Garmin has added several features to make the Fenix ​​8 even smarter

Garmin is back with two powerful new smartwatches: the all-new Fenix ​​8 and the Enduro 3. The Fenix ​​8, priced at $999.99, is one of Garmin's top-of-the-line flagships that will get a built-in speaker and microphone, as well as a number of new training features. Meanwhile, the Enduro 3, priced at $899.99, will feature an LED flashlight and solar charging, increasing battery life to up to 320 hours in GPS mode.

If there's a theme running through the Fenix ​​8 update this time around, it's making the device smarter while also giving athletes more options. For example, it now has a built-in speaker and microphone so you can make and receive phone calls from your wrist. You'll also be able to give voice commands like “set a timer for 5 minutes.” Voice commands don't even require a connection to your phone.

This isn't new to the Garmin ecosystem — the Venu 2 Plus was the first phone to add voice capabilities — but it wasn't something you could do on the Fenix ​​lineup. Garmin is also adding a new Garmin Messenger app, which will allow you to communicate with friends and family right from the wrist. (The caveat is that both you and the person you're messaging must have the Garmin Messenger app installed on their phone.)

The Fenix ​​8 will also let you choose whether you want an OLED display or an always-on solar charging display. The first display will be available in 43mm, 47mm and 51mm. This continues Garmin's trend of adding OLED to all of its watches.

However, many outdoor enthusiasts prefer low-power displays that last longer during activities. For those people, Garmin says the new Solar display option is more effective this time around – though it always depends on usage. The Solar models are available in 47mm and 51mm, with estimated battery life of 29 and 48 days respectively. That's significantly longer than the standard Fenix ​​8 models, which get 10 (43mm), 16 (47mm) or 29 (51mm) days.

Design-wise, the Fenix ​​8 is also adding a new sensor guard and “leakproof” metal buttons. It will also have the brighter LED flashlight and EKG capabilities that Garmin introduced in the Fenix ​​7 Pro and Epix Pro models last year. As for new fitness features, Garmin is adding advanced strength training with 4-6 training plans targeted to specific sports. It's also adding diving capabilities and a new map interface.

Meanwhile, the Enduro 3 is getting some of the same updates. Namely, a built-in flashlight, advanced strength training plans, the Garmin Messenger app, EKG and now, solar charging. Solar charging is right up there for the Enduro line, which as the name suggests is aimed at ultra-endurance athletes. The Solar lens will reportedly last up to 320 hours in GPS mode and up to 120 hours with GPS off, up to the more power-intensive dual-frequency GPS.

Both the Fenix ​​8 and Enduro 3 will be available starting today. The Fenix ​​8 will start at $999.99, although some models may sell for up to $1199.99. The Enduro 3 will be priced at $899.99.