Tag: Garmin

  • Garmin Launches Forerunner Smartwatch Update with HR Zone Enhancements

    Garmin Launches Forerunner Smartwatch Update with HR Zone Enhancements

    Garmin has swiftly released a new update for several Forerunner smartwatches, just after finishing Software Version 22.12 for these devices. To summarize, the recent stable update included multiple bug fixes for the Forerunner 165 and Forerunner 965 (currently priced at $594.99 on Amazon), among others. Software Version 22.12 also claimed to enhance Run Coach and Cycling Coach, with full details covered in a separate announcement.

    New Beta Version

    Now, Garmin has moved ahead to version 22.14, which is now part of its Beta Program. Sadly, there’s no clear timeline for when this update will shift from beta to stable. The quick transition of Beta Version 22.12 to stable suggests that the new version might follow the same path, though.

    Bug Fixes for Multiple Models

    Both the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965 are getting the same two bug fixes, which aim to address heart rate (HR) zone problems. On one side, Beta Version 22.14 includes a fix for a glitch that might cause a crash when changing HR zones. On the other hand, this update also aims to fix issues that led to incorrect time displays or even wrong HR zones.

    The changelog for all five models mentions ‘various bug fixes and improvements’, but it does not give any further details about this. Moreover, Garmin issued a separate fix for the Forerunner 265 and Forerunner 965, which sometimes resulted in missing app icons in the notification glance. It’s important to note that this fix isn’t being rolled out to the Forerunner 255 or Forerunner 955, nor to the newer Forerunner 165.

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  • Garmin Smartwatches Beta Update Enhances Run and Cycling Coaches

    Garmin Smartwatches Beta Update Enhances Run and Cycling Coaches

    Garmin has revealed that the beta version 13.07 can now be downloaded for its Venu 3, Venu 3s, and Vivoactive 5 smartwatches. This marks the first update in the 13.xx testing series, following the stable release of version 12.12 not long ago.

    Improvements in Training Plans

    According to the change log, beta version 13.07 introduces enhancements to the Garmin Run Coach and Garmin Cycling Coach plans. Last year, the original Garmin Coach was replaced by these two options. With this new update, these tailored training plans now integrate strength workouts along with your regular running or cycling sessions to boost your performance even more. Additionally, it provides more details about the connection type shown for linked sensors. Moreover, the smartwatches are now compatible with the latest Connect IQ apps, watch faces, and data fields.

    How to Download the Beta

    In a forum announcement, Garmin stated that beta version 13.07 is ready to be downloaded for the Venu 3, Venu 3s, and Vivoactive 5 (current price $244 at Amazon) smartwatches. To initiate the installation, navigate to Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update. If you’re interested in participating in the beta program, you can enroll through Garmin Connect.

    Garmin (Venu 3/3s, Vivoactive 5) is taking steps to enhance the user experience with this update.

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    Garmin Smartwatches Beta Update Enhances Run and Cycling Coaches
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  • Garmin Fenix 8 Beta Update: 20+ New Features and Changes

    Garmin Fenix 8 Beta Update: 20+ New Features and Changes

    The Garmin Beta Version 13.18 update is now out for the Fenix 8 AMOLED, Fenix 8 Solar, Enduro 3, and Fenix E smartwatches. This update comes a little over a week after the previous beta version, 13.14.

    Notable Changes in the Update

    This update is significant, featuring 23 different changes noted in the release documentation. Among these changes is the introduction of a Character Pop-up for users of the on-watch QWERTY keyboard. A new Proximity Alert feature has also been added for GPS-related activities. Additionally, font scaling support is now included on the Workout Structure card, and Segments are now part of the Training Menu. Furthermore, users can adjust the transparency of the Pan/Zoom Bar on the Map.

    Improvements and Fixes

    Garmin mentions that it has refreshed the Recent Sleep Scores page and enhanced the RAM file saving process. There are fixes for various issues, including accidental alarm dismissals, problems with deleting Custom Activity profiles, and touch input troubles in the map app. The complete change log is available below. The Garmin team has indicated that this rollout is happening in phases; currently, at least 25% of eligible smartwatch users have received the update over-the-air (OTA). It remains uncertain when the stable version of the 13.18 software will be accessible to all users of the Fenix 8 (47mm AMOLED currently priced at $999.99 at Amazon) and related smartwatches.

    Conclusion

    Garmin’s latest update brings a host of new features and important fixes, making it a noteworthy enhancement for users. Keep an eye out for the full rollout, as it may take some time for everyone to get the update.

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    Garmin Fenix 8 Beta Update: 20+ New Features and Changes

     

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  • Garmin Updates Resume Later Feature with New Smartwatch Shortcut

    Garmin Updates Resume Later Feature with New Smartwatch Shortcut

    The recent updates to the Garmin smartwatch’s Resume Later feature have sparked interest among users. Although Garmin has not made an official announcement regarding this upgrade, discussions on Reddit have highlighted the changes. The Resume Later function is designed to let Garmin smartwatch users resume a paused activity after taking a break. A key advantage of this feature compared to the standard pause option is that it turns off the GPS, helping to save battery life.

    New Shortcut Icons

    Garmin has introduced a blue person icon at the top of the watch face, serving as a shortcut for the Resume Later feature, enabling users to quickly return to their interrupted activity. In the past, users had to manually search for their paused workout, which required multiple taps. Images shared by Reddit user u/svacher display this new shortcut both on the home screen and in always-on-display mode. However, some smartwatch users have pointed out a potential problem: depending on the design of the watch face, the blue person icon may blend in too much, making it difficult to see.

    Additional Navigation Features

    In addition to the blue person icon for Resume Later, there is a red clock icon that allows quick access to the timer. Furthermore, there are reports of a similar feature available for the flashlight. These updates have been noted by users of the Fenix 8 (51mm Solar Sapphire Edition curr. $1,169.99 at Amazon) and other related smartwatches. It remains uncertain if or when Garmin will extend the Resume Later, timer, and flashlight shortcut icons to additional smartwatch models.

    Overall, while the new shortcuts seem useful, users may need to adapt to the potential visibility issues in certain watch face designs.

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    Garmin Updates Resume Later Feature with New Smartwatch ShortcutGarmin Updates Resume Later Feature with New Smartwatch Shortcut

     

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  • Garmin Forerunner Updates: Enhanced Run Coach & Cycling Coach Features

    Garmin Forerunner Updates: Enhanced Run Coach & Cycling Coach Features

    Garmin has finished up 2024 by releasing beta updates for its latest Forerunner smartwatches. The company is now providing the same version on its stable development track, which is expected to reach users of the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965 (currently priced at $599.99 on Amazon) in the next few days.

    Update Rollout Process

    Garmin’s update process will take place in a ‘phased rollout’, and as of this moment, it has reached about 20% completion. This means that just a limited number of Forerunner smartwatches might have received a message to download Software Version 21.22 at this time. Users can also manually start the installation of the new update by following these steps on their smartwatch:

    Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates

    What’s New in the Update

    The new update is officially said to provide ‘general bug fixes’ for the Forerunner smartwatches mentioned earlier. However, Garmin’s beta changelog reveals some interesting details. For example, the company noted that it has resolved eight different issues with this update. Moreover, version 22.12 is reported to enhance Garmin Run Coach and Garmin Cycling Coach plans by including added strength workouts. For comparison, Garmin’s last changelog for version 22.12 included the following points:

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  • Garmin Updates Venu 3 and Vivoactive 5 to Fix Battery and Sleep Issues

    Garmin Updates Venu 3 and Vivoactive 5 to Fix Battery and Sleep Issues

    Garmin is actively working on its smartwatch line-up, recently updating the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Fenix 8 models. However, the company is also dedicating time to enhance the user experience for its older mid-range devices, such as the Venu 3, Venu 3S, and Vivoactive 5, which is currently priced at $244.90 on Amazon.

    Update Overview

    To summarize, Garmin launched Beta 12.11 for the three smartwatches just before Christmas. Soon after, this same version became stable, although it included only two bug fixes from the previous Software Version 12.10 released about a month prior.

    New Stable Update

    Recently, Garmin rolled out another interim stable update, which had been available for public beta testing earlier this month. At first glance, Software Version 12.12 seems rather lackluster, focusing on “general bug fixes” without any notable features.

    User Feedback

    Sadly, Garmin hasn’t released any more information regarding specific changes. Users on Garmin’s forums have not reported any significant enhancements, even though there have been complaints about Software Version 12.11 leading to battery drainage and issues with sleep detection. Moreover, additional grievances have emerged from owners of the Vivoactive 5 and Venu 3, who claim these problems only began after they updated to the latest software version.

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  • Garmin ECG App Expands Availability for Smartwatch Users

    Garmin ECG App Expands Availability for Smartwatch Users

    Garmin has shared exciting news about its electrocardiogram (ECG) app expanding to more smartwatch users across the world. Initially introduced in 2023, this feature became available to people in several countries, such as the US, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Now, thanks to recent approvals from the appropriate authorities, the ECG app is now also available to users in Australia and the EU.

    Heart Health Monitoring

    The ECG app is a handy tool that allows users to monitor their heart rhythm, identifying potential signs of atrial fibrillation (AFib). The smartwatch is equipped with sensors that detect electrical signals associated with your heartbeat. Users can initiate a 30-second test right on their wrist, and the results can be seen immediately after the test. Moreover, you have the option to save this data in the Garmin Connect app, creating a historical log of your results.

    Important Health Advice

    Garmin emphasizes that if your smartwatch indicates possible AFib signs, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional. The ECG app works with several models, including the Fenix 8, Fenix 7, and Enduro 3 (currently priced at $851.41 on Amazon); a complete list of compatible models is provided below. However, Garmin has not yet specified when the ECG app will be available for these smartwatches. It is anticipated that the feature will be included in future firmware updates for the devices, along with an update for the Garmin Connect mobile application.

    Garmin has taken a significant step in enhancing health monitoring with this new feature, making it easier for users to stay informed about their heart health.

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    Garmin ECG App Expands Availability for Smartwatch Users

     

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  • New Garmin Smartwatches with Solar Models and Features Revealed

    New Garmin Smartwatches with Solar Models and Features Revealed

    It looks like the new version of the Instinct 2 (currently priced at $209.95 on Amazon) is coming soon. Just to recap, photos of the Instinct 3 first surfaced last July, but we didn’t hear much about it again until November when it showed up on a Garmin support page. Interestingly, in that same month, the Instinct 3 was leaked in two different instances.

    Recent Developments

    Recently, a retailer named Jura Watches mentioned the Instinct 3 in a now-deleted post. This makes us think that their description of the smartwatch was likely correct. Before the post was taken down, we managed to capture evidence of the product, which we’ve included below.

    Features and Specifications

    According to the details we found, Garmin seems to be planning to launch the Instinct 3 and Instinct 3S at the same time, along with special Solar editions. Just to clarify, the ‘S’ models are usually smaller than their non-S versions. Jura Watches also notes that all the models will come with Garmin Pay for contactless payments, which is a new feature not found in the Instinct 2 series. While we don’t have a specific release date yet, the retailer hints that all Instinct 3 models will come with features such as:

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  • Garmin Fixes Forerunner Touchscreen Issues with Latest Update

    Garmin Fixes Forerunner Touchscreen Issues with Latest Update

    Garmin is known for updating its smartwatches more often than its competitors, but these updates sometimes come with problems, even with a public beta program in place. Recently, this was the case with Software Version 21.19, which Garmin began releasing to several smartwatches at the beginning of the month.

    Update Issues

    Reports indicate that the update caused touchscreen issues during activities for nearly all smartwatches except for the Forerunner 255 (curr. $284 on Amazon). Interestingly, the changelog for Software Version 21.20 shows that its previous version also had a bug that made the Connect IQ watch face crash on the Forerunner 255. This issue affects all the other Forerunner models mentioned as well.

    Improvements Made

    Furthermore, the touchscreen settings are now supposed to be "respected" on the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965. Additionally, the last two models have fixed a different bug that stopped distance updates during golf activities. Sadly, it is still unclear when a new update focused on features will be made available. For further information, check out the forum posts linked below.

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  • Garmin Fenix 8 and Smartwatches Get Snap Update to Fix Crashes

    Garmin Fenix 8 and Smartwatches Get Snap Update to Fix Crashes

    In the past few weeks, keeping track of the numerous bug fixes, new features, and enhancements from Garmin for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Fenix 8 (currently priced at $1,099.99 on Amazon) has been quite a challenge. To give some perspective, the company released System Software 12.22 at the end of last month, which included around 130 changes.

    Beta Testing Insights

    On the other hand, Garmin has been testing even more updates in its Beta Program, which haven’t made it to the main software releases. This month, however, the updates that have come out include significantly less improvements compared to before.

    Recent Updates

    For instance, Beta Version 12.32 was released nearly a week ago and had just a three-line changelog. Now, we have Beta Version 12.34, which features even fewer updates. Still, this version is meant to fix a problem with Garmin’s Connect IQ service that might lead it to crash unexpectedly.

    Future Updates

    At this point, Garmin has not yet announced when this bug fix will be available for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Fenix 8 smartwatches that are on stable software. All indications suggest that there will be at least one more beta version before a new stable update is rolled out. Notably, Beta Version 12.34 comes with ECG and Dive features turned off. For further details, you can check out Garmin’s forum post.

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