Suunto Launches Two Garmin Smartwatch Rivals Ahead of August Release

Key Takeaways

1. Suunto is developing at least two new smartwatches to compete with Garmin, expected to release soon.
2. The new smartwatches, likely successors to the Race and Vertical models, feature design changes and a wider selection of band colors.
3. The Race 2 and Vertical 2 may include a new PPG sensor arrangement for improved functionality.
4. Charging pin arrangement has been modified, potentially allowing for faster wired charging.
5. The Race 2’s launch price could be over $599, which is more than 30% higher than the current Race S model.

It appears that Suunto is working on at least two smartwatches to compete with Garmin. Just a few days ago, the company hinted at the release of at least one smartwatch this month. Recently, the Japanese Radio Authority has approved two new smartwatches, which are thought to be the successors to the Race and Vertical models (currently priced at $399 on Amazon).

Design Changes

Interestingly, the regulatory agency has shared detailed images of both smartwatches, which we have included below. Based on these images, it seems Suunto has made several design modifications compared to the Race and Vertical, offering a wider selection of band colors. Additionally, the Race 2 and Vertical 2 feature different sensor arrangements, hinting that Suunto may be using a new PPG sensor in this year’s models.

Charging Improvements

Furthermore, Suunto has altered the arrangement of the charging pins on both devices. This change could help set the new models apart from their previous versions by possibly introducing faster wired charging. There are also hints of other updates, such as the integration of an Ambiq Apollo510 chipset. In the meantime, a retailer in Norway suggests that the Race 2 could be priced more than 30% higher than the Race S, hinting at a launch price close to $599 for certain SKUs.

Source:
N/A)