Tag: Garmin

  • Garmin Forerunner 970: New Smartwatch Launches at $749

    Garmin Forerunner 970: New Smartwatch Launches at $749

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Forerunner 970 replaces the Forerunner 965 and is priced at $749.99 in the U.S. and €749.99 in Europe.
    2. It features a brighter 1.4-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 454 x 454 pixels, protected by a Sapphire Crystal lens and housed in a titanium bezel.
    3. New capabilities include Garmin’s Elevate V5 heart rate sensor, ECG, skin temperature monitoring, and Evening reporting features.
    4. The smartwatch supports voice commands, Bluetooth calling, and offers up to 15 days of battery life in smartwatch mode.
    5. Pre-orders for the Forerunner 970 will start on May 21, and it comes in three different finishes.

    Earlier today, some initial details about the Forerunner 970 surfaced online after Garmin accidentally showcased the smartwatch on a support page. To our surprise, the Forerunner 970 is now officially announced, along with the Forerunner 570, which we have discussed in another article.

    Pricing and Positioning

    In brief, the Forerunner 970 takes the place of the Forerunner 965 in Garmin’s product range. However, it comes at a much higher price of $749.99 in the United States and €749.99 in Europe. Consequently, the Forerunner series is now just $50 less than the Fenix series, which begins at $799.99 for the Fenix E (currently available for $599.99 on Amazon).

    Enhanced Features

    For that extra cost, Garmin has incorporated a brighter AMOLED display compared to the one found in the Forerunner 965. This display measures 1.4 inches in size, delivering a resolution of 454 x 454 pixels, and is housed in a 47 mm casing that weighs 56 grams. Additionally, Garmin has safeguarded this large screen with a Sapphire Crystal lens and a titanium bezel.

    New Capabilities

    Among the exciting new features are Garmin’s Elevate V5 heart rate sensor, ECG, and skin temperature monitoring. Unlike the Forerunner 965, the Forerunner 970 also presents Evening reporting features, as well as voice commands and Bluetooth calling capabilities, thanks to its built-in microphones and speakers.

    Garmin mentions that the Forerunner 970 can last up to 15 days in smartwatch mode or 12 hours with all GNSS systems turned on and music playing. This smartwatch also provides turn-by-turn navigation support and has 32 GB of internal storage for offline maps. The Forerunner 970 is set to be available for pre-order starting May 21 in three different finishes. More details can be found on Garmin’s official website.

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    Garmin Forerunner 970: New Smartwatch Launches at $749

     

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  • Garmin Prepares for Stable Update Release for Flagship Smartwatches

    Garmin Prepares for Stable Update Release for Flagship Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is set to release new smartwatches, including LTE versions of Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Forerunner 970, along with a new Forerunner 570 model.
    2. Garmin is actively updating its current smartwatch lineup, with recent stable releases for the latest Forerunner models after beta testing.
    3. Beta Version 15.29 indicates the end of the beta phase for several models, following a series of feature-rich updates.
    4. The latest beta version addresses a crash issue for certain models, providing improved stability for users.
    5. Key features like Aviation, Dive, and ECG remain inactive, suggesting that another beta version may be released before finalizing the software.

    It appears Garmin is making strides to introduce a number of new smartwatches. To summarize, there’s been signs of the company gearing up LTE versions of their Fenix E, Fenix 8 and several premium models, along with the Forerunner 970 and even a new edition of Fenix 8. Interestingly, it seems a smartwatch known as the Forerunner 570 will be launching soon as well.

    Ongoing Updates for Current Models

    In the meantime, Garmin has been hard at work providing multiple updates for their current smartwatch lineup. Just yesterday, they rolled out a stable version for the latest Forerunner models after around two months of beta testing. It seems that the beta phase for the current Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, or Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299.99 on Amazon) is also nearing its conclusion.

    Development Insights

    Although Garmin hasn’t confirmed it outright, the details in Beta Version 15.29 imply this is the case. Recently, the company has been introducing a plethora of new features and fixes with each beta version, reaching a peak with Beta Version 15.27 at the start of the week. In contrast, Beta Version 15.29 presents only a minor bug fix, often indicating that the beta development stage is winding down.

    Important Bug Fixes

    That said, Beta Version 15.29 is reported to address a potential crash issue when navigating, which should be a relief for beta testers using the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, or Tactix 8. However, the fact that features like Aviation, Dive, and ECG are still inactive suggests that Garmin plans to release at least one more beta version before moving the v15.xx development to its stable software line. For further information, you can check Garmin’s forum post.

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  • Garmin Forerunner 570 Leaks: Price, Specs, and Images Revealed

    Garmin Forerunner 570 Leaks: Price, Specs, and Images Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is expected to launch new mid-tier smartwatches, including the Forerunner 970 and an affordable Forerunner 270.
    2. The Forerunner 570 is anticipated to be released before the other models, with specifications and store listings already available.
    3. The Forerunner 570 will feature a five-button design and come in two sizes: 42 mm and 47 mm.
    4. Both sizes of the Forerunner 570 are expected to have AMOLED screens, fiber-reinforced polymer cases, and aluminum bezels, with the larger model offering up to 11 days of battery life.
    5. The estimated price for the Forerunner 570 is €549 (about $615), with a potential launch in summer 2024 or spring 2025.

    Lately, there’s been a lot of talk suggesting that Garmin is gearing up to unveil a new range of mid-tier smartwatches. At first, it was thought that the Forerunner 975 would be the next in line. But later hints pointed towards the Forerunner 970, which is expected to debut alongside a more affordable Forerunner 270.

    New Developments

    With all these whispers about the new Forerunner smartwatches, Garmin has also hinted at upcoming LTE versions of the Fenix E, Fenix 8, and other premium models, along with a new version of the Fenix 8. Interestingly, it seems that a different smartwatch called the Forerunner 570 might be released ahead of these other models.

    Details on the Forerunner Series

    So far, not much has come to light regarding the Forerunner 270, 970, or 975. In contrast, there’s already a picture, specifications, and store listings for the Forerunner 570 that have surfaced online. To start with the visuals, the Forerunner 570 continues the five-button design of recent models like the Forerunner 265 (curr. $339 – renewed on Amazon).

    Features and Pricing

    There will be two sizes for the Forerunner 570: 42 mm and 47 mm, which is slightly different from the Forerunner 265 that had sizes of 42 mm and 46 mm. Both models are expected to come with AMOLED screens, cases made of fiber-reinforced polymer, and aluminum bezels. The larger version is anticipated to have a longer battery life of 11 days in smartwatch mode and an additional hour of GPS multi-band battery life for up to 14 hours.

    The two models are also likely to include Garmin’s Elevate V4 sensor array. According to Italian retailer Capo Nord, the Forerunner 570 will cost €549 (about $615) for either size option. The retailer mentions that all versions should hit the market this summer, although FitnessTrackerTest suggests a possible launch in spring 2025.

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    Garmin Forerunner 570 Leaks: Price, Specs, and Images RevealedGarmin Forerunner 570 Leaks: Price, Specs, and Images RevealedGarmin Forerunner 570 Leaks: Price, Specs, and Images Revealed
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  • Garmin Forerunner 970 Specs, Price, and Release Date Leak

    Garmin Forerunner 970 Specs, Price, and Release Date Leak

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Forerunner 570 has been spotted online, revealing its retail version and pricing for two sizes.
    2. The Forerunner 970 has appeared on a Garmin Taiwan support page and is also listed by an Italian store.
    3. The expected launch price for the Forerunner 970 is €749 (approximately $689), making it more expensive than the Forerunner 965.
    4. Both the Forerunner 570 and 970 may be launched simultaneously, according to FitnessTrackerTest.
    5. Key features of the Forerunner 970 include sapphire crystal glass, an enhanced AMOLED display, a speaker for voice commands, and potentially an Elevate V5 sensor.

    Earlier today, the first signs of the new Forerunner 570 were spotted online, following a flurry of Garmin smartwatch leaks. In short, details about the previously undiscovered Forerunner have come to light, including a photo of what seems to be a retail version and its pricing for two different sizes.

    New Developments on Forerunner 970

    The Forerunner 970 has made another appearance after being listed on a Garmin Taiwan support page late last month. While this page just confirmed that the Forerunner 970 exists, an Italian store has taken it a step further. Capo Nord has posted the Forerunner 970 on its website ahead of its official release, and we have included evidence of this below.

    Pricing and Features

    Capo Nord claims that Garmin plans to launch the Forerunner 970 this summer at a price of €749, which translates to about $689 at the current exchange rates, not including Italy’s 22% VAT. This means that the Forerunner 970 might be much pricier than the Forerunner 965, which was released over two years ago for €579 in the Eurozone (approximately $499 on Amazon). Interestingly, FitnessTrackerTest suggests that both the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 might hit the market at the same time. Additionally, Capo Nord notes that the new model will feature sapphire crystal glass to protect its enhanced AMOLED display, a speaker for voice commands, and potentially an Elevate V5 sensor as well.

    Conclusion

    In summation, the excitement surrounding Garmin’s upcoming watches has reached a peak, with the Forerunner 570 and 970 promising to bring new features to the table. Keep an eye out for more updates as we draw closer to the launch.

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    Garmin Forerunner 970 Specs, Price, and Release Date Leak

     

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  • Garmin Forerunner Smartwatch Update: New Features & Fixes

    Garmin Forerunner Smartwatch Update: New Features & Fixes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has not officially confirmed the launch of new Forerunner smartwatches, but rumors suggest the Forerunner 970 may be coming soon.
    2. A new version of the Fenix 8 is reportedly in development, along with LTE upgrades for current models.
    3. Garmin released a stable software update (System Software 23.20) for current Forerunner smartwatches after nearly two months of beta testing.
    4. The System Software 23.20 update includes 24 new features, bug fixes, and improvements for models like Forerunner 165, 265, and 965, as well as older models 255 and 955.
    5. Approximately 20% of eligible smartwatches have received the update, and users can manually check for updates via the smartwatch menu.

    Garmin has not made any official statements regarding the launch of new Forerunner smartwatches. However, there are growing rumors that the company could be ready to launch the Forerunner 970 worldwide. Additionally, Garmin might have hinted that a new version of the Fenix 8 is also in development, along with LTE upgrades for current models.

    New Software Update Details

    In the meantime, the company has quietly begun to release a new stable software update for the current Forerunner smartwatches, replacing the previous month’s v22.xx versions. This update, known as System Software 23.20, is the result of nearly two months of beta testing and includes numerous changes for the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 265, and Forerunner 965, as well as the older Forerunner 255 and Forerunner 955 (priced at $373 on Amazon).

    Features and Availability

    According to our calculations, System Software 23.20 introduces 24 new features, bug fixes, and improvements for the mentioned smartwatches. We’ve made an effort to spotlight some specific changes for each device below. At the moment, Garmin believes that approximately 20% of the eligible smartwatches have received the System Software 23.20 update. If your smartwatch hasn’t received the update yet, you can try to manually start the download by navigating to Menu, then System, followed by Software Update, and pressing ‘Check for Updates’. For more information, check out the changelog and Garmin’s forum links below.

    Changes by Model

    – All Forerunner smartwatches
    – Changes for the Forerunner 165
    – Changes for the Forerunner 265 and Forerunner 965
    – Specific changes for the Forerunner 965

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  • Garmin Update for High-End Smartwatches Fixes System Crashes

    Garmin Update for High-End Smartwatches Fixes System Crashes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is developing a beta update for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 smartwatches.
    2. The recent System Software 13.73 update did not include features available in beta since late March.
    3. Beta Version 15.27 is the tenth public build in the v15.xx series, focusing on bug fixes.
    4. Aviation, Dive, and ECG functions have been disabled in Beta Version 15.27.
    5. The update includes fixes for known issues, including three crash-related problems.

    It appears that Garmin is still working on its new beta update for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299.99 on Amazon). Although the company finished April by rolling out System Software 13.73 for its four premium smartwatches, this update didn’t include any of the modifications that have been available to beta testers since late March.

    Context of the Update

    For some background, Garmin went through more than a dozen v13.xx beta versions before it released System Software 13.35 to its stable software lineup. The launch of Beta Version 15.27 marks the tenth public build in the v15.xx series, not counting the Voice Command Files update that was sent out at the end of last week.

    Features Disabled

    However, it’s worth noting that Garmin has turned off the Aviation, Dive, and ECG functions in Beta Version 15.27. Consequently, this will not be the concluding beta update for this developmental phase, even though Garmin has made over 150 adjustments since its last stable update.

    This time, the focus has primarily been on implementing new bug fixes, with ten highlighted in the changelog for Beta Version 15.27. Interestingly, it has taken until now to address three issues that could lead to crashes, one of which might happen when a user selects a recent course from a saved application. The complete list of changes between Beta Versions v15.26 and v15.27 includes the following:

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  • New Garmin Fenix 8 Spin-Off Smartwatch Leaks Online

    New Garmin Fenix 8 Spin-Off Smartwatch Leaks Online

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin launched the Instinct E and Instinct 3 at the start of 2025, followed by the Approach S44 and S50.
    2. Upcoming releases include the Forerunner 970 and LTE versions of the Fenix E and Fenix 8, along with other premium smartwatches.
    3. Garmin is developing the D2 Mach 2, likely based on the Fenix 8, with a focus on aviation features.
    4. Expected enhancements for the D2 Mach 2 include an AMOLED display, Elevate Gen 5 heart rate sensor, and voice assistant support.
    5. The D2 Mach 2’s release date is uncertain, but its mention in support documents suggests an official launch may be imminent.

    It looks like Garmin is gearing up for a busy latter part of the year. To summarize, the company started 2025 with the global launch of the Instinct E and Instinct 3 (currently $449.99 on Amazon). Just a few weeks later, they released the Approach S44 and Approach S50, and then shifted focus to the Instinct 3 Tactical Edition, Tactix 8, and Vivoactive 6 this season.

    New Releases on the Horizon

    Recently, there have been hints that Garmin is not only getting ready to unveil the Forerunner 970 but also LTE versions of the Fenix E, Fenix 8, along with other premium smartwatches. In addition, it seems Garmin is working on a new version of the D2 Mach 1.

    D2 Mach 2 Development

    Particularly, Garmin has begun to include mentions of the D2 Mach 2 in relation to its Grade Adjusted Pace (GAP) software. So far, there’s not much information on how the D2 Mach 2 will differ from the current Mach 1 models. However, the5krunner suggests that Garmin is likely to use the Fenix 8 as a base for the D2 Mach 2, emphasizing its aviation features.

    Expected Features and Release Timeline

    The upcoming D2 is expected to come with enhancements like an AMOLED display, Elevate Gen 5 heart rate sensor, and support for a voice assistant through its microphone and speaker setup. Unfortunately, it’s still unclear when Garmin plans to launch the D2 Mach 2. The fact that it has appeared in Garmin’s support documents suggests an official release might happen soon, though.

    Garmin via the5krunner & Garmin Rumors.

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    New Garmin Fenix 8 Spin-Off Smartwatch Leaks Online
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  • Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Adds New Watch Faces

    Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Adds New Watch Faces

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released beta version 5.01 for the Lily 2 Active smartwatch, marking the third beta update since its launch in October 2024.
    2. The update includes two new watch faces and improved weather forecast display, showing partial data instead of “waiting for data.”
    3. Users can now find their device’s serial number on the About page, along with an update related to Bluetooth.
    4. No new bugs have been reported with beta version 5.01, and it is available to all Garmin Lily 2 Active smartwatch users in the testing program.
    5. Users can enroll in the Garmin Beta Program through their Garmin Connect account to access the latest updates.

    Garmin has begun to distribute beta version 5.01 for the Lily 2 Active smartwatch. This marks the third beta update for this device, which was introduced in October 2024. Previous updates have fixed multiple bugs and added a feature that allows the watch to automatically pause.

    New Features and Adjustments

    The latest beta update introduces two fresh watch faces for users of the Garmin Lily 2 smartwatch. Additionally, there’s been a change to how weather forecasts are displayed; they will now show partial data instead of just saying “waiting for data” when some information is missing. Your device’s serial number can now be found on the About page, and there’s also an update related to Bluetooth. Furthermore, enhancements have been made for the Sensor Hub (34.10) and Text Translations (5.01).

    User Experience

    As of now, no new bugs have been reported by users for the beta version 5.01. The firmware is accessible to all users of the Garmin Lily 2 Active smartwatch (currently priced at $249.99 on Amazon) who are part of the testing program. It will be automatically sent to users through Garmin Connect Mobile. If you’re interested, you can sign up for the Garmin Beta Program via your Garmin Connect account. For additional details, take a look at the Garmin support pages.

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  • Garmin Updates Forerunner Smartwatches Ahead of Forerunner 970 Launch

    Garmin Updates Forerunner Smartwatches Ahead of Forerunner 970 Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is set to release new Forerunner smartwatches, likely the Forerunner 970 and 975, along with a budget model, the Forerunner 270.
    2. The exact release date for the new Forerunner models is currently unknown.
    3. Garmin is actively testing software updates for existing watches through its Beta Program, with v23.xx testing initiated in March.
    4. The latest beta update, v23.18, includes five bug fixes for multiple Forerunner models and has been released to 50% of compatible devices.
    5. Specific bug fixes in the beta update apply to the Forerunner 165, 255, 955, and 965 models.

    Garmin is likely to release new Forerunner smartwatches this season, acting as successors to the Forerunner 265 and Forerunner 965 (currently priced at $499.99 on Amazon). Current indications point towards the Forerunner 970 being launched before the Forerunner 975, and there may also be an economical Forerunner 270 introduced alongside them. Although the exact release date for these new models remains uncertain, Garmin is actively working on software upgrades for their current watches through its Beta Program.

    Software Testing Updates

    To summarize, the company initiated v23.xx testing at the end of March, following the rollout of Stable Version 22.22 in February. Sadly, Garmin hasn’t hinted at when a new stable update might come out. Instead, it has replaced Beta Version 23.15 with v23.18, claiming that this new version has been distributed to 50% of compatible smartwatches in most situations.

    Bug Fixes and Changes

    From what we understand, Garmin’s newest beta update introduces five main bug fixes for the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965. Additionally, the changelogs for Beta Version 23.18 include specific bug fixes for the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965. The complete list of changes between Beta Versions 23.15 and 23.18 is outlined as follows:

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  • Garmin Confirms New Features Will Be Behind Paywall

    Garmin Confirms New Features Will Be Behind Paywall

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin launched the Connect+ subscription service at $6.99/month or $69.99/year, while maintaining free access to current features in Garmin Connect.
    2. Connect+ offers tailored insights powered by AI, improved live tracking, and unique achievement badges.
    3. The service is seen as a key part of Garmin’s long-term fitness strategy, according to CEO Cliff Pemble.
    4. Future features may be exclusive to Connect+ subscribers, with positive feedback from early users noted.
    5. Upcoming updates are expected with the launch of the Forerunner 970, which will replace the Forerunner 965.

    Garmin introduced its Connect+ subscription service at the end of March, sparking some debate among users. The service is priced at $6.99 per month or $69.99 per year. Garmin has tried to calm concerns by stating that all current features and data within Garmin Connect will still be accessible for free.

    Connect+ Developments

    Recently, Garmin has provided more information about the future of Connect+ and how it plans to enhance the service. During the Q1 2025 earnings call, Garmin’s President and CEO, Cliff Pemble, shared some insights. He mentioned that Garmin Connect+ is a premium plan that offers tailored insights using artificial intelligence, improved live tracking, and unique achievement badges.

    Enhanced Health and Fitness Insights

    Connect+ aims to boost users’ understanding of their health and fitness through personalized Active Intelligence insights powered by AI. As noted by the5krunner and other observers, Pemble went into more detail, though these specific remarks are not included in Garmin’s earnings call PDF. Instead, they can be found in the linked video starting from 11:23.

    According to Pemble, Connect+ is a “long-term thing for us [Garmin]” and a “very important part” of their fitness strategy moving forward. He also suggested that upcoming features may be restricted to Connect+ subscribers, mentioning positive feedback from early users. While he did not specify what these paywalled features would be, he indicated they would relate to the company’s premium offerings. The first signs of these updates are likely to come with the launch of the Forerunner 970, expected to replace the Forerunner 965 later this season, which is currently priced at $499.99 on Amazon.

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