Tag: Garmin

  • Garmin May Introduce Course Planner Feature for Smartwatch Users

    Garmin May Introduce Course Planner Feature for Smartwatch Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has introduced new tools like Step speed loss, Running economy, and Running tolerance in their Forerunner 570 and 970 smartwatches.
    2. A new Course Planner tool is expected to launch in the Garmin Connect Mobile app, allowing users to create and discover running courses.
    3. The Course Planner may cater to ultra runners and endurance athletes with features like cutoff times, countdown timers, and rest breaks.
    4. Users will likely have the ability to manage repeat crossings and make quick edits with a bulk management tool.
    5. Details about the release date and compatible smartwatches for the new Course Planner feature are still unknown.

    Garmin seems to be developing some exciting new features for runners. Recently, the company introduced tools such as Step speed loss, Running economy, and Running tolerance with their Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches (curr. $749.99 at Amazon).

    A New Course Planner Tool

    According to a report from the5krunner, Garmin is expected to launch a new Course Planner tool within the Garmin Connect Mobile app. Currently, users can either discover existing courses or create their own in Garmin Connect. The app can generate courses based on your selected distance and direction, utilizing the Garmin Connect Trendline Popularity Routing tool.

    Features for Endurance Athletes

    This upcoming Course Planner tool appears to be geared towards ultra runners and other endurance athletes. There are whispers that users might be able to set cutoff times, whether required by event organizers or personal goals, complete with countdown timers. Users could also include rest breaks and notes at specific points along their courses. Additionally, it seems there will be options for repeat crossings at the same spot, along with a bulk management tool for quicker edits.

    Unknowns Remain

    The5krunner hasn’t shared the source of this information. It’s still unclear when the new Garmin Course Planner feature will be available in the app, and there is no word on which smartwatches will be compatible with the new feature.

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  • Garmin Updates High-End Smartwatches with Activity and Focus Mode Enhancements

    Garmin Updates High-End Smartwatches with Activity and Focus Mode Enhancements

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is rapidly advancing beta development for Fenix 8 and Tactix 8 smartwatches, with Beta Version 17.12 now available.
    2. Beta Version 17.12 introduces 11 changes, including 6 bug fixes and 4 new features like Focus Mode power controls.
    3. One key bug fix addresses user interface slowdowns after saving an activity.
    4. Users must manually request the update for their smartwatches through the system settings.
    5. The Fenix 8 and Tactix 8 smartwatches are currently priced at $1,299.99 on Amazon.

    Garmin is swiftly advancing its beta development for smartwatches such as the Fenix 8 and Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299.99 on Amazon). Just last week, the company released Beta version 17.11, which included 58 alterations from the latest stable update for these smartwatches. However, it is already rolling out a new version that promises even more enhancements.

    New Updates on the Horizon

    The latest update, dubbed Beta Version 17.12, introduces 11 changes. This update includes 6 bug fixes, one of which aims to eliminate user interface slowdowns that occur after an activity is saved. Additionally, it brings four new features, such as Focus Mode power controls and insights on resting heart rate accessible via the heart rate widget.

    Manual Update Required

    Similar to Beta Version 17.11, Beta Version 17.12 will not be automatically provided to Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 smartwatches that are part of Garmin’s Beta Program. Users will need to manually request the firmware package by going to Menu, System, and Software Update on their smartwatch, then clicking ‘Check for Updates’. For more information, take a look at Garmin’s forum post. The comprehensive changelog for Beta Version 17.12 is listed below:

    Garmin’s

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Update Fixes Bluetooth Connectivity Issues

    Garmin Smartwatch Update Fixes Bluetooth Connectivity Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released beta version 9.25 for Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct E smartwatches.
    2. The update includes “miscellaneous bug fixes and improvements,” similar to the previous beta version 9.23.
    3. A specific bug fix addresses a Bluetooth connectivity issue for Instinct 3 Solar and Instinct E models.
    4. The update is available over the air (OTA) and can also be manually installed using Garmin Express.
    5. The timeline for a stable software update in the 9.xx series is still unknown.

    Garmin has introduced beta version 9.25 for its Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct E smartwatches. This update comes shortly after beta version 9.23, which provided some minor bug fixes and enhancements for these devices.

    What’s New in the Update?

    According to a post on the Garmin forum, the change log mentions “miscellaneous bug fixes and improvements.” This wording is exactly the same as what was used in beta version 9.23, leaving customers in the dark about the specific advantages these updates might bring. However, there is a specific bug fix highlighted for the Instinct 3 Solar and Instinct E models (current price $299.99 at Amazon); a Bluetooth connectivity issue related to these watches has reportedly been addressed.

    How to Access the Update

    Garmin has announced that beta version 9.25 has been rolled out over the air (OTA) to all users of the Garmin Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct E smartwatches. Users should have received the update via Bluetooth when paired with the Garmin Connect app, but it can also be manually installed using Garmin Express. The timing for when a stable software update will be available in the 9.xx series remains uncertain.

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  • Garmin Update: Evening Report, Rucking Mode, Custom Focus for Smartwatch

    Garmin Update: Evening Report, Rucking Mode, Custom Focus for Smartwatch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin launched a new update (Beta 12.50) for the Vivoactive 6, advancing from previous versions.
    2. The update includes the new Evening Report feature, providing insights on sleep needs and upcoming schedules.
    3. Beta 12.50 introduces the Garmin Calculator app and the Rucking activity.
    4. Custom focus modes are added for the first time in this beta version.
    5. Release date for these updates on stable software for Vivoactive 6 is currently unclear.

    Garmin has discreetly launched a new update for the Vivoactive 6 within its Beta Program. Just to remind you, the firm released Software Version 10.14 nearly two months ago after providing Beta 10.10 at the beginning of May. This time, Garmin has made a significant leap from two complete software updates to v12.50, featuring a notable addition taken from its latest Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 models (curr. $749 on Amazon).

    New Features

    Specifically, Garmin has included the Evening Report in the Vivoactive 6, which can be activated by going to Watch Settings, then Notifications & Alerts, followed by Report Settings, and finally tapping on Evening Report. This feature is intended to function similarly to Garmin’s current Morning Report. Evening Report offers insights into how much sleep a user might need in advance, along with future workout schedules and upcoming events, among other information.

    Additional Updates

    In addition to this, Beta 12.50 brings the Garmin Calculator app and introduces the Rucking activity. Furthermore, Garmin states that this new beta version also introduces custom focus modes for the very first time. Unfortunately, it is still unclear when these updates will be made available for Vivoactive 6 smartwatches that are using stable software. The complete changelog for Beta 12.50 is as follows:

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  • Garmin Boosts Google Health Connect Support for Wearables

    Garmin Boosts Google Health Connect Support for Wearables

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched a support page for data transfer to Google Health Connect.
    2. Data transfer is one-way, from Garmin Connect to Google Health, limiting comprehensive activity tracking.
    3. Transferable data includes activity and wellness metrics like body fat percentage, weight, step count, sleep patterns, and calories burned.
    4. Heart rate information from workouts, swimming stroke counts, and cycling speed and cadence can also be transferred.
    5. The lack of two-way data transfer may affect Garmin Connect’s training and wellness suggestions.

    We talked about this back in May, and now Garmin has launched a support page that indicates it will soon allow data transfer to Google Health Connect. This page details the types of data that will be shared, which includes various activity and wellness information.

    One-Way Data Transfer

    Garmin clarifies right away that this transfer is only one-directional, meaning data flows from Garmin Connect to Google Health, but not the other way around. This limitation could be a problem in some cases: for instance, if someone uses a different device for daily activities versus sports, Garmin Connect won’t have the full picture of the user’s total physical activity. This lack of comprehensive data might affect Garmin Connect’s training and wellness suggestions.

    Types of Transferable Data

    As mentioned earlier, multiple types of activity and wellness-related data can be sent from Garmin Connect to Google Health, along with a few pieces of user-specific information. For example, metrics like body fat percentage and weight—recorded through a compatible scale—are transferable. Other data includes step count, sleep patterns, and calories burned. Additionally, heart rate information from workouts can also be sent over, along with swimming stroke counts and cycling speed and cadence data.

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  • Garmin Tacx Alpine: Indoor Gradient Simulator for Training

    Garmin Tacx Alpine: Indoor Gradient Simulator for Training

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin offers a range of smartwatches and training gear for serious fitness enthusiasts, including bike trainers for home workouts.
    2. The Tacx Alpine can simulate slopes up to 10% downhill and 25% uphill, adjusting automatically to virtual training programs.
    3. Users can control the Tacx Alpine manually or connect it to smartphones via Bluetooth for interactive training.
    4. Installation is easy, requiring only the attachment of the bike to the axle for a lifelike cycling experience.
    5. The Tacx Alpine is priced at $1,100, excluding the cost of a turbo trainer.

    Garmin provides a variety of smartwatches and training gear, especially for those serious about their fitness. Among their offerings are trainers that can be attached to bicycles. This enables users to workout at home during cold seasons or when the weather isn’t good. One notable product from Garmin is the Tacx Alpine, which aims to expand training options.

    Simulating Realistic Conditions

    While it’s possible to mimic increased resistance during uphill rides with specialized training gear, the actual incline of the bike is a different matter. Garmin claims that the Tacx Alpine can imitate descents with a slope of up to 10% and climbs reaching up to 25%. The system automatically adjusts to virtual slope changes that are part of training programs, so users don’t have to manage it manually. However, manual control is still an option if preferred. Additionally, this system can connect to smartphones via Bluetooth, enabling interactive control when used with compatible applications.

    Easy Installation and Pricing

    The product promises a lifelike cycling experience, thanks to the flexible movement offered by the Neo 3M and the Neo Motion Plates. Setting it up is a breeze: you simply attach your bike to the axle. The Tacx Alpine is currently available for purchase from Garmin at a price of $1,100, but this does not include a turbo trainer.

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    Garmin Tacx Alpine: Indoor Gradient Simulator for TrainingGarmin Tacx Alpine: Indoor Gradient Simulator for Training

     

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  • Garmin Launches Major Smartwatch Update with Evening Report Features

    Garmin Launches Major Smartwatch Update with Evening Report Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched the Venu X1, priced at $799, and initiated a Beta Program for user testing of new features.
    2. System Software 10.60 was released alongside the Venu X1, adding apps like Garmin Share, Saved, Stocks, and new activities such as Gaming and Rucking.
    3. The Beta 12.50 update introduces the Evening Report feature and enhancements for runners, including a weekly running tolerance estimate.
    4. Users interested in the Beta Program may face challenges when joining.
    5. To access Beta updates, users must manually download them through the smartwatch’s settings menu.

    Garmin has just released the Venu X1, priced at $799 on Amazon. In a swift move, the company has started its Beta Program for users eager to test out new features before they become widely available. Keep in mind, there could be some challenges in joining the Venu X1 Beta Program at this moment.

    New Software Features

    On the day of the launch, Garmin rolled out System Software 10.60 to enhance the device with the Garmin Share, Saved, and Stocks apps, along with new Gaming and Rucking activities. Additionally, Garmin stated that they have implemented ‘various bug fixes and improvements’, though they haven’t shared more specifics about these changes.

    Beta Program Updates

    In a similar fashion, Garmin also mentioned ‘various bug fixes’ in its Beta 12.50 changelog. This update has introduced the Evening Report feature to the Venu X1, which was previously highlighted on their Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 models. Furthermore, the new update includes numerous enhancements for runners, such as a weekly running tolerance estimate.

    How to Access Beta Updates

    To access Beta 12.50, users must manually initiate the download by going through the smartwatch’s Main Menu, then to Settings, followed by System and Software Update, and finally tapping ‘Check for Updates’. The complete changelog between System Software 10.60 and Beta 12.50 is detailed below:

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  • Garmin Quatix 8 Smartwatch Launched: 29 Days Battery Life

    Garmin Quatix 8 Smartwatch Launched: 29 Days Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Garmin Quatix 8 is a new smartwatch designed for marine enthusiasts, enhancing the Fenix 8 model with features like BlueChart map compatibility.

    2. It features a 1.4-inch AMOLED screen, is built on the Elevate Gen 5 platform, and offers up to 16 days of battery life (29 days for the 51 mm model).

    3. The smartwatch includes voice command capabilities for Chartplotters and has a built-in microphone and speaker for calls via Bluetooth.

    4. The Quatix 8 is water-resistant up to 100 meters and suitable for diving at depths of 40 meters.

    5. The 47 mm version is priced at $1,199.99, while the 51 mm version costs an additional $100.

    Garmin has just launched the Quatix 8, which is designed to enhance its current line of Fenix 8 smartwatches (currently priced at $1,099.99 on Amazon). To give you some background, the company has been keeping this new smartwatch aimed at mariners under wraps for a few days. In essence, the Quatix 8 expands on the Fenix 8 by adding features specifically for marine enthusiasts, such as BlueChart map compatibility.

    Features and Durability

    The Quatix 8 is built on Garmin’s Elevate Gen 5 platform, and it includes a handy LED flashlight along with a 1.4-inch AMOLED screen, available in both 47 mm and 51 mm sizes. Furthermore, Garmin asserts that this new smartwatch can last up to 16 days on a single charge, or even 29 days if you choose the larger 51 mm model.

    Connectivity and Water Resistance

    In addition, the Quatix 8 has the ability to understand Chartplotter voice commands, thanks to its integrated microphone. It also features a speaker, allowing users to make and receive calls when connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth. As expected, the Quatix 8 offers impressive water resistance, rated for depths of up to 100 metres and suitable for diving at 40 metres.

    The Quatix 8 is open for orders starting today, with the 47 mm version priced at $1,199.99. Alternatively, Garmin provides a 51 mm version for an additional $100. For more information, check out Garmin’s website.

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    Garmin Quatix 8 Smartwatch Launched: 29 Days Battery Life

     

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  • Garmin Quatix 8 Leaked Photos and Videos Ahead of Fenix Releases

    Garmin Quatix 8 Leaked Photos and Videos Ahead of Fenix Releases

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is preparing to enhance the Fenix 8 series with the upcoming Quatix 8 smartwatch.
    2. The Quatix 8 was spotted in a video for Garmin’s marine stereo system, confirming its existence.
    3. New features from recently launched Forerunner watches are being integrated into the Fenix 8 series.
    4. The Quatix 8 will have a blue silicone band, red accents, and offer 100 meters of water resistance.
    5. The smartwatch is expected to include titanium, a sapphire lens, and Garmin’s Elevate Gen 5 sensor platform, with an official launch anticipated soon.

    It appears that Garmin is gearing up to enhance the Fenix 8 series with a new version of the Quatix 7, which is currently priced at $489.99 on Amazon. To summarize, the company launched the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Fenix 8 all at once last August. Recently, they have also released the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970, and some features from these new watches are gradually making their way to the Fenix 8 series and its variants.

    Hints About Quatix 8

    Garmin has not officially announced the Quatix 8’s launch yet. However, recent findings suggest that the new model has been lurking in plain sight for several days. For example, a curious Reddit user spotted what seemed to be the Quatix 8 in a release video for Garmin’s latest marine stereo system. The smartwatch first appeared at around 21 seconds into the video and was visible in multiple close-up shots afterwards, without any direct mention.

    Confirmation of Features

    New updates on Garmin’s Mynewsdesk site verify that the smartwatch shown in the Fusion Apollo RA800 Premium marine stereo launch video is indeed the Quatix 8. From the images, it looks like Garmin has set the Quatix 8 apart from the Fenix 8 by giving it a blue silicone watch band along with the same red accents found on the existing Quatix 7.

    Specifications and Expectations

    Furthermore, the images indicate that the Quatix 8 will have a water resistance of 100 meters, or 40 meters for diving. As expected, the forthcoming smartwatch includes titanium, a sapphire lens, and appears to feature Garmin’s Elevate Gen 5 sensor platform. Although the exact launch date is still unclear, we anticipate that Garmin will officially unveil the Quatix 8 before the week concludes.

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    Garmin Quatix 8 Leaked Photos and Videos Ahead of Fenix ReleasesGarmin Quatix 8 Leaked Photos and Videos Ahead of Fenix ReleasesGarmin Quatix 8 Leaked Photos and Videos Ahead of Fenix Releases
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  • Garmin Index Sleep Monitor Update Enhances Features and Accuracy

    Garmin Index Sleep Monitor Update Enhances Features and Accuracy

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released a software update (version 3.40) for the Index Sleep Monitor, enhancing syncing and system stability.
    2. The Index Sleep Monitor is designed for nighttime use, focusing on sleep health with features like Body Battery and sleep score.
    3. Users can install the update via Garmin Express on PC or Garmin Connect app on smartphones.
    4. The device is available for purchase at $169.99 from Garmin’s official store, with a shipping time of 5-8 weeks.
    5. Future update frequency for the Index Sleep Monitor remains uncertain.

    Garmin has introduced a fresh software update for the Index Sleep Monitor. This device, which came out in mid-June 2025, is a lightweight gadget meant to be worn at night rather than your typical smartwatch. It helps in monitoring your sleep health, providing features such as Body Battery, sleep score, Breathing Variations, and includes a vibration alarm.

    Software Update Features

    The new software version 3.40, which was revealed on the Garmin forum, promises two key enhancements for this device. First, the update improves the syncing experience for the accessory’s files. The second enhancement noted in the change log is better system stability. However, Garmin has not detailed how users will notice these benefits.

    Installation Options

    To get the software version 3.40 for the Garmin Index Sleep Monitor, you can use Garmin Express on your PC or the Garmin Connect app on your smartphone. It seems that this update is accessible to all users now. However, it’s uncertain how often the company will provide updates for this device in the future.

    Purchase Information

    You can buy the Garmin Index Sleep Monitor from the brand’s official store for $169.99 in the United States. It’s important to mention that customers should anticipate a shipping time of about five to eight weeks for the product.

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    Garmin Index Sleep Monitor Update Enhances Features and Accuracy

     

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