Category: Wearables

  • Casio G-Shock GW5000U-1 Radio-Controlled Watch Now in the US

    Casio G-Shock GW5000U-1 Radio-Controlled Watch Now in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock GW5000U-1, also known as GW-5000-1, is back in stock at Casio US after first debuting in Japan in 2009.
    2. It features MultiBand 6 for radio-controlled timekeeping across five time zones, a stopwatch, countdown timer, five daily alarms, and a 200m water resistance.
    3. The watch is powered by Tough Solar technology, allowing for a battery life of up to 10 months under normal conditions.
    4. The GW5000U-1 is made with a stainless steel case and Diamond Like Coating (DLC), unlike the less expensive GWM5610U-1, which is made of resin.
    5. The GW5000U-1 is priced at $300 in the US, but availability and stock levels on the Casio US website are currently unclear.

    The Casio G-Shock GW5000U-1 watch is once again available at Casio US. Known also as the GW-5000-1, this watch first debuted in Japan back in 2009 and has been intermittently sold at the Casio US online store since 2023.

    Features and Specifications

    The GW5000U-1 is a radio-controlled timepiece that utilizes MultiBand 6, enabling it to support five different time zones with a selection of 48 cities. Additional functionalities include a stopwatch that measures in 1/100 seconds, a countdown timer with a 24-hour limit, and five daily alarms, one of which features a snooze option. The watch face is equipped with an automatic white LED light for visibility in dark conditions, and it boasts a water resistance of up to 200m. This model also includes a Power Saving mode and is powered by Tough Solar technology, which can prolong its battery life to 10 months under normal usage conditions.

    Comparison with Other Models

    Although the GW5000U-1 shares a similar look and features with the less expensive GWM5610U-1 (currently priced at $102.67 on Amazon), there are notable distinctions. The GW5000U-1 is crafted with a stainless steel case and a screw lock back, both coated with Diamond Like Coating (DLC) for improved resilience. In contrast, the GWM5610 is made entirely of resin, although both models come with a resin strap. The Casio GW5000U-1 watch is available for purchase at $300 in the US. It remains unclear how many units of the Casio G-Shock GW5000U-1 watch are in stock on the Casio US website or if it will be introduced in other regions.

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    Casio G-Shock GW5000U-1 Radio-Controlled Watch Now in the US
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  • Lava ProWatch V1 Launches at Intro Price of Rs 1,999 (~$23)

    Lava ProWatch V1 Launches at Intro Price of Rs 1,999 (~$23)

    Key Takeaways

    1. Launch and Availability: Lava has launched the ProWatch V1 smartwatch under its ProWatch sub-brand, available exclusively on Flipkart.

    2. Design and Display: The smartwatch features a modern design with a 1.85-inch AMOLED screen and a durable Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection.

    3. Health Monitoring: Equipped with a VC9213 PPG sensor, the ProWatch V1 can track over 110 sports modes for comprehensive health and fitness monitoring.

    4. Pricing and Discounts: The silicone strap options are priced at Rs 1,999 (discounted from Rs 2,399), with metal strap styles priced higher.

    5. Connectivity and Features: The smartwatch uses a Realtek 8773 chipset, supports Bluetooth v5.3, includes assisted GPS for outdoor tracking, and has an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance.

    Lava has launched its ProWatch V1 smartwatch under its accessory sub-brand, ProWatch, which first appeared in January. This device is now available for purchase only on Flipkart. Aimed at energetic and youthful users, the smartwatch boasts a contemporary design, an AMOLED screen, and sophisticated health monitoring capabilities. To celebrate its release, Lava is providing a special discount on all silicone strap options.

    Pricing and Variants of Lava ProWatch V1

    The ProWatch V1 comes in various colors and strap combinations. The silicone strap options include Black Nebula, Bluish Ronin, Mint Shinobi, and Peachy Hikari, each originally priced at Rs 2,399 but now being offered at a reduced launch price of Rs 1,999. Additionally, there are two metal strap styles: Peachy Hikari Metal, featuring a silicone strap along with a rose gold metal finish, priced at Rs 2,699 (with a launch price of Rs 2,299), and Black Nebula Metal, which includes a silicone strap combined with a black metal finish, available for Rs 2,799 (with a launch price of Rs 2,399).

    Features and Specifications of Lava ProWatch V1

    This smartwatch showcases a 1.85-inch AMOLED display with a sharp resolution of 390 x 450 pixels. It features an octagonal shape and is safeguarded by Corning Gorilla Glass 3 for improved durability. For health and fitness monitoring, the ProWatch V1 is fitted with a highly accurate VC9213 PPG sensor and can track over 110 different sports modes.

    Powered by the Realtek 8773 chipset, the smartwatch supports Bluetooth v5.3 for smooth connectivity. Its 2.5D GPU Animation Engine enhances user interface transitions. Additionally, assisted GPS provides precise tracking for outdoor activities, and the IP68 rating ensures resistance to water and dust.

    Lava ProWatch V1 Launches at Intro Price of Rs 1,999 (~$23)
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  • Casio Edifice EFB109D Stainless Steel Watches Now in the US

    Casio Edifice EFB109D Stainless Steel Watches Now in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio Edifice EFB109D series shifts from sporty styles to a polished, everyday look.
    2. Priced at $130, the watches feature a sleek design with options like a black face and a blue dial.
    3. They are equipped with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal glass, which is uncommon at this price point.
    4. The watches offer standard features such as 100-meter water resistance and a three-hand analog display, but lack advanced functions.
    5. The EFB109D series is suitable for those seeking affordable, well-crafted watches, though some may desire more features.

    Casio’s Edifice collection has always leaned toward sporty styles, which is understandable given their inspiration from motorsports. However, the newly introduced EFB109D series shifts the focus to a more polished, everyday style.

    Pricing and Aesthetics

    Now in the US market for $130, these stainless-steel timepieces feature a sleek and minimalist design while still holding onto many Edifice characteristics. The EFB109D-1AV boasts a shiny black face with a red-accented second hand, while the EFB109D-2AV showcases a rich blue dial. Both models have a sunray finish that enhances the visual appeal. The mirror-finished bezel along with the sleek stainless-steel casing add an elegant touch.

    Features and Build Quality

    A notable highlight of these watches is the sapphire crystal glass, which is rare at this price range. Sapphire crystal offers better scratch resistance compared to regular mineral glass. The rest of the specifications remain quite standard – featuring 100-meter water resistance, a screw-lock case back, and a three-hand analog display that includes a date feature. Although these are reliable entry-level stainless-steel watches, they don’t come with advanced functionalities like a chronograph or solar charging. This positions them against entry-level offerings from Seiko and Citizen, rather than competing with Casio’s more premium Edifice models.

    Conclusion

    If you’re on the lookout for affordable, well-crafted watches that feature a sapphire crystal, the EFB109D series might be a good choice. Nonetheless, its basic features could potentially leave some users wanting more.

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  • Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Worldtimer: 600m Water Resistance

    Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Worldtimer: 600m Water Resistance

    Key Takeaways

    1. Omega has introduced the Seamaster Planet Ocean Worldtimer with two variants: one with turquoise accents and another in black and white.
    2. The watch features a 45.5 mm brushed ceramic casing and dual crowns for setting, winding, and a helium escape valve.
    3. Its unique black dial showcases a topographical map of Earth and includes a rotating 24-hour disc, enhancing its functionality.
    4. The Seamaster Planet Ocean Worldtimer is powered by Omega’s Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 8938 automatic movement, offering a 60-hour power reserve and high precision.
    5. The watch has a water resistance of 600 meters and is priced at €16,400/$14,800, available for purchase on Omega’s official website.

    A Swiss luxury watchmaker, Omega, has broadened its Seamaster Planet Ocean lineup with the introduction of a new Seamaster Planet Ocean Worldtimer watch. The brand has launched two variants of the Seamaster Planet Ocean Worldtimer, one featuring a turquoise accent and the other in a sleek black and white design.

    Design Features

    The Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Worldtimer showcases a similar design to the Deep Black series, coming with a 45.5 mm brushed ceramic casing that has dual crowns positioned at 3 and 10 o’clock. The crown at 3 o’clock is used to set and wind the watch, while the 10 o’clock crown is designated for the helium escape valve. The black casing is complemented by a unidirectional ceramic bezel crafted using laser ablation techniques. Additionally, the bezel is equipped with a diving scale that has polished elevated numerals.

    Dial and Functionality

    What makes this timepiece stand out is its black dial, which deviates from the other designs in the Deep Black series. Made from grade 5 titanium, the black dial of the Seamaster Planet Ocean Worldtimer features a laser-ablated topographical map depicting Earth as seen from above the North Pole, along with a rotating 24-hour disc. The dial is framed with a brass outer ring, housing applied hour markers, a city ring, a date window at the 6 o’clock position, and a unique honeycomb texture. The hands, indices, and applied hour markers are coated in Super-LumiNova, emitting a soft blue glow. The minute hand and a luminous dot for the 60-minute marker shine with a green light.

    Movement and Water Resistance

    At the heart of the Seamaster Planet Ocean Worldtimer lies Omega’s Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 8938 automatic movement. This movement operates at a frequency of 25,500 vibrations per hour (vph), features 38 jewels, and provides a power reserve of 60 hours. The METAS-certified movement ensures precision within a range of 0 to +5 seconds daily, while also offering a magnetic resistance of up to 15,000 gauss, similar to the Seamaster Diver 300M. Additionally, this timepiece boasts an admirable water resistance of 600 meters (approximately 2,000 feet), making it perfect for diving adventures.

    The Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Worldtimer, available in deep black with either turquoise or gray accents, comes with a retail price of €16,400/$14,800. You can purchase this timepiece now through Omega’s official website.

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    Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Worldtimer: 600m Water Resistance

     

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  • Polar Introduces TrainingPeaks Integration for Smartwatches

    Polar Introduces TrainingPeaks Integration for Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Polar has launched a beta version of its integration with TrainingPeaks, connecting Polar Flow and TrainingPeaks applications.
    2. The integration allows users to sync structured workouts and training plans automatically between TrainingPeaks and Polar fitness devices.
    3. Users can access real-time feedback on metrics like heart rate zones and power levels directly from their Polar sports watches.
    4. The integration intelligently aligns TrainingPeaks’ five training zones with Polar’s five-zone system and supports all Polar sports watches.
    5. Users can connect their Polar watch to TrainingPeaks via the Polar Flow app, and new Polar watch purchases will include a 30-day free trial of TrainingPeaks Premium.

    Polar has introduced a beta version of its integration with TrainingPeaks. This link between the Polar Flow and TrainingPeaks applications was first revealed last year alongside the launch of the Vantage M3 smartwatch. This is Polar’s most recent official integration, which already includes connections to Strava, komoot, adidas Running, and other platforms.

    About TrainingPeaks

    TrainingPeaks serves as a fitness application aimed at helping endurance athletes achieve their objectives. Coaches frequently use it, and it provides numerous pre-made workouts and training schedules. Thanks to this integration, structured workouts and plans, along with targets, can sync automatically between the TrainingPeaks app and Polar’s fitness devices. As a result, users of Polar sports watches can access these workouts directly on their wrists, receiving real-time feedback connected to metrics such as heart rate zones or power levels.

    Features of the Integration

    Polar states that users who have five or more training zones in TrainingPeaks will find these zones intelligently aligned with its five-zone system. After completing a workout, the data gathered is sent directly to the TrainingPeaks app for additional analysis. This integration is available to both basic and premium subscribers of TrainingPeaks and can be utilized with all Polar sports watches, including the Polar Vantage V and Polar Pacer models (current pricing starts at $220.22 on Amazon).

    To link your Polar watch with TrainingPeaks, you can do so through the Polar Flow app by navigating to Settings > Partners > Connect > TrainingPeaks. It’s not clear when the beta phase for the TrainingPeaks and Polar integration will conclude; users who are among the first to try it are encouraged to provide feedback about their experiences. Additionally, Polar mentions that future purchases of its sports watches will include a 30-day free trial of TrainingPeaks Premium.

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    Polar Introduces TrainingPeaks Integration for Smartwatches

     

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  • PebbleOS Core Time 2 & Core 2 Duo Smartwatches with E-Paper Displays

    PebbleOS Core Time 2 & Core 2 Duo Smartwatches with E-Paper Displays

    Key Takeaways

    1. Pebble has launched two new smartwatches, the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2, featuring the open-source PebbleOS and e-paper displays.
    2. The Core 2 Duo has a 1.26-inch display, 30-day battery life, step and sleep tracking, and is made of polycarbonate with IPX8 water resistance.
    3. The Core Time 2 offers a larger 1.5-inch touchscreen display, 200×228 resolution, and a more premium design with a metallic frame and buttons.
    4. Both models provide access to over 10,000 Pebble apps and include health tracking features like heart rate, step, and sleep tracking.
    5. Pre-orders are available for both models, with the Core 2 Duo priced at $149 and shipping in July 2025, while the Core Time 2 is priced at $225 and shipping in December 2025.

    Pebble smartwatches were anticipated to return with the previously announced PebbleOS. Now, PebbleOS has launched two new smartwatches featuring their signature e-paper displays, named the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2. Let’s take a closer look at them.

    Core 2 Duo

    Eric Migicovsky, the Pebble smartwatch founder, has just revealed these watches from the Core series. The first one is the Core 2 Duo, which keeps the original Pebble design and operates on the open-source PebbleOS. It boasts a 1.26-inch black and white e-paper display and includes access to over 10,000 Pebble apps along with various watch faces. The watch is made with polycarbonate, ensuring it has IPX8 water resistance.

    This model features a microphone and can track your steps as well as your sleep cycle. One of the standout features of Pebble’s e-paper watches has always been their long-lasting batteries, and the Core 2 Duo takes this to the next level with an impressive 30-day battery life, a significant upgrade from the 7-day life of the Pebble 2. It operates on the Nordic nRF52840 BLE chipset and comes with more reliable buttons. Additionally, the Core 2 Duo includes a speaker, barometer, and compass.

    Core Time 2

    The Core Time 2 seems to be the more upscale option out of the two newly introduced models. Eric even referred to it as his “dream watch.” It features a taller 1.5-inch e-paper display with 46-bit colors, a higher resolution of 200×228, and supports touchscreen functionality. This model also provides various watch faces and access to over 10,000 Pebble apps. For a more premium feel, the smartwatch is constructed with a metallic frame and buttons, and it also has an IPX8 rating for water resistance.

    The Core Time 2 is available in two colors, black and white. Besides the extensive 30-day battery life, this model offers heart rate, step, and sleep tracking as well. It also includes a microphone, speaker, and a linear resonance actuator. The device is designed with a standard 22mm strap. Both models use the PebbleOS platform, which includes essential fitness tracking features.

    Pricing and Availability

    Both smartwatches can be pre-ordered at store.rePebble.com. However, inventory is limited, so production quantities are also constrained. Migicovsky recommended that buyers place pre-orders since sign-ups have already surpassed the available units. Pre-orders are fully refundable until shipping. The Core 2 Duo is priced at 149 US Dollars, scheduled to ship in July 2025. In contrast, the Core Time 2 is set to ship in December 2025 with a price tag of 225 US Dollars.

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  • Atari 2600 My Play Watch: Retro Games & Fitness Tracker Arrives

    Atari 2600 My Play Watch: Retro Games & Fitness Tracker Arrives

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Atari 2600 My Play Watch is now available for pre-order in the U.S. for $79.99, inspired by the classic 1977 Atari 2600 console.
    2. It features a 2.02-inch TFT color touchscreen, MyPlayWatch OS, and a design that includes a metal bezel and Atari-themed elements.
    3. The watch tracks health metrics like heart rate, steps, and calories, but does not connect to smartphones or the internet.
    4. It comes pre-loaded with four classic games: Centipede, Missile Command, Pon, and Super Breakout, and is IP68 rated for dust and water resistance.
    5. Pre-orders include the watch and three interchangeable Atari-themed bands, with shipping expected by June 10th, but international shipping is not available.

    Atari has launched the 2600 My Play Watch, which is currently open for pre-order in the United States. This watch is inspired by the classic Atari 2600 home video game console that came out in 1977. It includes standard features like tracking health metrics and lets users enjoy arcade games right on their wrists.

    Specs and Design

    The Atari 2600 My Play Watch features a 2.02-inch TFT color touchscreen and operates on MyPlayWatch OS. The screen is framed by a metal bezel, with a red rotating crown and a button that mimics the look of an Atari 2600 controller. Additionally, the watch incorporates iconic sound effects for alarms and timers, a nostalgic touch for fans of the original console. Users can personalize their watch with various graphics and three changeable bands that reflect Atari 2600 themes.

    Features and Connectivity

    Marketed as a Selective Tech watch, it offers a more straightforward feature set, which means “without the data tracking and distractions.” This implies that there’s no Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, so users won’t receive notifications from their smartphones, and the watch won’t get any updates. On a daily basis, you can track your heart rate, steps taken, and calories burned. The device comes pre-loaded with four classic games: Centipede, Missile Command, Pon, and Super Breakout. Furthermore, the watch is IP68 rated, making it resistant to dust and water, and it charges wirelessly.

    Pricing and Availability

    Currently, you can pre-order the Atari 2600 My Play Watch in the US for $79.99. Every order includes the watch itself and three interchangeable bands, all scheduled to be shipped to customers by June 10th. Sadly, Atari does not provide international shipping for this watch. It remains uncertain if or when this product will be accessible to buyers in other regions.

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  • Casio MRW230H Diver-Style Watches Now Available in the US

    Casio MRW230H Diver-Style Watches Now Available in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio has launched the MRW230H series of affordable diver-inspired analog watches in the US, priced at $35.95.
    2. The series includes three models: MRW230H-1E1V (black dial), MRW230H-1E2V (red and blue bezel), and MRW230H-1E3V (green bezel), all featuring easy-to-read dials.
    3. Each watch has a water resistance rating of 100 meters, suitable for everyday water activities, but not for diving.
    4. The watches have a lightweight design (34 grams) with a 47.9mm resin and aluminum case, quartz movement, and a battery life of three years.
    5. The MRW230H series offers a practical and uncomplicated watch option that resembles a dive watch, now available through Casio’s website and various retailers.

    Casio has just released the MRW230H series in the United States. Initially announced in February, this fresh range of affordable, diver-inspired analog timepieces includes three distinct models, all equipped with a rotating bezel and a straightforward, easy-to-read dial. Priced at $35.95, these watches offer a budget-friendly option for anyone seeking a stylish and functional design without spending too much money.

    Model Features

    The MRW230H-1E1V showcases a timeless black dial complemented by white details, while the MRW230H-1E2V boasts a vibrant red and blue bezel that adds a striking contrast. The final model, MRW230H-1E3V, features a green bezel but maintains the same overall design. Although they mimic a diver’s watch style, these timepieces have a water resistance rating of 100 meters, making them suitable for everyday water activities but not for actual diving.

    Build and Specifications

    Each model comes with a 47.9mm case made of resin and aluminum, accompanied by a resin strap and a resin glass cover. Weighing only 34 grams, they are ideal for extended wear. Inside, the series runs on a quartz movement with a battery life of three years (SR626SW), and they also include a day and date display. The bezel can rotate but is designed for timing rather than being unidirectional, making it more of a general timing tool rather than a precise diving accessory.

    At a price below $40, the MRW230H series addresses an important niche in Casio’s offerings—a practical, uncomplicated analog watch that resembles a dive watch yet retains the ease of use for daily wear. These models can now be found for sale in the US through Casio’s official website as well as various retailers.

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  • Zepp Health Updates Amazfit Balance to Fix Sleep Issues

    Zepp Health Updates Amazfit Balance to Fix Sleep Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Zepp Health has released version 3.25.12.3 of the Amazfit Balance smartwatch, addressing issues from the previous update (3.25.11.1).
    2. The new update fixes missing sleep data reported by users after upgrading to version 3.25.11.1.
    3. Users are encouraged to skip version 3.25.11.1 and directly update to version 3.25.12.3 for improved features.
    4. The smartwatch now supports the DJI Osmo Action Bluetooth remote control for recording videos with workout data.
    5. Users can check for the update through the Zepp Health app, but some are still waiting for the rollout to complete.

    Zepp Health has launched a new update for the Amazfit Balance smartwatch, now at version 3.25.12.3. This update comes just a few weeks after the previous version, 3.25.11.1, also known as the Balance OTA 8.1 update, which started being delivered to users. The earlier version aimed to enhance algorithms for sleep detection, waking detection, and step counting, along with improvements to the Morning Update feature.

    Fixes for Sleep Data

    Some users reported missing sleep data following the installation of version 3.25.11.1. The change log for version 3.25.12.3 indicates that this new release addresses the missing sleep data issue that affected those who upgraded to version 3.25.11.1. Users still on older software are advised to skip version 3.25.11.1 and directly update to this latest version to benefit from all the new features. In addition to improvements in sleep tracking and step counting, the Balance smartwatch, currently priced at $149.99 on Amazon, now also supports the DJI Osmo Action Bluetooth remote control, which can be downloaded from the App Store. This feature enables users to record videos while showing workout data, like speed or route.

    User Reports and Availability

    Many users around the world have shared on Reddit that they have successfully received this latest update, although numerous others mentioned that they are still waiting for version 3.25.12.3. Zepp Health has not yet provided details on when this staged rollout will be completed. To download the update, Balance smartwatch users should navigate to Profile > My Devices > Amazfit Balance > System Update within the Zepp Health app.

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  • Garmin Fenix 6 Beta Update Fixes Map Issues

    Garmin Fenix 6 Beta Update Fixes Map Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released beta version 28.02 for Fenix 6 Pro smartwatches, now reaching 50% of eligible users.
    2. The update includes a minor bug fix related to the popularity heatmap feature for running and cycling routes.
    3. Version 28.01, the previous beta update, fixed a music controls widget issue across several Garmin smartwatch models.
    4. Users can download the beta update by connecting to Wi-Fi and navigating through the watch’s system menu.
    5. The term “release candidate” indicates that a public version of the software may be available soon for all Garmin Fenix 6 users.

    A new public beta update is being rolled out for the Garmin Fenix 6 Pro smartwatches. Beta version 28.02 has already reached 50% of eligible users, as noted in a recent update on the Garmin forum. This update is quite minor and includes just one bug fix.

    Bug Fixes Included

    The changelog mentions that Garmin has addressed a “possible issue” related to the popularity heatmap, a feature that displays users’ preferred running and cycling routes in their area. The release notes indicate that users faced difficulties with this feature while routing and drawing maps.

    Previous Update Details

    Version 28.02 comes shortly after the last beta release, version 28.01, which fixed a problem that caused the music controls widget to unexpectedly close. That update was applicable to a wider range of watches, such as the Fenix 6, Marq, Enduro (currently priced at $349.99 on Amazon), Quatix 6, and Tactix Delta smartwatches.

    How to Download the Update

    To download the beta version 28.02 update on your Garmin Fenix 6 Pro smartwatch, connect via Wi-Fi and navigate to Menu > System > Software Update > Check For Updates. The company refers to this as a “release candidate,” suggesting that a public version of the software could soon be available for everyone using the Garmin Fenix 6 and similar smartwatches.

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    Garmin Fenix 6 Beta Update Fixes Map Issues

     

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