Garmin has unveiled the Approach G20 Solar – the first solar-powered GPS golf handheld – along with new Approach S44 and S50 smartwatches.
The solar-powered display gives players yardages to the front, middle and back of greens through a 2.2ins high-contrast screen. While players can stash the device in their bag after the round without worrying about recharging in sunny conditions, they can also expect to use it for up to 36 rounds without solar charging.
Other features include more than 43,000 preloaded courses worldwide and the ability to receive course updates wirelessly when paired with a compatible smartphone; the option to see the shape of greens and pin placements; a sunlight-readable display; and larger text to make the device easier to use. Players can also track shots when they pair the Approach G20 Solar (RRP £299.99) with Approach CT10 club tracking tags. The device can also be paired with the Garmin Golf app to display wind speed and direction, and keep score.
The device can also be mounted on a golf buggy with the built-in magnet or attached to a belt with the included clip. If it’s accidently left behind, golfers can use the Find My Garmin option to see the last known location of the device through the Garmin Golf app.
Meanwhile, the two new additions to Garmin’s golf smartwatch line-up feature slim, lightweight builds and a range of tools for golfers looking to improve their game.
Equipped with 1.2ins colour AMOLED displays, the new smartwatches include preloaded maps of more than 43,000 golf courses and deliver up to 15 hours of battery life in GPS mode.
Designed for golfers who want the most important information, the Approach S44 (RRP £299.99) can help players plan their next shot by showing the location of bunkers, water hazards and layup areas as well as distances to the front, middle and back of greens. Plus, users can leave their phone in the bag and receive smart notifications on their wrist.
Building on the S44, the Approach S50 (RRP £379.99) provides essential golf features while adding PlaysLike distances. It also includes a heart rate sensor which facilitates a full suite of health, wellness and fitness features.
In addition to the extensive health and wellness features – from preloaded activity profiles for training and fitness to morning reports on your sleep and heart rate variability – the Approach S50 includes a ComfortFit Nylon strap. Users can also receive smart notifications, access Garmin Pay, and listen to music or podcasts on the go.
The smartwatches are also compatible with the Approach CT1 tracking tags and smartphone app, and users can also access premium features with a Garmin Golf membership (£8.99/month or £89.99/year) including enhanced CourseView maps, green contour previews and touch targeting.