Tag: Garmin

  • Garmin Enhances AMOLED Smartwatch with Latest Software Update

    Garmin Enhances AMOLED Smartwatch with Latest Software Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released a beta software update (version 15.01) for the Vivoactive 5, available only to beta testers.
    2. The update addresses issues with golf course maps from the previous software version.
    3. Improvements include better tracking of breathing rates and enhanced passcode security.
    4. The passcode feature protects sensitive health information and helps prevent theft.
    5. The Vivoactive 5 is priced starting at $229 and offers an AMOLED display, GNSS module, and local music playback.

    Garmin has released a software update for the Vivoactive 5, bringing it to version 15.01. This is a beta version, which means it won’t be available to everyone, but only to those who are part of the beta testing group. Installing this update is pretty straightforward; users can simply request it directly through their watch. There’s no need to transfer files manually. While beta updates often come with a risk of introducing new issues, this one aims to fix an existing problem. Specifically, it addresses issues with golf course maps that were downloaded in the last software version.

    Changes in Functionality

    The brief changelog also mentions improvements in tracking breathing rates and the passcode feature, which is essentially a numerical password for the watch. The passcode must be entered when the Garmin smartwatch is removed from the wrist, providing security for sensitive health information and acting as a theft prevention measure. Earlier updates, like versions 14.10 and 14.07, also centered on minor adjustments or bug fixes. The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is priced starting at $229 on Amazon and features an AMOLED display, a GNSS module, local music playback, and a wide array of other capabilities.

    Summary of Features

    Garmin’s recent update shows their commitment to improving user experience on the Vivoactive 5. By focusing on critical fixes and enhancements, they aim to ensure that users can enjoy a smooth performance. With its competitive price and advanced features, the Vivoactive 5 continues to be a popular choice among fitness enthusiasts.

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  • Garmin Venu 4 Leaked Details Amid Forerunner Smartwatch Rumors

    Garmin Venu 4 Leaked Details Amid Forerunner Smartwatch Rumors

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is set to launch a new Forerunner smartwatch on July 22, following the recent release of the Forerunner 570 and 970 models.
    2. An updated user manual hints at the upcoming Venu 4 smartwatch, linking it to Garmin’s paid Golf Membership service.
    3. The mention of the Venu 4 in the user manual suggests a planned release, with expectations for an official unveiling by September 2025.
    4. Features expected in the Venu 4 include enhanced voice controls, a new user interface, and a vibrant AMOLED display.
    5. Garmin’s recent social media hints and user manual updates indicate a focus on innovation and new functionalities in their smartwatch lineup.

    Hardly any time has gone by since Garmin hinted at a new smartwatch on social media. An image posted on Chinese platforms suggests that a new Forerunner model is set to launch on July 22. This comes right after the release of the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970, which currently retails for $749.99 on Amazon, just over two months ago.

    Exciting Teasers from Garmin

    Recently, Garmin has also been hinting at another unreleased smartwatch. This was discovered in an updated user manual for the Venu 3 series, which was published earlier this month in Japanese. The manual includes the first mention of the Venu 4, linking it to their paid Golf Membership service. The section included seems to be intentional, especially since the user manual was revised not long ago.

    Timing and Expectations

    The timing of this mention appears to be more than just a coincidence. To provide some context, Garmin launched the Venu 3 and Venu 3S in late August 2023. Based on the company’s past release patterns, it’s reasonable to predict that the fourth-generation models will be officially unveiled either next month or possibly by September 2025 at the latest. Sadly, there haven’t been any solid details about the Venu 4 so far. However, we believe that Garmin will likely include features from their recent models, such as enhanced voice controls, a new user interface, and a more vibrant AMOLED display, among other upgrades.

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    Garmin Venu 4 Leaked Details Amid Forerunner Smartwatch RumorsGarmin Venu 4 Leaked Details Amid Forerunner Smartwatch Rumors
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  • Affordable Garmin Smartwatch Coming Soon: Stay Tuned!

    Affordable Garmin Smartwatch Coming Soon: Stay Tuned!

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is hinting at a new smartwatch on social media, likely part of the Forerunner series.
    2. The design of the new watch resembles the Forerunner 165, featuring similar buttons.
    3. Specifications are not confirmed, but comparisons are made with the Forerunner 55 and Forerunner 165.
    4. The new model’s price will range between CNY 1,000 (~$139) and CNY 1,999 (~$278).
    5. Price and potential specifications will be revealed in China on July 22nd at 12:00 (4:00 GMT).

    Garmin has hinted at a new smartwatch on social media in China. The company has shared a few insights about this upcoming device through its Weibo account.

    Design Similarities

    The image shared by Garmin shows the watch’s outline, which looks a lot like the Forerunner 165. This new model seems to have buttons for Start/Stop, Back, Down, Up, and Light, similar to the previous version. Additionally, the picture features a runner, hinting that this could be part of the Forerunner series, potentially succeeding either the Forerunner 55 or the Forerunner 165. Hence, it might be called the Forerunner 65 or the Forerunner 175.

    Features and Comparisons

    The specifications of this new smartwatch are still unverified. For comparison, the Forerunner 55 is an entry-level GPS running watch that comes with an MIP display, heart rate monitoring, Daily Suggested Workouts, and Garmin Coach. In contrast, the Forerunner 165 boasts an AMOLED display and advanced features such as Running Dynamics and VO2 Max.

    Pricing Information

    The Weibo post mentions that the new model will be priced between CNY 1,000 (~$139) and CNY 1,999 (~$278), which makes it a budget-friendly choice. As a reference, the Forerunner 165 is priced at CNY 2,080 ($249.99 in the US). The exact price for this new Garmin smartwatch will be disclosed in China on July 22nd at 12:00 (4:00 GMT). It’s still uncertain if the full specifications will also be unveiled at that time. Furthermore, Garmin has not yet announced when this watch will be available in other regions, like the US, where the Forerunner 570 smartwatch was recently launched (currently $549.99 at Amazon).

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    Affordable Garmin Smartwatch Coming Soon: Stay Tuned!
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  • Garmin Beta Smartwatch Update Fixes Flashlight Issue

    Garmin Beta Smartwatch Update Fixes Flashlight Issue

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released beta update version 10.18 for Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct E smartwatches.
    2. The update fixes Timer alert settings and includes three bug fixes for Instinct 3 Solar and Instinct 3 AMOLED models.
    3. New features since the last stable update (version 9.25) include Interval Alerts for Timers, Jump Rope rep alerts, and a Solar Intensity data field for Instinct 3 Solar.
    4. The beta update is being gradually rolled out to users, currently reaching about 20% of customers.
    5. The update is delivered over the air (OTA), but Garmin has not provided a completion date for the rollout.

    Garmin has introduced a new beta update for their Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct E smartwatches. This beta version, 10.18, comes just a few days after the previous update, which was beta version 10.16.

    Update Details

    For all Instinct 3 and Instinct E models, the latest beta fixes an issue with Timer alert settings. Additionally, the 10.18 update includes three bug fixes specifically for the Instinct 3 Solar and Instinct 3 AMOLED models. The first fix addresses a problem related to the flashlight’s strobe effect, which was not functioning properly during multisport activities. The second fix resolves an issue with the Backcountry Ski activity summary that could potentially lead to crashes. Lastly, the update fixes problems with the Jump Rope activity summary data.

    New Features

    It’s worth noting that since the last stable update, which was version 9.25, Garmin has introduced several new features. These include a new Interval Alerts feature for Timers for watches that are not Tactical editions, Jump Rope rep alerts specifically for the Instinct 3, and a Solar Intensity data field for the Instinct 3 Solar smartwatch (currently priced at $449.99 on Amazon).

    Rollout Information

    According to a recent update posted on the Garmin forum, beta version 10.18 is being rolled out gradually to users; at the time of this writing, it should have reached about 20% of customers. This update is being delivered to compatible smartwatches over the air (OTA). Garmin has not specified when the rollout will be finished.

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    Garmin Beta Smartwatch Update Fixes Flashlight Issue

     

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  • Garmin Forerunner Smartwatch Update: Enhanced Pairing Features

    Garmin Forerunner Smartwatch Update: Enhanced Pairing Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Software version 17.40 is now available for the Forerunner 945 LTE smartwatch, following beta testing and nearly a year since the last stable update (17.30).
    2. The update improves the inReach pairing process for Garmin satellite communication tools.
    3. A fix has been made for a potential crash when starting LTE.
    4. Issues with Real Time Settings for Live Event Sharing and Spectator Messaging have been resolved.
    5. Some users have reported new problems with Spectator Messaging, but the extent of the issue is unclear; the update is accessible via Garmin Connect Mobile app or Garmin Express.

    Garmin has rolled out software version 17.40 for the Forerunner 945 LTE smartwatch. This update comes after a recent beta version and nearly one year since the last stable update, which was version 17.30. The previous update addressed a rebooting problem.

    Key Updates in Version 17.40

    The new software version 17.40 introduces four main changes to the Forerunner 945 LTE smartwatch. To begin with, it aims to enhance the inReach pairing process when connecting the device with a Garmin satellite communication tool. The release notes also mention a fix for a possible crash that could occur when starting LTE. Furthermore, issues related to the Real Time Settings for Live Event Sharing and Spectator Messaging have been fixed.

    User Feedback on Spectator Messaging

    Interestingly, one user of the Forerunner 945 has reported new problems with the Spectator Messaging feature. However, it remains uncertain how widespread this issue is. A recent post on a forum indicates that this update has been delivered to at least half of the Forerunner 945 LTE smartwatch users (curr. $335 at Amazon). You can get the update via the Garmin Connect Mobile app or through the Garmin Express software on a computer.

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    Garmin Forerunner Smartwatch Update: Enhanced Pairing Features
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  • Garmin Introduces Google Health Connect Support for Wearables

    Garmin Introduces Google Health Connect Support for Wearables

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin smartwatches now support Google Maps integration, but only when connected to an Android device.
    2. The integration includes models like Venu 3, Vivoactive 5, Fenix 7, and Fenix 8.
    3. Garmin introduced Google Health Connect, allowing data syncing with third-party services.
    4. Data transfer to Health Connect is one-way; Garmin Connect cannot receive data back.
    5. Users must consent to data syncing, and it requires Android 14 or higher to function.

    Yesterday, Garmin made an exciting announcement about the integration of Google Maps for several of its smartwatch models, including the Venu 3, Vivoactive 5, and the pricier Fenix 7 and Fenix 8, which is currently priced at $999.99 on Amazon. It’s important to note that this new feature is only available when the smartwatches are connected to an Android device. Sadly, Garmin hasn’t clarified if or when iOS users might get access to this functionality.

    New Features Unveiled

    In addition to the Google Maps update, Garmin also mentioned another noteworthy feature in the same press release, concerning Google Health Connect. This integration was only briefly mentioned, which is puzzling. However, it allows data collected by Garmin smartwatches to be synced with various third-party services, and a complete list of these services is accessible on the Google Play Store. The types of data that Garmin can transfer to Health Connect include:

    – Activity Data
    – Wellness Data

    Important Considerations

    It’s crucial to understand that the data transfer from Garmin to Health Connect is a one-way street. This means that the Garmin Connect app will not be able to receive any data back from Health Connect. Users must also agree to allow Garmin to sync their data with Health Connect, as this process does not happen automatically. Additionally, synchronization is only available for devices running Android 14 or higher. For further information, you can visit Garmin’s support page.

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Fixes Chart Issues

    Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Fixes Chart Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is rolling out beta version 10.16 for selected Instinct 3 smartwatches, following the release of version 10.15.
    2. The 10.16 update includes a fix for the Instinct 3 AMOLED model, addressing issues with post-activity summary charts.
    3. Users have reported crashes when accessing Solar or Hydration widgets and checking the Morning Report, which Garmin has not officially acknowledged.
    4. The beta update will be distributed over-the-air (OTA) via the Garmin Connect Mobile app or Garmin Express.
    5. The release date for the public version of software 10.xx for all Instinct 3 models remains uncertain.

    Garmin has begun the rollout of beta version 10.16 for selected Instinct 3 smartwatches, just about a week after the previous beta, version 10.15. This earlier update introduced new Rep Alerts for Jump Rope activities for the Solar and AMOLED models, along with numerous bug fixes.

    Update Information

    The latest beta update, version 10.16, is the second in the 10.xx testing series and includes a fix for the Instinct 3 AMOLED model. This update is said to correct a problem with the post-activity summary charts, although specifics regarding this issue have not been shared.

    User Concerns

    Recent discussions on forums indicate that some users of the Instinct 3 have faced issues where the smartwatch crashes when accessing the Solar or Hydration widgets, as well as when checking their Morning Report. Garmin has not yet recognized this issue, leaving it uncertain when users affected can expect a fix.

    Update Distribution

    Garmin mentions that the beta version 10.16 will be distributed over-the-air (OTA). This means that eligible smartwatch users will receive the update through the Garmin Connect Mobile app while connected to their phones via Bluetooth or through Garmin Express. However, it remains unclear when the public version of software 10.xx will be released for all users of the Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct E models (currently priced at $249.99 on Amazon).

    Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Fixes Chart Issues
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  • Garmin Update: New Focus Mode and Timer for High-End Smartwatches

    Garmin Update: New Focus Mode and Timer for High-End Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is developing new software for Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8, starting with Beta Version 17.11.
    2. The latest update, Beta Version 17.14, is a temporary build and indicates ongoing software development.
    3. The update includes three significant bug fixes compared to Beta Version 17.13.
    4. Fixes in Beta Version 17.14 address issues with the Focus Modes color selection, Timer Page functionality, and decimal precision on the Barometer watch face.
    5. Garmin continues to actively update its software, with no indication of concluding the v17.xx development phase soon.

    Garmin is currently progressing with its new software development phase for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon). To provide a brief overview, the company initiated the v17.xx beta development just two weeks ago, starting with Beta Version 17.11.

    Latest Updates

    Now, they have reached their fourth update with the launch of Beta Version 17.14. Unlike previous updates that were filled with numerous changes, Garmin has opted for a different method this time. In this regard, Beta Version 17.14 acts more like a temporary build; there’s no sign that Garmin is wrapping up the v17.xx development anytime soon.

    Bug Fixes

    In a recent forum discussion, the company stated that Beta Version 17.14 brings three significant bug fixes compared to Beta Version 17.13. Firstly, the custom Focus Modes color selection page should function properly now. Additionally, Garmin has resolved an issue that led to the Timer Page closing unexpectedly when a timer was initiated. Finally, Beta Version 17.14 fixes a bug that affected decimal precision for complications on the Barometer watch face. The complete list of changes from System Software 15.32 to Beta Version 17.14 is as follows:

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  • Garmin Update Fixes Crashes in Flagship Smartwatches

    Garmin Update Fixes Crashes in Flagship Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is rolling out updates for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 through its public Beta Program.
    2. The latest update, Beta Version 17.13, includes one new feature and eleven modifications.
    3. Users can manually download the update by navigating to the Software Update section on their smartwatches.
    4. Previous updates, like Beta Version 17.12, included new features and bug fixes, enhancing user experience.
    5. Garmin may offer future updates via over-the-air (OTA) methods.

    Garmin is quickly rolling out new updates and fixes for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 in its public Beta Program. Just a few days ago, they launched Beta Version 17.12, which includes four new features, six bug fixes, and enhancements related to the Evening Report Greeting Page for devices with MiP support. Before that, Beta Version 17.11 was released, containing a changelog that spans fifty-eight lines from Software Version 15.32.

    Manual Download for the Latest Update

    The latest update, Beta Version 17.13, is now available for manual download on the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon). To download, you will need to go to the Main Menu on your smartwatch after joining the Beta Program, then select System followed by Software Update, and finally click on ‘Check for Updates’. Keep in mind that Garmin might make the update available through an over-the-air (OTA) method in the future.

    New Changes and Features

    As per a post on Garmin’s forum, Beta Version 17.13 introduces another eleven modifications to their premium smartwatches. Out of these, just one is a new feature, which Garmin has labeled as a ‘Tap In’ option for the recently added Evening Report Workouts Page. For a complete list of changes, refer to the changelog below for more details.

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  • Garmin Patent: New Method to Measure Hematocrit and Dehydration

    Garmin Patent: New Method to Measure Hematocrit and Dehydration

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is developing a method to measure long-term blood glucose levels and other health parameters through new patent applications.
    2. The new technique, called pulse spectroscopy, evaluates blood flow non-invasively using electromagnetic radiation.
    3. The patent highlights the use of specific wavelengths (850 nm and 1,000 nm) to assess hematocrit levels in the blood.
    4. Monitoring hematocrit levels is crucial, especially for athletes, as it can indicate hydration status and overall blood composition.
    5. Real-time alerts for fluid intake based on hematocrit measurements could enhance performance monitoring for endurance athletes.

    Garmin’s wearables already track various health metrics, and the company is continually improving its sensor technology. Recently, a patent was published that shows Garmin is exploring a way to measure long-term blood glucose levels. Now, another patent (US-12343124-B2, which might only be found by a manual search here) has come to light, detailing the measurement of even more health parameters. It’s important to note that this is merely a patent application, meaning that the described measurement methods don’t necessarily have to comply with medical device standards, and not every innovation detailed in a patent ends up being sold commercially.

    Exploring Pulse Spectroscopy

    The patent focuses on a technique called pulse spectroscopy, which involves the non-invasive evaluation of blood flow using electromagnetic radiation. As expected, the patent includes a lot of technical drawings, diagrams, and absorption spectra. It also elaborates on how various wavelengths can be utilized to assess different health parameters. A notable innovation here is the application of electromagnetic radiation at wavelengths of 850 nm and 1,000 nm, which can reportedly assess hematocrit levels. This specific measure indicates the ratio of cellular components in the blood, particularly the amount of red blood cells in the total blood volume.

    Importance of Hematocrit Measurements

    This value is important in medical terms and can significantly increase in cases of dehydration caused by insufficient fluid intake. For a company like Garmin, which targets athletes, being able to monitor hematocrit levels could be quite advantageous. It would allow users to receive real-time alerts to boost their fluid intake based on solid data rather than just relying on heart rate or external conditions like temperature. Moreover, it’s common for endurance athletes to show lower hematocrit levels, so tracking this parameter could also give insights into long-term performance improvements.

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