Tag: Garmin Connect

  • Garmin Smartwatch Paywall Sparks Huge Backlash from Users

    Garmin Smartwatch Paywall Sparks Huge Backlash from Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin Connect is the main platform for data from Garmin wearables and smartwatches.
    2. Garmin has launched Garmin Connect+, a premium subscription service costing about $7 a month or $70 annually for extra features.
    3. Many Garmin smartwatch owners are dissatisfied and feel misled about the new subscription model.
    4. Users argue they have already paid for software support through the high cost of Garmin devices, some exceeding $1,000.
    5. Garmin previously stated they would not charge users for their data, and free features will remain free.

    Garmin Connect is the platform where data from the brand’s wearables and smartwatches come together. The company has introduced Garmin Connect+, a premium subscription service that allows users to unlock extra features for about $7 a month or $70 annually. They are also promoting AI tools that promise to offer users more in-depth insights.

    User Reactions

    Despite this new offering, many Garmin smartwatch owners have expressed their dissatisfaction. On Reddit, there are several discussions where users share their frustrations after spending their hard-earned cash on Garmin devices. Some users have pointed out an implied agreement that Garmin has not made clear.

    Pricing and Value Concerns

    These consumers argue that they have already covered the costs of software support when they purchased one of Garmin’s rather pricey smartwatches. For instance, certain models of the Fenix 8 are priced over $1,000, making them some of the priciest options available, rivaling traditional luxury watches.

    Previous Commitments

    Additionally, some users recall earlier comments from Garmin’s representatives. In 2022, Phil McClendon, who has since left the company, mentioned that Garmin would not charge users for their data in the future. This statement still holds, as Garmin has clarified in a recent video that features previously offered for free will continue to be free.

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  • Garmin Connect+: Exclusive Features for Smartwatch Subscribers

    Garmin Connect+: Exclusive Features for Smartwatch Subscribers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched Connect+, a new subscription service for smartwatches that offers enhanced features and insights through the Garmin Connect app.
    2. Key features include Active Intelligence (AI-powered health insights), customizable performance dashboards, and real-time workout metrics for indoor training.
    3. Subscribers can access expert training guidance from Garmin Run Coach and Garmin Cycling Coach, and create personalized LiveTrack pages for sharing their workouts.
    4. Exclusive Badge challenges are available only for Connect+ subscribers, adding a fun element to fitness tracking.
    5. The subscription costs $6.99/£6.99/€8.99 monthly or $69.99/£69.99/€89.99 annually, while existing features in Garmin Connect remain free for all users.

    Garmin has introduced Connect+, a new high-end subscription service for its smartwatches. This plan will give users access to various new features and tailored insights through the Garmin Connect app, which can be downloaded on both iOS and Android devices.

    Exciting New Features

    Among the new offerings in Garmin Connect+ is Active Intelligence, an AI-powered tool that provides insights related to your health and activities, along with helpful suggestions. It’s important to note that this feature is still in its beta phase. Subscribers will also benefit from a performance dashboard that allows for customizable graphs displaying recent workout data. If you prefer indoor workouts, you can connect your smartwatch to a compatible smartphone to see real-time metrics such as heart rate, pace, and repetitions. Additionally, you can view workout videos on a larger screen for an enhanced experience.

    Training Support and Social Sharing

    Users who take advantage of Garmin Run Coach or Garmin Cycling Coach will receive “expert training guidance,” with content crafted to help enhance their performance. Furthermore, subscribers can create a personalized LiveTrack page to share with friends and family, and they can send text notifications when starting a workout. There will also be exclusive Badge challenges available only for subscribers, adding more fun to your fitness journey.

    Pricing Details

    Garmin emphasizes that the Connect+ subscription is solely for the new features; all current data and features within Garmin Connect will remain free. The subscription is priced at $6.99/£6.99/€8.99 per month or $69.99/£69.99/€89.99 annually. This plan is accessible to all smartwatch users, including those with the latest Tactix 8 model (currently priced at $1,399.99 on Amazon).

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  • Therabody Launches Smart Recovery Plans with Garmin Integration

    Therabody Launches Smart Recovery Plans with Garmin Integration

    Therabody has partnered with Garmin to offer users a more personalized recovery experience. The wellness brand aims to provide a variety of smart recovery tools, while also gaining insights into how recovery affects athletic performance.

    New Recovery Tool Unveiled

    In their announcement, Therabody introduced the new Coach by Therabody feature, which is now in beta testing. Integrated within the Therabody app, this AI-powered coach can send reminders and create tailored recovery plans. Users can select from various goals like becoming more active, enhancing performance, or alleviating muscle soreness. Additionally, users can link to platforms such as Garmin Connect, Apple Health, Google Health, and Strava, which supply the necessary data to personalize recommendations for recovery video guides.

    Research Using Garmin Data

    Moreover, Therabody intends to analyze data from Garmin smartwatch users to explore the connection between recovery and athletic performance. The company highlights that it will examine metrics like heart rate, sleep patterns, activity levels, stress, body battery, and cardiovascular health. However, it is not clear how users can choose to participate or withdraw from this study. Furthermore, the findings from this research seem to be for Therabody’s scientists only; there are no insights provided in the app for regular users at this time.

    Latest App Update

    The Coach by Therabody feature was introduced in the recent app update, version 12.0.0. It’s important to mention that the CoachBeta is exclusively available for owners of the Theragun Pro Plus and Theragun Prime Plus (currently priced at $399 on Amazon). It is still uncertain when this feature will be accessible to a broader audience.

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