TL;DR
Garmin's Instinct 2 Solar uses sunlight to extend runtime, aiming to minimize the need for regular charging. The device pairs standard smartwatch functions — health and fitness tracking, location sensors and notifications — with solar charging and contactless payments, and the article highlights current retailer discounts.
What happened
The article profiles the Garmin Instinct 2 Solar, a wristwatch-style smartwatch that incorporates solar charging to reduce or eliminate frequent plug-in charging. The piece describes the device as feature-rich despite a straightforward look: it supports health and fitness monitoring, includes multiple sensors for navigation and location tracking, and delivers smartphone notifications to the wrist. It also supports Garmin Pay for contactless purchases at compatible terminals. Technical details cited in the article include a fiber-reinforced polymer case, a 45mm case size, a 33mm monochrome display and 32 MB of RAM. Pricing references vary in the write-up: retailer listings shown at $250, a separate line noting a sale price as low as $225, and mention of a discount compared with the original price. The story presents the watch as a practical option for users who want longer time between charges.
Why it matters
- Solar charging addresses a common smartwatch complaint by reducing dependence on charging cables and docks.
- Extended runtime can make the device more suitable for outdoor, multi-day or high-activity use where access to power is limited.
- On-wrist payment support (Garmin Pay) lets users complete transactions without pulling out a phone or wallet.
- Rugged materials and navigation sensors support use in active and outdoor environments.
Key facts
- The device uses solar energy to extend battery life and reduce charging frequency.
- It provides health and fitness tracking and multiple sensors for location and navigation.
- The watch delivers smartphone notifications when paired with a connected phone.
- Garmin Pay is available for contactless payments at supported terminals.
- Case material listed as fiber-reinforced polymer and case size listed as 45mm in the article.
- Display described as a 33mm monochrome screen; the article lists 32 MB of RAM.
- The article cited retailer listings of $250 at Best Buy, Amazon and Garmin, and also referenced a sale price as low as $225.
- The piece noted a discount compared with the device's original price (the article described a price reduction).
- The coverage comes from an Android Police story by Timi Cantisano.
What to watch next
- Real-world solar charging performance and how much everyday sunlight is needed to meaningfully extend runtime — not confirmed in the source.
- Exact battery-life figures under different usage modes (GPS, always-on sensors, notifications) — not confirmed in the source.
- Platform and phone-compatibility details for features like notifications and Garmin Pay — not confirmed in the source.
Quick glossary
- Solar charging: A method that uses photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight into electrical energy to replenish a device's battery.
- Garmin Pay: A contactless payment service that lets supported Garmin devices complete payments at compatible terminals without a card or phone.
- Monochrome display: A screen that renders content in a single color (typically black and white) rather than a full color palette, often to improve battery efficiency.
- Sensors: Hardware components such as GPS, accelerometers and heart-rate monitors that collect data about the user or the environment for tracking and navigation.
Reader FAQ
Does the Instinct 2 Solar charge from sunlight?
Yes — the article describes the watch as using solar charging to extend its runtime.
Does it support contactless payments?
Yes — the piece states the watch includes Garmin Pay for use at supported terminals.
How long does the battery last in days or hours?
Not confirmed in the source.
What is the current price?
The article lists retailer prices of $250 and also notes a sale price mentioned as low as $225; it also references a reduction from a higher original price.
This smartwatch is designed to stay on your wrist forever By Timi Cantisano Published 36 minutes ago Timi is a news and deals writer who's been reporting on technology for…
Sources
- This smartwatch is designed to stay on your wrist forever
- Garmin Instinct® 2 Solar | Rugged GPS Smartwatch
- Garmin Instinct 2 Solar, Smaller-Sized Rugged Outdoor …
- Garmin Instinct 2 Solar Standard Smartwatch
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