14 DAY TRIAL // Garmin is expected to take the wraps off the next-generation Fenix smartwatch rather sooner than later, with some people familiar with the matter indicating the new devices could see the daylight as soon as the next month.
While a launch at CES totally makes sense, it remains to be seen if Garmin wants to use the upcoming event to introduce its new smartwatches or just wait for a later date.
The Fenix 7 lineup will come with the same models as before, including the 7X and the 7S, as well as the Solar version. According to a recent report, Garmin will also launch a Sapphire Solar model that will obviously make the device even more rugged, therefore offering enhanced scratch resistance even on the Solar version of the device.
Touchscreen on a Fenix
But the biggest change appears to be the addition of touch support on the Fenix lineup.
In other words, the Fenix 7 will come not only with the typical buttons that are already available on the current models, but also with touch input for an experience similar to the one on the Venu.
At this point, it looks like Garmin wouldn’t use OELD on all Fenix 7 models, with the company also considering an LCD panel that would theoretically help the company prevent a substantial price hike caused by the new displays.
Interestingly, Garmin is also working on a new health app, though at this point, it’s unlikely to replace the existing application available for Garmin watches. Most likely, the new app could just be an improved version of the current Connect app, possibly with new capabilities that would be powered by features available exclusively on the new-gen watches launching next month.
In the meantime, it’s important to keep in mind that Garmin has so far remained tight-lipped on everything related to the Fenix 7, so don’t take anything for granted right now.