Garmin Instinct 3 – New Leak…now very close to launch

Garmin Instinct 3 now released: More here

Four previously leaked Garmin Instinct 3 models have been listed and removed from the Jura Watches UK site. No photos or hardware specs were added, but these are some juicy hints about the features saved here by Reddit user u/MaverickLondon.

No photos or hardware specs were added, but these are some juicy hints about the features saved here by Reddit user u/MaverickLondon found this:

The Garmin Instinct 3 continues its second-generation evolution, offering a wide range of outdoor GPS smartwatches designed for those seeking a smaller case size, solar-powered options, and enhanced battery life. Building on the features that made the original Garmin Instinct a standout, the Garmin Instinct 3 and Instinct 3S models introduce new VO2 max training status, suggested workouts, Fitness Age 2.0, Smart Trainer support, Connected Leaderboard, Respiration Tracking, Sleep Widget, Connect IQ, and Garmin Pay. Additionally, the Garmin Instinct 3 Solar boasts infinite battery life, perfect for extended outdoor adventures. Source: Reddit

So, Garmin PAY has been newly added to the non-solar model, as is the Connected Leaderboard for group activities. I’d have to double-check the rest, but I think they exist in some form. However, like suggested workouts, they are probably expanded to include the new strength workouts.

Speculations

Instinct 2X used Garmin’s Elevate 4 OHR sensor without SatIQ. The Instinct 3 and 3s (solar and non-solar) might have Elevate 5 ECG OHR plus the latest GNSS dual frequency chip that supports SatIQ. Or they might not…no guarantees! Garmin needs to differentiate Instinct from Fenix…older components are one way to do that.

New, improved solar panels have been used in the ring around the screens of the Fenix 8 solar range, and Instinct 3/3s Solar models will likely get Garmin’s latest solar tech. Instinct 2 Solar did have infinite battery life claims in some modes. Hence, the likelihood is that the infinite battery on Instinct 3 will apply to a wider range of scenarios and battery-saving modes.

Note: There will likely be an improved solar ring panel, but the shape of the ‘ring’ might change from what we see on the 2X, offering more screen area(?)

Unlike many other Garmin ranges, it’s less likely that Instinct 3 will get an AMOLED screen. Garmin will be tempted to copy what it has done with Fenix E/Fenix 8 and keep a MIP+Solar option, then grab cash from an AMOLED variant.

Energy savings from A MIP screen with revamped solar panels will significantly increase battery life across the board compared to other Garmin models.

Support for Connect IQ System 8 will also be added.

Models

Instinct 2 was initially released with the 2 and 2S sizes. The 2X size came a year later. It looks like the same release pattern this time around.

However, we can reasonably say that the 3/3S AMOLED models should have at least the same hardware as the 2X. Thus, it is should be a dual-frequency GPS and maybe a flashlight.

The listing confirms Instinct 3, 3S, 3 Solar and 3S Solar as per a similar leak reported in November 2024 from Garmin Spain, confirming the solar model and Garmin PAY.

Pricing

Expect at least a $300 price tag with $100 more for Solar.

Released at CES

For a Garmin watch to be listed by a retailer often means there will be a launch within 10 days of the weekend it was leaked. CES2025 starts on Tuesday, 7 Jan, but Garmin has historically avoided launching during big events where many competing products might steal some valuable column inches. My bet is for the following week, i.e., 14 January.