for playing music or comparable tasks, but you are able to place and receive calls, dispatch texts and overall stay connected with your relatives and companions.
Whenever you text someone, Garmin dispatches them an SMS from a arbitrary number, which they can respond to back to your watch. If they install the Garmin Messenger application, you can then communicate reciprocally via text or spoken messages, and make voice calls. Your recipient is not required to have a Garmin profile to use the Messenger app, only a mobile number is sufficient to register for texts.
Texting on the watch functions fine but typing out texts on the tiny on-screen keyboard is time-consuming. It has a collection of personalizable canned responses you can use to expedite communication. Voice messages and calls perform acceptably, although as with the majority of wearables, you’re unlikely going to wish to use it for extended discussions as the quality is less than fantastic.
LiveTrack is the handiest function. You can set it up to automatically transmit a link to selected contacts whenever you begin an activity, so they can follow your live location on a map. It’s excellent for following competition performance, but it primarily acts as a tool for someone you trust to be aware of your whereabouts in case something happens. It has typically worked effectively, though the real position has occasionally been delayed when transitioning in and out of strong LTE coverage.
These features are available on other Garmin devices if you carry your phone with you, but in locations where LTE does not reach, the satellite kicks in on the Fenix 8 Pro to send texts, location updates and emergency SOS.
A on-screen assistance displays you how to find the line of sight to the orbital system, which then sends and receives communications within about 10 to 30 seconds. It was unexpectedly easy to use and could be a vital safety feature, however it is important to note that satellite coverage is limited to the US continent, most of Canada, and the majority of Europe except for parts of Scandinavia above 65 degrees latitude.
Sustainability
The watch is generally repairable with services offered through the customer service site. The battery is rated to maintain at least 90% of its initial power after two years of regular charging. The watch lacks any reused materials. Garmin offers recycling schemes on recent purchases.
Cost
This Fenix 8 Pro costs from £1,029.99 (€1,199.99/$1,199.99/A$2,299). The optional Garmin inReach service packages begin from £7.99 (€9.99/$7.99/A$13.50).
Conclusion
The Fenix 8 Pro takes a excellent outdoor watch in the standard Fenix 8 and adds LTE for messaging, call functionality and LiveTrack – along with satellite messaging, location update and SOS SOS for when you’re out of signal.
Outcome is an increasingly impressive adventure device for those that want to be phone-free. If you wish to have someone keep an eye on you from afar while running out at night or in the middle of nowhere, the Garmin accomplishes this without needing additional gear.
This is very freeing to be outdoors without a phone, but that functionality carries a significant price, both in terms of the substantial cost of the watch and the recurring fee of the inReach service to enable the features. Fortunately it isn’t dependent on your phone carrier so functions with all make of smartphone and carrier.
This Fenix 8 Pro is a top-tier device for someone who hates being burdened by their phone when jogging, cycling or hiking, but still wants to be trackable and reachable. For everyone else, it is a significant money when the superb Fenix 8 already exists.
Pros: LTE and satellite messaging, super-bright OLED display, monitors all activities with best-in-class GPS, built-in torch, voice and offline voice control, 8+ day battery life, Garmin Pay, full offline maps and navigation, offline Spotify, 100-metre water resistance and 40-metre diving, buttons and touch.
Cons: very costly, LTE and orbital features need monthly payment, limited Garmin Pay financial compatibility, voice capabilities are sluggish, basic wearable functionality versus competing watches.
