Garmin Tactix 8 smartwatch with LED flashlight, ECG and tactical features launches
Just one day after the launch of the Descent G2 smartwatch, Garmin has unveiled the Tactix 8, which is obviously based on the Fenix 8 but comes with a few additional features. For example, the new wearable has an integrated LED flashlight that shines green after pressing a button on the Tactix 8, which supposedly makes it particularly useful for use with night vision gear.
The night vision mode further optimizes the screen brightness for use with night vision equipment. Meanwhile, the stealth mode disables the GPS module and all wireless connections. The waypoint projection can create navigation points by specifying the distance and direction relative to the current position. Garmin includes international topographic maps, and the paid Garmin Outdoor Maps+ subscription allows users to download enhanced maps with satellite images.
Smartwatch users who are traveling by air can also benefit from a special weather forecast that provides data on wind and visibility as well as air pressure. The Tactix 8 is water-resistant up to 10 ATM and can be used for diving up to 131 feet. Garmin offers several dive modes, such as snorkeling or sport diving. The "Kill Switch" deletes all user data at the touch of a button.
In addition to Garmin’s usual workout features, the Tactix 8 introduces a new rucking activity which considers the weight of a backpack when calculating certain data points such as burned calories. An app from Applied Ballistics further allows owners to calculate the trajectory of a bullet.
Feature-rich Garmin smartwatch with ECG and contactless payments
Under all these rather special features lies a full-fledged Fenix 8 with an electrocardiogram (ECG), heart rate and SpO2 sensor as well as an NFC chip for contactless payments via Garmin Pay. The watch shows notifications and has access to apps, numerous watch faces, and data from some third-party providers via the Garmin Connect IQ Store.
Depending on the model variant, Garmin has equipped the Tactix 8 with either an AMOLED or MiP display with integrated solar cells. This display choice affects the display quality and visibility in sunlight, but also the battery life in a rather significant way.
The AMOLED version with an actived always-on display has a runtime of just seven days, or 16 days without AOD. On the other hand, the solar-equipped SKU manages up to 48 days, even with always-on display. In any case, the watch comes with 32GB of internal mass storage, which can also be used to store maps or music for offline playback.
Price and availability
The Garmin Tactix 8 will launch on February 21st. The 47mm AMOLED version will retail for $1,299, while the 51mm AMOLED model will cost $1,399. The 51mm solar SKU with the power-efficient MiP screen also carries a price tag of $1,399. Last but not least, the Solar SB Elite variant with the Applied Ballistics Elite Solver for gun enthusiasts is going to cost $1,599. More details on the new Tactix 8 can be found on Garmin’s official product page.
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