KEY POINTS

  • Garmin released a new privacy-focused smartwatch
  • The new wearable is built according to military standards
  • The new smartwatch is available now 

Smartwatch and tracker company Garmin has announced the new Garmin Tactix Delta, the fourth entry in the Tactix series of rugged smartwatches. The new wearable features a great design, some interesting features, a long 21-day battery life, and durability meant to withstand tough conditions.

According to Garmin's website, the Tactix Delta is built according to MIL-STD-810 standards. It has tactical-specific features that makes it useful in the field even when it's dark, such as night vision compatibility. It also has the Jumpmaster mode, which works to help skydivers reach their objective by providing them with the necessary info they need after making the jump.

The Tactix Delta helps users locate themselves and their companions using a dual-position format. This feature shows the universal transverse mercator (UTM) and military grid reference system (MGRS) on the same screen, helping users find others on the map.

The new Tactix Delta also has two features that are found separately on two Garmin devices. First is Stealth Mode, which stops storing and sharing GPS location data with others. This feature also cuts wireless connectivity and communication with others. This feature is seen to help users keep their location secret and safe from others.

The other feature is a Kill Switch that allows users to wipe all user memory from the device. This feature will serve to protect user information in the event of an emergency.

The Tactix Delta also has some other features that can help users in various situations. Here's a quick look at some of them:

  • Expedition Mode is an ultralow-powered GPS feature that allows the wearable to be used for weeks at a time.
  • The Climbpro Feature helps users plan their ascent into elevated terrain such as mountains. It provides relevant information such as gradient, distance and elevation gain.
  • Turn-By-Turn Navigation helps users get to their destination by informing them of the next turn ahead of time so they don't miss it

Aside from these, the Tactix Delta also has the usual smartwatch features, The Verge noted. Garmin claims that with the Tactix Delta, users will be able to “Measure running and cycling performance in ways you didn’t know were possible.”

The Garmin Tactix Delta is now available for $899.99 via Garmin.

Some 2,000 US soldiers conduct training missions 40 African countries, including here in Mali
Garmin's newest privacy-focused smartwatch has been designed for use in the field. AFP / ISSOUF SANOGO