Tag: Garmin

  • Garmin Unveils Non-Invasive Blood Sugar Measurement Technology

    Garmin Unveils Non-Invasive Blood Sugar Measurement Technology

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has patented a method for measuring blood glucose levels, focusing on HbA1c, which reflects long-term glucose control.
    2. HbA1c is crucial for health insurance and monitoring diabetes progression, but it does not provide real-time glucose readings.
    3. Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems can estimate HbA1c values using optical measurements of blood glucose levels.
    4. The patent involves pressure compensation and pulse spectrometry, capturing a wide spectrum of interactions between matter and radiation.
    5. The feasibility of this patent translating into a marketable product remains uncertain.

    Several firms are actively engaged in developing wrist-worn devices for monitoring blood glucose. In an earlier article, we explored the context and obstacles of this kind of measurement. Recently, Garmin has unveiled a new patent (patent number 20250134464) that outlines a method for measuring blood glucose levels, or at least a value associated with blood glucose.

    Understanding HbA1c

    The patent specifically mentions HbA1c, commonly known as long-term blood glucose, which gives insights into blood glucose levels over weeks. In numerous countries, determining HbA1c is essential for health insurance, especially for individuals with type 1 diabetes, and it helps in tracking the condition’s development. Simply put, the HbA1c value reflects red blood cells that have undergone a specific, irreversible chemical reaction with glucose. It’s critical to note that while HbA1c cannot provide real-time blood glucose readings, it can be estimated using Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems that optically measure blood glucose levels.

    Technical Aspects of the Patent

    In essence, the patent discusses pressure compensation alongside a method known as pulse spectrometry. The term “spectrometry” means capturing a whole spectrum—the interaction between matter and radiation across a certain electromagnetic range—not just single wavelengths, as seen in heart rate or blood oxygen saturation measurements. The process of measuring the HbA1c value might be simpler due to its unique progression. However, to directly measure blood glucose levels, relatively advanced Near Infrared (NIR) sensors might be required. As always, it is uncertain if this patent will lead to an actual product in the market.

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  • Garmin Smartwatches Beta Update: New Workout Metrics Added

    Garmin Smartwatches Beta Update: New Workout Metrics Added

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released beta version 22.03 for several smartwatch models, including Fenix 7 and Epix.
    2. New features include Reps and Set time data fields for HIIT and improvements to the swimming rest screen.
    3. The ‘edit’ option has been removed from Garmin Coach workouts.
    4. Various bug fixes have been implemented, addressing issues with activity maps, power modes, HRV glance, and music volume.
    5. Currently, about 20% of users have received the update, with ECG functionality hinted for future stable release.

    Garmin has released beta version 22.03 for its smartwatches including the Fenix 7, Fenix 7x, Fenix 7s, Epix, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and MARQ Gen 2. This update comes just weeks after the stable version 21.19 was launched, which introduced a new Breathing Variations tool, an updated Running Track Database, and several enhancements related to the sensors.

    New Features for Users

    With this new beta update, users can now access Reps and Set time data fields for HIIT activities. Additionally, improvements have been made to the rest screen for swimming activities, although specifics on these enhancements are not disclosed. Garmin has also eliminated the ‘edit’ option from Garmin Coach workouts, making it impossible to make edits.

    Bug Fixes Included

    Beta version 22.03 is accompanied by a variety of bug fixes. These fixes address issues with the activity map, activity power modes, and the HRV glance. An issue where the music volume was not updating correctly has been fixed, along with a potential crash that could occur when trying to open the connection information page. Complete release notes are available below.

    Rollout Information

    A Garmin representative shared on the company forum that about 20% of users have received the software update so far. However, there’s no timeline given for when the full rollout will be finished. The update also mentions that ECG functionality is included, hinting that a stable version may soon be available for all users of the Fenix 7, which starts at $599.99 on Amazon, along with other compatible smartwatches.

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    Garmin Smartwatches Beta Update: New Workout Metrics Added

     

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  • Garmin Update Fixes Device Crashes on High-End Smartwatches

    Garmin Update Fixes Device Crashes on High-End Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is working on the Fenix 8 series software after releasing Software Version 15.31 last month.
    2. A new public beta version, Beta Version 15.32, has been released for testers.
    3. Garmin has not announced when Beta Version 15.32 will transition to stable software.
    4. The update aims to fix issues with ABI sensors and prevent crashes in certain smartwatch models.
    5. The affected smartwatch models include Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8.

    Garmin is back at work on the Fenix 8 series software after they released Software Version 15.31 last month. Just to remind everyone, the company launched v15.31 to fix issues less than a month ago following over thirty days of beta testing. At first, Garmin believed that v15.31 would be the final update for its v15.xx development cycle. But that hasn’t turned out to be true.

    New Beta Version Released

    Now, Garmin has rolled out a new update for public beta testers, called Beta Version 15.32. As of now, Garmin hasn’t revealed when this update will move to the stable software branch. However, since Beta Version 15.32 has almost reached all beta testers, it indicates that a stable version could be coming soon.

    Bug Fixes Included

    Garmin claims that Beta Version 15.32 fixes two issues that have been present in the recent beta and stable versions. Firstly, this new software will correct a problem where ABI sensors were unable to send data accurately to Tactix 8 smartwatches (currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon). More crucially, this update should also fix a bug that might cause an Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, or Tactix 8 smartwatch to crash after an Action Menu is dismissed in a CIQ App. For more information, check out Garmin’s forum.

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  • Garmin Faces Backlash Over Misleading Forerunner 570 and 970 Ads

    Garmin Faces Backlash Over Misleading Forerunner 570 and 970 Ads

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin recently launched the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches.
    2. New features of the Forerunner 570 and 970 will also be available on older smartwatch models.
    3. Garmin is actively promoting the new models through social media videos highlighting their features.
    4. A tweet from Garmin about calling capabilities has received backlash for being misleading, as it requires a smartphone to function.
    5. There are no plans for the Forerunner 570 or 970 to receive LTE support this year, despite expectations for some Garmin devices.

    Just a little over two weeks ago, Garmin introduced the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 after some last-minute information leaks. It seems that a lot of the new capabilities shown on the Forerunner 570 and 970 will also be available to older models of their smartwatches.

    Continued Promotion

    Since the Forerunner 570 and its pricier counterpart have been available for a few weeks now, Garmin keeps posting brief videos about both models on their social media. For example, their latest clip highlights the extra features one would receive when switching from a Forerunner 965 to a Forerunner 970. However, one tweet and its video have caught attention for not-so-great reasons.

    Misleading Claims

    The tweet below suggests that you can ‘make and receive calls straight from your wrist’ using either the Forerunner 570 or 970 (currently priced at $749 on Amazon). Unfortunately, Garmin placed the important note that this feature only works ‘when paired with your smartphone’ in a spot that’s easy to overlook. Consequently, the video has faced backlash for being misleading, especially since LTE updates are expected later this year for some Garmin smartwatches. However, there’s no indication that the Forerunner 570 or 970 will be among the devices to gain LTE support this year.

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  • Garmin Index Sleep Monitor: Latest Updates on Upcoming Wearable

    Garmin Index Sleep Monitor: Latest Updates on Upcoming Wearable

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Garmin Index Sleep Monitor is a new sleep tracking device designed to compete with the Whoop 5.0.
    2. It features a comfortable and adjustable Velcro strap, an optical sensor for tracking, and a battery life of about one week on a single charge.
    3. The device will monitor sleep stages, duration, heart rate, SpO2 levels, skin temperature, and provide a Body Battery score.
    4. It is expected to come in two sizes (S-M and L-XL) and be priced around €170, with a potential launch before August.
    5. Garmin has not officially confirmed the product, and it may offer fewer features compared to existing Garmin devices and the Whoop 5.0.

    More information about Garmin’s new sleep tracking device has come to light. This device, reportedly named the Index Sleep Monitor, was first mentioned in May 2025 as a potential rival to the Whoop 5.0, which currently retails for $199 on Amazon.

    Device Specifications

    A recent article by Fitness Tracker Test appears to confirm the name ‘Index Sleep Monitor’ and provides additional insights. It was previously believed that this device is meant for the upper arm, and now we know it will feature a Velcro strap that is both comfortable and adjustable. The wearable will utilize an optical sensor, likely the Garmin Elevate Gen 5 sensor, tucked away in a pocket on the strap. An LED light next to the sensor may be there to show the battery level; it is anticipated that the device can track sleep for roughly one week on a single charge. In addition, a built-in vibration module is designed to wake the user gently, and tap gestures will be supported.

    Features and Functions

    The Garmin Index Sleep Monitor is anticipated to include functionalities such as monitoring sleep stages and duration, along with an overall sleep score. It might also track heart rate, SpO2 levels, and skin temperature, providing users with a Body Battery score. These features already exist in other Garmin devices like the Venu 3 smartwatch. Therefore, it’s not clear why Garmin expects consumers to prefer this sleep-specific wearable over their existing options. Moreover, it seems to offer fewer features compared to the Whoop 5.0, which includes fitness tracking capabilities.

    Availability and Pricing

    Newly released details indicate that the Garmin Index Sleep Monitor will come in two sizes, S-M and L-XL, priced at approximately €170. It is projected to be launched before August, although Garmin has not yet officially recognized this product. The sources for the report from Fitness Tracker Test remain unnamed.

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  • Garmin Fenix 8 Pro Rumors: LTE Connectivity Features Expected

    Garmin Fenix 8 Pro Rumors: LTE Connectivity Features Expected

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is developing LTE options for the Fenix 8 series, as demonstrated in recent showcases.
    2. The Fenix 8 Pro is expected to be launched with LTE connectivity, but no major design or hardware changes will be introduced.
    3. Previous mentions of LTE features in the Garmin Connect app have been removed, yet evidence of it was captured in a video.
    4. The Fenix 8 Pro will include features like Emergency Assistance and live tracking, similar to the Forerunner 945 LTE.
    5. The Fenix 8 Pro will not support music streaming or the ability to make and receive calls or texts, and release and pricing details are still unknown.

    Garmin Rumors has shared fresh details about the possible updates to Garmin’s LTE smartwatch lineup. To summarize, Garmin was seen demonstrating LTE features for the Fenix 8. This was also noted for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299.99 on Amazon), all of which included a ‘Phone’ section in Garmin’s pairing issue animation.

    LTE Connectivity in Development

    Per Garmin Rumors, the company is working on adding LTE options to the Fenix 8 series. However, it won’t come in the way the Garmin Connect app hinted at. Interestingly, the company has since taken down these mentions. Yet, we managed to capture a video of it before it vanished, which you can check out below.

    Future Fenix 8 Pro Release

    Garmin Rumors mentions ‘intel’ but doesn’t provide a clear source, stating that LTE will be integrated into the Fenix 8 line with an upcoming Fenix 8 Pro launch. Unlike past models, Garmin’s ‘Pro’ versions aren’t expected to introduce new designs, sensors, software, or hardware upgrades. Instead, the main upgrade will be the LTE connectivity.

    Features of the Fenix 8 Pro

    Even so, Garmin Rumors suggests that the Fenix 8 Pro will operate its LTE modem similarly to the Forerunner 945 LTE. This means it will include features like Emergency Assistance and Garmin’s live tracking software, but it won’t support music streaming or the capability to make and receive calls or texts. Sadly, there is no information yet on when the Fenix 8 Pro will be released or its pricing details.

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  • Garmin Updates Smartwatches with GPS Activity Crash Fix

    Garmin Updates Smartwatches with GPS Activity Crash Fix

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released an interim update (System Software 9.21) for Instinct 3 and Instinct E smartwatches.
    2. The previous update (System Software 9.20) included enhancements for Rucking activities and sleep tracking.
    3. System Software 9.20 had a bug that caused activity crashes with GPS, which has now been fixed in 9.21.
    4. Approximately 20% of Instinct E and Instinct 3 users have received the notification for the new update.
    5. Users can manually check for updates by navigating to Menu > System > Software Update > Check for Updates.

    Garmin has completed the development of an interim update for the AMOLED and Solar versions of the Instinct 3, along with the more budget-friendly Instinct E, which currently retails for $249.99 on Amazon. To summarize, the company introduced System Software 9.20 a few weeks back, featuring enhancements for Rucking activities and improvements in sleep tracking, among other tweaks. Following this, they included these updates in their May 2025 Feature Updates, which are being offered on various new smartwatches.

    Update Details

    It turns out that System Software 9.20 had a bug, which Garmin quickly resolved with Beta Version 9.21. Now, the firm has moved this update to its stable software channel, and it is being distributed worldwide as System Software 9.21. As it is, System Software 9.20 should fix an issue that caused activity crashes when GPS was being used.

    Download Information

    As of now, Garmin indicates that approximately 20% of Instinct E and Instinct 3 smartwatches have already received a notification to download the latest update. If you haven’t seen this notification, you can manually check for System Software 9.21 by going to Menu, then System, then Software Update, and finally tapping ‘Check for Updates’. For more details, you can refer to Garmin’s forum posts.

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  • New Garmin Wearable Leaks: Sleep Tracking Features Revealed

    New Garmin Wearable Leaks: Sleep Tracking Features Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched the Forerunner 570 at a price of $549.00, alongside the Forerunner 970 and HRM 600 heart rate monitor.
    2. The upcoming Sleep Band aims to improve sleep comfort with an adjustable strap and a new clasp design.
    3. The Sleep Band will track sleep stages and wake users gently through a vibration motor, reducing disturbances to others.
    4. Users are encouraged to wear the Sleep Band on their upper arm for more accurate data collection.
    5. The Sleep Band is expected to launch in about two months, with a strong interest in its sleep tracking capabilities.

    Garmin has unveiled the Forerunner 570, priced at $549.00 on Amazon, alongside its pricier counterpart, the Forerunner 970, and the specialized HRM 600 heart rate monitor. It’s worth noting that while Garmin has expanded its range of wearables with many smartwatches in recent times, it still occasionally explores other product categories.

    Upcoming Features

    According to the website, Garmin’s upcoming wearable aims to enhance comfort during sleep with an adjustable strap and a newly designed clasp. Additionally, this new device, referred to as the Sleep Band, is expected to track sleep stages and utilize the gathered information to wake users gently through a vibration motor as they transition into lighter sleep, all while minimizing disturbances to others. It appears Garmin suggests that users wear the Sleep Band on their upper arm instead of their wrist to achieve the most precise data. Specific details are currently limited; however, the5krunner claims that the device will officially launch ‘in about two months’ or by August at the latest.

    Release Timeline

    The5krunner has hinted at the forthcoming release of this device, suggesting that it will be available soon. Although Garmin has established a strong reputation in the smartwatch market, it seems they are also aiming to innovate in other areas, like sleep monitoring. As excitement builds around the Sleep Band, many are eager to see how this product will fare in a competitive field of sleep trackers.

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  • Garmin Updates High-End Smartwatch with New Sleep Feature

    Garmin Updates High-End Smartwatch with New Sleep Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin launched a new stable update, System Software 21.19, for the Fenix 7 and related smartwatches, three months after the previous update.
    2. The update is available on various models, including the Tactix 7, which is priced at $1,199 on Amazon.
    3. System Software 21.19 includes 37 updates from beta versions, featuring around two dozen improvements, including breathing variations insights.
    4. The breathing insights feature is not for medical use and uses pulse Ox data to help users understand their breathing during sleep.
    5. The update also includes unlock icons on the sensor details page, a refreshed running track database, and 16 bug fixes.

    Garmin has recently launched a new stable update for the Fenix 7 and other related smartwatches. This comes nearly three months after the previous System Software 20.22 was released. The new System Software 21.19 is also accessible on different models like the Tactix 7, which is currently priced at $1,199 on Amazon. This update follows more than ten beta versions ranging from 21.04 to 21.19.

    Changes in the New Update

    Similar to the earlier Fenix 8 series, the Fenix 7 and its counterparts have not received every change that Garmin has been testing in beta. Our observations show that Garmin has rolled out 37 updates between the beta versions 21.04 and 21.19. Still, System Software 21.19 brings a noteworthy list of two dozen improvements. One of the highlights is the breathing variations insights feature, now also found on the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970. Although Garmin points out that this feature is not meant for medical use, it utilizes pulse Ox data to give users a better understanding of their breathing patterns during sleep.

    Additional Features and Fixes

    Furthermore, this latest update includes unlock icons on the sensor details page and refreshes the running track database with new entries. Alongside these features, System Software 21.19 introduces 16 bug fixes. For those looking for more details, we have provided the full list of fixes below. You can also check Garmin’s forum posts linked below for additional information and the complete changelog for System Software 21.19.

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  • Garmin May 2025 Updates: New Rucking Features and Sleep Enhancements

    Garmin May 2025 Updates: New Rucking Features and Sleep Enhancements

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released significant software upgrades for its smartwatches, including the Fenix 8 series, Instinct 3, and Venu 3 series.
    2. New features include Breathing Variations for tracking sleep breathing changes and new rucking activities for improved workout accuracy.
    3. Enhanced security features include a passcode option and optional wrist detection.
    4. The Stage Timer tool is designed for competitive shooters to receive time alerts through connected hearing protection.
    5. Premium offerings are upgraded with Garmin Trails, connecting to Connect+ and Outdoors Maps+ services.

    Garmin has revealed significant new software upgrades for many of its smartwatches, including the Fenix 8 series, Instinct 3, and Venu 3 series. The company has also mentioned Forerunner models, although it hasn’t specified which ones. It’s likely that this includes the Forerunner 255 to Forerunner 965 (currently priced at $499.99 on Amazon), rather than the recently released Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970.

    New Features for Enhanced Performance

    In a recent press statement, Garmin shared that the newest feature updates aim to improve device security, health insights, and workout accuracy. One notable addition is the Breathing Variations tool, which tracks breathing changes during sleep using Pulse Ox data from compatible smartwatches. Additionally, the updates include new rucking activities and Pack Weight features for strength training, enhancing the precision of calorie burn and VO2 max statistics.

    Enhanced Security and Competitive Tools

    The updates from Garmin also bring its highly anticipated passcode feature and optional wrist detection. Furthermore, they’ve introduced the Stage Timer, a useful tool for competitive shooters that can send time alerts through connected hearing protection. Garmin is also upgrading its premium offerings with new functionalities like Garmin Trails, which connect to its Connect+ and Outdoors Maps+ services. For more in-depth information, check out Garmin’s full press release.

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