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This latest iteration of the top-tier Fenix outdoor watch brings a potentially lifesaving capability: no-phone communication and SOS messaging using 4G LTE or orbital links.

The Fenix 8 Pro enhances the previously outstanding Fenix 8 by adding cutting-edge cellular technology, plus an available advanced microLED display in a limited edition. This is the brand's top device and engineered to be the single tool required to venture virtually anywhere and track every activity.

This makes it an extremely expensive option, starting at £1,030 (€1,200, $1,200, A$2,300) for the 47mm OLED model and climbing to a colossal £1,730 (€2,000/$2,000/A$3,399) for the 51mm edition with microLED screen – almost twice the cost of the regular Fenix 8.

You do receive a significant functionality for your investment, with best-in-class workout, movement and adventure tracking. The complete offline mapping of the globe can automatically direct you back to the trail if you lose your way without a phone, and look great on the sizable, crisp and super-bright touchscreen.

The Fenix 8 Pro is only offered in 47mm or 51mm case dimensions, omitting the more compact 43mm version available in other models, so it is a big watch for larger wrists. However the 47mm OLED version as tested boasts an extra day of smartwatch battery life despite the display always active, lasting a reliable eight to nine days between charging.

No-Phone Texting, Calls and Real-Time Location

Garmin uses its proprietary inReach LTE (4G) and satellite subscription service instead of depending on a watch plan tied to your mobile provider, like other wearables. However in contrast to Apple or Google's satellite-capable devices, SOS communication is not included for no cost.

Rather, subscriptions start at £7.99 or equivalent a month, which includes unlimited LTE text and voice messaging, calls and LiveTrack location tracking – so your contacts or loved ones can monitor you while engaged in running, biking or similar activities – along with emergency satellite SOS messaging.

Location updates and messages over orbital are then charged on top, with higher-tier subscriptions offering various quotas of orbital use, climbing to a £50 a month all-inclusive plan. The watch includes a 30-day trial period so you can test out the functionality.

After you have completed setup, you just head out the door without your phone and the watch will link to LTE. You can not use it for playing music or similar tasks, but you can place and receive calls, dispatch texts and generally stay connected with your relatives and friends.

When you message someone, Garmin dispatches them an SMS from a random number, which they can reply to directly to your watch. If they download the Garmin Messenger app, you can then message back and forth using typed or spoken communications, and make voice calls. Your recipient is not required to have a Garmin profile to use the Messenger application, only a phone number is sufficient to register for texts.

Messaging on the watch works fine but composing texts on the small on-screen keyboard is time-consuming. It includes a set of personalizable canned replies you can use to expedite communication. Spoken messages and calls work OK, though as with most smartwatches, you’re unlikely going to want to use it for lengthy discussions as the audio clarity is less than fantastic.

LiveTrack is the most useful function. You can set it up to automatically transmit a link to chosen contacts whenever you start an activity, so they can follow your real time location on a map. It’s excellent for monitoring race performance, but it primarily serves as a utility for someone you rely on to be aware of your whereabouts in case an incident occurs. It has generally worked well, although the actual location has occasionally been delayed when moving in and out of strong LTE signal.

All of these features are accessible on other Garmin devices if you carry your phone with you, but in locations where LTE does not reach, the satellite kicks in on the Fenix 8 Pro to transmit texts, location check-ins and SOS SOS.

A on-screen assistance displays you how to locate the line of sight to the satellite, which then sends and receives communications within about 10 to 30 seconds. It was surprisingly easy to use and could be a vital lifeline, though it is essential to remember that satellite service is limited to the US mainland, the majority of Canada, and most of Europe excluding parts of Scandinavia north of 65 degrees north.

Sustainability

The watch is typically serviceable with options offered via the customer service portal. The battery is rated to maintain at least 90% of its original power after two years of regular charging. The watch lacks any recycled materials. Garmin provides recycling programs on new purchases.

Cost

This Fenix 8 Pro is priced from £1,029.99 (€1,199.99/$1,199.99/A$2,299). The optional Garmin inReach service packages cost from £7.99 (€9.99/$7.99/A$13.50).

Conclusion

The Fenix 8 Pro builds on a excellent adventure watch in the standard Fenix 8 and adds LTE for messaging, calls and LiveTrack – along with satellite messaging, check-in and emergency SOS for when you’re out of coverage.

The result is an increasingly impressive outdoor device for those that want to be unplugged. If you want to have someone keep an eye on you from afar while exercising out at night or in the remote areas, the Garmin accomplishes this without requiring additional gear.

This is very liberating to be outside without a phone, but that capability carries quite a cost, both in terms of the substantial cost of the watch and the monthly subscription of the inReach service to provide the features. At least it isn’t dependent on your phone provider so works with all brand of smartphone and network.

The Fenix 8 Pro is a top-tier gadget for someone who dislikes being burdened by their phone when running, cycling or trekking, but still desires to be locatable and contactable. For everyone else, it is a significant money when the superb Fenix 8 is already available.

Pros: LTE and satellite messaging, high-luminance OLED screen, tracks everything with premier GPS, integrated torch, phone and standalone voice control, 8+ day endurance, Garmin Pay, full offline mapping and navigation, offline Spotify, 100-metre waterproofing and 40-metre underwater use, buttons and touch.

Cons: very expensive, LTE and orbital features need ongoing subscription, limited Garmin Pay financial support, voice features are slow, limited smartwatch features versus Apple/Google/Samsung watches.