Rumours are once again surrounding Garmin, with reports suggesting a new fenix smartwatch could be in the works. Garmin’s fenix range is one of the most popular choices for serious runners, hikers and endurance athletes. The latest watch in the range, the fenix 8 is a GPS fitness tracker that brought new features including AMOLED displays, guided strength training and improved maps. While Garmin has yet to officially announce the fenix 9, rumours suggest a new flagship smartwatch could arrive in the second half of 2026.
According to Garmin Rumors, the next generation could focus on refining features introduced with the fenix 8 Pro rather than delivering a complete redesign. Speculation points towards improvements around connectivity, display technology and battery efficiency.
Here’s everything we know so far about the rumoured Garmin fenix 9, including the expected upgrades and how it could compare to the current fenix lineup.
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Three possible fenix 9 models
One of the biggest rumours is that Garmin could launch multiple versions of the fenix 9. Garmin Rumors has suggested three potential models: a standard fenix 9, a fenix 9 pro and a fenix 9 pro with inReach connectivity.
However, these model names and details remain unconfirmed, so they should be treated as speculation rather than official information.
Display upgrades
Display choices could be one of the key changes with the rumoured fenix 9 range. According to Garmin Rumors, the standard fenix 9 is not expected to offer an MIP solar display (which uses sunlight to extend the battery life), with that option instead potentially reserved for the fenix 9 pro and fenix 9 pro inReach models.
The rumours suggest Garmin could continue moving towards AMOLED as the main display option, while keeping MIP Solar available for users who prefer its battery-saving benefits and outdoor visibility.
A 43mm size option is also rumoured to be coming across all three fenix 9 tiers. However, the smaller size is not expected to be available with MIP solar, meaning those wanting this option may need to opt for the larger models.
How could it compare to the Garmin fenix 8?
The Garmin fenix 8 introduced several major changes, including display options while the later fenix 8 Pro models added advanced connectivity features such as LTE (which lets you to connect to mobile networks without your phone) and satellite communication, aimed at people doing activities in remote areas. Any fenix 9 launch would likely build on those foundations, with rumours pointing towards improvements in the range.
However, Garmin has not confirmed any details about the fenix 9, so it is too early to know exactly how it will compare to the current generation.
Best Garmin fenix 8 deal
The Garmin fenix 8 is a premium multisport GPS smartwatch designed for endurance athletes. It has an AMOLED display, built-in LED flashlight and advanced training tools including stamina tracking and training readiness insights. It also offers up to 16 days of battery life, multi-band GPS, dive support and 24/7 health tracking.
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