Garmin Ltd. reports developments across GPS-enabled hardware and software for fitness, outdoor, automotive, aviation and marine markets. Company news commonly covers earnings releases, new smartwatch features, aviation flight deck systems, marine sonar and chartplotter products, and integrations through the Connect IQ platform and connected wearables.
Garmin updates also include audio products under JL Audio and Fusion, inReach satellite and cellular connectivity, supplier recognition in aviation, and product partnerships tied to health, messaging and outdoor communications. The company is incorporated in Switzerland, with principal subsidiaries in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom.
Garmin Ltd. (NYSE: GRMN) reported a record revenue of $4.98 billion for the fiscal year 2021, marking a 19% increase year-over-year. The fourth quarter revenue reached $1.39 billion, up 3% compared to the previous year. Despite strong performance, operating income fell 15% in Q4 to $315 million. Gross margins stood at 58.0%, while operating margins decreased from 25.2% to 24.5% for the year. Garmin anticipates 2022 revenue to be around $5.5 billion, suggesting a 10% growth, with pro forma EPS projected at $5.90. The company also announced a dividend increase alongside positive recognition for several product innovations.
Garmin has launched the Garmin Boat Switch, an innovative digital switching solution that integrates with Garmin ECHOMAP and GPSMAP chartplotters. This system allows for digital control over 20 circuits, enhancing the ease of managing onboard functions like lights and water pumps. The Garmin Boat Switch simplifies installation, requiring no specialized tools, and is priced at $999.99. It is designed to improve the boating experience by offering advanced technology and user-friendly operation, streamlining interactions with the vessel's systems.
Garmin has entered a two-year agreement to become the official wearable sponsor of the National Scholastic Athletics Foundation (NSAF). This partnership aims to enhance the experience of over 200,000 student athletes involved in NSAF programs. Garmin will sponsor key events such as the Nike Indoor Nationals and Nike Outdoor Nationals, showcasing its advanced wearable technology. The collaboration reflects Garmin's commitment to support youth athletics and provide athletes with state-of-the-art training tools. NSAF Executive Director Jim Spier highlights Garmin's technology as a game-changer for the sport.
Garmin has unveiled the Instinct 2 Series, a line of rugged smartwatches with unlimited battery life in certain models and multiple sizes. The series features vibrant colors, a high-resolution display, and a host of health and wellness metrics, including VO2 Max and Sleep Score. With military-grade durability and water resistance up to 100 meters, it caters to outdoor enthusiasts. Starting at $349.99, the Instinct 2 Series combines style and functionality, offering customization options and advanced fitness tracking features.
Garmin has launched the Instinct 2 – dēzl Edition, a smartwatch tailored for truck drivers focused on wellness. This smartwatch features 24/7 health tracking, including heart rate and sleep monitoring, alongside tailored workouts and access to truck plaza rewards programs. With durability and a battery life of up to 28 days, it also supports Garmin Pay™ for easy transactions. Priced at $399.99, the device aims to enhance the health and convenience of truckers on the road.
Garmin announces the launch of the D2™ Air X10, a GPS smartwatch designed specifically for pilots. It features advanced aviation tools including built-in voice functionality that allows users to make calls and access their smartphone’s voice assistant. Key capabilities include direct-to navigation, automatic flight logging, and a suite of health tracking features. The watch boasts a battery life of up to 7 days and comes at a suggested retail price of $549.99.
Garmin has announced a three-year title sponsorship of the Garmin Gravel Worlds event, beginning with the 2022 race in Lincoln, Nebraska, set for August 19-20, 2022. This grassroots-style gravel bike race and the new Land Ho 50K ultramarathon will celebrate athletes of all abilities. Garmin aims to promote inclusivity while showcasing its cycling and running products, including Edge cycling computers and Rally power meter pedals.
Garmin has launched the inReach Mini 2, a compact satellite communication device designed for outdoor enthusiasts. It features two-way texting, SOS capabilities, and up to 30 days of battery life. The device includes navigation features like TracBack and integrates with the Garmin Explore app for enhanced functionality. The inReach Mini 2 offers location tracking and weather updates via the global Iridium satellite network. It is priced at $399.99 and requires an active satellite subscription.
Garmin has introduced a new feature, Green Contour data, to its Garmin Golf app membership, enhancing golfers' approach shots by displaying the slope direction of the green. This innovative tool allows users to view critical green information, including slope percentages and directional arrows, available for over 8,900 courses in North America. Membership costs $9.99 monthly or $99.99 annually, with additional benefits such as access to the Home Tee Hero simulator with certain purchases. The feature aims to improve golfers' performance on challenging courses.
Garmin has launched its latest marine cartography products, Garmin Navionics+ and Garmin Navionics Vision+, designed for Garmin chartplotters. These products feature all-in-one mapping solutions integrating detailed inland and offshore data, daily chart updates, and advanced Auto Guidance+ technology for enhanced navigation. With up to 5,000 daily updates and comprehensive coverage of over 42,000 lakes globally, the new cartography aims to improve situational awareness for mariners. Pricing ranges from $129.99 to $399.99 based on coverage.