Tag: Garmin

  • Garmin Updates Mid-Range Smartwatches with GPS and Activity Fixes

    Garmin Updates Mid-Range Smartwatches with GPS and Activity Fixes

    A while ago, Garmin released Beta Version 17.00 for the Instinct 2 series, along with the Instinct Crossover and its variations like the Instinct 2 Solar (currently priced at $329.99 on Amazon). This update included key bug fixes, particularly targeting issues related to charging.

    New Build Introduction

    Now, more than three weeks later, Garmin has rolled out a new version. Beta Version 17.01 is the second update in the 17.xx series made public thus far. For context, this is only the second release since Garmin introduced Stable Version 16.11 to these smartwatches back in early August. However, it’s important to note that this update does not bring any new features.

    Focus on Bug Fixes

    Garmin is still concentrating on fixing existing bugs. Beta Version 17.01 aims to resolve a problem that could stop the Connect app from showing the course used during activities. Furthermore, the update should address the issue of Connected Predicted Ephemeris (CPE) appearing to be absent and showing wrong GPS versions, which only affects the Instinct 2X and Instinct Crossover models. Currently, Garmin has made Beta Version 17.01 available only via its related forum post. This means that users will need to manually download and install the update instead of getting it through Garmin Connect Mobile or other over-the-air (OTA) services. For more information, check Garmin’s forum post.

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  • Garmin G3000 PRIME: Advanced FAA-Certified Flight Deck Launched

    Garmin G3000 PRIME: Advanced FAA-Certified Flight Deck Launched

    Garmin has introduced its latest flight deck, known as the G3000 PRIME. This cutting-edge system features full-width, 14-inch touchscreen displays that are designed to be readable in sunlight. The screens are made with fingerprint-resistant glass and offer four times the memory of earlier models, along with gigabit connectivity that enhances responsiveness. The processing capabilities have more than doubled due to the incorporation of new multi-core processors, leading to smoother and quicker animations.

    Enhanced Display Features

    The G3000 PRIME comes with secondary display units that are 40% larger than those found in previous systems. This increase in size will significantly aid in situational awareness for pilots. Additionally, these secondary displays can function as backup flight instruments, minimizing the need for extra tools in the cockpit. Garmin has also equipped this system with a multi-touch interface, capable of recognizing up to 10 touchpoints at once. This feature is expected to improve usability for both the pilot and copilot, particularly during turbulent or challenging situations.

    Advanced Flight Management

    Moreover, the new system is packed with advanced flight management features, such as graphical previews of flight plans and Emergency Return capabilities. With enhanced connectivity options like PlaneSync technology, users can log data remotely and upload flight plans conveniently. The system supports communications with air traffic control through FAA Data Comm and Eurocontrol Link 2000+, ensuring streamlined interactions.

    Garmin has integrated several safety features into the G3000 PRIME, including Autoland, Smart Glide, and Electronic Stability Protection. The system has achieved FAA TSO certification, making it suitable for Part 23 turbine, military, and advanced air mobility sectors. Manufacturers are expected to announce the first aircraft equipped with the G3000 PRIME shortly, according to Garmin.

    Garmin via PR Newswire.

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  • Garmin Launches 19.xx Beta Update for Smartwatches with Better Maps

    Garmin Launches 19.xx Beta Update for Smartwatches with Better Maps

    Garmin has introduced the beta version 19.21 for several of its smartwatches, including the Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, Epix 2, Epix 2 Pro, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and MARQ Gen 2. This update marks the beginning of the 19.xx beta testing phase, following the stable software version 18.16.

    Update Highlights

    The changelog for beta version 19.21 mentions four key updates. To start with, Garmin claims it has enhanced the map controls for the wearables, but specifics are not provided. Additionally, there are fixes related to pool swim activities that previously recorded a distance of zero, and an issue concerning the loss of elevation data during multisport activities that commenced with swimming. Furthermore, a problem that may have led to a delay in the flashlight activation for certain Connect IQ watch faces has been addressed.

    Installation Instructions

    According to a Garmin team member’s post on the company’s forum, users of the eligible Fenix 7 (currently priced at $4499.99 on Amazon) and other related smartwatch models will not receive beta version 19.21 automatically. Instead, they must navigate to Main Menu > System > Software Update > Check for updates to manually download it. Similar to previous beta releases, this software will turn off the watch’s ECG feature. If you are interested in participating in the Garmin beta program, you can sign up through the Connect app.

    Conclusion

    Garmin is continually working on enhancements for its smartwatch lineup, ensuring that users have access to the latest features and fixes. By engaging in the beta program, users can get a sneak peek at upcoming updates while contributing to the software’s development process.

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  • Garmin Launches Key Stable Update for New Smartwatches

    Garmin Launches Key Stable Update for New Smartwatches

    Garmin has rolled out software version 11.68 for the Fenix 8, Fenix E, and Enduro 3 smartwatches. This stable update introduces a crucial bug fix after many users reported that their devices could unexpectedly turn off when they were immersed in cold water.

    Update Details

    The release notes reveal that the 11.68 update addresses a problem that might cause these newer Garmin watches to shut down during quick temperature shifts. This fix has already been validated by users who tested the beta version 11.81. Now, all owners of these smartwatches can benefit from this bug fix. Additionally, some users have noted that this update has improved battery life, with one user claiming their Fenix 8 AMOLED smartwatch‘s battery life has nearly doubled. However, several participants in the beta program are still facing battery drain issues.

    Availability of the Update

    A Garmin representative shared in a forum that system software version 11.68 is now accessible for all Fenix 8, Fenix E, and Enduro 3 users. The update is designed to install automatically when the watches are connected to Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. If it doesn’t happen automatically, users can manually initiate the update through the smartwatch’s settings or by using the Garmin Connect app or Garmin Express.

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  • Garmin Fenix 8 Customization Available, But Not Cheaper Than Enduro 3

    Garmin Fenix 8 Customization Available, But Not Cheaper Than Enduro 3

    The Fenix 8 series was launched not long ago, making its official debut in late August after numerous leaks. Garmin has been working to fix various issues that arose at launch, with the count of bugs now exceeding sixty following the latest beta update for the device.

    Enhancements to Customization Program

    Garmin has updated its ‘Your Watch, Your Way’ initiative with the introduction of its new flagship smartwatch. Interestingly, the company has chosen not to include the Enduro 3 or the Fenix E in this program, even though they were launched at the same time as the Fenix 8. By incorporating the Fenix 8 into the ‘Your Watch, Your Way’ program, Garmin has enhanced the visual customisation features that were missing during the initial launch of the smartwatch.

    Pricing and Options Available

    For those interested, Garmin has made all variations of the Fenix 8 available for customization, ranging from the basic 43 mm and 47 mm versions (currently priced at $999.99 on Amazon) to the larger 51 mm Solar model. It’s important to highlight that the ‘Your Watch, Your Way’ program is limited to customisations regarding cases and bands. For further information, Garmin’s website provides more details.

    Garmin via Gadgets & Wearables’

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  • Garmin Fenix 8 Update: Over 60 Bug Fixes and Improvements

    Garmin Fenix 8 Update: Over 60 Bug Fixes and Improvements

    Garmin has introduced a fresh update for the Fenix 8, this time as part of the company’s Beta Program. To give some background, Garmin began deploying System Software 11.67 at the end of last month. Alongside this, the company also launched Beta Version 11.84, which included over six bug fixes not just for the Fenix 8 (currently priced at $999.99 on Amazon), but also for the Enduro 3 and Fenix E.

    New Features in Beta Version 11.87

    Now, Garmin has released Beta Version 11.87, which can be downloaded worldwide. The changelog for this latest update reveals that Garmin has added five bug fixes and introduced two Solar model watch faces for non-Solar versions, along with enhancing several other aspects. Beta Version 11.87 is reported to improve upon the previous Beta Version 11.84 with the following enhancements:

    As noted by the5krunner, these recent updates indicate that Garmin has implemented more than sixty bug fixes and enhancements for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Fenix 8 since their launch at the end of August. It’s important to mention that only a portion of these changes have reached a stable status. However, the complete list of modifications made by Garmin since the initial launch of these devices is as follows:

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  • Garmin Smart Ring Plans Unlikely: Smartwatches Still Superior

    Garmin Smart Ring Plans Unlikely: Smartwatches Still Superior

    The popularity of health and fitness tracking rings is increasing. A wide variety of options are available now, such as the Amazfit Helio, Samsung Galaxy Ring, and the soon-to-be-released Oura Ring Gen 4. Despite this growth, Garmin, a leader in premium smartwatches, has no intentions of entering this particular market.

    Garmin’s Position on Smart Rings

    As reported by Wareable, Joe Schrick, Garmin’s VP of Fitness, along with Scott Burgett, the Senior Director of Health Engineering, shared their views on smart rings during the Garmin Health Summit 2024 held in Prague. They believe that the only notable benefit of smart rings is their convenience. However, they argue that tracking activities around the clock using a ring instead of a smartwatch involves a significant trade-off, since smartwatches offer much more reliable and accurate data.

    Advantages of Smartwatches

    The main reason for this is the design of a smartwatch, which allows for more space to fit extra sensors and LEDs, leading to a better signal-to-noise ratio. This ultimately results in more accurate health information. In terms of battery longevity, Garmin’s smartwatches reportedly provide much better performance compared to smart rings, which typically need to be recharged after about a week. Furthermore, the executives at Garmin mention another factor contributing to their lack of interest in smart rings: the current profitability of these devices is less favorable compared to their high-end smartwatches.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, while the market for smart rings is expanding, Garmin remains focused on its successful smartwatch line, emphasizing the advantages of their products in delivering precise and reliable health tracking data.

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  • Garmin Fenix 7 and 7 Pro Update Fixes System Crash Bugs

    Garmin Fenix 7 and 7 Pro Update Fixes System Crash Bugs

    Garmin has rolled out a fresh stable update for its Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, and other smartwatches such as the Tactix 7, which is currently priced at $879.99 for a refurbished model on Amazon. This new Software Version 18.16 comes less than a month after the previous update, Software Version 18.14, was introduced to the same series of smartwatches. Other devices that are part of this lineup include the Enduro 2, Epix 2, MARQ Gen 2, and Quatix 7.

    Update Details

    Interestingly, Software Version 18.16 was released just a day after Garmin provided a similar update through its Beta Program. In a few ways, this latest stable version has fewer modifications than what Garmin previously indicated was in the Beta Version 18.16. Specifically, the company outlines several enhancements for the latest Fenix 7 update, but it’s important to note that the changes may not be as extensive as expected.

    Improvements and Fixes

    In total, the update includes seven bug fixes along with one improvement when compared to Software Version 18.14. Garmin’s forum post states that Software Version 18.16 should now be available to around 50% of eligible smartwatches. If users want to bypass the staggered rollout, they can do so by navigating to System Settings, then Menu, System, Software Update, and selecting ‘Check for Updates’.

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  • Garmin Outdoor Maps+ Update: Discover 7 New Features

    Garmin Outdoor Maps+ Update: Discover 7 New Features

    Garmin has revealed an upgrade to its Outdoor Maps+, which it promotes as its ‘premium mapping solution.’ While Outdoor Maps+ is offered globally, several new features are only available to customers in the United States. Garmin has detailed six features that are exclusive to US users.

    Limited Features for Europe

    In contrast, Garmin is introducing only two new features for Outdoor Maps+ users in Europe. Unfortunately, these updates are simply enhancements of existing functionalities that were already present in the US. European users can now make use of Expanded Relief Shading, which visually represents elevation changes and terrain characteristics using color gradients.

    New Raster Maps Access

    Moreover, Garmin has broadened access to Raster Maps for European customers, incorporating data from providers in France and Switzerland. This addition displays locations for camping, points of interest, water sources, trails, and trailheads, among other features. It’s important to note that the subscription for Outdoor Maps+ continues to be priced at $49.99 per year. For further details, you can visit Garmin’s official website.

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  • Garmin Updates Budget Watches with New Watch Faces

    Garmin Updates Budget Watches with New Watch Faces

    Garmin has been quite active as the month wraps up, having launched new updates for several devices, including the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, Forerunner 165, Instinct Crossover, Instinct 2, Vivoactive 5, and Venu 3 series. The latest addition to this list is the Lily 2, currently priced at $244.99 on Amazon, thanks to a recent update.

    Update Details

    Recently, Garmin upgraded the Lily 2 from software version 4.14 to 5.13, implementing a variety of changes. It’s worth noting that the Lily 2 hybrid smartwatch was unveiled at the beginning of 2024, available in both regular and Classic versions. While both models feature the same hardware with 1.00-inch x 0.84-inch displays, only the Classic version is equipped with Garmin Pay.

    New Features

    According to Garmin, the new Software Version 5.14 introduces additional watch faces to the Lily 2. However, the company did not provide further details in their forum announcement. The update is reportedly available for all compatible devices. If your device hasn’t received it yet, you can manually download Software Version 5.14 using Garmin Express or Garmin Connect Mobile (GCM). For more information, refer to the company’s forum post.

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