The Garmin Rumors site has discovered new mentions in the Garmin Connect code which suggests the arrival of new connectivity functions for Garmin watches.
Until now, in terms of connectivity, the Garmin watches were in the classic. The different models offered by the brand are content to offer a Bluetooth connection to the smartphone for synchronization, Wi-Fi for downloading updates and a satellite connection limited to the monitoring of GPS geolocation.
To go further
Which garmin connected watch to choose? Our selection of best models
However, in the past, Garmin has already launched a sports watch with a 4G connection, the Garmin Forerunner 945 LTE, marketed in 2021. The 4G connection then made it possible to share its route in real time, even without having a smartphone with you. On the other hand, it is impossible at the time to make phone calls or listen to music streaming.
Since this model, the American brand seemed to have abandoned the 4G connection and launched only sports watches provided only with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connection.
The return of 4G watches at Garmin
However, it seems that Garmin is ready to get started again not only in 4G, but not only. Indeed, the site Garmin Rumors Has got hold of elements of the Garmin Connect application code that suggest the arrival of new connectivity options.
Among these elements, we can discover the mention of a new 4G connection: “Stay connected and leave your phone behind you with a satellite and 4G subscription”. Contrary to what Garmin proposed so far, this connection should allow telephone calls in 4G directly from his watch, in addition to the position sharing. In addition, even in white zone, Garmin could make it possible to send emergency messages by satellite thanks to his Inreach service.
As a reminder, Garmin’s inreach service so far required a specific case as well as a subscription to connect its watch or smartphone to the device. The indications discovered by Garmin Rumors suggest the arrival of a 30 -day trial period.
Garmin says he is “interested” by 4G
For the time being, Garmin has not communicated on these new possibilities offered in 4G or by satellite. However, at the time of the Fenix 8 announcement last August, brand executives told us that the door was not closed for the return of 4G:
We want to make sure that when we bring 4G, or any connectivity function, it is done in an authentic way and designed for athletes and adventurers. […] We are very interested in the capacities offered by 4G, in particular for use cases in outdoor. We clearly see a space for that on the market, but it is not for this new range.
To go further
“The Garmin Fenix 8 is the most important update that we have never done”: 4G, formats, epix, interface … We spoke with the designers of the new Garmin watches
It will undoubtedly have to wait for a while before the announcement of a Garmin’s 4G compatible watch model and satellite. As Garmin Rumors suggests, these functions could be inaugurated on a next Garmin Fenix 8 Pro.