Tag: Garmin

  • Garmin Varia RearVue 820: New Radar Tail Light for Cyclists

    Garmin Varia RearVue 820: New Radar Tail Light for Cyclists

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Garmin Varia RearVue 820 is the “most luminous and powerful” radar tail light for cyclists.
    2. It offers visibility from up to 2 km (1.24 miles) and battery life of up to 10 hours in night flash mode and 24 hours in day flash mode.
    3. The tail light features a special flashing pattern that activates when slowing down or stopping for added safety.
    4. It uses radar technology to detect vehicles approaching from up to 175 meters (190 yards) and supports advanced vehicle tracking.
    5. The Varia RearVue 820 will be available for order on February 6 for $299.99 in the U.S.

    Garmin has rolled out a new addition to its Varia series, introducing the RearVue 820. Following the recent launches of the Approach J1 and Quatix 8 Pro smartwatches, the Varia RearVue 820 is proclaimed to be the “most luminous and powerful” radar tail light for cyclists by Garmin.

    Visibility and Battery Life

    This tail light is designed to be seen from a distance of up to 2 km (1.24 miles) and can last up to 10 hours in night flash mode when it’s always on. Garmin also mentions that in day flash mode, the battery can last up to 24 hours.

    Safety Features and Compatibility

    The Varia RearVue 820 has a special flashing pattern that activates when you are slowing down or coming to a stop, helping to alert nearby cyclists and vehicles. Thanks to an updated seatpost mount, this tail light should fit on most bicycles.

    Radar and Tracking Capabilities

    Furthermore, the Varia RearVue 820 uses radar technology to sense vehicles approaching from as far as 175 metres (190 yards). It also offers advanced vehicle tracking that can connect to cycling computers ranging from the Edge 540 to the Edge 1050 (currently priced at $699 on Amazon). Starting February 6, the Varia RearVue 820 will be available for order at a price of $299.99 in the United States. For additional information, visit Garmin’s website.

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  • Garmin Enhances High-End Smartwatches with New Workout Update

    Garmin Enhances High-End Smartwatches with New Workout Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Smartwatches with solar capabilities now display Rest Timers accurately after updating to Beta Version 21.20.
    2. Garmin mistakenly labeled the recent update as Beta Version 21.19, despite it being officially released as 21.20.
    3. Users confirm the availability of Beta Version 21.20, which is intended for those in the Beta Program.
    4. Ongoing issues with weight tracking input in the metric system persist across the beta builds.
    5. The timeline for moving v21.xx to stable software is still uncertain, and users should monitor Garmin’s communications for updates.

    On the flip side, all smartwatches that come with solar capabilities are now supposed to accurately display Rest Timers while users are working out after they’ve updated to Beta version 21.20. It’s a bit perplexing that Garmin calls this latest beta update Beta Version 21.19, even though it was officially released at the end of last month. Nevertheless, their changelog clarifies that this update is intended for smartwatches enrolled in the Beta Program under the name Beta Version 21.20.

    Confirmation of Release

    Users who got the update early have confirmed that Garmin has indeed made Beta Version 21.20 available, instead of just reissuing Beta Version 21.19. Sadly, problems with weight tracking input when utilizing the metric system still continue to occur across these builds. It is also still uncertain when Garmin will move the v21.xx development to its stable software channel. For additional information, be sure to check out Garmin’s forum post.

    Ongoing Issues

    Garmin’s updates seems to be creating a mix of feelings among its users, especially with the lingering issues that are still not resolved. Keeping an eye on their communications is vital for those who are eagerly awaiting stable updates.

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  • Garmin’s New Device Features Advanced 60 GHz Radar Technology

    Garmin’s New Device Features Advanced 60 GHz Radar Technology

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched several new devices in 2023, including the Venu X1, Quatix 8 Pro, and the Approach golf smartwatch.
    2. A new device, the Cirqa Smart Band, has been revealed on Garmin’s Canadian site, indicating more products are on the way.
    3. The FCC has shared documents for a mysterious Garmin device with the model number A04986, described as a portable transceiver.
    4. The A04986 device supports ANT+ and Bluetooth Low Energy, suggesting compatibility with Garmin Connect.
    5. The device may utilize 60 GHz radar and could be related to the Approach or Varia branding, with a potential launch expected in spring 2026.

    Garmin has introduced many devices this year, including the updated Venu X1, the Quatix 8 Pro, and a new golf smartwatch called the Approach. However, it appears that there are still some more products in the pipeline. Recently, information about the Cirqa Smart Band was revealed through Garmin’s Canadian site.

    New Device Reveal

    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has also shared initial documents for a mysterious Garmin gadget with the model number A04986. This device is described as a portable transceiver and is said to support typical connectivity features found in most Garmin products, such as ANT+ and Bluetooth Low Energy. This means that the unnamed gadget should work well with Garmin Connect.

    Speculations and Features

    Moreover, the FCC has noted that the device is compatible with 60 GHz radar. This leads us to believe that it might be a new device under the Approach or Varia branding. However, it’s still unclear if the A04986 will be a wrist-worn device or something like the Approach R10 (currently priced at $407.49 for refurbished models on Amazon). Nevertheless, the end of the confidentiality agreement between Garmin and the FCC in May indicates that we might see a launch in spring 2026.

    FCC via The New Camera

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  • Garmin, Huawei Watches to Get Two Upgrades with Apple iPhones

    Garmin, Huawei Watches to Get Two Upgrades with Apple iPhones

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Apple Watch is currently the only smartwatch that works perfectly with the iPhone due to operating system restrictions.
    2. Users may need to disable iMessage to allow third-party smartwatches to send messages directly through the network carrier.
    3. The upcoming iOS 26.3 update will introduce notification forwarding, improving compatibility for third-party smartwatches.
    4. Users will have to choose between using an Apple Watch or another smartwatch, as messages can’t be sent to multiple devices.
    5. The iOS 26.3 update will allow syncing of smartwatch data with the iPhone even if the related app isn’t actively running.

    Currently, the only smartwatch that works perfectly with the iPhone is the Apple Watch. This isn’t due to brands like Garmin or Huawei, but instead, it’s because of the iPhone’s operating system restrictions. For instance, users can interact with notifications directly on the Apple Watch, allowing them to reply to WhatsApp messages without needing to pick up their iPhone.

    Changes Over Time

    Eric Migicovsky, the founder of Pebble, mentions in his blog that things have gotten worse over recent years. Now, to bypass this limitation and let the smartwatch send messages directly through the network carrier, users even have to turn off iMessage. The European Commission informed The Wall Street Journal that the situation for third-party smartwatches will slightly improve with the upcoming iOS 26.3 update. This update includes a new feature called notification forwarding, which is being introduced due to pressure from the EU. With this feature, notifications can be sent to another device, allowing it to engage with messages.

    Limitations Remain

    However, there is a downside: users must pick between an Apple Watch and another smartwatch, as sending a message to multiple devices isn’t an option. According to Gadgets & Wearables, the beta version of iOS 26.3 brings a significant enhancement. After the update, users will be able to sync their smartwatch with the iPhone even when the related app isn’t actively running. This ensures that data like heart rate or workout information won’t get lost if the Garmin Connect app crashes and stays closed for a while. The iOS 26.3 update is anticipated to be available as a free upgrade for all compatible iPhones in February.

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  • Garmin Smartwatches Get New Features with Latest Update

    Garmin Smartwatches Get New Features with Latest Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released Beta Version 21.19 for Fenix 8 and Tactix 8 smartwatches, following previous updates that fixed significant issues.
    2. This beta version disables the Aviation, Dive, and ECG features, indicating more updates may come before a stable release.
    3. Beta Version 21.19 addresses issues with blank data fields in the map split screen and fixes a bug related to Backcountry Ski activity summaries.
    4. The update is expected to be available soon to smartwatches in the Beta Program, with 50% of devices already notified.
    5. Garmin’s focus will shift to stable software updates after resolving issues in the current beta series.

    Garmin has launched a new update for the Fenix 8, Fenix 8 Pro, and other related smartwatches such as the Tactix 8, which is currently priced at $1,299.99 on Amazon. Just to recap, the company introduced Beta Version 21.18 nearly a week ago, which fixed a significant heart rate variability (HRV) issue, along with other enhancements. Prior to that, Garmin mentioned that it had resolved four additional bugs with Beta Version 21.16.

    New Developments Ahead

    Now, Garmin has progressed to Beta Version 21.19 in the 21.xx series. A notable point is that this beta version keeps the Aviation, Dive, and ECG features turned off. Therefore, it’s reasonable to anticipate more beta updates in the 21.xx range throughout February, before Garmin shifts its focus to the stable software branch. The number of changes in Beta Version 21.19 indicates that a new stable version could be on the horizon sooner than expected.

    Updates and Fixes

    In a post on a forum, Garmin stated that Beta Version 21.19 aims to stop blank data fields from appearing in the map split screen for smartwatches that utilize memory in pixel displays (MiP). Furthermore, this update includes a fix for a bug that prevented the Backcountry Ski post-activity summary from displaying Max Speed or Mileage. Beta Version 21.19 is expected to reach smartwatches enrolled in the Beta Program in the upcoming days, and reports suggest that 50% of these devices have already received a notification to download the new update.

    Garmin’

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  • Garmin Update Adds 12+ Features for Multiple Smartwatches

    Garmin Update Adds 12+ Features for Multiple Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released Beta Version 16.17 for the Forerunner 570 and 970, focusing on bug fixes.
    2. Nine out of thirteen changes in the update address recurring issues causing device resets.
    3. Improvements include a better layout for the course details page and enhanced audio prompts for distance intervals.
    4. The update adds support for more spoken watch face complications and displays stoppage time on sports scores.
    5. Users in the Beta Program can expect the update soon or can request it manually.

    Garmin has rolled out a fresh beta update for the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 (currently priced at $689 on Amazon). Earlier this month, the company launched Software Version 15.52, which brought several improvements compared to the previous v15.xx versions. Just before that, Garmin released Beta Version 16.14, which included more than a dozen changes.

    Latest Improvements

    Now, Garmin has identified another set of enhancements, bundled together in Beta Version 16.17. This update skips two intermediate versions and focuses significantly on fixing bugs. In fact, nine of the thirteen changes aim to tackle persistent issues, such as problems that lead to the Forerunner 570 or Forerunner 970 resetting when a user sets a favorite sports team or checks the heart rate variability (HRV) chart.

    Enhanced Features

    Additionally, Garmin has stated that it has improved the layout of the course details page. It has also fine-tuned the audio prompt for distance intervals to announce the time at specified intervals. Furthermore, Beta Version 16.17 introduces support for additional spoken watch face complications and enables the display of stoppage time on sports scores. Users enrolled in the Beta Program for the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches can expect to receive Beta Version 16.17 in the next few days. Alternatively, users have the option to request the new update manually. The complete changelog between Beta Versions 16.14 and 16.17 is as follows:

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  • Garmin Releases Stable Smartwatch Update with Course Bug Fix

    Garmin Releases Stable Smartwatch Update with Course Bug Fix

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released System Software 5.10 for the Approach S12 GPS golf watch, addressing two user-reported bugs.
    2. The update fixes issues with auto course update files, allowing for successful retrieval of teebox, par, and handicap details.
    3. A glitch affecting the visibility of front and back dots on the main golf page’s Green has also been resolved.
    4. The update has been rolled out to about 30% of Approach S12 users, with installation available via the Garmin Golf app or Garmin Express software.
    5. Garmin is also updating other golf smartwatches, including the Approach G12, S70, S44, and S50, demonstrating their commitment to customer satisfaction.

    Garmin has rolled out a new stable update for the Approach S12 GPS golf watch. This smartwatch, which was introduced in 2021, hasn’t seen a software update in quite some time. Now, with System Software 5.10, the company is addressing two bugs that users of this device have encountered.

    Update Fixes

    The patch notes for version 5.10 indicate that Garmin has resolved an issue related to the auto course update files on the Approach S12 smartwatch (curr. $199.99 at Amazon). The device should now successfully retrieve teebox, par, and handicap details from the downloaded files without any problems. Additionally, Garmin has fixed a glitch where the front and back dots were not appearing as they should on the main golf page’s Green.

    User Reach and Installation

    As per a recent update on the Garmin Forum, the Approach S12 System Software 5.10 has been rolled out to about 30% of its users so far. When the update becomes available for you, there are two ways to install it: through the Garmin Golf smartphone app or the Garmin Express software on your computer. A similar update is also being distributed to users of the Approach G12, which is a clip-on GPS golf range finder. Moreover, Garmin has recently released stable updates for other golf smartwatches, including the Approach S70, S44, and S50.

    Conclusion

    Garmin’s attention to fixing issues in older models like the Approach S12 shows their commitment to customer satisfaction. With these updates, users can enjoy a smoother experience on the golf course.

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  • Garmin to Release New Wearable with Wrist-Based Smart Bands Soon

    Garmin to Release New Wearable with Wrist-Based Smart Bands Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has recently launched several new smartwatches, including the Approach J1 and Quatix 8 Pro.
    2. A new product, the Cirqa Smart Band, was briefly listed on Garmin Canada’s website before being removed.
    3. The Cirqa Smart Band is a wrist-worn device, available in two sizes and two colors: Black and French Grey.
    4. The smaller size fits wrist circumferences starting at 120 mm, while the L/XL size accommodates wrists from 145 mm to 240 mm.
    5. The official release of the Cirqa Smart Band is anticipated for late May or June, following its appearance on the website.

    A Reddit user has found mentions of a new Garmin device that hasn’t been released yet. To summarize, the company has already unveiled several smartwatches this month, including the Approach J1, Quatix 8 Pro, and a refreshed version of the Venu X1, which is currently priced at $599.99 on Amazon. Now, Garmin seems to be working on a product that could compete with Whoop.

    New Product Details

    Garmin had briefly listed the Cirqa Smart Band on its Canadian website, but it has since been taken down. The user u/CultureAdvanced managed to take a screenshot, which shows that the Cirqa Smart Band is a wrist-worn device, unlike the Index Sleep Monitor that Garmin released last year, which is worn on the bicep.

    According to the screenshot, the Cirqa Smart Band comes in two sizes, with the smallest fitting wrist circumferences starting at 120 mm. Garmin suggests that its L/XL size will accommodate wrists ranging from 145 mm to 240 mm. The band will be available in two colors: Black and French Grey.

    Anticipation and Release Timeline

    Sadly, the exact design of the Cirqa Smart Band is still a mystery, as Garmin Canada initially used a temporary product image before removing it. The listing indicated that the smart band would not be available until late May or June. However, the fact that it appeared on Garmin Canada’s website suggests that an official launch might take place sooner than expected.

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  • Free Garmin App Tracks Blood Caffeine Levels Accurately

    Free Garmin App Tracks Blood Caffeine Levels Accurately

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has introduced a lifestyle tracking feature that includes a Caffeine Tracker app for smartwatches.
    2. The app allows users to log caffeine intake from various beverages directly from their wrist.
    3. It calculates current blood-caffeine concentration based on user weight and caffeine’s biological half-life.
    4. The app is mostly free, with optional premium features available for a one-time fee of €4.90 (approx. $5.80).
    5. Premium features include adjustable caffeine half-life settings, detailed daily stats, and personalized blood-caffeine thresholds.

    Garmin has launched a lifestyle tracking feature that monitors various aspects, including how much caffeine you consume. Now, there’s a new tool for those seeking a more detailed analysis of their intake and even an estimate of their blood-caffeine levels. The Caffeine Tracker app, created by Ondřej Božek instead of Garmin, comes with a widget and works with numerous Garmin smartwatches, such as several models from the Forerunner and Fenix series (the Fenix 8 can be found on Amazon).

    Easy Logging of Caffeine Intake

    This app allows users to record their consumption of different caffeinated beverages, like coffee and cola, right from their wrist, so there’s no need to reach for a smartphone. It calculates your current blood-caffeine concentration based on your body weight and the biological half-life of caffeine, displaying the information in a quick-view format and as a chart.

    Affordable Premium Features

    Caffeine Tracker is mostly free, but it does offer extra premium features that require a one-time fee of €4.90 (approximately $5.80). Upgrading to the premium version provides adjustable caffeine half-life settings, detailed daily stats, and a personalized lower blood-caffeine threshold, which can help you avoid caffeine intake too close to sleep.

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  • Garmin Resolves Smartwatch HRV Issue in Latest Beta Update

    Garmin Resolves Smartwatch HRV Issue in Latest Beta Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released beta update 21.18 for Fenix 8, Fenix E, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8 smartwatches.
    2. The update includes two new bug fixes: one for the Garmin Messenger app and another for the heart rate variability (HRV) chart.
    3. The update has been rolled out over the air (OTA) to about 50% of users, with no timeline for full rollout.
    4. During beta testing, ECG, Dive, and Aviation features are unavailable.
    5. A stable version of the 21.xx software is expected to include a feature allowing users to disable navigation guidance until needed.

    Garmin has released a new beta update, version 21.18, for its Fenix 8, Fenix E, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8 smartwatches. This update comes just a week after the last one in the 21.xx testing series, which was version 21.17. The previous update fixed four issues, including a bug related to GPS navigation.

    New Bug Fixes

    The beta version 21.18 introduces two additional bug fixes for the Fenix 8 and its related models. The first fix addresses an issue with the Garmin Messenger app, where users were facing delays when trying to scroll through longer message threads. The second fix solves a problem with the heart rate variability (HRV) chart, which could crash when users interacted with it.

    Update Rollout

    As per a recent update on the Garmin forum, this version has been rolled out over the air (OTA) to about 50% of users who own these smartwatches. It is still uncertain when this rollout will reach 100%. As always during beta testing, the ECG, Dive, and Aviation features are not available. It is also not known when a stable version of the 21.xx software will be available for all users of the Fenix 8 (AMOLED 47mm Orange currently priced at $1,099.99 on Amazon), Fenix E, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8. This stable version is anticipated to include a new option allowing users to disable navigation guidance until a turn is necessary.

    Garmin is continuously working to enhance the user experience with its devices, and this latest beta update is a step in that direction.

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