Garmin Descent Mk3i gets a new titanium look, and its underwater messaging may be the real upgrade

Garmin has expanded its Descent Mk3i lineup with a new two-tone titanium model in silver and black, positioning the dive-focused smartwatch as both a premium wearable and a serious dive computer. The new version is listed at 1 600 dollars and is slated to ship within a few days via Garmin’s store.

The Descent Mk3i sits in Garmin’s high-end ecosystem alongside rugged multisport models, but adds features designed specifically for divers. The watch pairs an AMOLED touchscreen with a 20 ATM water rating intended to handle demanding conditions in and around open water.

Dive computer features, smartwatch form

With compatible Garmin accessories, the Descent Mk3i can show remaining tank pressure directly on the wrist, a capability typically associated with dedicated dive computers. Garmin also supports diver-to-diver messaging underwater when both users have the required equipment.

For navigation and planning, the watch includes dive mapping tools with depth visualization to help contextualize a route and conditions. These tools are aimed at divers who want more than post-dive summaries and prefer real-time guidance during a session.

Battery life and everyday tools

On land, the Descent Mk3i operates as a full smartwatch with training tracking and recovery-style insights, including metrics tied to sleep and stress. Garmin says these signals can be used to estimate readiness for the next dive, blending wellness data with dive planning.

The watch also includes a built-in LED flashlight and 32 GB of storage for maps and music. Garmin rates battery life at up to 25 days in smartwatch mode, dropping to up to 10 days with an always-on display enabled.