Garmin has announced the Venu X1, a new smartwatch that emphasizes design minimalism and screen visibility while incorporating practical features like on-wrist calling, voice control, and an integrated flashlight. With an 8mm-thick rectangular case and a 2-inch AMOLED display—one of the largest currently available in its category—the Venu X1 enters the market with a focus on combining form and functionality for everyday use.
The Venu X1 is built around a titanium caseback and sapphire lens, aimed at improving durability without adding bulk. Despite its slim profile, the smartwatch includes a range of hardware typically reserved for larger wearables. A built-in speaker and microphone allow for calls and voice commands when connected to a compatible smartphone. The device also features a bright LED flashlight, enhancing usability in low-light situations—an addition more common in rugged wearables than mainstream models.
Garmin is positioning the Venu X1 as a lifestyle-focused smartwatch that doesn’t sacrifice capability. The 2-inch AMOLED display makes viewing preloaded maps, fitness metrics, and notifications more accessible at a glance. Customizable watch faces and adjustable font sizes support users with different visual preferences, while health and activity data like heart rate, altitude, and training readiness remain front and center.
The watch is bundled with a 24mm quick-release nylon band designed for around-the-clock comfort and comes in two color options: black and moss. With up to eight days of battery life in standard smartwatch mode, Garmin continues to emphasize long battery performance as a key differentiator in an increasingly crowded wearable market.
Additional functionality includes support for voice assistant commands, such as setting timers or starting fitness activities directly from the watch—some of which do not require a phone connection. This hands-free element is intended to reduce friction during workouts or daily tasks, especially for users who prefer minimal device interaction.
With a suggested retail price of $799.99, the Venu X1 is positioned at the high end of Garmin’s wearable portfolio. Its launch continues the brand’s strategy of targeting both fitness enthusiasts and general consumers looking for durable, feature-rich smartwatches that avoid the overtly sporty look of many competitors.
Set for release in June, the Venu X1 reflects Garmin’s ongoing attempt to expand beyond its traditional performance-tracking base into a broader market that values design, usability, and integrated communication tools alongside health and fitness features. Whether its expanded display and slim profile resonate with users looking for a more refined smartwatch experience remains to be seen, but the inclusion of practical hardware like a flashlight and speaker suggest Garmin is thinking beyond fitness in this iteration.
