# Garmin Instinct 3 Leaks: Insights and Necessary Improvements
The Garmin Instinct lineup has established itself as a favorite among outdoor adventurers and enthusiasts, thanks to its sturdy build, military-grade resilience, and remarkable battery longevity. The **Garmin Instinct 2** and **Instinct 2X Solar** variants, introduced in 2022 and 2023 respectively, have further solidified this legacy, boasting features such as solar charging, multi-band GPS, and even an integrated flashlight in the 2X Solar model. Nevertheless, with the latest rumors about the **Garmin Instinct 3**, it appears that Garmin must implement substantial enhancements to maintain the series’ relevance within a fiercely competitive marketplace.
## What We Currently Know
### Leaks and Speculations
A leak from Garmin’s Spanish website has highlighted a **Garmin Instinct 3 45mm Solar** model, although no additional specifics were disclosed. Furthermore, a mention of the Instinct 3 was observed on Garmin’s Hungarian site, indicating that the watch might launch in early 2025, roughly three years after the introduction of the Instinct 2.
The Instinct series is celebrated for its robust construction, thick polymer casing, and “unlimited” battery life when exposed to ample sunlight. The Instinct 3 is anticipated to uphold this tradition but with several essential improvements to remain competitive.
### Anticipated Features
– **Enhanced Solar Charging**: The Instinct 2X Solar demonstrated a 50% increase in solar charging efficiency compared to the Instinct 2 Solar, with the latest **Garmin Fenix 8** and **Enduro 3** models offering even better solar efficiency. It is expected that the Instinct 3 will incorporate this advanced solar technology, enabling superior battery life, particularly in GPS mode.
– **Multi-Band GPS**: The introduction of multi-band GPS in the Instinct 2X Solar markedly enhanced location accuracy. It is likely that the Instinct 3 will either feature multi-band GPS or **all-systems GNSS** for improved tracking in demanding conditions.
– **Water Resistance and Durability**: The Instinct series has consistently been designed to endure the elements, featuring **10ATM water resistance** and military-grade durability. The Instinct 3 will probably retain these characteristics, making it suitable for any adventure.
– **Integrated Flashlight**: The flashlight feature from the Instinct 2X Solar was a welcomed addition, and it’s possible that Garmin will standardize this feature across the entire Instinct 3 collection.
– **New Activity Modes**: A recent leak hinted that Garmin might introduce a **rucking activity** mode, which would align perfectly with the rugged Instinct 3 series. This feature would enable users to monitor muscular load during challenging hikes, offering additional insight for outdoor lovers.
## Areas for Improvement
Although the Instinct series has performed admirably, several aspects could be enhanced by Garmin to ensure the Instinct 3 remains competitive.
### 1. **Display Enhancement**
The **MIP (Memory In Pixel)** display featured in the Instinct series has been a contentious topic for users. While it aids in battery preservation, the **two-window design** of the Instinct 2 limits the display area, restricting the information presented at once. Moreover, the **monochrome display** appears outdated when compared to the vibrant **AMOLED** screens available in other Garmin models like the **Venu** series.
If Garmin succeeds in enhancing the solar efficiency of the Instinct 3, they may not have to compromise significantly on display quality. Ideally, Garmin could provide an **AMOLED version** of the Instinct 3 that still offers extended battery life, or at minimum, a more colorful and high-resolution MIP display.
### 2. **Processor and Performance**
Traditionally, the Instinct series has come equipped with a slower processor relative to Garmin’s other models, likely to help conserve battery life. This decision results in sluggish menu navigation and a less responsive user interface. A **faster CPU** would modernize the Instinct 3 and enhance user experience without significantly affecting battery longevity.
### 3. **Music and Storage Abilities**
A significant drawback of the Instinct series is its absence of music storage and playback functionality. Given that more athletes depend on smartwatches for music during workouts, it is imperative for Garmin to incorporate **music playlists** and support for **wireless earbuds** in the Instinct 3. This enhancement would increase the watch’s versatility and appeal to a wider audience.
### 4. **Health Sensors**
The latest Garmin watches, such as the **Forerunner 265** and **Fenix 8**, have begun to integrate advanced health sensors, including **ECG** and **skin temperature** monitoring features that significantly enhance the health tracking capabilities.
