Garmin Raises the Stakes with the Release of the new fenix GPS Watch

Garmin has raised the stakes for outdoor adventure enthusiasts with the launch of its new fenix GPS navigator and Altimeter, Barometer, Compass wristwatch (ABC wristwatch). The device builds on the success of Garmin’s fitness and outdoor categories, and is designed to satisfy the requirements of the serious adventurer.

(While this is not a triathlon and multisport watch have a read as many of these new features are sure to roll through to our sport. Garmin already has the class leading 910xt. Some key features are extended battery life and waterproof to 50m).

With Garmin’s world-leading GPS navigation capabilities, a built-in barometric altimeter, barometer, 3-axis electronic compass, and 50m waterproof construction, the fÄ“nix is the ultimate adventure companion. fÄ“nix even allows wireless unit-to-unit communication so you can share your route with friends – all while functioning perfectly as a day-to-day wristwatch.

At its core, the fÄ“nix is equipped with Garmin’s robust GPS navigation, so you can roam the great outdoors with the confidence you’ll always find your campsite again.   Keen bushwalkers and hikers can mark up to 1,000 points of interest, as well as access their bearings using the device’s 3-axis electronic compass.

The fÄ“nix not only records where you have been, but guides you through the wilderness and back again with its innovative TracBack feature. TracBack records a track log as you move, creating a GPS ‘bread crumb trail’ on your trek or hike.

“The Garmin fÄ“nix is an iconic product and it caters to the needs of adventure-loving Aussies,” said Trevor Berrange, managing director, Garmin Australasia. “Garmin has a strong culture of innovation and we’re proud to be constantly shaping exciting developments in the GPS category with landmark products like the fÄ“nix. Building on the features of devices in our fitness and outdoor categories, fÄ“nix provides not only the strengths of an ABC wristwatch, but navigation and communication as well.”

To keep in touch with others on the trail, the fÄ“nix allows you to easily share tracks, waypoints, routes and paperless geocaches wirelessly with other compatible Garmin GPS units and smartphones. The fÄ“nix’s ANT+ capabilities and Bluetooth technology keep you in close contact with others while exploring. With Garmin’s free trip-planning software BaseCamp, you can download tried and tested trip routes, or create your own to share with others.

Being aware of your surroundings is crucial when exploring the outdoors. With the simple touch of a button, you can access the built-in altimeter to provide accurate elevation information so you can keep track of your ascent and descent.

The device’s built-in barometer and temperature sensor allow you monitor and predict weather changes, helping you stay away from dangerous conditions and determine your clothing and shelter needs. For additional ambient temperature readings, Garmin’s Tempe „¢ external temperature sensor attaches to your pack, jacket, or shoes.

The fēnix is built to endure the toughest outdoor conditions, combining a shock-resistant high-strength housing with a mineral glass lens to protect against scratches. fēnix boasts a large LCD display with LED backlight and robust polyurethane wristbands. Waterproof to 50 metres and with a battery life of up to 50 hours in GPS mode and up to 6 weeks in watch mode, fēnix is not afraid of any wilderness challenge. Day-to-day watch functions include alarms, tones, vibration alerts, timer, stopwatch and world clock with the ability to display several times zones at once.

The fÄ“nix is also ideal for lovers of outdoor fitness activities. The device is compatible with Garmin’s heart rate monitor, which provides accurate heart rate data to challenge and improve your fitness.

Mountain bikers can also take advantage of the fÄ“nix in conjunction with Garmin’s speed and cadence sensor, which tracks distance, speed and pedal cadence, even as you cycle through rough terrain.

“Keen athletes and amateurs alike can rely on the fÄ“nix to advance their fitness,” said Berrange. “The fÄ“nix’s 50 metre water resistance, along with the Garmin heart rate monitor and speed and cadence sensor, make this the perfect device for lovers of hiking, cycling, or canoeing.”

The fēnix represents the latest breakthrough in design and engineering excellence from Garmin, which has spent over 20 years developing technologies that have shaped the navigation industry worldwide.

The Garmin fÄ“nix is available from August 2012  with a recommended retail price of $449.