Garmin Fenix 7: Rumours - Release - Specs

On 03-12-2021, two new products were registered with the FCC, which clearly resemble the new Fenix 7 series. This has revealed new information, and it is now 100% certain that the Garmin Fenix 7 will be announced within a few days.

What we now know about the Garmin Fenix 7

• Solar charging will be available for the Solar & Sapphire variants.
• All models have physical buttons combined with a touchscreen.
• The Garmin Fenix 7 has a built-in LED flashlight.
• Multi-band frequency for improved GPS support.

The size

The Garmin Fenix 7 will be very similar in size to its predecessor, the Garmin Fenix 6. This has a standard watch size of 47mm and the S variant is 42mm. We will see no change in this with the Garmin Fenix 7.

There is a wide range of straps available for the Garmin Fenix 7, Fenix 7X, and Fenix 7S, including silicone straps, sports straps, steel straps, and Milanese straps.

A new design

The first images of the new Garmin Fenix 7 show different case options in stainless steel and plastic.

Garmin has made some design changes, mainly focusing on improving functionality. The Fenix 6 was relatively bulky and heavy, while the Fenix 7 will be lighter and may feature a slimmer profile.

Even more weight loss with a nylon strap

A nylon strap significantly reduces the weight of the watch and offers great comfort. The Garmin Fenix 7 is likely to be available with a nylon strap instead of just a silicone strap. Many users of the Fenix series have been seeking this option.

AMOLED screen or not?

There are rumours that the AMOLED screen used in the Venu 2 could also appear in the new Fenix 7. If Garmin chooses this, it will likely impact battery life.

From the leaked photos, it appears that the Garmin Fenix 7 may indeed feature an AMOLED display.

The main strength of the Fenix series is its long battery life. An AMOLED screen uses more power but offers a sharper and more vibrant display.

This is not yet confirmed, and an AMOLED screen does not necessarily align with the Fenix’s endurance-focused design. Garmin may have found a way to optimise energy consumption.

Durable materials

To ensure the Fenix 7 remains robust and long-lasting, Garmin uses premium materials designed to withstand heavy use.

Solar charging

Following the release of the standard Fenix series, Garmin typically launches a Solar variant, with solar panels built around the watch face. This is ideal for outdoor users. The Garmin Fenix 7 Solar is expected about six months after the initial release.

Improved battery capacity

Each new Garmin release comes with better battery performance. The Fenix 7 is expected to have a larger battery, but actual endurance will depend on usage and screen technology.

Screen changes have a big impact on battery life and can offset improvements in battery capacity.

New optical heart rate sensor

With most major smartwatch brands improving their optical heart rate sensors, Garmin is expected to do the same. The Fenix 7 will likely feature the more accurate Garmin Elevate v4 sensor, as seen in the Garmin Venu 2.

Improved mapping (rumoured)

Better maps and more accurate GPS will enhance navigation. Reports suggest Garmin is putting a lot of focus on navigation capabilities in the Fenix 7.

Garmin Fenix 7 release date (rumoured)

It is expected that the Garmin Fenix 7 will be released between January and May 2022. In previous years, Garmin has announced the Fenix series at CES. In 2022, CES takes place on 4–5 January, which could be when more details are revealed.

Garmin Fenix 7 price

The prices are expected to be similar to those of the Fenix 6:

• Garmin Fenix 7: £599
• Garmin Fenix 7S: £599
• Garmin Fenix 7X: £649

As a high-end outdoor smartwatch, it is priced higher than mid-range smartwatches such as the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 or Fitbit Luxe.

Conclusion

While we do not yet have all the details on the Garmin Fenix 7, the patents and leaks make it clear that it is on the way. The exact release date and confirmed specifications will be announced at launch.