3 new features I want to see from Garmin in 2026

The new features I want to see on Garmin watches during the coming year

Features By Paul Hatton published 28 December 2025

(Image credit: Future) Jump To:

• 1. Power Glass AMOLED
• 2. Hypertension detection
• 3. Gesture Controls

Share Share by:

• Copy link
• Facebook
• X
• Whatsapp
• Reddit
• Pinterest
• Flipboard
• Threads

Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google

Garmin has had a good 2025, thanks to the release of new Forerunners, Instinct, Venu, Vivoactive and the Fenix 8 Pro series of watches. Its entire range has effectively gotten a revamp.

With 2026 just around the corner, I've been thinking about my wish list for 2026's best Garmin watches. Not necessarily the models (although I'm sure the Fenix 9 is probably on the horizon), but the features those models will contain.

I've whittled down the options, and you can read about them below. What Garmin has in store, only they know, but I hope they'll make some bold decisions so we're not discussing the same old problems next year.

1. Power Glass AMOLED

Introducing Power Glass AMOLED would end the restriction of solar charging to MIP-only models. Currently, users must choose between the long battery life of solar and the modern, vibrant display of AMOLED. Combining these features would allow premium AMOLED watches like the Forerunner series to regain the passive battery extension we last saw on the Garmin Forerunner 955, eliminating a significant trade-off for high-end users.

Garmin would rightly cite the technical challenges of implementing this feature, such as the difficulty of creating a solar layer that can harvest light without blocking and degrading visibility. How a solar layer and AMOLED display can coexist is way beyond my pay grade, but that doesn't stop me from wanting it.

Integrating solar charging into AMOLED would future-proof Garmin's flagship lineup. By adding Power Glass, Garmin would retain its fantastic battery life while delivering the high-quality visual experience we've come to expect.

2. Hypertension detection

A hypertension monitoring smartwatch uses optical sensors (PPG) to track heart rate and blood flow patterns, analyzing data over time to detect potential signs of high blood pressure (hypertension). Key models like the latest and best Apple Watches use sophisticated algorithms and PPG signals, while others, like Huawei Watch D2, incorporate micro-pump cuffs for more direct measurement.

Get daily insight, inspiration and deals in your inbox

Sign up for breaking news, reviews, opinion, top tech deals, and more.

Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsors