Tag: Garmin

  • Garmin Venu 4: New Smartwatch with ECG and Flashlight Features

    Garmin Venu 4: New Smartwatch with ECG and Flashlight Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Garmin Venu 4 smartwatch has been officially launched, featuring a design similar to the Venu 3, with a sleek round metal case and multiple color options.

    2. It comes in two sizes: a 41 mm model with a 1.2-inch AMOLED display and a 45 mm version with a 1.4-inch AMOLED screen, and includes advanced health tracking capabilities.

    3. New features include Health Status in the Garmin Connect app, lifestyle logging, advanced sleep metrics, and personalized workouts from Garmin’s Fitness Coach for over 25 activities.

    4. Accessibility features include spoken information about the watch face, color filters for color blindness, and an ECG app to help identify atrial fibrillation (AFib).

    5. The Venu 4 will launch on September 22nd, priced at $549.99 for both sizes, which is $100 more than the Venu 3, with higher-priced leather strap options also available.

    Garmin has made it official with the launch of the Venu 4 smartwatch, after several leaks in the past. This new model serves as the next version of the Venu 3 that was released in 2023. The design of the Venu 4 closely resembles its earlier version, featuring a sleek, round metal case and is available in multiple color options.

    Sizes and Display

    The Venu 4 comes in two different sizes: a 41 mm model with a 1.2-inch AMOLED display, and a larger 45 mm version that sports a 1.4-inch AMOLED screen. It boasts a comprehensive set of health tracking capabilities, including heart rate variability (HRV), skin temperature monitoring, Body battery energy checks, and sleep health evaluations. A new feature called Health Status is included in the Garmin Connect app, which helps users track how their current health data stacks up against their averages, possibly signaling health issues. Additionally, a lifestyle logging feature has been added, along with advanced sleep metrics and customized advice for better sleep quality.

    Fitness and Accessibility Features

    With the Venu 4, Garmin’s Fitness Coach offers personalized workouts across more than 25 different activities, such as walking and indoor cycling, providing daily workout suggestions. Moreover, new accessibility options are available, like spoken information about the watch face, including time and health data, as well as a selection of color filters for individuals with color blindness. The watch also includes an ECG app that may assist in identifying signs of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Hardware features incorporate a speaker, a microphone, and an LED flashlight. Users can reply to text messages using an on-watch keyboard or voice assistant, and they can make contactless payments through Garmin Pay. The smartwatch is projected to last for 12 days with regular use or 19 hours in All-Systems GNSS mode.

    Pricing and Release Date

    The Garmin Venu 4 smartwatch is set to launch on September 22nd, with both 41 mm and 45 mm silicone strap options priced at $549.99/£469.99/€549.99. In the United States, this means it is $100 pricier than the Venu 3, which is available for $449.99 on Amazon. There are also two leather strap versions available, which are priced higher at $599.99/£519.99/€599.99.

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  • Garmin Instinct Crossover Tactical Edition: Major Upgrades Unveiled

    Garmin Instinct Crossover Tactical Edition: Major Upgrades Unveiled

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin launched the Instinct Crossover Tactical Edition alongside the standard Instinct Crossover, Bounce 2, and Venu 4 smartwatches.
    2. The new Instinct Crossover AMOLED Tactical Edition does not feature solar charging, unlike its predecessor, leading to shorter battery life (14 days, or 5 days with always-on display).
    3. The Tactical Edition includes specialized features like a dimmable LED flashlight, green flashlight, Applied Ballistics app, rucking support, night vision mode, and Stealth Mode.
    4. The price of the Instinct Crossover AMOLED Tactical Edition is $749.99, which is $100 more than the standard Crossover AMOLED.
    5. Both new models come with a 390 x 390-pixel AMOLED screen, multi-band GPS, and 4 GB of internal storage.

    The Instinct Crossover Tactical Edition is part of a new lineup of smartwatches that Garmin has launched today. To give you some background, the Fenix 8 Pro is only a month old and is currently priced at $1,199 on Amazon. Despite this, Garmin has chosen to refresh the standard Instinct Crossover and has also unveiled the Bounce 2 and Venu 4.

    Updates on the Instinct Crossover

    In the past, Garmin only provided a Tactical Edition of the Instinct Crossover Solar, but now they are introducing the standard Instinct Crossover as well. Nearly three years later, the company has removed the solar charging feature from the new Crossover AMOLED Tactical Edition. While this updated model enhances certain aspects from the earlier Tactical Edition, it also lacks in some areas.

    Battery Life and Features

    One noticeable downside is that the AMOLED version offers significantly shorter battery life compared to the Solar edition. Garmin claims that the Crossover Instinct Solar can last up to 70 days with solar charging, while the AMOLED model lasts only 14 days, or even just 5 days if the always-on display is activated, which is the same as the regular Instinct Crossover AMOLED.

    Conversely, the Crossover AMOLED Tactical Edition has introduced a dimmable LED flashlight. It also features a green flashlight that isn’t available on the standard Crossover AMOLED. Both new releases of the Instinct Crossover come equipped with a 390 x 390-pixel AMOLED screen, multi-band GPS, and 4 GB of internal storage.

    Tactical Features and Pricing

    In line with its name, the Tactical Edition includes specialized ‘tactical’ features such as an Applied Ballistics app, support for rucking and tactical activities, and a night vision mode designed for night vision goggles. Furthermore, it comes with a Stealth Mode, the ability to project waypoints, a Jumpmaster Mode, and a kill switch for swiftly erasing all data from the device.

    All these additional functionalities result in a $100 increase over the usual Crossover AMOLED price. Therefore, the Instinct Crossover AMOLED Tactical Edition is priced at $749.99. At the moment, Garmin is offering this latest Tactical smartwatch in a single black color option.

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    Garmin Instinct Crossover Tactical Edition: Major Upgrades UnveiledGarmin Instinct Crossover Tactical Edition: Major Upgrades Unveiled

     

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  • Garmin Venu 4 Smartwatch: Pricing Details Revealed Before Launch

    Garmin Venu 4 Smartwatch: Pricing Details Revealed Before Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is set to launch a new smartwatch called the Venu 4, with a UK price of £450 ($613).
    2. The Venu 4 will be available in two sizes: 41mm and 45mm, with three color options for each size.
    3. Confirmed features include ECG support and a highly expected AMOLED display.
    4. The Venu series is designed for fitness tracking, with capabilities for sports activities using optical sensors and GNSS.
    5. The Venu 4 aims to appeal to both fitness enthusiasts and everyday consumers in the evolving smartwatch market.

    Garmin seems to be on the verge of introducing a new smartwatch, named the Venu 4. This device has already been spotted on the company’s support page, and Garmin Rumors has reported that they have gotten hold of some insider details. The expected launch price in the UK is £450 ($613), which is £50 higher than the initial price of the Venu 3. For reference, the Venu 3 debuted at a price of $449.99 in the United States. However, it’s important to note that this comparison may not be entirely fair due to inflation and varying pricing strategies in different currencies, among other factors.

    Size and Color Options

    As per the information from Garmin Rumors, the Garmin Venu 4 will come in two different sizes: 41mm and 45mm, with three color choices available for each size. While there is no official word yet on any new features or the complete set of functions, it has been confirmed that the smartwatch will support ECG. An AMOLED display is also highly expected. Though the Garmin Venu series is not specifically designed for professional athletes, it is quite capable of tracking sports activities, thanks to its optical sensors and an integrated GNSS module.

    Conclusion

    Overall, the Garmin Venu 4 looks to be an exciting addition to the smartwatch lineup, even if details are still under wraps. With its anticipated features and design, it may attract a wide range of users, from fitness enthusiasts to everyday consumers. The smartwatch market continues to evolve, and Garmin seems ready to make its mark with this new offering.

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  • Garmin Update Enhances Heart Rate Tracking for Older Smartwatches

    Garmin Update Enhances Heart Rate Tracking for Older Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released stable updates for older Forerunner smartwatches after beta testing.
    2. The last stable update for the Forerunner series was Software Version 24.12, released in late July.
    3. Garmin is focusing on newer models like the Forerunner 570 and Fenix 8, with limited beta updates for older models.
    4. The latest stable update, Software Version 25.04, includes bug fixes and improved heart rate tracking.
    5. The Forerunner 165 did not receive a fix for Power Save Timeout settings, unlike the other models.

    Garmin has rolled out new stable updates for its older Forerunner smartwatches after a brief beta testing period. To summarize, the last stable update for the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965 (currently priced at $589 on Amazon) was released in late July with Software Version 24.12.

    Focus on Newer Models

    Following that, Garmin has shifted its attention to newer models like the Forerunner 570, Forerunner 970, and Fenix 8. While these new models have seen a variety of beta updates, the only beta version offered to the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965 beta testers was Version 25.02. Recently, Garmin unexpectedly moved ahead with Software Version 25.04, which can be manually downloaded by going through these menus on your Forerunner smartwatch:

    Menu > System > Software Update > Check For Updates

    Improvements and Fixes

    As anticipated, this latest stable update is primarily aimed at fixing bugs. One notable fix is for a problem that stopped Strength workouts from being marked as complete in Garmin Run Coach plans. In addition, Garmin has stated that it has enhanced wrist-based heart rate tracking, reducing instances where readings might be inaccurately high during activities. It’s important to mention that the Forerunner 165 is the only one from the five smartwatches eligible for Software Version 25.04 that hasn’t received a fix for Power Save Timeout settings in multisport profiles.

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  • New Garmin LTE Smartwatch Launch Expected Soon

    New Garmin LTE Smartwatch Launch Expected Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Garmin Bounce 2 smartwatch for kids is expected to launch soon, with a price range of £200 to £250 in the UK.
    2. The original Bounce smartwatch was not released in the UK and is available in select countries including the US, Mexico, and nine European nations.
    3. The Bounce 2 is rumored to come in three color options, similar to the first model, but detailed specifications are still unknown.
    4. The original Bounce features LTE connectivity, allowing for messaging, location tracking, and various sports applications.
    5. Excitement is building around the Bounce 2, with expectations for new features compared to the original model as more information emerges.

    Another Garmin smartwatch is said to be coming soon: the Bounce 2. News about this smartwatch for kids started to appear shortly after the unannounced Garmin Venu 4 was seen on the company’s Swedish website.

    Upcoming Release

    According to recent updates from Garmin Rumors, the Bounce 2 smartwatch might be launched in just a few days, with a suggested retail price ranging from £200 to £250 in the UK. Just to remind you, the first Bounce device (currently $149 at Amazon) was never made available in this region. The earlier model is sold in the US, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, and nine European countries such as the Netherlands, Spain, and France (you can find the complete list of countries here). The blog claims the Bounce 2 will come in three color options, similar to the original. However, the complete details about this new model are still under wraps. Garmin Rumors states that their information comes from “credible intel,” but they haven’t provided a specific source.

    Features of Bounce

    The original Garmin Bounce smartwatch was launched in November 2022. It features LTE connectivity available with a subscription, allowing users to send texts and voice messages, track locations, and access an Assistance feature that works without a smartphone. Additional functionalities include sports applications with GPS for activity tracking, reminders for check-ins, and updates on the weather. It is still unclear exactly when the Garmin Bounce 2 kids smartwatch will be released and which markets will see it first.

    Conclusion

    Garmin Rumors (1, 2) have sparked excitement around this upcoming smartwatch. As more information becomes available, it will be interesting to see how the Bounce 2 compares to its predecessor and what new features it might bring to the table.

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Fixes Heart Rate and Flashlight Bugs

    Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Fixes Heart Rate and Flashlight Bugs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched beta version 10.36 for Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct E smartwatches to fix bugs.
    2. The update resolves issues with the Broadcast Heart Rate feature and a strobe light glitch for Solar and AMOLED models.
    3. Instinct 3 Solar and Instinct E users will benefit from fixes for Connect IQ data fields and temperature data display issues.
    4. A crash issue related to connecting a Running Dynamics Pod for the Instinct 3 Solar has been addressed.
    5. Beta version 10.36 is available for installation via the Garmin Connect App or Garmin’s Express software.

    Garmin has launched beta version 10.36 for the Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct E smartwatches. This update comes after the stable software version 10.30, which was released in August 2025. The new beta aims to fix various bugs that users have encountered.

    Bug Fixes for All Models

    Across all variants, Garmin has addressed an issue with the Broadcast Heart Rate feature that wasn’t functioning properly when accessed using a hotkey. Additionally, a glitch related to the strobe light has been resolved for users of the Solar and AMOLED models, where the light would not turn off automatically after finishing an activity.

    Improvements for Instinct 3 Solar and Instinct E Wearables

    For those using the Instinct 3 Solar or Instinct E models, a bug that prevented Connect IQ data fields from displaying correctly in Connect IQ glances has been remedied. Garmin has also fixed a problem regarding temperature data in the weather glance for these devices. Furthermore, they have addressed an issue that could lead to the Instinct 3 Solar (currently priced at $399.99 on Amazon) crashing when users tried to connect a Running Dynamics Pod.

    Availability of the New Beta Version

    The Garmin beta version 10.36 is now accessible for all users of the Instinct 3 and Instinct E smartwatches. It can be installed over the air through the Garmin Connect App, or users can download it via Garmin’s Express software.

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    Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Fixes Heart Rate and Flashlight Bugs

     

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  • Hydrosense: Wearable Device Monitors Sweat for Fluid Loss

    Hydrosense: Wearable Device Monitors Sweat for Fluid Loss

    Key Takeaways

    1. Affordable wearables now monitor various health indicators, including heart rate and blood oxygen levels.
    2. The Hydrosense AI Sweat Sensor provides real-time hydration data using colorimetric technology but is costly and single-use.
    3. Users may consider measuring fluid loss once and using that data for future workouts instead of buying expensive sensors.
    4. The Hydrosense app offers hydration level tracking and personalized fluid intake suggestions.
    5. Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter carry risks, and potential backers should research campaigns thoroughly before investing.

    Nowadays, even affordable wearables can monitor a variety of health indicators like heart rate and blood oxygen saturation. Certain models from Garmin can even estimate how much sweat a person loses during workouts by taking into account the level of effort and the surrounding temperature.

    New Wearable Technology

    The Hydrosense AI Sweat Sensor is a cutting-edge device made to give hydration information based on actual data. According to the company that makes it, the gadget employs colorimetric tech to assess sweat directly, enabling users to observe their fluid and electrolyte depletion in real-time. These sensors are single-use and have a life span of just four hours. Even with its early bird price of $149 for ten sensors, Hydrosense appears to be quite pricey. Prospective buyers should also be aware of the financial uncertainties that come with supporting a crowdfunding initiative.

    Considering Cost-Effective Options

    In light of the system’s relatively steep price, users might find it better to measure their fluid loss once for certain types of exercises and intensities, then use the gathered data as a benchmark for future sessions. The Hydrosense also has an accompanying app that shows hydration levels and gives tailored suggestions for fluid consumption. As a nearly costless alternative, weighing oneself before and after a workout is still a straightforward and widely used method to estimate fluid loss.

    Crowdfunding and Risks

    Kickstarter and similar platforms can be great for new gadgets, but they come with their own sets of risks. It’s important for potential backers to do their homework and understand that not all campaigns succeed.

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    Hydrosense: Wearable Device Monitors Sweat for Fluid Loss

     

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  • Garmin Venu 4 Leaks Again with Confirmed ECG Support

    Garmin Venu 4 Leaks Again with Confirmed ECG Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched the Fenix 8 Pro priced at $1,299, following the release of more affordable models earlier this year.
    2. The company is expected to introduce a budget-friendly Venu model, specifically the Venu 4.
    3. Garmin previously mentioned the Venu 4 on its Japanese site but later removed it, indicating potential interest in the model.
    4. The Venu 4 has now been listed alongside the Venu 3, suggesting it is still in development.
    5. An official announcement for the Venu 4 may occur before the end of the year, but details on new features remain unclear.

    Garmin has launched the Fenix 8 Pro, currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon, following the release of more affordable models like the Forerunner 570, Forerunner 970, and Venu X1 earlier this year. It seems the company is also gearing up to introduce a budget-friendly option with a new Venu model.

    Venu 4 Reference

    In July, Garmin was seen mentioning the Venu 4, but later took that mention down from its Japanese site. However, that information was captured and kept alive. Now, Garmin has once again included the Venu 4 on one of its numerous websites, suggesting it is still in the works.

    New Listings

    This time, Garmin has placed the Venu 4 next to the Venu 3 rather than replacing it. This implies that the mention of the unreleased watch was likely not a mistake. At this point, it’s uncertain what new features the Venu 4 may offer compared to the Venu 3. Additionally, it is unknown if Garmin plans to release specific Plus or S versions. Regardless, the reappearance of the Venu 4 hints that an official announcement could come before the year wraps up.

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    Garmin Venu 4 Leaks Again with Confirmed ECG Support

     

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  • New Apple Sleep Score Available for Garmin and Amazfit Users

    New Apple Sleep Score Available for Garmin and Amazfit Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new Apple Health sleep score feature is now available for certain users in the Health app alongside the launch of new Apple Watch models.
    2. The sleep score can be utilized by non-Apple Watch users with compatible wearables that sync with Apple Health, such as Amazfit and Garmin devices.
    3. The sleep score helps monitor sleep quality by evaluating sleep duration, interruptions, sleep stages, and bedtime, based on data from over 5 million nights of sleep.
    4. The scoring algorithm is informed by recommendations from major sleep organizations and is supported by extensive sleep research.
    5. The sleep score feature will be available for older Apple Watch models running watchOS 26, with a broader rollout expected on September 15th.

    The new Apple Health sleep score feature is now available for certain users within the Health app. This was recently revealed alongside the launch of the new Watch Series 11, Watch SE 3, and Watch Ultra 3. Reports from users who are testing the beta version of iOS 26 have confirmed the arrival of this feature.

    Compatibility with Other Devices

    Some beta testers have shared that the sleep score metric from Apple is not exclusive to Apple Watch users. It can also be utilized by individuals using other brands of wearables, such as Amazfit and Garmin, including the Garmin Index Sleep Monitor (currently priced at $169.99 at Amazon). The key requirement is that your device must be capable of sleep tracking and should sync with Apple Health. Users won’t need to wait long for the metric to be available, as it can utilize past data to make its calculations. On social platforms, some users have pointed out differences between their sleep scores from Garmin or Zepp and those calculated by Apple.

    Understanding the Sleep Score

    The primary aim of the sleep score is to assist Apple Health users in monitoring their sleep quality. It considers different elements like how long you sleep, any interruptions, the various sleep stages, and your bedtime. After each night’s rest, a score is generated which provides insights to help users identify areas for improvement. Apple mentions that the scoring algorithm is supported by data collected from over 5 million nights of sleep, which was gathered during the Apple Heart and Movement study. Additionally, the algorithm is informed by recommendations from major sleep organizations such as the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, the National Sleep Foundation, and the World Sleep Society.

    Availability for Older Models

    The sleep score feature will also be accessible to owners of certain older Apple Watches that are running watchOS 26. This includes the Apple Watch Series 6 and newer models, the Apple Watch SE (2nd generation) and later, along with all versions of the Apple Watch Ultra. A broader rollout of this metric is anticipated on September 15th, right after the current beta testing phase concludes.

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    New Apple Sleep Score Available for Garmin and Amazfit Users

     

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  • Garmin Beta Update Fixes Heart Rate Bug for Smartwatches

    Garmin Beta Update Fixes Heart Rate Bug for Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. A new beta update (version 16.05) has been released for Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches.
    2. This update addresses two main bugs: volume control issues and incorrect heart rate display time.
    3. Garmin Connect Mobile (GCM) has been updated to version 2.29, improving translations, though details are not provided.
    4. The ECG feature will be disabled for Venu 3 users in this beta update.
    5. Beta version 16.05 can be accessed by Garmin beta program members through the device settings.

    A fresh beta update has been launched for the Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches. The beta version 16.05 is the initial release in the 16.xx testing series. This update comes roughly a month after the stable software version 15.05, which introduced improvements for breathing variations and device passcode functionalities.

    Bug Fixes in the New Version

    With the arrival of beta version 16.05, Garmin is addressing two key issues affecting the Venu 3 and vivoactive 5 devices. The first fix pertains to the volume control of the smartwatch, which had not been functioning as anticipated. The second issue involved a bug on the broadcast heart rate display, where the time shown was incorrect; this has now been resolved.

    Updates on Garmin Connect Mobile

    In addition to the two bug fixes, there is an enhancement for Garmin Connect Mobile (GCM) translations, upgraded to version 2.29. Still, Garmin has not detailed how this translation update will be advantageous for users.

    If you are a member of the Garmin beta program, you can obtain beta version 16.05 by navigating through the Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update. It’s important to mention that the ECG feature will be turned off in this beta update for users who have the Venu 3 smartwatch (45mm Black version curr. $414.99 at Amazon).

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    Garmin Beta Update Fixes Heart Rate Bug for Smartwatches

     

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