Wearable Technology in the UK: Top 5 Options for 2026

You can activate the new mic using the menus on the watch or set it up as a shortcut so the watch starts listening when you hold a button. You can then use commands like set a timer and the Fenix 8 will process them.

The new speaker means you can take calls on the watch and it will also give voice updates during activities, such as your lap stats during a run — rest assured you can turn this off if you’d rather not have your watch talking to you during group activities.

All of the new Fenix 8 models have a built-in flashlight, which is very useful during and outside of activities at night. You also get this flashlight with the Epix Pro and Fenix 7 Pro ranges, but not the Garmin Epix 2 or smaller Fenix 7 models.

The bright AMOLED display is the same as on the Epix Pro watch and I do find it a big upgrade on the classic memory-in-pixel Garmin screens, especially when indoors or under cloud or tree cover outdoors.

There are several new watch faces to use on the Fenix 8 and you can customize the colors and data shown extensively, with Garmin adding more color choice in particular with the new watch. You can also add more watch faces using the Connect IQ app store.

The new leakproof buttons on the Fenix 8 feel a bit different to past models, but still click reliably and satisfyingly, and there’s a small haptic buzz to reassure you that you have hit the button.

The new AMOLED display is simply stunning — brilliantly responsive and easy to read in all conditions. The raise-to-wake also springs the screen to life rapidly when you lift your arm.

The headline updates from the Garmin Fenix 7 range include a stunning smartwatch-style AMOLED display, bigger screens on the smallest watches, improved waterproofing that now lets you dive to 40m depth, plus increased battery life (in most settings).

There’s also a new built-in speaker and microphone so you can take calls from your wrist (you’ll still need your phone), listen to your offline Spotify or Deezer playlist or get lap split updates as you run.

That punchy screen brings all your daily run, recovery, training and health stats to life, as well as elevating the Fenix 8’s mapping and navigation tools to another level.

Alongside the touchscreen, the Garmin Fenix 8 features its usual five button controls. These are now leakproof and give you the option to use touch or buttons or a combination of both to do pretty much everything.

You want the most advanced GPS watch for hiking and outdoor adventures

You need multi-day battery life for long backpacking trips

You value the crisp AMOLED display and touchscreen functionality

You want voice commands and new dive features in one package

Exceptional durability and robust construction

Convenient built-in LED flashlight

Comprehensive fitness, health, and training metrics ecosystem