Garmin Watch Rumours & Leaks for 2026 - What to Expect

Garmin continues to be a leader in premium GPS sports smartwatches and fitness wearables, and 2026 is shaping up to be another significant year of innovation and new model releases. From budget-friendly trackers with built-in GPS to high-end multisport timepieces with advanced connectivity, Garmin’s roadmap is buzzing with leaks, speculation, and particularly exciting trends for runners, cyclists, outdoor adventurers and everyday athletes. 

Upcoming Garmin Watches Rumoured for 2026

While Garmin hasn’t officially confirmed release dates or specs, trusted sources tracking industry leaks and announcements suggest the following lineup changes or launches could be on the way:

1. Garmin Fenix 9

The next iteration of the iconic Fenix series is widely expected in 2026. The Fenix range is Garmin’s premium multisport GPS watch line known for rugged durability, ultra-long battery life and robust outdoor features. A Fenix 9 launch would follow Garmin’s pattern of incremental upgrades across annual cycles, potentially adding refined sensors, connectivity upgrades like LTE or satellite messaging, and new training analytics. As suggested by The 5K Runner, check out their article for information on Coros, Suunto and other rumours for 2026. 

2. Forerunner Series Enhancements

Garmin’s best-selling line for runners, the Forerunner series may see further updates in 2026. Enthusiasts are specifically calling for a proper successor to the older entry-level Forerunner 55, possibly a Forerunner 65 or even a Forerunner 70, with better battery life and improved GPS features that bridge the gap between casual runners and serious training tools. TechRadar reiterates the interest here with their recent article on their Garmin Wishlist.   

3. Vivosmart 6 with Built-In GPS

One of the biggest leaks ahead of CES 2026 points to the Vivosmart 6, Garmin’s next fitness tracker, gaining built-in GPS for the first time. That’s a major step up from the previous Vivosmart 5, which relied on phone-linked GPS for mapping routes. Built-in GPS allows users to accurately track runs, walks and cycles without their smartphone. 

This would position the Vivosmart 6 as a compelling budget choice for fitness fans who want real tracking without paying flagship prices.

Tech Trends Garmin Might Deliver in 2026

Beyond specific models, several broader trends and tech upgrades are rumoured for Garmin wearables next year:

Solar + AMOLED Displays

Patent filings and industry whispers suggest Garmin could be working on next-generation screens that combine AMOLED vibrant colour displays with solar charging tech,  closing the gap between beautiful visuals and industry-leading battery life. This is something that sticks with Apple users, could this push the Apple to Garmin trend harder in 2026? 

Rotating Crown on Mid-Range Models

Garmin has historically avoided copying Apple Watch hardware features, but leaks hint that accessible watches could finally get a rotating crown, improving navigation and usability on smaller screens.

Enhanced Satellite & LTE Connectivity

Higher-end models like the Fenix and some Forerunners could broaden connectivity beyond traditional Bluetooth, adding standalone LTE or satellite messaging capabilities (Garmin’s InReach support) for safer, phone-free communication outdoors. 

Why This Matters to Garmin Fans & Buyers

For runners, cyclists, hikers and triathletes, Garmin’s expanding 2026 roadmap suggests two key themes:

1. More choice across price points - from advanced GPS trackers to premium multisport devices.

2. Feature trickle-down - tech previously reserved for flagship models (like built-in GPS, better sensors, and connectivity) is increasingly expected in mid-range and entry products, giving everyday athletes access to pro-grade tools earlier in their fitness journey.

If you’re considering upgrading or choosing your next Garmin watch, 2026 looks like a year worth watching, especially if you value accurate tracking, dependable battery life and smart connectivity in your wearable tech. Will the fitness lovers continue to flock to Garmin from Apple? Only time will tell...