Garmin has unveiled and released its new Approach J1 smartwatch in markets worldwide, marking the company’s first golf watch designed specifically for junior players. The model targets a new segment for the U.S.-based wearables maker, featuring a smaller, lighter design intended for younger users and smaller wrists.
The Approach J1 includes a simplified interface tailored to beginners, alongside tools such as a visual timer to encourage an appropriate pace of play and tee-off guidance adjusted to a player’s skill level. Users can also modify par settings, receive club suggestions and view celebratory animations, while scores can be recorded directly on the watch and synced with the Garmin Golf smartphone app, which supports more than 43,000 preloaded courses.
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Beyond golf, the watch supports basic activity tracking for walking, running and cycling, using GPS to measure distance. It also includes standard smartwatch functions such as step tracking, alarms, a timer and a stopwatch, positioning it as a general-purpose wearable for younger users.
The device features a 1.2-inch AMOLED touchscreen with a 390 x 390 pixel resolution and an optional always-on display mode. Battery life is rated at up to 10 days in standard watch mode or up to 15 hours when using GPS. “According to Garmin, it should run for up to 10 days in watch mode, or 15 hours in GPS mode,” the company said.
Garmin said the Approach J1 will be available to order from Jan. 23, priced at $299.99 in the United States, £309.99 in the United Kingdom and €349.99 in Europe. The watch will be offered in two colour options, featuring blue and black or silver and purple finishes with ComfortFit textile straps.
Source: Garmin