Garmin is developing a new digital crown system for upcoming smartwatches, incorporating a Hall effect sensor and haptic feedback, according to details shared by a reliable source and reported by Gadgets & Wearables.
The company has released several devices this year, including the Fenix 8 Pro, which introduced major hardware changes such as microLED display technology and expanded LTE connectivity. The model has been viewed as one of the most significant updates to Garmin’s outdoor and fitness portfolio in 2025.
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Earlier reporting suggested Garmin was exploring a crown mechanism that relies on a Hall effect sensor rather than traditional mechanical components. The latest information indicates the system will also support inertial scrolling, a feature common on many modern smartwatch platforms.
While initial expectations pointed to a Venu or Vivoactive model as the first to adopt the new control method, the latest concept images suggest a design closer to the company’s Fenix line. The prototype also appears to integrate a physical button into the crown, signalling Garmin’s intention to retain the functionality of its current five-button layout.
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It remains unclear when this new hardware will reach production-ready devices, and Garmin has not commented on timelines for commercial availability.
Source: Gadgets & Wearables