Tag: Garmin

  • Garmin Fenix 7 and 7 Pro Get New Stable Update and Beta Release

    Garmin Fenix 7 and 7 Pro Get New Stable Update and Beta Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released a stable update (System Software 15.31) for Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 smartwatches after extensive beta testing.
    2. The update includes nearly 100 modifications, featuring 20 new functionalities for these high-end devices.
    3. Upcoming updates are expected for the Fenix 7 series and related models, following their last stable update in March (System Software 20.22).
    4. A new beta version (21.19) has been released, introducing ECG functionality and indicating progress towards the finalization of the v21.xx beta cycle.
    5. Garmin aims to distribute System Software 21.19 or a similar version to multiple smartwatch models soon, pending successful testing of recent adjustments.

    Garmin has rolled out a new stable update for its Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 smartwatches, which currently retails for $1,299.99 on Amazon. This update, System Software 15.31, comes after an extensive beta testing phase and brings nearly 100 modifications to these high-end devices, including 20 fresh features.

    Upcoming Updates for Fenix 7 Series

    Interestingly, the Fenix 7 series and its counterparts might be getting updates soon as well. To provide some background, the Enduro 2, Epix 2, Fenix 7, and Tactix 7 received their last stable update at the start of March with System Software 20.22. Following that, numerous beta versions were released to testers, kicking off with Beta Version 21.04 at the month’s end.

    New Beta Version Released

    Recently, Garmin has indicated that a new stable update is forthcoming, following the launch of Beta Version 21.19. This new beta introduces ECG functionality, suggesting that Garmin is nearing the conclusion of its v21.xx beta development cycle.

    If everything goes smoothly, we can anticipate that Garmin will begin to distribute System Software 21.19 or a similar version to the Enduro 2, Epix 2, Fenix 7, and Tactix 7 smartwatches in the coming days. Currently, Garmin has been testing various adjustments between System Software 20.22 and Beta Version 21.19. The comprehensive list of these changes is available below; however, it’s important to note that not every change is certain to be included in a future stable update.

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  • Garmin Reveals New Running Features for Forerunner 970

    Garmin Reveals New Running Features for Forerunner 970

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Metrics Introduced: Garmin’s Forerunner 970 smartwatch and HRM 600 chest strap feature new metrics: Step Speed Loss (SSL), Running Economy, and Running Tolerance.

    2. Step Speed Loss (SSL): SSL measures speed decrease at ground contact, aiming for a lower value for better performance, with real-time tracking available on the Garmin Connect app.

    3. Running Economy: This metric assesses efficiency during running, measured in ml/kg/km, with a lower score indicating better energy use and less waste.

    4. Running Tolerance: This tool evaluates how the body handles different workouts, helping to prevent overtraining by ensuring acute impact loads stay below tolerance scores.

    5. Availability and Pricing: The Forerunner 970 will launch on May 21st, priced at $749.99 in the US and €749.99 in Europe, with the new features exclusive to this model.

    Garmin has shared additional details regarding its latest Running Dynamics and Physiological Measurements tools. The new Forerunner 970 smartwatch, along with the HRM 600 chest strap heart rate monitor, introduced metrics like Step Speed Loss (SSL), Running Economy, and Running Tolerance. Detailed descriptions of each of these metrics can now be found on the company’s website.

    Understanding Step Speed Loss

    Step Speed Loss (SSL) measures how much you decrease your speed each time your foot makes contact with the ground. This is monitored through a heart rate device and is shown in cm/s, by calculating the difference between your initial speed at ground contact and your slowest forward speed. Users should aim for a lower value here. Additionally, there’s a related metric called Step Speed Loss Percent (SSL%), which is your SSL divided by your current running pace. Both metrics can be seen in real-time or analyzed in graphs on the Garmin Connect app.

    Efficiency Through Running Economy

    Next, we have the Running Economy metric, which shows how efficiently your body is working. It is measured in milliliters of oxygen used per kilogram of body weight per kilometer (ml/kg/km). This metric considers factors such as heart rate, vertical oscillation, SSL, and others. To get an accurate reading, users must wear a heart rate monitor. A lower score indicates better efficiency, meaning less energy is wasted during your run.

    Monitoring Your Running Tolerance

    Lastly, Garmin has introduced a Running Tolerance metric that assesses how your body responds to different workouts. This tool can help identify harmful patterns, such as insufficient rest after intense sessions, which could affect your performance. Ideally, your acute impact load, determined from your recent workouts, should remain below your tolerance score.

    At present, these three new features related to Running Dynamics and Physiological Measurements appear to be exclusive to the Forerunner 970 smartwatch. This model is set to launch on May 21st, with a recommended retail price of $749.99 in the US and €749.99 in Europe.

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Update: HRV Bug Fix Released

    Garmin Smartwatch Update: HRV Bug Fix Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched beta version 17.03 for Instinct 2, 2s, 2X, and Crossover smartwatches.
    2. The update includes eight bug fixes, addressing issues like HRV chart scaling and step tracking during horseback riding.
    3. Specific fixes for Instinct Crossover include resolving a blank Tides glance issue.
    4. Users will also receive GPS version 13.02 with this update.
    5. The next public update release date for Instinct 2 smartwatches is currently unknown.

    Garmin has launched beta version 17.03 for the Instinct 2, Instinct 2s, Instinct 2X, and Instinct Crossover smartwatches. This marks the first update for these devices in 2025, following the previous release, version 17.01, which was made available in November 2024.

    Bug Fixes and Improvements

    The changelog for beta version 17.03 outlines eight bug fixes for the Instinct smartwatches. Among these is a solution for a scaling issue on the heart rate variability (HRV) chart and a fix for the step tracking problem during horseback riding activities. Additionally, a problem with the Fish activity timer has been fixed, as well as an error where the Mixed Martial Arts activity name was shown incorrectly in the Garmin Connect app. For users who engage in strength training, they have resolved an issue where the weight value would not update as intended when editing reps. Other bug fixes also address dog tracking and nautical distance data.

    Special Fixes for Instinct Crossover

    Moreover, the Instinct Crossover benefits from a fix regarding the Tides glance, which had been blank in certain instances. In conjunction with the wider beta version 17.03 update, users will also receive GPS version 13.02. The necessary files for this release can be accessed on the Garmin forum. It remains uncertain when Garmin plans to issue the next public update for all Instinct 2 smartwatch users (Solar Graphite watch currently priced at $255.38 on Amazon).

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    Garmin Smartwatch Update: HRV Bug Fix Released
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  • Garmin HRM 600: Advanced Wearable for Training and Analysis

    Garmin HRM 600: Advanced Wearable for Training and Analysis

    Key Takeaways

    1. Smartwatches commonly include optical sensors for heart rate tracking, but wrist readings can lag during quick fluctuations.
    2. Garmin’s HRM 600 is designed specifically for serious athletes, offering features like heart rate variability and advanced running metrics.
    3. The HRM 600 includes a unique Step Speed Loss feature for assessing running efficiency, available only on the Forerunner 970.
    4. The HRM 600 strap can be used independently of a smartwatch for various activities, including boxing and climbing.
    5. The device has a rechargeable battery lasting up to two months and is priced at $169.99, available from May 21.

    There are nearly no smartwatches these days that lack an optical sensor to track your heart rate. When you combine heart rate with speed, easily measured via GPS, it gives a pretty detailed insight into performance, especially for activities like running or cycling. From what we’ve seen, measuring heart rate on the wrist usually works quite well, but if there are quick and noticeable fluctuations in heart rate, the readings can be slow or lagging. This tends to impact serious runners and athletes who push their limits during training.

    Designed for Serious Athletes

    Garmin has designed the HRM 600 with these dedicated athletes in mind. This heart rate monitor not only tracks heart rate but also looks at heart rate variability. It assesses heart rate over time and examines how individual heartbeats differ from each other. It also includes advanced metrics for running efficiency (known as Running Dynamics) that work in conjunction with a compatible smartwatch. The device has a feature called Step Speed Loss, which evaluates the decrease in speed caused by ground contact; however, this feature is exclusive to the new Forerunner 970. Runners are encouraged to reduce this metric by refining their running technique. Stride length, ground contact duration, and vertical movement can also be evaluated with other models aside from just the Forerunner 970.

    Versatile Usage

    The HRM 600 strap is versatile and can be utilized without a smartwatch, making it suitable for activities like boxing, martial arts, or even climbing. The rechargeable battery boasts an impressive life of up to two months.

    This model is priced at $169.99 and will be available for purchase starting on May 21.

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    Garmin HRM 600: Advanced Wearable for Training and Analysis

     

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  • 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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