FAA Approves Garmin Autothrottles for Citation M2 Gen2; quatix 8 Pro Priced at $1,299.99

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Garmin’s Autothrottle system gained FAA approval in October 2025 and entered service on Cessna Citation M2 Gen2 jets, adding over- and under-speed protections to the most-delivered light-entry aircraft. It also launched the quatix 8 Pro nautical smartwatch with inReach satellite and cellular connectivity for $1,299.99, available January 16, 2026.

1. Garmin Unveils quatix 8 Pro to Strengthen Marine Segment

Garmin today announced the quatix 8 Pro, a premium nautical smartwatch set to reach the market on January 16, 2026, at a suggested retail price of $1,299.99. Built on a 47 mm titanium bezel with a scratch-resistant sapphire lens and a 1.4" AMOLED display, the device delivers up to 15 days of battery life in smartwatch mode. It integrates Garmin’s proprietary inReach® satellite technology—offering two-way messaging, voice calling and SOS services up to 50 miles offshore—and LTE connectivity for voice messaging and LiveTrack. The enhanced boat mode prioritizes core marine apps (autopilot control, trolling-motor integration, chartplotter voice commands), then seamlessly reverts to everyday smartwatch features once ashore. Garmin Response℠, the company’s 24/7 coordination center, has managed over 1,200 marine incidents to date, highlighting the service’s maturity. For investors, the launch not only drives device sales in a high-margin product category but also bolsters recurring revenue via subscription services and aftermarket support in a segment where Garmin holds leading market share and has earned Manufacturer of the Year honors from NMEA for 11 consecutive years.

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