Tag: Forerunner 970

  • Garmin Faces Backlash Over Misleading Forerunner 570 and 970 Ads

    Garmin Faces Backlash Over Misleading Forerunner 570 and 970 Ads

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin recently launched the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches.
    2. New features of the Forerunner 570 and 970 will also be available on older smartwatch models.
    3. Garmin is actively promoting the new models through social media videos highlighting their features.
    4. A tweet from Garmin about calling capabilities has received backlash for being misleading, as it requires a smartphone to function.
    5. There are no plans for the Forerunner 570 or 970 to receive LTE support this year, despite expectations for some Garmin devices.


    Just a little over two weeks ago, Garmin introduced the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 after some last-minute information leaks. It seems that a lot of the new capabilities shown on the Forerunner 570 and 970 will also be available to older models of their smartwatches.

    Continued Promotion

    Since the Forerunner 570 and its pricier counterpart have been available for a few weeks now, Garmin keeps posting brief videos about both models on their social media. For example, their latest clip highlights the extra features one would receive when switching from a Forerunner 965 to a Forerunner 970. However, one tweet and its video have caught attention for not-so-great reasons.

    Misleading Claims

    The tweet below suggests that you can ‘make and receive calls straight from your wrist’ using either the Forerunner 570 or 970 (currently priced at $749 on Amazon). Unfortunately, Garmin placed the important note that this feature only works ‘when paired with your smartphone’ in a spot that’s easy to overlook. Consequently, the video has faced backlash for being misleading, especially since LTE updates are expected later this year for some Garmin smartwatches. However, there’s no indication that the Forerunner 570 or 970 will be among the devices to gain LTE support this year.

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  • Garmin Announces Exciting New Features for More Smartwatches

    Garmin Announces Exciting New Features for More Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin will add new features like Running tolerance, Running economy, and Evening Report to Fenix 8, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8 smartwatches.
    2. Recent models such as Instinct 3, Instinct E, and vivoactive 6 will not receive these new features.
    3. The Fenix 7 and Epix Pro models are also excluded from the upcoming updates, despite having received recent features.
    4. The release date for the new features for Fenix 8, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8 is currently unknown.
    5. The Garmin Fenix 8 is priced at $789.99, just $40 more than the Forerunner 970, making it a potential option for buyers seeking the latest features.


    Garmin has announced which of its current smartwatches will get the new features from the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970. These new devices were launched worldwide on May 21st, with a starting price of $549.99 (Amazon).

    New Features Coming Soon

    A recent report from DC Rainmaker mentioned that they asked Garmin about features like Running tolerance, Running economy, and Evening Report. Garmin responded that it plans to include these new functionalities for the Fenix 8 series, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8 smartwatches in upcoming software updates.

    Excluded Models

    This means that users of other recently launched models, such as the Instinct 3, Instinct E, and vivoactive 6, will likely miss out on these features. Notably, the Fenix 7 and Epix Pro also aren’t included in this update list. However, these models have recently received features like Breathing Variations and a Rucking activity.

    Future Updates

    It remains unclear when the Garmin Fenix 8, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8 smartwatches will actually get these new features. It’s important to highlight that the Garmin Fenix 8 (47 mm AMOLED Slate Gray with Black Silicone Band) is currently listed on Amazon US for $789.99, just $40 more than the Forerunner 970. Since it seems likely that the Fenix 8 will acquire the new features found in the Forerunner 970, potential buyers might want to think about this slightly older model.

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  • Garmin Reveals New Running Features for Forerunner 970

    Garmin Reveals New Running Features for Forerunner 970

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Metrics Introduced: Garmin’s Forerunner 970 smartwatch and HRM 600 chest strap feature new metrics: Step Speed Loss (SSL), Running Economy, and Running Tolerance.

    2. Step Speed Loss (SSL): SSL measures speed decrease at ground contact, aiming for a lower value for better performance, with real-time tracking available on the Garmin Connect app.

    3. Running Economy: This metric assesses efficiency during running, measured in ml/kg/km, with a lower score indicating better energy use and less waste.

    4. Running Tolerance: This tool evaluates how the body handles different workouts, helping to prevent overtraining by ensuring acute impact loads stay below tolerance scores.

    5. Availability and Pricing: The Forerunner 970 will launch on May 21st, priced at $749.99 in the US and €749.99 in Europe, with the new features exclusive to this model.


    Garmin has shared additional details regarding its latest Running Dynamics and Physiological Measurements tools. The new Forerunner 970 smartwatch, along with the HRM 600 chest strap heart rate monitor, introduced metrics like Step Speed Loss (SSL), Running Economy, and Running Tolerance. Detailed descriptions of each of these metrics can now be found on the company’s website.

    Understanding Step Speed Loss

    Step Speed Loss (SSL) measures how much you decrease your speed each time your foot makes contact with the ground. This is monitored through a heart rate device and is shown in cm/s, by calculating the difference between your initial speed at ground contact and your slowest forward speed. Users should aim for a lower value here. Additionally, there’s a related metric called Step Speed Loss Percent (SSL%), which is your SSL divided by your current running pace. Both metrics can be seen in real-time or analyzed in graphs on the Garmin Connect app.

    Efficiency Through Running Economy

    Next, we have the Running Economy metric, which shows how efficiently your body is working. It is measured in milliliters of oxygen used per kilogram of body weight per kilometer (ml/kg/km). This metric considers factors such as heart rate, vertical oscillation, SSL, and others. To get an accurate reading, users must wear a heart rate monitor. A lower score indicates better efficiency, meaning less energy is wasted during your run.

    Monitoring Your Running Tolerance

    Lastly, Garmin has introduced a Running Tolerance metric that assesses how your body responds to different workouts. This tool can help identify harmful patterns, such as insufficient rest after intense sessions, which could affect your performance. Ideally, your acute impact load, determined from your recent workouts, should remain below your tolerance score.

    At present, these three new features related to Running Dynamics and Physiological Measurements appear to be exclusive to the Forerunner 970 smartwatch. This model is set to launch on May 21st, with a recommended retail price of $749.99 in the US and €749.99 in Europe.

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  • Garmin Forerunner 970: New Smartwatch Launches at $749

    Garmin Forerunner 970: New Smartwatch Launches at $749

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Forerunner 970 replaces the Forerunner 965 and is priced at $749.99 in the U.S. and €749.99 in Europe.
    2. It features a brighter 1.4-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 454 x 454 pixels, protected by a Sapphire Crystal lens and housed in a titanium bezel.
    3. New capabilities include Garmin’s Elevate V5 heart rate sensor, ECG, skin temperature monitoring, and Evening reporting features.
    4. The smartwatch supports voice commands, Bluetooth calling, and offers up to 15 days of battery life in smartwatch mode.
    5. Pre-orders for the Forerunner 970 will start on May 21, and it comes in three different finishes.


    Earlier today, some initial details about the Forerunner 970 surfaced online after Garmin accidentally showcased the smartwatch on a support page. To our surprise, the Forerunner 970 is now officially announced, along with the Forerunner 570, which we have discussed in another article.

    Pricing and Positioning

    In brief, the Forerunner 970 takes the place of the Forerunner 965 in Garmin’s product range. However, it comes at a much higher price of $749.99 in the United States and €749.99 in Europe. Consequently, the Forerunner series is now just $50 less than the Fenix series, which begins at $799.99 for the Fenix E (currently available for $599.99 on Amazon).

    Enhanced Features

    For that extra cost, Garmin has incorporated a brighter AMOLED display compared to the one found in the Forerunner 965. This display measures 1.4 inches in size, delivering a resolution of 454 x 454 pixels, and is housed in a 47 mm casing that weighs 56 grams. Additionally, Garmin has safeguarded this large screen with a Sapphire Crystal lens and a titanium bezel.

    New Capabilities

    Among the exciting new features are Garmin’s Elevate V5 heart rate sensor, ECG, and skin temperature monitoring. Unlike the Forerunner 965, the Forerunner 970 also presents Evening reporting features, as well as voice commands and Bluetooth calling capabilities, thanks to its built-in microphones and speakers.

    Garmin mentions that the Forerunner 970 can last up to 15 days in smartwatch mode or 12 hours with all GNSS systems turned on and music playing. This smartwatch also provides turn-by-turn navigation support and has 32 GB of internal storage for offline maps. The Forerunner 970 is set to be available for pre-order starting May 21 in three different finishes. More details can be found on Garmin’s official website.

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  • Garmin Forerunner 970 Specs, Price, and Release Date Leak

    Garmin Forerunner 970 Specs, Price, and Release Date Leak

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Forerunner 570 has been spotted online, revealing its retail version and pricing for two sizes.
    2. The Forerunner 970 has appeared on a Garmin Taiwan support page and is also listed by an Italian store.
    3. The expected launch price for the Forerunner 970 is €749 (approximately $689), making it more expensive than the Forerunner 965.
    4. Both the Forerunner 570 and 970 may be launched simultaneously, according to FitnessTrackerTest.
    5. Key features of the Forerunner 970 include sapphire crystal glass, an enhanced AMOLED display, a speaker for voice commands, and potentially an Elevate V5 sensor.


    Earlier today, the first signs of the new Forerunner 570 were spotted online, following a flurry of Garmin smartwatch leaks. In short, details about the previously undiscovered Forerunner have come to light, including a photo of what seems to be a retail version and its pricing for two different sizes.

    New Developments on Forerunner 970

    The Forerunner 970 has made another appearance after being listed on a Garmin Taiwan support page late last month. While this page just confirmed that the Forerunner 970 exists, an Italian store has taken it a step further. Capo Nord has posted the Forerunner 970 on its website ahead of its official release, and we have included evidence of this below.

    Pricing and Features

    Capo Nord claims that Garmin plans to launch the Forerunner 970 this summer at a price of €749, which translates to about $689 at the current exchange rates, not including Italy’s 22% VAT. This means that the Forerunner 970 might be much pricier than the Forerunner 965, which was released over two years ago for €579 in the Eurozone (approximately $499 on Amazon). Interestingly, FitnessTrackerTest suggests that both the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 might hit the market at the same time. Additionally, Capo Nord notes that the new model will feature sapphire crystal glass to protect its enhanced AMOLED display, a speaker for voice commands, and potentially an Elevate V5 sensor as well.

    Conclusion

    In summation, the excitement surrounding Garmin’s upcoming watches has reached a peak, with the Forerunner 570 and 970 promising to bring new features to the table. Keep an eye out for more updates as we draw closer to the launch.

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  • Garmin Forerunner Smartwatch Update: New Features & Fixes

    Garmin Forerunner Smartwatch Update: New Features & Fixes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has not officially confirmed the launch of new Forerunner smartwatches, but rumors suggest the Forerunner 970 may be coming soon.
    2. A new version of the Fenix 8 is reportedly in development, along with LTE upgrades for current models.
    3. Garmin released a stable software update (System Software 23.20) for current Forerunner smartwatches after nearly two months of beta testing.
    4. The System Software 23.20 update includes 24 new features, bug fixes, and improvements for models like Forerunner 165, 265, and 965, as well as older models 255 and 955.
    5. Approximately 20% of eligible smartwatches have received the update, and users can manually check for updates via the smartwatch menu.


    Garmin has not made any official statements regarding the launch of new Forerunner smartwatches. However, there are growing rumors that the company could be ready to launch the Forerunner 970 worldwide. Additionally, Garmin might have hinted that a new version of the Fenix 8 is also in development, along with LTE upgrades for current models.

    New Software Update Details

    In the meantime, the company has quietly begun to release a new stable software update for the current Forerunner smartwatches, replacing the previous month’s v22.xx versions. This update, known as System Software 23.20, is the result of nearly two months of beta testing and includes numerous changes for the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 265, and Forerunner 965, as well as the older Forerunner 255 and Forerunner 955 (priced at $373 on Amazon).

    Features and Availability

    According to our calculations, System Software 23.20 introduces 24 new features, bug fixes, and improvements for the mentioned smartwatches. We’ve made an effort to spotlight some specific changes for each device below. At the moment, Garmin believes that approximately 20% of the eligible smartwatches have received the System Software 23.20 update. If your smartwatch hasn’t received the update yet, you can try to manually start the download by navigating to Menu, then System, followed by Software Update, and pressing ‘Check for Updates’. For more information, check out the changelog and Garmin’s forum links below.

    Changes by Model

    – All Forerunner smartwatches
    – Changes for the Forerunner 165
    – Changes for the Forerunner 265 and Forerunner 965
    – Specific changes for the Forerunner 965

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  • New Garmin Fenix 8 Spin-Off Smartwatch Leaks Online

    New Garmin Fenix 8 Spin-Off Smartwatch Leaks Online

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin launched the Instinct E and Instinct 3 at the start of 2025, followed by the Approach S44 and S50.
    2. Upcoming releases include the Forerunner 970 and LTE versions of the Fenix E and Fenix 8, along with other premium smartwatches.
    3. Garmin is developing the D2 Mach 2, likely based on the Fenix 8, with a focus on aviation features.
    4. Expected enhancements for the D2 Mach 2 include an AMOLED display, Elevate Gen 5 heart rate sensor, and voice assistant support.
    5. The D2 Mach 2’s release date is uncertain, but its mention in support documents suggests an official launch may be imminent.


    It looks like Garmin is gearing up for a busy latter part of the year. To summarize, the company started 2025 with the global launch of the Instinct E and Instinct 3 (currently $449.99 on Amazon). Just a few weeks later, they released the Approach S44 and Approach S50, and then shifted focus to the Instinct 3 Tactical Edition, Tactix 8, and Vivoactive 6 this season.

    New Releases on the Horizon

    Recently, there have been hints that Garmin is not only getting ready to unveil the Forerunner 970 but also LTE versions of the Fenix E, Fenix 8, along with other premium smartwatches. In addition, it seems Garmin is working on a new version of the D2 Mach 1.

    D2 Mach 2 Development

    Particularly, Garmin has begun to include mentions of the D2 Mach 2 in relation to its Grade Adjusted Pace (GAP) software. So far, there’s not much information on how the D2 Mach 2 will differ from the current Mach 1 models. However, the5krunner suggests that Garmin is likely to use the Fenix 8 as a base for the D2 Mach 2, emphasizing its aviation features.

    Expected Features and Release Timeline

    The upcoming D2 is expected to come with enhancements like an AMOLED display, Elevate Gen 5 heart rate sensor, and support for a voice assistant through its microphone and speaker setup. Unfortunately, it’s still unclear when Garmin plans to launch the D2 Mach 2. The fact that it has appeared in Garmin’s support documents suggests an official release might happen soon, though.

    Garmin via the5krunner & Garmin Rumors.

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  • Garmin Updates Forerunner Smartwatches Ahead of Forerunner 970 Launch

    Garmin Updates Forerunner Smartwatches Ahead of Forerunner 970 Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is set to release new Forerunner smartwatches, likely the Forerunner 970 and 975, along with a budget model, the Forerunner 270.
    2. The exact release date for the new Forerunner models is currently unknown.
    3. Garmin is actively testing software updates for existing watches through its Beta Program, with v23.xx testing initiated in March.
    4. The latest beta update, v23.18, includes five bug fixes for multiple Forerunner models and has been released to 50% of compatible devices.
    5. Specific bug fixes in the beta update apply to the Forerunner 165, 255, 955, and 965 models.


    Garmin is likely to release new Forerunner smartwatches this season, acting as successors to the Forerunner 265 and Forerunner 965 (currently priced at $499.99 on Amazon). Current indications point towards the Forerunner 970 being launched before the Forerunner 975, and there may also be an economical Forerunner 270 introduced alongside them. Although the exact release date for these new models remains uncertain, Garmin is actively working on software upgrades for their current watches through its Beta Program.

    Software Testing Updates

    To summarize, the company initiated v23.xx testing at the end of March, following the rollout of Stable Version 22.22 in February. Sadly, Garmin hasn’t hinted at when a new stable update might come out. Instead, it has replaced Beta Version 23.15 with v23.18, claiming that this new version has been distributed to 50% of compatible smartwatches in most situations.

    Bug Fixes and Changes

    From what we understand, Garmin’s newest beta update introduces five main bug fixes for the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965. Additionally, the changelogs for Beta Version 23.18 include specific bug fixes for the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965. The complete list of changes between Beta Versions 23.15 and 23.18 is outlined as follows:

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  • Garmin Confirms New Features Will Be Behind Paywall

    Garmin Confirms New Features Will Be Behind Paywall

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin launched the Connect+ subscription service at $6.99/month or $69.99/year, while maintaining free access to current features in Garmin Connect.
    2. Connect+ offers tailored insights powered by AI, improved live tracking, and unique achievement badges.
    3. The service is seen as a key part of Garmin’s long-term fitness strategy, according to CEO Cliff Pemble.
    4. Future features may be exclusive to Connect+ subscribers, with positive feedback from early users noted.
    5. Upcoming updates are expected with the launch of the Forerunner 970, which will replace the Forerunner 965.


    Garmin introduced its Connect+ subscription service at the end of March, sparking some debate among users. The service is priced at $6.99 per month or $69.99 per year. Garmin has tried to calm concerns by stating that all current features and data within Garmin Connect will still be accessible for free.

    Connect+ Developments

    Recently, Garmin has provided more information about the future of Connect+ and how it plans to enhance the service. During the Q1 2025 earnings call, Garmin’s President and CEO, Cliff Pemble, shared some insights. He mentioned that Garmin Connect+ is a premium plan that offers tailored insights using artificial intelligence, improved live tracking, and unique achievement badges.

    Enhanced Health and Fitness Insights

    Connect+ aims to boost users’ understanding of their health and fitness through personalized Active Intelligence insights powered by AI. As noted by the5krunner and other observers, Pemble went into more detail, though these specific remarks are not included in Garmin’s earnings call PDF. Instead, they can be found in the linked video starting from 11:23.

    According to Pemble, Connect+ is a “long-term thing for us [Garmin]” and a “very important part” of their fitness strategy moving forward. He also suggested that upcoming features may be restricted to Connect+ subscribers, mentioning positive feedback from early users. While he did not specify what these paywalled features would be, he indicated they would relate to the company’s premium offerings. The first signs of these updates are likely to come with the launch of the Forerunner 970, expected to replace the Forerunner 965 later this season, which is currently priced at $499.99 on Amazon.

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  • Garmin Forerunner 970 May Launch Before Forerunner 975

    Garmin Forerunner 970 May Launch Before Forerunner 975

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Forerunner smartwatches from Garmin may be released soon, based on warranty activity in Taiwan.
    2. The Forerunner 255 and 955 were released in 2022, followed by the Forerunner 265 and 965 within a year.
    3. Speculation suggests the Forerunner 975 might launch later this year, but the Forerunner 970 is expected to be released first.
    4. There is no confirmation that Garmin has abandoned the Forerunner 275 or 975 models.
    5. Details on specifications, pricing, and images for the Forerunner 970 are currently not available.


    It appears that the much-anticipated release of new Forerunner smartwatches may be just around the corner. Although Garmin hasn’t officially hinted at anything yet, the company has been seen engaging in a lengthy warranty campaign on its Taiwanese site for a new Forerunner smartwotch that hasn’t been announced.

    A Quick Overview of Previous Releases

    To summarize, Garmin unveiled the Forerunner 255 and Forerunner 955 in the middle of 2022 as updates to the older Forerunner 245 and Forerunner 945 models. Then, less than a year later, the Forerunner 265 and Forerunner 965 (currently priced at $599.99 on Amazon) were launched, with their second anniversary occurring in March. This led many to believe that the Forerunner 275 and Forerunner 975 would eventually be released.

    Speculations About Future Models

    While there was uncertainty regarding the launch timeline for new Forerunner smartwatches, a reliable leak indicated that the Forerunner 975 might debut later this year. However, Garmin’s extended warranty campaign application form hints that neither the Forerunner 275 nor the Forerunner 975 will be the next smartwatch introduced by Garmin.

    Instead, it seems like the company plans to roll out the Forerunner 970 before it turns its attention to other models in the Forerunner lineup. It’s important to note that there is currently no proof suggesting that Garmin has abandoned the release of the Forerunner 275 or Forerunner 975. That said, the Forerunner 970 appears to be next in line, possibly launching within the upcoming month. Sadly, details regarding specifications, pricing, and images of the device are still not available at this time.

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