Tag: Garmin

  • Garmin Fenix 8 and Premium Smartwatches Leak with LTE Connectivity

    Garmin Fenix 8 and Premium Smartwatches Leak with LTE Connectivity

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin launched the Fenix E and Fenix 8 smartwatches, introducing AMOLED display options alongside the traditional MiP displays for better visibility and color vibrancy.
    2. The Fenix 8 may receive updates, and there are hints that other models like the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Tactix 8 could also be refreshed.
    3. Potential LTE connectivity for the Fenix 8 has been found in the Garmin Connect app, suggesting future connectivity options for other models.
    4. Garmin’s history indicates that new smartwatch models may appear in the app before their official launch.
    5. It’s uncertain if LTE connectivity will provide full internet access or just limited features like safety and tracking for the upcoming models.

    Garmin made some changes to the Fenix line last year with the launch of the Fenix E and Fenix 8, the latter priced at curr. $948 on Amazon. Previously, the brand had only used Memory in Pixel (MiP) displays for their premium smartwatches, which were great for battery life. However, MiP displays don’t offer vibrant colors and can be hard to see in low light.

    New Display Options

    To find a middle ground, Garmin introduced the Fenix 8 with both AMOLED and MiP display options. Now, it looks like not only the Fenix 8 may be getting an upgrade, but also the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Tactix 8. Garmin hasn’t officially announced any plans to refresh these high-end smartwatches.

    Connectivity Insights

    Interestingly, a source mentioned by Gadgets & Wearables found some visuals in the Garmin Connect app that suggest LTE connectivity for the Fenix 8. It appears that Garmin is also looking at this option when connecting the Enduro 3, Fenix E, or Tactix 8. While this might seem a bit odd, Garmin has a history of adding new smartwatch models to its app before they’re officially released.

    Future Possibilities

    For now, it’s unclear what Garmin’s intentions are regarding LTE connectivity for these smartwatches. In theory, Garmin could offer full internet access for these models, similar to what Apple, Google, and Samsung provide with their LTE versions. However, if the Forerunner 945 LTE is any indication, the LTE connectivity might only unlock limited safety and tracking features for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8.

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    Garmin Fenix 8 and Premium Smartwatches Leak with LTE Connectivity
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  • Garmin Smartwatch Update Resolves Passcode Issue

    Garmin Smartwatch Update Resolves Passcode Issue

    Key Takeaways

    – Garmin is launching beta version 14.07 for Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches.
    – The update includes bug fixes for passcode requests after power cycling and access to Pilates exercise videos.
    – A minor change has been made to the appearance of the calorie graph, along with other unspecified small improvements.
    – Users can download the update through the smartwatch settings, but the ECG app is currently disabled for Venu 3 users.
    – Future enhancements and fixes are expected as Garmin continues to work on improving their smartwatches.

    Garmin is launching a new update for the Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches. The newest beta version, 14.07, is part of the ongoing 14.xx testing cycle, which has provided users with several bug fixes and enhancements related to the recent passcode feature.

    Bug Fixes and Improvements

    The release notes for beta version 14.07 highlight two specific bug fixes. The first addresses a problem with receiving a passcode request following a power cycling activity. The second fix makes sure that exercise videos connected to Pilates workouts are now accessible. Additionally, this update includes a minor change to the appearance of the calorie graph. There are also said to be other small bug fixes and improvements, although no extra details have been shared. As of now, no user feedback has reported any bugs with beta version 14.07.

    How to Download the Update

    You can obtain beta version 14.07 by navigating to the Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update. Like any beta update, the ECG app is currently turned off for users of the Venu 3 smartwatch (45mm Black watch priced at $439 on Amazon). It’s still unclear when the next stable update will be released for the Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches.

    Looking Ahead

    Garmin (Venu 3/3s, vivoactive 5) continues to work on improving their smartwatches, and this latest update is part of their ongoing efforts. Users can look forward to further enhancements and fixes in the future.

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    Garmin Smartwatch Update Resolves Passcode Issue

     

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  • Garmin Updates Older Flagships with Incident Detection Fix

    Garmin Updates Older Flagships with Incident Detection Fix

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has expanded the ECG feature to more countries for Fenix 7 series and premium smartwatches.
    2. The company has released Beta Version 21.10, following Beta Version 21.09, with updates for several smartwatch models.
    3. Beta Version 21.09 included enhancements for Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, Enduro 2, and Tactix 7.
    4. Improvements in Beta Version 21.10 address minor bugs in Live Activity software and fix issues with short-distance running and walking activities.
    5. Beta Version 21.10 will be available soon as an over-the-air update through Garmin Mobile Connect or Garmin Express.

    Just recently, Garmin has quietly broadened the reach of its electrocardiogram (ECG) feature to additional countries for the Fenix 7 series and other premium smartwatches. They have also gone back to providing new firmware updates to beta testers, even after rolling out Beta Version 21.09 earlier this week.

    New Developments in Beta Software

    Now, the company has advanced the beta software to Beta Version 21.10 in preparation for a future stable release. To summarize, Beta Version 21.09 introduced several enhancements for the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro, as well as the Enduro 2 and Tactix 7 (currently priced at $1,084.99 on Amazon). However, Garmin has identified enough updates to justify the launch of a new build.

    Improvements and Fixes

    On one side, they assert to have fixed various minor bugs associated with their Live Activity software, but they haven’t given any specific details about these fixes. On the flip side, issues with short-distance running and walking activities are now expected to be resolved. Beta Version 21.10 is also claimed to correct the glitch that was causing incident detection to trigger incorrectly during unsupported activities. You can expect Beta Version 21.10 to become available for compatible smartwatches in the coming days as an over-the-air (OTA) update through Garmin Mobile Connect (GCM) or Garmin Express.

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  • Garmin Updates AMOLED and MiP Smartwatches to Fix Crash Issues

    Garmin Updates AMOLED and MiP Smartwatches to Fix Crash Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is releasing a new stable update for the Instinct E, Instinct 3 AMOLED, and Instinct 3 Solar smartwatches, with the current price at $449.99 on Amazon.
    2. The latest update, Beta Version 9.13, is being rolled out automatically as an over-the-air (OTA) update for users in the Beta Program.
    3. Users will receive notifications for downloading Beta Version 9.13 via Garmin Connect Mobile or Garmin Express when syncing their devices.
    4. Beta Version 9.13 includes fixes for Body Battery issues, crashes in Garmin Share for AMOLED models, and stability improvements for Solar and E models when connected to a computer.
    5. The update also features an upgraded Sensor Hub firmware, now at version 34.10.

    Garmin is slowly moving towards releasing a new stable update for the Instinct E, Instinct 3 AMOLED, and Instinct 3 Solar (currently priced at $449.99 on Amazon). To summarize, the company rolled out System Software 8.09 in mid-March for these models, introducing several changes. Soon after, they transitioned to the development of v9.xx, which they first made public with Beta Version 9.07.

    Update Progression

    Now, Garmin has progressed to Beta Version 9.13 for smartwatches participating in its Beta Program. In a post on its forum, Garmin mentioned that this update will be delivered automatically as an over-the-air (OTA) update. As a result, users can expect to receive a notification for downloading Beta Version 9.13 in the upcoming days, either through Garmin Connect Mobile (GCM) or Garmin Express when syncing an Instinct E, Instinct 3 AMOLED, or Instinct 3 Solar with desktop software.

    Features and Fixes

    According to Garmin, Beta Version 9.13 includes fixes related to Body Battery and watch faces. Additionally, Garmin Share should no longer crash on the AMOLED versions, and the Solar or E models should not experience crashes when connected to a computer. Moreover, Garmin has also included an updated Sensor Hub firmware, which has been upgraded to v34.10 in the latest build. The complete changelog for Beta Version 9.13 is as follows:

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  • Garmin Unveils 20+ Major Updates for Flagship Smartwatches

    Garmin Unveils 20+ Major Updates for Flagship Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released a new update in the 15.xx beta stage, adding 19 changes for beta testers.
    2. The update introduces new features for popular smartwatch models like Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8.
    3. The Tactix 8 is currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon and includes 17 bug fixes in the update.
    4. Beta Version 15.24 features updated Sensor Hub firmware, improving sensor pairing visibility.
    5. Garmin’s ongoing development has resulted in nearly 150 changes since System Software 13.35, with more beta versions expected.

    Garmin continues to enhance its leading smartwatches, focusing on bug fixes and upgrades. Recently, the company pushed out a new update in its 15.xx beta development stage, introducing 19 additional changes for beta testers beyond those already available.

    New Features for Popular Models

    The latest update brings new features to the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8. The Tactix 8 is currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon. In addition to the new features, the update also includes 17 bug fixes. Furthermore, Beta Version 15.24 has rolled out, featuring updated Sensor Hub firmware, which upgrades all smartwatches from versions v34.09 and v34.10. While Garmin hasn’t disclosed specific changes, it seems that the upgrade to v34.10 improves how sensors are paired by showing sensors in pairing mode first.

    Ongoing Development and Changes

    According to our calculations, the total changes from System Software 13.35 are approaching 150. However, there’s no indication that Garmin has completed the 15.xx development. The removal of Aviation, Dive, and ECG features suggests that at least one more beta version will be released, if not several. The comprehensive list of modifications between v15.23 and v15.24 is as follows:

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  • Garmin Forerunner 970 May Launch Before Forerunner 975

    Garmin Forerunner 970 May Launch Before Forerunner 975

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Forerunner smartwatches from Garmin may be released soon, based on warranty activity in Taiwan.
    2. The Forerunner 255 and 955 were released in 2022, followed by the Forerunner 265 and 965 within a year.
    3. Speculation suggests the Forerunner 975 might launch later this year, but the Forerunner 970 is expected to be released first.
    4. There is no confirmation that Garmin has abandoned the Forerunner 275 or 975 models.
    5. Details on specifications, pricing, and images for the Forerunner 970 are currently not available.

    It appears that the much-anticipated release of new Forerunner smartwatches may be just around the corner. Although Garmin hasn’t officially hinted at anything yet, the company has been seen engaging in a lengthy warranty campaign on its Taiwanese site for a new Forerunner smartwotch that hasn’t been announced.

    A Quick Overview of Previous Releases

    To summarize, Garmin unveiled the Forerunner 255 and Forerunner 955 in the middle of 2022 as updates to the older Forerunner 245 and Forerunner 945 models. Then, less than a year later, the Forerunner 265 and Forerunner 965 (currently priced at $599.99 on Amazon) were launched, with their second anniversary occurring in March. This led many to believe that the Forerunner 275 and Forerunner 975 would eventually be released.

    Speculations About Future Models

    While there was uncertainty regarding the launch timeline for new Forerunner smartwatches, a reliable leak indicated that the Forerunner 975 might debut later this year. However, Garmin’s extended warranty campaign application form hints that neither the Forerunner 275 nor the Forerunner 975 will be the next smartwatch introduced by Garmin.

    Instead, it seems like the company plans to roll out the Forerunner 970 before it turns its attention to other models in the Forerunner lineup. It’s important to note that there is currently no proof suggesting that Garmin has abandoned the release of the Forerunner 275 or Forerunner 975. That said, the Forerunner 970 appears to be next in line, possibly launching within the upcoming month. Sadly, details regarding specifications, pricing, and images of the device are still not available at this time.

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    Garmin Forerunner 970 May Launch Before Forerunner 975Garmin Forerunner 970 May Launch Before Forerunner 975Garmin Forerunner 970 May Launch Before Forerunner 975Garmin Forerunner 970 May Launch Before Forerunner 975
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  • Garmin ECG App for Smartwatches Now Available in the UK

    Garmin ECG App for Smartwatches Now Available in the UK

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin’s ECG app is now available in the UK and Switzerland, expanding its reach to about 50 regions.
    2. Compatible smartwatches include Fenix 7 Pro, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8, with specific limitations for the Venu 2 Plus in certain countries.
    3. The ECG app monitors heartbeats in about 30 seconds and can detect irregular heart rhythms like AFib.
    4. Results can be viewed on the watch or through the Garmin Connect app, and can be exported as a PDF.
    5. The ECG app is not medically certified, and users should consult healthcare professionals for health concerns.

    Garmin has broadened the reach of its electrocardiogram (ECG) app, now accessible to users in two additional countries. Launched in 2023, this feature was first limited to select areas like the US, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Subsequently, it began to be introduced to smartwatch owners in Australia and the EU earlier this year.

    New Availability in the UK and Switzerland

    Currently, the ECG app can also be utilized in the UK and Switzerland, expanding its availability to approximately 50 different regions. Smartwatches that support this feature include the Fenix 7 Pro, Fenix 8, and the Tactix 8 (51mm Solar version priced at $1,399.99 on Amazon). A detailed list of compatible devices can be found below. It’s important to highlight that the ECG app is limited to Venu 2 Plus users in the original smaller list of countries, meaning it’s not accessible in Europe.

    How the ECG App Works

    The Garmin ECG app utilizes the sensors of compatible smartwatches to monitor your heartbeat. The process only takes about 30 seconds, and the results can be viewed right away on the watch or through the Garmin Connect app. Besides heart rate tracking, this feature can identify an irregular heart rhythm, which might indicate atrial fibrillation (AFib).

    Nonetheless, it’s crucial to remember that this device is not medically certified, so individuals should consult a healthcare professional if they have any concerns. Users can export the results to a PDF format, making sharing straightforward. It remains unclear if or when Garmin will introduce a passive AFib detection feature in its smartwatches.

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    Garmin ECG App for Smartwatches Now Available in the UK
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  • Garmin Update Fixes Power Crash Bug in Older Flagship Smartwatches

    Garmin Update Fixes Power Crash Bug in Older Flagship Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released Beta Version 21.09 for Fenix 7, Enduro 2, and Tactix 7 smartwatches.
    2. The update includes unspecified improvements to the breathing variations page and sensor connection menus.
    3. Four bug fixes are introduced, including a fix for shutdown crashes on Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro.
    4. A lag issue on CIQ watch faces during screen transitions has been resolved.
    5. The ECG functionality remains disabled in this beta version.

    Garmin has rolled out another update for beta testers using the Fenix 7. This update is also available on other smartwatches like the Enduro 2 and Tactix 7, which currently retails for $1,084 on Amazon. The new update comes right after Beta Version 21.06, that was released less than two weeks ago.

    New Improvements in Beta Version 21.09

    Garmin has identified six additional areas for enhancements that are included in Beta Version 21.09. They claim to have fine-tuned the breathing variations page with a number of changes that haven’t been specified. In addition, Garmin indicates that Beta Version 21.09 also upgrades the sensor connection menus for the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro in ways that are not clearly defined.

    Bug Fixes Included

    Furthermore, Beta Version 21.09 introduces four bug fixes. For instance, crashes that used to occur while shutting down the Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, or related smartwatches should be a thing of the past. Garmin also mentions that they have fixed a lag issue that could happen on CIQ watch faces during transitions between screens. However, Garmin has yet to announce when a stable update will be available. It’s worth noting that the ECG functionality remains turned off in this beta version. The complete changelog for Beta Version 21.09 is provided below:

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  • Garmin Enhances Passcode Feature in Latest Beta Smartwatch Update

    Garmin Enhances Passcode Feature in Latest Beta Smartwatch Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released beta version 14.06 for Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches.
    2. The update includes general improvements to the passcode feature from version 13.17.
    3. Two bug fixes address text truncation on watch faces and an audio glitch during workouts.
    4. Additional minor bug fixes and enhancements are also part of this release.
    5. To download the update, go to Main Menu > Settings > System > Software Update; the ECG feature is disabled for Venu 3.

    Garmin has released beta version 14.06 for its Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches. This update comes about a week after the last one, beta version 14.05, which fixed some issues, like the problem where images in the Morning Report weren’t showing properly.

    New Features and Improvements

    The new beta version 14.06 is expected to offer “general improvements” to the passcode feature that was rolled out to all users in software version 13.17. Sadly, there are no specific details on what enhancements users can expect from this update.

    Bug Fixes Included

    This release also includes two bug fixes. The first one addresses an issue where the day-of-week text on certain watch faces was truncated. The second fix concerns an audio glitch during workouts; when the pace was at zero seconds, the audio mistakenly announced that workout intervals were finished. Additionally, the release notes mention other minor bug fixes and enhancements.

    How to Download the Update

    To download beta version 14.06 for your Venu 3 or vivoactive 5 smartwatch, navigate to Main Menu > Settings > System > Software Update. It’s important to remember that, like all beta updates, the ECG feature is turned off for the Venu 3 smartwatch, which currently retails for $449.99 on Amazon.

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    Garmin Enhances Passcode Feature in Latest Beta Smartwatch Update

     

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  • Garmin Instinct 3 Beta Update: Workout Bug Fixes Released

    Garmin Instinct 3 Beta Update: Workout Bug Fixes Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released beta version 9.09 for Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct E smartwatches.
    2. Beta version 9.07 introduced a Passcode feature and support for Garmin Connect+ subscription.
    3. The previous update also fixed issues with activity power mode and the Jump Rope activity’s “Target Finished” alert.
    4. Minor bug fixes and enhancements are included in the new update, but specific details are not provided.
    5. Users can update to beta version 9.09 wirelessly via Bluetooth, Garmin Connect Mobile, or Garmin Express.

    Garmin has released another update for the Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct E smartwatches, labeled as beta version 9.09. This marks the second rollout in the initial beta testing phase, coming just days after the previous beta version 9.07. The earlier update introduced features such as a Passcode and support for the Garmin Connect+ subscription.

    Update Details

    Beta version 9.07 was a minor update for these latest Instinct devices. The change log indicates it addresses an issue with the activity power mode setting in Garmin Connect Mobile. Additionally, there was a fix related to the Jump Rope activity; the problem with the “Target Finished” alert has been corrected. However, this fix only applies to the Instinct 3 AMOLED and Instinct 3 Solar smartwatches (50mm Charcoal version currently priced at $449.99 on Amazon).

    Minor Improvements

    Moreover, there are reportedly several minor bug fixes and enhancements, although Garmin has not shared any extra details on these improvements. As of now, users haven’t reported any new bugs with the beta version 9.09. The Instinct 3 and Instinct E smartwatches are receiving beta version 9.09 wirelessly (OTA) via Bluetooth and Garmin Connect Mobile, or through Garmin Express. If you’re interested in joining the Garmin Beta Program, more information can be found on the company’s support website.

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    Garmin Instinct 3 Beta Update: Workout Bug Fixes Released

     

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