Tag: Garmin

  • Garmin Emergency Features vs Apple: Life-Saving Costs Compared

    Key Takeaway

    – Garmin now offers a reduced-cost emergency satellite call for $7.99 via paused subscriptions, plus a $39.99 activation fee.
    – This change targets average smartwatch users (e.g., Fenix 8 Pro), not just serious outdoor adventurers with inReach handhelds.
    – Garmin appears stingy compared to Apple, which offers free satellite emergency communication for two years with no announced paywall.
    – The pricing may lead to reputational damage and long-term costs, as the choice of smartwatch can be life-or-death in emergencies.

    A necessary change?

    I fully expected this, and now it has happened: Garmin has reduced the cost of inReach in one specific scenario, likely the one most relevant to broad user groups. It is now possible to place at least an emergency call at an effective price of $7.99 by pausing the inReach subscription, and not only with various inReach devices, but also with Garmin smartwatches that support satellite communication. An initial activation fee of $39.99 also applies.

    Potentially problematic for the brand

    The move is not really surprising, but it probably will not protect Garmin from a potential marketing disaster and could end up costing the company more than lost inReach revenue at a lower level. This only partial change to the pricing structure seems problematic for two reasons. First, with the Fenix 8 Pro models, Garmin is targeting average users much more directly than it does with its inReach handhelds, even if those users are interested in sports. Put casually: Anyone who buys an inReach handheld is planning serious outdoor adventures and ideally also knows that such a subscription can be vital for survival.

    A different kind of customer

    That may not always be the case for customers who buy the Fenix 8 Pro or Quatix 8 Pro. Still, even a short hike in a dead zone, or a professional but ultimately not well-organized diving trip, can quickly turn into a fatal horror trip, or into the kind of story told well into old age about a successful helicopter rescue after what ultimately turned out to be a not-so-dramatic broken leg. It’s a bit of a gamble, requiring users to be very proactive about there subscription setup.

    Comparing to Apple

    Garmin looks particularly stingy compared with Apple: Satellite communication is free for the first two years after purchase, and there is no information yet for the period after that. Looking at the situation with iPhones as well, I strongly assume that Apple will at least not put basic emergency communication behind a paywall. This may sound somewhat naive, but in such cases, which are not exactly rare, the choice of smartwatch can quite literally decide between life and death, even if the smartwatch itself technically supports satellite communication.

    Long-term reputational risk

    Beyond the individual tragedy, this could also cause significant reputational damage for the otherwise very successful company and ultimately become much more expensive for Garmin in the long term. Average consumers might not understand why they need to pay extra for a life saving feature, especially when a rival offers it for free. It remains to be seen if Garmin will adjust there polices further, but for now the reaction from the market and potential buyers seems mixed at best.

    • Pricing specifics: $7.99 effective price per month for emergency call capability
    • Additional cost: $39.99 initial activation fee
    • Requires pausing the inReach subscription after activation
    • Works with Garmin inReach devices and select smartwatches (Fenix 8 Pro, Quatix 8 Pro)
    • Apple offers free satellite communication for first two years
    • No pricing information from Apple for period after two years
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  • Garmin Fenix 8 Pro & Others Get Free Satellite SOS

    Garmin Fenix 8 Pro & Others Get Free Satellite SOS

    Key Takeaway

    – Garmin now allows SOS functions on “suspended” inReach subscriptions, saving activation fees.
    – Pausing a subscription for up to 12 months enables year-round SOS access with just one $7.99 payment per year.
    – Other features (check-in messages, photo/voice transfer, LiveTrack) still require a paid subscription.
    – Voice calls and text messages via mobile network need at least the cheapest “Enabled” subscription.
    – The SOS-only feature on paused plans requires a firmware update and is limited to specific Garmin products.

    New SOS Access on Garmin Devices

    While smartphones like the Apple iPhone 17 ($759 on Amazon) have been offering free satellite SOS features for years, users of a Garmin Fenix 8 Pro, a Quatix 8 Pro or even a dedicated inReach satellite communication device have to take out a paid subscription to be able to use this function. This is now changing, at least partially, as users with a “suspended” inReach subscription can now also access the SOS functions.

    Subscription Pause Changes

    Until now, pausing a subscription was mainly practical in order to save the activation fee of $39.99 if the subscription was to be continued at some point. A subscription can be paused for a maximum of twelve months at a time and is then automatically reactivated. The new arrangement means that it is effectively possible to pay $7.99 once a year for the cheapest inReach subscription and use Garmin inReach emergency call features all year round. However, as this requires a firmware update, emergency calls are only available on the following products during a paused subscription:

    • Garmin Fenix 8 Pro
    • Garmin Quatix 8 Pro
    • Garmin inReach Messenger Plus
    • Garmin inReach Mini 2

    Remaining Features Still Paid

    All other inReach features, such as sending check-in messages to friends, transferring photos and voice messages via the satellite network, and LiveTrack location requests are still only available if a paid subscription has been taken out. Voice calls, text messages and voice messages via the mobile network also require at least the cheapest “Enablded” subscription


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  • Garmin Update Adds Health History & Recovery Mode

    Garmin Update Adds Health History & Recovery Mode

    Key Takeaway

    – Garmin released the May 2026 Smartwatch and Cycling Computer Feature Update.
    – The update adds Gear Tracking and Bosch eBike smart system support on Edge devices (e.g., Edge 550, Edge 1050).
    – Premium golf features have already rolled out to Fenix E and Fenix 8 series via System Software 22.35.
    – More device updates are planned over the coming weeks, with no specific timeline provided.

    Garmin’s Recent Activity and New Updates

    Garmin has had a busy few months, with multiple product announcements and software updates having occured since its previous Feature Update. For instance, the company updated its Forerunner smartwatch series in mid-May with the release of the Forerunner 70 and Forerunner 170 (curr. $299 on Amazon). They also quietly improved the battery life on some older models but didnt announce this widely.

    Focus on Cycling Computers

    Now, it has returned with the May 2026 Smartwatch and Cycling Computer Feature Update. For some reason, Garmin has focused on the latter in its official announcement. Currently, it has only showcased added Gear Tracking and Bosch eBike smart system on Edge devices like the Edge 550 or Edge 1050. The Edge 550 is priced at $399.99 and the Edge 1050 is priced at $599.99. However, the May 2026 update is also said to include the following changes: new navigation alerts for dangerous turns, better integration with Di2 shifting, and improved climbpro profiles.

    • Gear Tracking now supports chain and cassette wear monitoring
    • Bosch eBike smart system compatibility for real-time battery and assist data
    • Automatic crash detection and live tracking improvements

    Rollout Status and Premium Features

    According to Garmin, these new features have already begun rolling out in some cases. For instance, the ‘premium golf features’ described in the comparison chart above appear to have already been expanded on the Fenix E and Fenix 8 series with the release of System Software 22.35. These golf features include improved hazard overlays and green contour maps, avaliable only on the higher-end models. The Fenix E starts at $799.99 while the Fenix 8 series ranges from $999.99 to $1,499.99 depending on size and materials.

    Upcoming Device Updates

    Garmin claims it will continue to update devices over the coming weeks. Unfortunately, it has not yet given any timescale for doing so. This is frustrating for users who rely on consistent firmware schedules. Please see the images above and below for more details, as well as Garmin’s official announcement. The company is expected to push these updates to other compatible models like the Venu 3 and Instinct 3 series in the near future.


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  • Garmin OTA Update Adds Features and Bug Fixes for Smartwatches

    Garmin OTA Update Adds Features and Bug Fixes for Smartwatches

    Key Takeaway

    – Beta-only rollout (Garmin Beta Program) with OTA updates, and notable feature changes including a Dive and ECG disablement in this release.
    – New golf “glance” feature and a man-overboard navigation option that guides to the saved overboard point.
    – Bug fixes, including addressing resets seen in 21.39 during app installs, activity recording, or evening reports.

    Overview of the New Garmin Software Version

    Garmin has rolled out a fresh software version for several models, starting at $750 on Amazon for the Fenix 8 AMOLED, and extending to the Fenix 8 Solar, Enduro 3, Quatix 8, and Fenix E. This update is planned to cascade across the entire series, regardless of the watch size, as a beta release visible to participants in Garmin’s Beta Program. It’s delivered as an over-the-air download and, notably, it will disable the Dive and ECG features in this iteration. The update is labeled as 22.35, following the prior 21.29, and the changelog lists 38 distinct entries, indicating a substantial set of changes and fixes.

    New Features and Safety Enhancements

    Among the fresh additions are a new “glance” function aimed at golf performance, which may provide quick, on-screen insights during rounds. A notable safety-oriented navigation option has been introduced that can guide users back to the location where someone fell overboard, a feature that becomes particularly valuable for boating activities. For this capability to function, the man-overboard point must be saved by a supported device, a step that can be completed swiftly in emergencies. These enhancements appear alongside ongoing efforts to expand the platform’s utility in sport and safety contexts.

    Bug Fixes and Reliability Improvements

    Garmin emphasizes that numerous bugs have been addressed in this update. A key example cited is that version 21.39 previously caused device resets in various scenarios, such as when installing new apps via the Garmin Connect Mobile app, or even during routine activity recording or when viewing the evening report. The new release aims to mitigate these resets and improve overall stability, which could result in a more dependable experience for users who rely on frequent app installations and daily logging.

    Notes on Availability and Beta Status

    Because this is a beta release, access is limited to Garmin’s Beta Program participants and is distributed as an over-the-air download. Users should be mindful that the Dive and ECG features are disabled in this version, which could affect certain usage scenarios for divers or health monitoring. As with all beta software, potential testers should anticipate iterative updates and closely monitor release notes for further refinements.

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  • Garmin Update Restores Solar Charging for Smartwatches Battery Life

    Garmin Update Restores Solar Charging for Smartwatches Battery Life

    Key Takeaway

    – Garmin releases a manual beta update (no OTA) for multiple Instinct 2 family watches, requiring a PC to install via a ZIP file.
    – The update addresses a single bug: an issue that could prevent solar charging (software version 17.11).
    – Solar charging together with low power consumption remains a key advantage, potentially enabling very long battery life depending on GNSS usage.

    Long-time readers may recall this: While Garmin has been offering beta software versions for its smartwatches for quite some time, they haven’t delivered via convenient over-the-air (OTA) updates even before the beta program existed. Instead, users had to connect their Garmin smartwatch to a computer as a mass storage device and then transfer a ZIP file to the watch, after which the installation would run automatically. Though not particularly complicated, this semi-manual update method does require access to a PC.

    Garmin has now rolled out a new beta software version as a manual update for the following Instinct models: the Garmin Instinct 2, Instinct 2 Solar, (available on Amazon) Instinct 2S, Instinct 2S Solar, Instinct 2X, and Instinct Crossover. A separate file is available for each watch. The changelog is extremely short, covering just a single bug fix for an issue that could prevent solar charging.

    Despite including only one change, this update to software version 17.11 may be significant. The solar-charging capability, coupled with low power consumption, is likely a key selling point of the solar-enabled Instinct 2 models, allowing them to achieve virtually unlimited battery life depending on usage – provided users aren’t constantly tracking activities while using GNSS mode at full capacity.

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  • Garmin Smartwatches: Improved Volume in New Beta Updates

    Garmin Smartwatches: Improved Volume in New Beta Updates

    Key Takeaway

    – Improved responsiveness of the touchscreen volume slider in beta 17.30/17.31.
    – Nutrition Glance now logs both minute and hour of meal times; translations updated.
    – Bug fixes: prevents unexpected resets for FR570, FR970, Venu X1, Venu 4, and vivoactive 6; separate fix for multisport workouts causing freezes/resets on FR570, FR970, Venu X1, Venu 4.

    Garmin has released updates that bring new beta versions to several watches, including the Forerunner 970, Venu 4, Forerunner 570, Venu X1, and vivoactive 6. These beta releases aim to improve how the devices respond when you move the volume slider on the touchscreen. The changes also touch the Nutrition Glance, now letting you log both the hour and the minute of your meal time, and Garmin mentions updated translations across these wearables, though they do not specify which languages were amended.

    Varied stylistic note

    With the beta versions 17.30 and 17.31, users can expect better responsiveness as you adjust the volume via the touchscreen slider. The update also expands the Nutrition Glance’s functionality by recording minute-level precision for meal times, a small but handy tweak for daily tracking. Translation updates are acknowledged, yet the exact languages updated remain unspecified, leaving some curiosity about global support. These tweaks show Garmin’s ongoing attention to user experience for diverse markets.

    Technical specifics

    The beta notes indicate a bug fix intended to prevent unexpected resets on several models under 17.30/17.31. In addition, a separate fix targets multisport workouts on Forerunner 570, Forerunner 970, Venu 4, and Venu X1, addressing a potential freeze or reset during use. The current distribution status claims around half of eligible devices have received the beta, with installation possible via Settings > Check for Updates. Prices cited in context include curr. $649.99 for the Forerunner 970 at retailers, though this is not a guaranteed price in the update itself.

    How to get it

    User guidance notes that the beta software can be manually downloaded through the system’s update pathway when you select the “Check for Updates” option. As this is a beta, some users might experience fluctuations in performance, so caution is advised for those who rely on the watches during critical activities. The process is designed to be straightforward, yet it’s best to ensure data backups and familiarity with the update flow before proceeding. Garmin’s engineering teams continue to test these builds prior to wider rollout.

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  • Garmin CIRQA Leak on Online Store Reveals High Price

    Garmin CIRQA Leak on Online Store Reveals High Price

    Key Takeaway

    – Leak from Ukrainian retailer Stylus Store lists Garmin CIRQA, but retailer leaks/AI-generated images may be placeholders and should be treated cautiously.
    – Product image shows a simple fabric wristband with a visible sensor unit bearing a Garmin logo (design doesn’t hide the module like Fitbit Air).
    – Listed price is 22,399 UAH (~$509) with a pre-order discount to 19,999 UAH (~$454).
    – If accurate, CIRQA would be far pricier than rivals (Fitbit Air/Amazfit $99, Polar Loop $199; only Whoop’s subscription model is comparably costly).
    – No launch date or feature set is confirmed, so it’s unclear what would justify the high price.

    Over the past few months, several leaks has suggested that Garmin will soon release an alternative to Whoop 5.0 or the new Google Fitbit Air ($99) on the market, and the Ukrainian retailer Stylus Store is already listing Garmin CIRQA, though as usual such retailer leaks should be taken with a pinch of salt since there’s always possibility it could be just a placeholder with an AI-generated product image.

    Retail listing details

    The online store shows a simple fabric wristband with a small sensor unit bearing a clearly visible Garmin logo; if this image actually reflects the final design of Garmin CIRQA, Garmin appears to have chosen a comparatively simple aesthetic that does not let the base unit with the Garmin logo be hidden under the band like Fitbit Air allows, for example — the price on the listing is surprisingly high: the store states a list price of 22,399 UAH ($509), with a pre-order discount the wristband costs 19,999 UAH ($454).

    How it compares

    If those prices are correct Garmin CIRQA will be considerably more expensive than most rivals. Fitbit Air and Amazfit Helio Strap cost $99 each, Polar Loop is offered for $199. Only Whoop MG is even more expensive because a subscription for $359 per year is required to obtain that wristband. So if Garmin is indeed charging around $500 for its fitness wristband without a display, it remains to be seen what features will justify such a high price, and there is still no official launch date known.


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  • Garmin Launches Recovery Mode to Fix Smartwatch Errors

    Garmin Launches Recovery Mode to Fix Smartwatch Errors

    Key Takeaway

    1. Garmin smartwatches are introducing a new recovery mode to address severe software issues.
    2. Recovery mode is triggered automatically during startup when problems are detected and offers various repair and troubleshooting options.
    3. Users can attempt automatic repairs, manually terminate activities, delete maps, or reset the device to factory settings within recovery mode.
    4. The feature is currently in beta testing and available on select devices, with limited options for downgrading firmware versions.

    New Recovery Mode in Garmin Smartwatches

    Garmin’s latest update has introduced a new feature called recovery mode, which can be a real game-changer for users who face serious issues with their smartwatches. But frankly, this is not exactly what most people would like to come across while using their device, especially since it’s meant to fix what could be major glitches. The problem is that when software issues happen, fixing them isn’t always straightforward or quick, leading to a lot of frustration. One big pain point is that Garmin doesn’t usually offer official options for downgrading firmware versions, leaving users stuck with the latest updates and limited recovery options in the rare case of problems.

    Automatic Detection and User Options

    • When your Garmin watch encounters a startup problem, the recovery mode can be triggered automatically.
    • You will see a menu with numerous options, including trying an automatic repair that aims to fix common errors without deleting your data.
    • If needed, you also can manually stop any activity that might be causing the issue.
    • Another option is to delete saved maps locally to free up space or fix corrupt data.

    Manual Firmware Installation & Reset

    Beyond basic troubleshooting, the recovery mode makes provision for connecting your watch to a computer via USB. This allows for a hands-on approach, where more advanced users can install firmware manually—something that could be tricky for most regular users. And if everything else fails, there’s always the option to reset the device completely to its original factory settings, wiping all data and settings in the process. Garmin has started to roll out this recovery tool gradually, specifically to select devices under the beta testing phase, indicating that it’s still a work in progress.

    Current Status & Outlook

    As reported by Gadgets & Wearables, this feature is still being tested and will gradually become available for more Garmin watches in the future. Users probably hope they won’t need to use it often, but it’s reassuring to know that there is a safety net when things go wrong. The recovery mode aims to provide users with a way to fix serious software problems independently, but it also highlights Garmin’s acknowledgment that some issues can’t be resolved through simple updates or resets alone.

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  • Garmin Smartwatches Get New Features and Improvements in Latest Update

    Garmin Smartwatches Get New Features and Improvements in Latest Update

    Key Takeaway

    1. Beta Version 17.19 for Garmin Forerunner 570 and 970 includes 11 improvements aimed at enhancing device responsiveness and stability.
    2. The update resolves issues that caused resets on older firmware versions and improves timer start responsiveness.
    3. New support for Garmin Approach CT1 club sensors and modifications to LiveTrack functionality are included.

    Garmin Presents New Software Update for Forerunner Series

    Garmin recently announced a fresh software update for their Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches, which are priced at around $749. To give more context, earlier this month, they initiated a fresh round of beta testing for both models. The previous beta, version 17.16, brought more than 25 enhancements. The newer update, however, brings fewer than half of those improvements.

    Key Improvements in Beta Version 17.19

    This latest beta, version 17.19, brings 11 key changes aimed at boosting the user experience. Garmin emphasizes that one of the main focuses was to make it easier to start a timer, making the response much more faster and smoother. The update is also supposed to fix some lingering bugs that could cause the watches to unexpectedly reset during use, especially with older firmware versions.

    New Features and Fixes

    Furthermore, the update now supports Garmin’s Approach CT1 golf club sensors, expanding the devices’ compatibility with golf-related activities. It also prevents automatic detection of tracks during trail runs, increasing accuracy for runners. Additionally, Garmin improved the LiveTrack feature, allowing it to be activated per activity instead of globally on the entire device, giving users more control over their live sharing options.

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    • Garmin Smartwatch Problems: Limited Usability in Certain Cases

      Garmin Smartwatch Problems: Limited Usability in Certain Cases

      Key Takeaway

      1. Garmin smartwatches often require pairing with the Garmin Connect app for full functionality, but connection issues with iOS devices have been reported.
      2. Many users experience persistent sync problems, especially after iOS 26 updates, with some unable to connect at all for weeks.
      3. Alternative synchronization via wired connection is available for workout data, but it does not support notifications, making the device less useful.
      4. The impact of these issues varies based on the specific model and usage, with some features becoming nearly unusable.
      5. It remains uncertain if iOS 26.5 will resolve these connectivity problems for all users.

      Garmin Smartwatch and iPhone Connection Troubles

      Depending on the exact model, Garmin smartwatches can be used without a phone but mostly need to be connected through a smartphone app or Garmin Connect to work that’s fully. The connection between iOS devices and Garmin watches, however, has been problematic for many users. Reports from users indicate significant sync issues especially after updating to iOS 26, effecting many features. It’s hard to tell how many are affected, but it’s not just a small number of weird isolated problems, this is a broader issue.

      Persistent Connection Problems

      Some users say the connection problems have been ongoing for weeks now, to a point where their iPhones cant connect with Garmin watches at all. For instance, a Reddit user shared they haven’t been able to connect their Garmin Forerunner 255 Music with their iPhone 16 running iOS 26.4 since February. Several others have confirmed they face the same problem. Re-pairing devices and deleting Garmin apps didn’t seem to fix the problem at all. The issue is quite frustrating for those impacted.

      Limited Functionality and Potential Fixes

      On Garmin’s support forums, someone with a Garmin Fenix 8, an iPhone 15 Pro, and iOS 26.3 also reported connection troubles. Depending on what model you own and how you use it, this can make the smartwatch pretty useless. Interestingly, syncing workout data over a wired connection still works without Wi-Fi, so at least that part functions. But, of course, notifications won’t arrive that way. It’s uncertain if updating to iOS 26.5 will fix the issues for all users though, yet there are some alternatives for notifications directly on the watch which might help.

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