Got this very early on for its LTE connectivity. This works quite well. My family and friends were easily able to track me on a recent Ironman 70.3 event in real time. I'm hoping for a "beta program" to get early update though as there are still bugs to be worked out. Navigating screens for Messenger are buggy at best, When using LTE data an indicator shows on screen which prevents you from accessing what would normally be in that area (complication), a couple of random reboots. I was surprised the audio function doesn't work in the water. I was quite used to my Forerunner 965 giving audile alerts for 100 yards (pool) and 500 yards (open water) swims. The Fenix simply won't do it. Vibration still works but that can be easily ignored in races. The ability for LiveTrack viewers to send "voice memos" is awesome. It was great getting to hear family and friends during the run of a recent event. Overall the promise of awesome is there... it'll just need some more work.
Response from GarminBy Garmin, Care, October 7, 2025
We really appreciate this feedback about your new Fenix 8 Pro. The LTE indicator is working as designed because it will always show while LTE is in use. However, if you feel that it's getting in the way of other functions, we'd love for you to submit your thoughts about that at garmin.com/ideas.
As for your comments about the buggy Messenger app and the audio alert not working while recording swimming activities, we'd like to troubleshoot those with you. Please call Garmin Support at 800-800-1020 so an associate can assist with these concerns.
Had the 42MM Epix Pro Gen 2 and wanted a larger face along the with the satellite and LTE features. The only issue I've had so far is that sometimes when I lift the watch the AMOLED watchface doesn't light up all the way. This is annoying when I'm trying to set an activity or read narrative. Not sure if it's a setting issue that I've not done properly, but my older EPIX Pro had the AMOLED face and I never had an issue with a dimmer face. I keep my battery charged all the time so it's not a battery issue.
Response from GarminBy Garmin, Care, October 2, 2025
Hi there, I am glad to hear that you have been enjoying your Fenix 8 pro! I would recommend reaching out to our support team so they are able to take a closer look at what is going on with the watch not lighting up fully. You can reach them at 1-800-800-1020 and we are open Monday-Friday 7am-7pm CST.
Bought a few weeks ago and love the size. At first it felt a little heavier from my Forerunner 945LTE, but got used to it after a couple of days. Screen is a huge improvement. Have been waiting for Garmin to release a watch with LTE. Now I can call without having to carry a phone, best feature.
I have been a Garmin user probably since the first GPS watch. Each time I upgrade I am impressed what the newest version. I had held off upgrading waiting for Garmin to come up with a watch with LTE and the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro was the watch I was waiting for and it has lived up to everything I wanted. I do not run with my phone so when I am out on a run I have no way to communicate in a emergency. Also with the live tracking and the LTE My wife does not get worried if I extend a run and am gone longer then expected. I enjoy the technical aspects of running even though it is the simplest of sports. I like the training suggestions. Garmin is the sports watch and the newest Fenix 8 Pro is just another success.
Amoled display is better than the fenix 7 pro. Battery life is less than the 7 pro and there is no solar function. I would have opted for the Micro-LED display, however, I didn’t want a further reduction in battery life. Features are fine although I probably won’t sign up to the LTE and Satellite service as I nearly always have my phone with me. The finish quality of the watch casing is poor with very sharp edges on the strap brackets.