Skylo and Garmin Join Forces to Deliver Satellite Connectivity in New fēnix® 8 Pro Smartwatches

Skylo and Garmin: A New Era in Smartwatch Connectivity

In a groundbreaking move, Skylo Technologies has partnered with Garmin to integrate satellite connectivity features into the newly launched fēnix® 8 Pro smartwatches. This collaboration brings a revolutionary approach to personal safety and communication for outdoor enthusiasts, offering direct-to-satellite messaging and emergency SOS capabilities, all from the convenience of the wearer's wrist.

Enhanced Connectivity

The fēnix® 8 Pro smartwatches now boast a powerful feature allowing users to send and receive text messages directly, without the need for a smartphone. This functionality is especially valuable for adventurers traversing remote areas where cellular signals are unreliable or non-existent. Thanks to Skylo's robust satellite network, users in the contiguous United States, Canada, and Europe can remain in contact, sharing essential live GPS coordinates with ease.

The Garmin fēnix 8 Pro smartwatch utilizes Skylo's commercial satellite services to provide emergency communication capabilities. In case of an incident, users can utilize the Garmin Response(SM) service to get in touch with emergency responders, sharing their circumstances and real-time GPS location to facilitate swift assistance. This feature merges technology with emergency preparedness, ensuring users can reach out for help when it matters most.

A History of Collaboration

This launch is the next phase of an existing strategic partnership between Skylo and Garmin. Historically, this collaboration has focused on utilizing Garmin Response services to enhance communication for users of various devices connected through Skylo’s satellites. The partnership aims to bridge the gap between necessary emergency services and those in dangerous situations, whether a hiker lost on a trail or individuals facing health challenges away from terrestrial coverage areas.

As Tarun Gupta, co-founder and Chief Product Officer of Skylo Technologies, emphasized, this advancement in satellite connectivity is designed to be seamless and unobtrusive. The goal is to ensure connectivity that is available exactly when users need it while engaging in outdoor activities or adventures.

Pioneering Integration

Garmin becomes one of the first well-known smartwatch brands to embrace standard-based satellite connectivity, departing from proprietary satellite hardware. With the fēnix® 8 Pro, the same functionality that previously required dedicated satellite communicators is now integrated into an everyday watch. This shift signifies a trend towards more accessible, scalable, and integrated satellite connectivity solutions, offering a reliable safety net for users.

Skylo’s services leverage existing 3GPP protocols, allowing a straightforward integration of satellite technology into popular consumer devices. This approach not only simplifies the technology's implementation but also enhances availability across various regions — boasting connectivity across 36 countries and covering 60 million square kilometers.

Quotations from Leadership

Brad Trenkle, co-Chief Operating Officer of Garmin, expressed pride in this collaboration, emphasizing the importance of the SOS service for the fēnix 8 Pro smartwatch. For nearly two decades, Garmin Response has successfully handled numerous SOS incidents globally, effectively connecting adventurers with emergency assistance when needed. The commitment to safety and innovation stands as a testament to both companies' dedication to empowering individuals in their endeavors.

Available Now

The fēnix 8 Pro smartwatches will start shipping on September 8 and will be available through select Garmin retailers and online at Garmin’s website. This offering symbolizes the future of wearable technology — a blend of convenience, safety, and unprecedented connectivity.

About the Companies

Skylo Technologies is renowned for its capability to provide direct-to-device connectivity using satellite technology. Based in Mountain View, California, the company focuses on enhancing outdoor connectivity for a wide range of devices. In contrast, Garmin is a pioneer in GPS technology, committed to creating innovative products that enhance user experiences for outdoor adventures.
Both companies are committed to establishing new standards in technology, aiming for a significant impact on consumers' ability to communicate and stay safe in the outdoors.