Garmin launches new smartwatch with AMOLED display and unusual features

Garmin has released the new Approach J1 smartwatch in countries worldwide. This is the brand’s first golfing smartwatch made for junior golfers. As such, it is designed to smaller wrists, with a slim and lightweight body.

Features of the Garmin Approach J1 which make it suitable for younger players include a simplified display and a visual timer for the recommended pace of play. There is also tee-off guidance customized to the user's ability, and you can adjust par to match their skill level. Other tools include club suggestions and celebratory animations. You can record your score directly on the watch, with a log available in the Garmin Golf smartphone app, and it comes with over 43,000 preloaded courses.

The Approach J1 can also be used to track other activities such as walking, running and cycling, with GPS distance tracking. Plus, it has basic smartwatch features like a step counter, an alarm clock, a timer and a stopwatch. This model is equipped with a 1.2-inch AMOLED touchscreen with a 390 x 390 px resolution and an optional always-on mode. According to Garmin, it should run for up to 10 days in watch mode, or 15 hours in GPS mode. This watch is available in two colorways: Blue/Black with Black ComfortFit textile strap and Silver/Purple with Purple ComfortFit textile strap.

The Garmin Approach J1 smartwatch will be available to order from January 23rd for $299.99/£309.99/€349.99. It is worth noting that this is not the cheapest golf smartwatch from the brand; in the US, the Approach S12 retails for $199.99 (curr. $174.90 at Amazon).