In the competitive world of wearable technology, Garmin Ltd. has long positioned itself as a leader in durable, fitness-focused smartwatches, appealing to athletes and outdoor enthusiasts who demand reliability. However, recent reports highlight a growing concern among users of older models: persistent screen issues that could undermine the company’s reputation for longevity. Owners of devices like the Garmin Fenix 6 series and Venu Sq have taken to forums and social media to complain about burn-in, ghosting, and pixel degradation, problems that appear to affect both OLED and Memory-in-Pixel (MiP) displays.

These issues aren’t isolated incidents. According to a detailed investigation by TechRadar, the problems stem from prolonged exposure to static images, such as watch faces or fitness metrics, which can cause permanent marks on the screen. This burn-in effect, traditionally associated with OLED technology, is surprisingly appearing on MiP screens—Garmin’s low-power alternative designed for extended battery life. Industry insiders note that while MiP displays mimic e-ink for energy efficiency, they aren’t immune to wear over time, especially in models from 2019 to 2022.

Emerging Patterns in User Complaints and Garmin’s Response Strategy

The wave of complaints has escalated in recent months, with users reporting that affected watches display faint outlines of icons or text even after switching screens. One Reddit thread, amplified by coverage in NotebookCheck.net, details how devices like the Instinct 2 and Forerunner 245 exhibit these flaws after two to three years of use. This timeline aligns with Garmin’s typical warranty periods, leaving many owners to foot repair bills or consider upgrades. Analysts suggest this could be a calculated risk for Garmin, pushing consumers toward newer AMOLED-equipped models like the Venu X1, which promise brighter, more vibrant displays but at a higher price point.

Garmin’s official stance has been measured. In statements to Garmin News, the company acknowledges the reports but attributes them to “normal wear and tear” in high-usage scenarios. They recommend software updates and avoiding static watch faces, yet no widespread recall or free repair program has been announced. This approach contrasts with competitors like Apple Inc., which has proactively addressed similar display issues in its Watch Ultra series through firmware fixes and extended warranties.

Technological Trade-Offs and Implications for Future Designs

At the heart of these problems lies a fundamental trade-off in smartwatch design: balancing battery life with display quality. Garmin’s reliance on MiP technology in older models allowed for weeks-long battery performance, a key selling point over power-hungry rivals. However, as TechRadar explores in a related piece, the company is phasing out MiP in favor of AMOLED, signaling a shift toward premium, feature-rich devices that compete directly with Apple and Samsung. This evolution raises questions for industry observers about sustainability—will newer models avoid these pitfalls, or introduce new ones like faster battery drain?

For Garmin, the stakes are high. With the smartwatch market projected to grow 15% annually, per industry estimates, alienating loyal users could erode market share. Some insiders speculate that forthcoming updates, possibly tied to the Fenix 8 series, might include enhanced display coatings to mitigate burn-in. Yet, without transparent communication, trust may wane.

Broader Industry Lessons and Consumer Advice Amid Ongoing Issues

This situation underscores broader challenges in the wearables sector, where rapid innovation often outpaces hardware durability. Competitors like Fitbit, now under Alphabet Inc., have faced similar backlash over device failures, prompting class-action scrutiny. For Garmin users, experts advise checking for firmware updates via the Connect app and rotating watch faces to minimize static exposure. If problems persist, contacting support early could yield goodwill replacements, though outcomes vary.

Ultimately, as Garmin navigates this hiccup, the episode serves as a reminder that even rugged tech has limits. Industry veterans watching from the sidelines suggest the company invest more in post-sale support to maintain its edge in a market where reliability is paramount. For now, affected owners are left monitoring their screens closely, hoping for resolutions that match the endurance Garmin promises.