Garmin Descent MK4 is one of the most highly anticipated dive smartwatches of 2025. Garmin has built a reputation for making some of the best dive computers in the world, combining advanced dive tracking, fitness monitoring, and rugged durability.
While Garmin has yet to confirm an official release date, industry trends and past product launches give us a good idea of what to expect.
In this blog, we’ll break down the expected release timeline, rumored features, and how the Descent MK4 compares to its predecessor, the Descent MK3.
When Will Garmin Descent MK4 Be Released?
Garmin typically follows a three-year release cycle for its Descent series:
| Model | Release Date |
|---|---|
| Garmin Descent MK1 | September 2017 |
| Garmin Descent MK2 | October 2020 |
| Garmin Descent MK3 | November 2023 |
| Garmin Descent MK4 | Expected Late 2025 – Early 2026 |
Based on Garmin’s release cycle, the Garmin Descent MK4 release date is expected between late 2025 and early 2026. Previous models like the MK1, MK2, and MK3 followed a 3-year launch cycle.
Garmin usually releases new models in the fall or early spring, aligning with holiday shopping trends and major tech expos.
However, some insiders speculate that Garmin might release a limited-edition preview in 2025 due to increasing competition from the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Suunto Ocean.
5 Exciting Features Expected in the Garmin Descent MK4
The Descent MK4 is expected to introduce major improvements in dive tracking, fitness features, battery life, and smartwatch capabilities. Let’s dive into the five most anticipated upgrades.
1️⃣ AI-Powered Dive Tracking & Smart Gas Mixing
Garmin is known for its industry-leading dive computers, and the MK4 is expected to take things even further with:
- AI-driven dive planning for safer and smarter diving.
- Real-time GPS mapping for better underwater navigation.
- Improved gas mix calculations for technical divers.
- Advanced ascent rate warnings to prevent decompression sickness.
If AI-powered tracking is implemented, the MK4 could be the most intelligent dive smartwatch Garmin has ever built.
2️⃣ ECG Monitoring & Enhanced Health Tracking
The Garmin Descent series has slowly evolved into a multi-sport watch, and the MK4 might add ECG (electrocardiogram) tracking—a feature that the Apple Watch Ultra already has but is missing in previous Garmin dive watches.
Other expected health features include:
- More accurate underwater heart rate monitoring.
- SpO2 (blood oxygen monitoring) for altitude and dive adaptation.
- Advanced sleep tracking for optimized recovery.
With Garmin expanding into health monitoring, the MK4 could appeal to both divers and fitness enthusiasts.
3️⃣ Extended Battery Life with Solar Charging
Battery life is one of the biggest concerns for divers. The Descent MK4 is rumored to feature:
- 30 days of battery life in smartwatch mode (up from 20 days in the MK3).
- 50+ days in standby mode with solar-assisted charging.
- More efficient dive mode battery optimization.
With Garmin’s advanced Power Glass solar technology, the Descent MK4 could offer 50+ days of standby time—outlasting most dive smartwatches on the market. Compared to the MK3’s 20-day battery, this upgrade makes the Descent MK4 ideal for long diving trips.
4️⃣ Upgraded AMOLED Display & Rugged Build
Garmin’s new dive smartwatch is expected to feature a 1.5-inch AMOLED display, offering brighter visuals, higher contrast, and improved underwater readability compared to the MK3’s 1.2-inch screen.
This upgrade enhances dive watch screen visibility, making it easier to read critical dive data in low-light or murky conditions.
To ensure maximum durability, Garmin is rumored to introduce a titanium casing for superior corrosion resistance in saltwater environments, along with sapphire crystal glass featuring an anti-glare coating.
These enhancements make the MK4 one of the most rugged dive smartwatches ever designed.
💡 Why It Matters:
- AMOLED vs. MIP Display: AMOLED provides richer colors and deeper blacks, ensuring better readability underwater.
- Garmin Sapphire Glass Durability: Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal enhances the watch’s lifespan.
- Extreme Waterproofing: The MK4 is rumored to have a 250m waterproof rating, making it ideal for deep-sea divers.
With these improvements, the Descent MK4 combines cutting-edge display technology with military-grade toughness, making it a perfect dive smartwatch for extreme conditions.
While the Apple Watch Ultra 2 boasts a 100m waterproof rating, Garmin is expected to push the boundaries with a 250m depth rating, making it ideal for deep-sea divers.
Also Read :- AMOLED vs. MIP Displays in Garmin Devices: A Comprehensive Analysis
5️⃣ LTE Connectivity for Calls & Messaging
While the Descent series is primarily a dive watch, many users are hoping for more smartwatch functionality. The MK4 might introduce:
- LTE connectivity for calls and messages without a smartphone.
- Garmin Pay for contactless transactions.
- Offline music playback (Spotify & Apple Music support).
💡 Why It Matters:
If LTE support is included, divers could stay connected, send emergency SOS signals, and even track location without needing a phone.
These features could make the Descent MK4 more than just a dive watch, turning it into a true everyday smartwatch for adventurers.
Garmin Descent MK4 vs. Garmin Descent MK3 – Key Differences
| Feature | Garmin Descent MK4 (Rumored) | Garmin Descent MK3 |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 1.5-inch AMOLED (brighter) | 1.2-inch AMOLED |
| Waterproof Rating | 250m | 200m |
| Battery Life | 30 Days (Solar Charging) | 20 Days |
| ECG Feature | Yes (Rumored) | No |
| Dive Tracking | AI-Powered & Real-Time GPS | Standard GPS |
| Smart Features | Music, Garmin Pay, LTE | Basic Notifications |
| Expected Price | $1,200 – $1,500 | $999 |
The Garmin Descent MK4 is expected to improve battery life, display quality, dive tracking, and smartwatch features, making it one of the most advanced dive smartwatches Garmin has ever built.
Should You Wait for the Garmin Descent MK4?
✅ YES – If you want:
- Cutting-edge dive tracking with AI assistance.
- Longer battery life with solar charging.
- ECG monitoring for improved health tracking.
❌ NO – If you need a dive smartwatch now
The Garmin Descent MK3 is still one of the best dive smartwatches available today, offering advanced dive tracking, a durable design, and a more budget-friendly price.
Don’t miss out on a great deal— Check the latest discounts and offers on Amazon now. 🛒
Final Thoughts – The Future of Dive Smartwatches
With AI-powered dive tracking, ECG monitoring, and LTE connectivity, the Garmin Descent MK4 could redefine what a dive smartwatch can do.
As we eagerly await Garmin’s official announcement, one thing is certain: the Descent MK4 is set to redefine what a dive smartwatch can do.
What features are you most excited about? Drop your thoughts in the comments & Sign up for our newsletter to get the latest Garmin Descent MK4 leaks, pre-order details, and official announcements.
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