Garmin Fenix 9 Pro: New features are also coming to Fenix 8 and other models

Garmin unveiled the Fenix 9 and Fenix 9 Pro just this Tuesday. While the flagship smartwatches feature a faster processor, an upgrade to 64 GB of storage, and, in the Pro model, a redesigned titanium case, the most significant innovations are software features.

In the past, Garmin customers typically had to buy a new model to access these software features. Not so with this generation – as DC Rainmaker reports, Garmin plans to roll out most of these new features via software updates to older smartwatches as well, including the following models:

• Garmin Fenix 8
• Garmin Fenix 8 Pro
• Garmin Fenix E
• Garmin Tactix 8
• Garmin Forerunner 970
• Garmin Forerunner 570
• Garmin Venu X1
• Garmin Venu 5
• Garmin Vivoactive 6

Exactly which features will be added depends on the specific model. For example, since the Forerunner 570 ($549 on Amazon) does not offer a Stamina feature, the new endurance analysis is also not expected to be available on this model. The Fenix 8, on the other hand, is expected to receive most of the new features, with the exception of the new battery modes, the improved Maps app, and ArcheryX, Garmin’s new archery tracking feature.

Users of a Garmin Fenix 8 or another compatible smartwatch can look forward to Garmin Epic, a feature that allows you to combine multi-day activities, photos, and performance data into a single adventure in Garmin Connect. Endurance analysis, including long-term trends and new real-time graphs for running and cycling, as well as expanded rucking and indoor rowing activities, inReach weather updates, and the watch face editor directly on the watch are all set to be made available on older models. None of these features require a Garmin Connect+ subscription. The timeline for this update has not yet been announced.