Tag: Garmin

  • Garmin Update: High-End Model Gets Bug Fixes and Improvements

    Garmin Update: High-End Model Gets Bug Fixes and Improvements

    Key Takeaways

    1. Beta software update version 26.05 is available for Forerunner 165, 265, 955, and 965 users who join the beta program.
    2. The “Find My Device” alert now sounds even when the watch is locked with a Passcode, improving security.
    3. Resolved the issue with pan/zoom mode on the map not working when activity is paused.
    4. Enhancements for golf sensors include fixing missing averages for clubs and suggestions while connected to CT10 sensors.
    5. Users can now switch sports during multisport activities by pressing and holding the lap key, and playback time issues with fast-forwarding music tracks have been fixed.

    Garmin is now releasing a new beta software update, version 26.05, for the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965. Since this is a beta update, users must join the beta program, and there may be some bugs present. However, this update aims to address several issues.

    Important Fixes and Improvements

    This update brings several key fixes to enhance the stability and overall user experience of the watches. A significant bug that has been addressed is the “Find My Device” alert, which will now sound even if the watch is locked with the Passcode feature, fixing a possible security flaw. There’s also been a resolution to a problem where users were unable to use the pan/zoom mode on the map when their activity was paused. Additionally, a bug that sometimes kept the Red Shift display mode from turning off automatically after the user’s designated sleep time has been corrected.

    Enhancements for Golf Sensors

    The changelog includes enhancements for golf sensors, specifically fixing missing averages for clubs and suggestions when the watches are connected to CT10 sensors. Users can now press and hold the lap key to switch sports during multisport activities, allowing for a lap press to be used for tracking laps, breaks, or sets in the current sport. Lastly, the update resolves an issue where the wrong playback time appeared when fast-forwarding through music tracks.

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  • Garmin Faces Setbacks from Suunto and Strava After Fenix 8 Pro Launch

    Garmin Faces Setbacks from Suunto and Strava After Fenix 8 Pro Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Suunto is requesting Garmin to stop selling its smartwatch models due to patent violations.
    2. Strava claims Garmin is misusing specific patents related to ‘user preference activity maps.’
    3. The legal actions may impact Garmin’s software and hardware, but the extent is currently uncertain.
    4. Strava’s Chief Product Officer hints that issues between Strava and Garmin extend beyond patent disputes.
    5. For further details, refer to the explanation by DC Rainmaker.

    Citing patent violations in both cases, the two companies are requesting that Garmin halt the sales of its smartwatch models, including the Approach, Epix, and Fenix series. For example, Suunto points out specific patents that Garmin is said to be infringing upon:

    Strava’s Claims

    On the other hand, Strava argues that Garmin is misusing patents 9297651 and 9778053, which they assert pertain to the creation of ‘user preference activity maps’. At this moment, it’s uncertain what impact, if any, this legal action will have on Garmin’s products, both software and hardware. Nonetheless, a recent comment on Reddit from Strava’s Chief Product Officer suggests that the problems between Strava and Garmin go beyond just patent issues. In the event that the post is taken down later, refer to the detailed explanation by DC Rainmaker below for more information.

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    Garmin Faces Setbacks from Suunto and Strava After Fenix 8 Pro Launch

     

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  • Garmin Update: New Features for High-End Smartwatches Released

    Garmin Update: New Features for High-End Smartwatches Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released Beta Version 20.10 for several smartwatches, including Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8.
    2. Users can switch to Beta Version 20.11 by manually installing it through the smartwatch menus.
    3. The update fixes the month and date display on stock watch faces.
    4. It resolves an issue with missing vibration and tone settings on devices without a speaker.
    5. The update introduces Hot Key Support for the Garmin Calculator application.

    Garmin has recently released a beta update for several of its smartwatches, including the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8, which is currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon. This update, known as Beta Version 20.10, came out just two days ago, following the previous system software version 17.30 that was made available nearly a month ago.

    Update Details

    As mentioned earlier, past beta releases suggested Garmin would continue to roll out additional builds to beta testers before completing the development of version 20.xx for users of stable software. Keeping this in mind, the company is now guiding Beta Program participants to switch to Beta Version 20.11. To do this, users will need to manually install the new beta on their eligible smartwatch by going through these menus:

    Menu -> System -> Software Update -> Check For Updates.

    Fixes and New Features

    After installing Beta Version 20.11, users of the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 should notice that the month and date are now correctly displayed on the stock watch faces. Moreover, this new beta is also reported to fix an issue where vibration and tone settings were absent on devices lacking a speaker. Additionally, it introduces Hot Key Support for Garmin’s Calculator application.

    Garmin’s commitment to continuous improvements is evident as they work through these beta updates, striving to enhance the user experience for their smartwatch owners.

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  • Garmin Updates Mid-Range Smartwatches with Custom Alert Fixes

    Garmin Updates Mid-Range Smartwatches with Custom Alert Fixes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released a stable update (System Software 25.06) for several older Forerunner smartwatches.
    2. The update aims to improve overall stability and follows a brief beta testing phase.
    3. Version 25.06 addresses an issue where settings were hidden after adding a custom alert.
    4. The update will be rolled out to Forerunner 165, 255, 265, 955, and 965 over the next few days.
    5. Users can manually check for the update by navigating to Menu, System, Software Update, and selecting ‘Check for Updates’.

    Garmin has released a new stable update for several of its older Forerunner smartwatches, starting from the Forerunner 255 (currently priced at $279 on Amazon). The update, known as System Software 25.06, is the first for the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965 in less than a month. This update comes after a brief beta testing phase that followed the earlier introduction of System Software 25.04 in early September.

    Update Details

    The stable version 25.06 has been released about a week after Garmin made the Beta Version 25.06 available to participants in its public Beta Program. As previously mentioned, version 25.06 is intended to enhance overall stability for all compatible Forerunner smartwatches. Sadly, Garmin has yet to provide additional details on this matter.

    Fixes and Manual Update

    This new stable update addresses a problem that resulted in settings being hidden after a custom alert was added. Software Version 25.06 is expected to roll out to the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965 over the next few days. If your smartwatch hasn’t received the update yet, you can manually check for Garmin’s latest update by going to Menu, System, Software Update, and then selecting ‘Check for Updates’. For further information, refer to Garmin’s forum post.

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  • Garmin Launches Major Update for High-End Smartwatches

    Garmin Launches Major Update for High-End Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released a new update for its premium smartwatches, including Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8, currently available through its Beta Program.
    2. The latest update, Beta Version 20.10, focuses on fixing existing bugs from the previous Beta Version 20.07.
    3. Key bug fixes include correcting weather icons that were not displaying properly on MiP screens and addressing timer message glitches.
    4. The update also enhances the Navigation Preview Page by displaying the total distance left during a course activity.
    5. Beta Version 20.10 is likely one of several beta updates as Garmin continues the v20.xx development process.

    Garmin has rolled out a fresh update for several of its premium smartwatches following a wave of recent software launches. This latest update focuses on the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon), but it is still only available through its Beta Program for now.

    Update Background

    To give some background, Garmin kicked off its 20.xx development last week with the launch of Beta Version 20.07. While this initial beta introduced various new features, the next one prioritizes fixing existing bugs. Specifically, Beta Version 20.10 brings five major bug fixes, including a fix for weather icons that were not displaying correctly on smartwatches with MiP screens.

    Additional Fixes and Features

    In addition to the fixes mentioned, Beta Version 20.10 aims to correct other glitches, such as a message about the maximum active timer appearing when a timer starts. Furthermore, the latest update enhances the Navigation Preview Page, now showing the total distance left during a course activity. Keep in mind that Beta Version 20.10 is probably just the second of several beta updates before Garmin wraps up the v20.xx development process. Below is the complete changelog for the most recent beta update from Garmin:

    Conclusion

    Garmin’s commitment to improving its smartwatches is evident with these updates. Users can look forward to a smoother experience as the company continues to refine its software.

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  • Garmin Updates Older Mid-Range Smartwatches After Instinct Crossover

    Garmin Updates Older Mid-Range Smartwatches After Instinct Crossover

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released a new stable update (System Software 17.07) for the Instinct 2 series smartwatches.
    2. The previous update (System Software 17.06) included bug fixes for several models in the Instinct series.
    3. Garmin recently launched new models, including the Instinct Crossover AMOLED and Tactical Edition, priced at $749.99.
    4. Users can manually update their smartwatches if they haven’t received a notification for the latest software.
    5. System Software 17.07 primarily addresses DogTrack distance issues in Metric units, with potential fixes for the flashlight feature included.

    Garmin has rolled out a new stable update for its Instinct 2 series smartwatches. To give you some background, the company released System Software 17.05 over a month ago, which included a variety of bug fixes for the Instinct 2, Instinct 2X, and all models in the Instinct Crossover series. Coincidentally, Garmin also launched the Instinct Crossover AMOLED and the Instinct Crossover AMOLED Tactical Edition, which is currently priced at $749.99 on Amazon.

    New Developments

    In the midst of these product launches, Garmin released Beta Version 17.06 for the existing models. We discussed this update previously, as it addressed a problem where the strobe flashlight feature would stay on even after an activity was finished. Now, Garmin has shifted its focus for the Instinct 2 series to System Software 17.07, which the company states has been made available to roughly 20% of the smartwatches up to this point.

    Manual Update Process

    If you haven’t seen a notification for downloading System Software 17.06 on your smartwatch, you can manually initiate it. Just tap on the Main menu, go to Settings, then System, and select Software Update, followed by Check For Updates on your Instinct 2 or Instinct Crossover smartwatch. As noted in the accompanying forum, System Software 17.07 primarily addresses DogTrack distance problems when using Metric units. However, we suspect that the fix for the flashlight issue may also have been quietly included in Garmin’s latest update.

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  • Garmin Updates Mid-Range Smartwatches with Stability & Alerts Improvements

    Garmin Updates Mid-Range Smartwatches with Stability & Alerts Improvements

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is reducing development focus on the Forerunner 255, 955, 165, 265, and 965 models.
    2. Beta Version 25.02 introduced five changes, while Beta Version 25.06 offered limited significant improvements.
    3. The main update in Beta Version 25.06 aims to enhance general stability.
    4. A specific issue causing settings to disappear on older models has been resolved in the latest update.
    5. Garmin’s strategy now emphasizes stability and bug fixes over introducing new features for existing models.

    Garmin has shifted its focus away from the Forerunner 255, Forerunner 955, Forerunner 165, Forerunner 265, and Forerunner 965, placing them on a reduced development path. To provide some perspective, the firm released Beta Version 25.02 nearly a month ago, which included five main changes compared to its last stable update for those particular smartwatches. Although Garmin has moved on to Beta Version 25.06, it hasn’t introduced many significant improvements.

    Stability Improvements

    One of the key updates in Beta Version 25.06 is aimed at enhancing ‘general stability’. The company also states that they have resolved a problem that might cause certain settings to disappear on older Forerunner models when a custom alert is first added. Users interested in Beta Version 25.06 can download it by going to the Main menu, then Settings, followed by System, and finally Software Update on their smartwatch registered in the Beta Program. After that, they just need to click ‘Check For Updates’.

    Summary of Updates

    Garmin is taking a more cautious approach with the development of its Forerunner line, focusing less on new features and more on stability and bug fixes. This update process reflects the company’s strategy of ensuring that existing models perform reliably, even if it means less frequent updates.

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  • Garmin Model Design Flaw: Customer Reports and Concerns

    Garmin Model Design Flaw: Customer Reports and Concerns

    Key Takeaways

    1. Design Flaw: Users report that the Vivosmart 5’s watch unit can fall out of the wristband due to a design issue.
    2. Wristband Quality: The wristband material wears down quickly, leading to a loose fit and potential loss of the watch unit.
    3. Customer Service Concerns: Users express dissatisfaction with Garmin’s customer service, citing limited solutions offered for the issue.
    4. Need for Transparency: There is a call for Garmin to be more open about product quality issues and provide better support to customers.
    5. Affordable Replacement Options: Replacement wristbands with improved durability are available at low cost, suggesting a potential solution for affected users.

    Garmin’s Vivosmart 5 has been on the market for a while and remains easy to find at many stores. Recently, a user on Reddit strongly recommended against buying the Vivosmart 5, noting what seems to be a significant design issue. The user highlighted a specific concern about the main watch unit’s housing within the wristband, leading to the watch unit potentially falling out completely. Moreover, they pointed out that this issue seems to affect many users, not just them. Additionally, the user expressed disappointment with Garmin’s customer service, mentioning that the only solution offered was a replacement watch for $129, rather than a refund or an alternative model.

    Issues with Wristband Quality

    In our opinion, Garmin does share some responsibility in this matter, though the reasons might not be clear at first. As described by the Reddit user, the watch unit itself is not flawed. The problem lies with the wristband material, which wears down rather quickly, causing the Vivosmart 5 to become loose. Garmin could have warned customers about this issue. While it’s unusual for such a problem to arise after nine months, replacement wristbands with an improved design and better durability are quite affordable, especially on platforms like Amazon. Given the design (the Vivosmart 5 looks like a small puck), the way the watch unit fits within the wristband makes it more susceptible to falling out, unlike traditional watches that use spring pins to secure the unit in place.

    Conclusion

    The discussion on Reddit raises important questions about product quality and customer support. It seems that while the Vivosmart 5 has a lot of potential, the materials used in the wristband might not meet user expectations. It would be beneficial for Garmin to address these concerns more openly and provide better solutions for their customers.

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  • Bold Color Limited Edition Garmin Smartwatches Now Available

    Bold Color Limited Edition Garmin Smartwatches Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched the Instinct 3 Supernova Collection, featuring four exclusive smartwatches inspired by outer space.
    2. The collection includes different models with varying sizes and color schemes, priced between $399.99 and $499.99.
    3. Key features include an integrated flashlight, smartphone alerts, multi-band GPS, health metrics monitoring, workout logging, and Garmin Pay.
    4. The Supernova Collection is a limited edition, with an unknown number of units produced.
    5. Available for purchase on Garmin’s online store and various retailers, including Amazon, in North America and Europe.

    Garmin has introduced the Instinct 3 Supernova Collection globally. This collection includes four exclusive smartwatches that showcase striking colors with blue highlights, drawing inspiration from outer space. They can be found in various countries, such as the US, the UK, and the Netherlands.

    Pricing and Models

    The Instinct 3 45 mm AMOLED watch comes in a fresh Black with Bolt Blue/Black Band color scheme, with a price tag of $449.99/£389.99/€449.99. The 50 mm AMOLED variant is available in Black with a Black/Bolt Blue Band, featuring a more subdued look, and costs $499.99/£429.99/€499.99. For those looking for a smaller option, the Instinct 3 45 mm Solar watch in Whitestone with a Whitestone/Bolt Blue Band is mainly white and retails for $399.99/£349.99/€399.99. Lastly, the larger Instinct 3 50 mm Solar Whitestone with a Black/Bolt Blue Band sports a white bezel alongside a predominantly black strap.

    Features and Availability

    These limited edition smartwatches share the same pricing as the regular Instinct 3 color options, and their features are reportedly the same, too. They come equipped with an integrated flashlight, smartphone alerts, and multi-band GPS. Users also have the ability to monitor various health metrics, log workouts, and utilize Garmin Pay for contactless payments.

    Garmin highlights that the Instinct 3 Supernova Collection will only be available for a limited duration, but the exact number of units produced remains unknown. Customers can buy these watches from the brand’s online store or at various retailers, including Amazon, in North America and Europe.

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    Bold Color Limited Edition Garmin Smartwatches Now Available

     

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Detects Early Pregnancy Using Heart Metrics

    Garmin Smartwatch Detects Early Pregnancy Using Heart Metrics

    Key Takeaways

    1. Users reported that Garmin smartwatches detected changes in heart rate and heart rate variability (HRV) before they confirmed their pregnancies.
    2. Several users shared experiences of their devices showing significant increases in resting heart rate and drops in HRV, prompting them to take pregnancy tests.
    3. Screenshots from the Garmin app displayed trends indicating higher heart rates, lower HRV, and reduced body battery levels during early pregnancy.
    4. Heart rate and HRV are linked to autonomic nervous system performance, which can be affected by hormonal changes during pregnancy.
    5. The information shared is anecdotal, and Garmin has not provided official comments regarding these observations.

    A Garmin smartwatch user on the company’s unofficial subreddit recently shared an experience where their device noticed signs of pregnancy before they themselves did. The Reddit user, u/kalechipsmoothie, observed changes in resting heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV), and body battery metrics days to weeks prior to taking positive pregnancy tests.

    Shared Experiences

    This user is not the only one; several others have also recounted similar stories. Other users noted their Garmin devices detected odd heart data ahead of pregnancy confirmation. One user reported a gradual rise in resting heart rate from a typical level of around 54 beats per minute (bpm) to 80 bpm, which prompted them to take a pregnancy test that confirmed their condition. Another user was excited about how the smartwatch identified drops in HRV, often linked to physical stress, thus warning them before they experienced any noticeable symptoms.

    Visual Evidence

    The original post featured a screenshot from the Garmin app displaying trends in heart rate, HRV status, and body battery levels over several weeks. These visuals indicated increasing heart rates, diminishing HRV scores categorized as “unbalanced” or “low,” and lowering body battery levels, suggesting heightened stress or reduced recovery during the early stages of pregnancy.

    Important Indicators

    Heart rate and HRV are commonly accepted markers of autonomic nervous system performance. The onset of pregnancy leads to hormonal shifts that influence cardiovascular behavior, such as elevated heart rates and modified HRV. The Garmin body battery metric aggregates HR, HRV, stress, and activity data to estimate energy levels; users have reported that these values notably decreased as their pregnancies advanced. Interestingly, Garmin Connect already has a feature that allows users to track symptoms and monitor baby growth.

    Nevertheless, it’s crucial to keep in mind that this information is solely anecdotal and comes from community feedback. Garmin has not released any official comments on this matter.

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