Tag: Garmin

  • Garmin Fenix 7 and 7 Pro Updates: Over a Dozen New Features

    Garmin Fenix 7 and 7 Pro Updates: Over a Dozen New Features

    Garmin has started rolling out a new stable update for its Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro models. This update is also expected to be available for the Enduro 2, Epix 2, Marq 2, and the Quatix 7 (currently priced at $349.99 on Amazon), along with other premium smartwatches. To provide some background, System Software 19.34 is replacing version 18.16, which was released at the beginning of October to fix several lingering bugs.

    Major Software Release

    System Software 19.34 marks the first significant software update for the Fenix 7 and its counterparts since System Software 18.14 was rolled out over two months ago. As expected, this new update introduces a wide range of enhancements, which are detailed in a comprehensive fourteen-line changelog.

    Notable Improvements

    One of the key features added is the ability to back up courses and saved locations, enhancing the functionality of the service considerably. Moreover, System Software 19.34 is reported to enhance map controls and improve the sensitivity of the Fenix 7 and its similar models in automatically detecting when a climbing activity begins.

    In conclusion, this update primarily aims to fix bugs, including one issue where the flashlight might not turn on promptly when using a Connect IQ watch face. Additionally, Fenix 7 users may have experienced issues in earlier updates where pool swim activities were sometimes logged with a distance of zero, which should now be rectified. Here is the complete changelog for System Software 19.34:

    Source: Link

  • Garmin Launches First Beta Update for Smartwatch with Auto Pause

    Garmin Launches First Beta Update for Smartwatch with Auto Pause

    Garmin has revealed the first beta update for the Lily 2 Active smartwatch. This device was launched in October as a wearable focused on health and fitness tracking, equipped with built-in GPS. Now, with beta version 3.01, users can experience a new feature along with various enhancements to the device.

    New Features and Fixes

    According to the change log, this software update introduces support for the Auto Pause feature. This function automatically pauses your tracking time when you come to a stop or slow down to a set lower speed. Additionally, there are bug fixes related to Garmin Coach and the sleep widget. Garmin also mentions that it has resolved other user interface problems, although they haven’t gone into specifics. Along with beta version 3.01, there are updates for Sensor Hub version 32.29, Text Languages version 3.01, and GCM Translations version 3.01.

    Automatic Updates

    The beta update for the Lily 2 Active smartwatch will be automatically delivered to compatible devices. The company has stated that the smartwatch will check for software updates on a daily basis. It’s also important to mention that the Garmin Lily 2 has its own beta program, with the latest update coming out earlier in November. Currently, the Lily 2 Active can be found on Amazon for the price of $299.99.

    Source: Link


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  • Garmin Smartwatches May Add New Rucking Activity Feature

    Garmin Smartwatches May Add New Rucking Activity Feature

    Garmin is said to be on the verge of introducing a new Rucking feature for its smartwatches. Rucking, which comes from military workouts, involves walking or hiking while carrying a weighted backpack or rucksack. The exercise is thought to enhance cardiovascular health and strengthen the back.

    New Activity Insights

    According to the5krunner, this information has been sourced from a reliable yet secretive informant known as @Jw. The anticipated Rucking feature is expected to let users record the weight of their backpack, something currently not available in the Hiking and Running modes. Additionally, it will track distance and pace while walking. Users will also have the ability to monitor how this activity impacts their overall fitness metrics, including VO2 Max and Endurance Score.

    Potential First in the Market

    It seems that Garmin may be leading the way in offering specific tracking for rucking. Although the company has not officially confirmed this new feature, speculation indicates that it might be released later this year. It’s still uncertain which devices will support this feature upon its debut; however, rugged models like the Instinct 2 (currently $225 at Amazon) could be among the first. Furthermore, there are whispers of a new strength training program called Get Fit potentially being introduced as well.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, as Garmin gears up for its new Rucking activity, enthusiasts of this unique workout may be excited for what’s to come. The merge of traditional exercise with modern technology could provide users with valuable insights into their fitness journeys. Keep an eye out for official announcements in the near future!

    Source: Link

  • New Garmin Get Fit Strength Program Coming Soon

    New Garmin Get Fit Strength Program Coming Soon

    Rumors are swirling that Garmin is on the verge of introducing a new Get Fit strength training program specifically designed for its smartwatch users. This news comes in light of the recent launch of the Strength Coach, which was released alongside the Cycling Coach and the rebranded Running Coach. The Strength Coach offers personalized training plans based on individual goals, targeted muscle groups, and available exercise equipment. However, it’s worth noting that this feature is currently accessible only on a select few of the brand’s newer smartwatches, such as the Fenix 8 (currently priced at $999.99 on Amazon).

    New Program for Beginners

    A report from the5krunner, referencing their usual insider @JW, reveals that the Get Fit program is intended for individuals who are either new to strength training or returning after a break. This program reportedly includes three workout sessions per week over a span of 12 weeks. At the outset of your training journey, you will undergo a benchmark session to assess your starting fitness level. After completing the 12 weeks, another benchmark session will help you compare your progress and see how far you’ve come.

    Awaiting Official Confirmation

    So far, Garmin has not made any official statement regarding this anticipated feature. There is no specified release date at this time, but some speculate that the tool could be available later this year. It’s also unclear which smartwatches will initially support the Get Fit strength training program upon its launch.

    The5krunner notes that Garmin’s commitment to enhancing its fitness offerings is evident.

  • Garmin Fenix 8 Update: 110+ New Features and Fixes Released

    Garmin Fenix 8 Update: 110+ New Features and Fixes Released

    Garmin has started November by rolling out a new beta update for its Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Fenix 8 models, which is currently priced at $1,099.99 on Amazon. This update comes with a detailed 16-line changelog. However, there appears to be a more substantial stable update planned for the near future.

    Details on the replacement for Stable Version 11.90 haven’t been disclosed yet. Instead, the company has launched Beta Version 12.15, which brings an additional 11 changes to the ongoing beta testing phase. One notable addition in Beta Version 12.15 is a new prompt that allows users to exit Sleep Mode directly from the Sleep Mode Power Control. Additionally, owners of the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Fenix 8 can now access volume controls straight from the Phone Assistant feature.

    Bug Fixes and Improvements

    Moreover, Garmin says they’ve fixed several bugs, one of which previously made the Audio Output setting on the Routing page seem inactive even when it was turned on. The new Beta Version 12.15 is also said to improve the functionality of Do Not Disturb (DND) notifications, ensuring they work as intended.

    In addition to the above, Garmin has thrown in six more bug fixes and has enhanced the hint text that appears on keyboard pages. This means that the total number of changes in the System Software 11.90 changelog has now reached 113 items, which include the following:

    Garmin’

  • Garmin X40 Edge Bike Computer Q4 Update Now Rolling Out

    Garmin X40 Edge Bike Computer Q4 Update Now Rolling Out

    Garmin has revealed a Q4 update for its Edge 540, Edge 840, and Edge 1040 bike computers. This software update is currently being distributed in beta form and includes several new features, enhancements, and bug fixes for these devices.

    New Connection Method

    There’s a significant change in how the X40 Edge series devices connect to a PC, now utilizing the Media Transfer Protocol (MTP). According to Garmin, this switch aims to bolster file security. Consequently, the update process is a bit unusual. Users of the X40 Edge series need to first install beta version 24.54 by navigating to Main Menu > System > About > Check for Updates, followed by allowing their device to reboot. This step will enable the device to use MTP. After that, users can repeat the process for beta version 25.17 to access the additional features and fixes.

    Update Highlights

    The change log for beta version 25.17 mentions that the sound for electronic shifting over-shift has been restored, while the previous Functional Threshold Power (FTP) test has been eliminated. Now, Lactate Threshold estimates can be automatically calculated as long as a heart rate is recorded during workouts. Moreover, users will see a new confirmation message when they successfully pair an altimeter manually. Below is the complete change log for beta version 25.17 for the Edge 540, Edge 840, and Edge 1040 cycling devices.

    Garmin (Edge 540, Edge 840, Edge 1040)


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  • Garmin Edge 1050 Update: Bug Fixes and New Features Released

    Garmin Edge 1050 Update: Bug Fixes and New Features Released

    Garmin is gearing up to provide a new quarterly update for its bike computer. As of now, the company has not announced when v11.17 will be accessible for the Edge 1050, which is currently priced at $699.99 on Amazon. However, users who have signed up for Garmin’s Beta Program can already test it out.

    Major Changes Expected

    It appears that v11.17 will be a significant upgrade for the Edge 1050, which was launched in June. Although, it’s worth mentioning that many fixes in Public Beta 11.17 are aimed at correcting bugs that were present in Stable Version 10.19 released in September. Specifically, Garmin has implemented five bug fixes targeting issues with Garmin Coach and GroupRide.

    Fixing Connectivity Issues

    Additionally, Public Beta 11.17 is reported to fix problems that could arise when connecting with the inReach Messenger Plus, as well as errors in map track-lines and issues with smartphone connectivity. The new update should also rectify navigation errors, such as mismatched directions and distances, along with a faulty elapsed timer that could happen when pausing an activity.

    More Improvements Included

    Other bug fixes in this update include addressing gaps in recorded messages within activity files and incorrect entries for recovery heart rates that stopped Garmin Connect from showing data accurately. Furthermore, v11.17 aims to stop the Edge 1050 from entering Media Transfer Protocol (MTP) mode when it is off but a bike alarm remains active. To top it all off, Garmin has included some new features in this update, which you can review in the complete changelog listed below:

    Garmin’s

  • Garmin Forerunner Smartwatch Beta Update: Bug Fixes Released

    Garmin Forerunner Smartwatch Beta Update: Bug Fixes Released

    Garmin has revealed the Public Beta Version 21.16 for its Forerunner smartwatches, including the 165, 255, 265, 955, and 965 models. This update comes soon after version 21.14, which included four fixes for bugs.

    What’s New in Version 21.16

    According to the changelog for beta version 21.16, a problem concerning custom workouts for certain activities has been fixed. Additionally, issues with heart rate data being added to the glance folder, as well as inaccurate sleep recordings, have been addressed. Moreover, the accent color for Other Activities is now saved correctly. The release notes also mention the introduction of a Meditation activity and a Moon Phase glance, although these features were part of the previous beta update. The full changelog can be found below.

    Update Availability

    A thread on the Garmin forum suggests that this update will be rolled out in phases, but the company hasn’t disclosed when all users will get the update. To download Public Beta Version 21.16 for the Forerunner 165, 255, 265, 955, and 965 smartwatches, users can navigate to Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates. Garmin advises users to sync their devices via Wi-Fi or Garmin Express when possible to ensure the audio files for the Meditation activity are properly synced.

    Garmin (Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, Forerunner 965)


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  • Garmin Adds Meditation Feature to Forerunner 955 in Beta Update

    Garmin Adds Meditation Feature to Forerunner 955 in Beta Update

    Garmin has begun the release of Public Beta Version 21.14 for the Forerunner 955 smartwatch. This update introduces several new features, enhancements, and numerous bug fixes for the device.

    New Features and Improvements

    According to the change log for beta version 21.14, a Moon Phase glance has been added alongside enhancements for the Pool Swim activity. Users can now receive lactate threshold estimates automatically, without needing a heart rate monitor strap or a guided test. Additionally, the issue where images from Android smart notifications would not load has been fixed. A new Meditation activity has also been introduced, which was previously exclusive to the Venu 3 and Vivoactive 5 smartwatches. This tool includes Free Mode, which is the simplest option featuring a timer, Session Mode that offers presets such as Mindful Sounds, and Custom Mode that allows users to personalize their meditation sessions.

    User Concerns and Solutions

    Nonetheless, some users have noticed a problem where sounds are not working. A representative from Garmin recommended that those facing this issue sync their devices with Garmin Express or via Wi-Fi, followed by a power cycle. After 24 hours, the audio file should then transfer to the watch. A thread on the Garmin forum indicates that the update is rolling out in phases, but it remains uncertain how many users of the Forerunner 955 have received the beta software so far. To check if the new beta version is accessible, navigate to Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates.

    Conclusion

    Garmin is committed to enhancing user experience with the Forerunner 955 smartwatch through these software updates. With the introduction of new features and bug fixes, users can look forward to improved functionality and usability.


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  • Garmin Firmware Update: Enhanced GPS Features for Wearables

    Garmin Firmware Update: Enhanced GPS Features for Wearables

    The Garmin Vivosmart 5 fitness tracker is getting an update. Originally launched in 2022, it serves as a simpler option compared to the brand’s more advanced smartwatches. Now, it is receiving firmware version 3.25, which comes with a single notable change.

    Improved Connected GPS Feature

    Garmin has announced that the Connected GPS functionality has been enhanced. This feature enables the Vivosmart 5 to utilize GPS information from a linked smartphone, allowing users to monitor various aspects of their walks, runs, or bike rides, including their speed and location. Sadly, the company hasn’t shared more details on how customers will notice these improvements. This update is smaller compared to version 3.24, which was released two months ago and included three fixes for bugs related to alarms, strength activities, and sleep scores.

    Update Availability

    According to a post on the Garmin forum, this update is now available for all users. The post also encourages users to report any issues in a different forum thread. So far, it seems that there have been no problems reported by customers. Users can download the Garmin Vivosmart 5 fitness tracker firmware version 3.25 either on their phones using the Garmin Connect Mobile app or on their PCs via Garmin Express.