Tag: Garmin

  • Garmin Smartwatches Get Touchscreen Upgrade in Latest Update

    Garmin Smartwatches Get Touchscreen Upgrade in Latest Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released a stable update (Software Version 27.09) for older Forerunner smartwatches, including the Forerunner 165 priced at $210.
    2. The update includes bug fixes and improvements from Beta Version 27.08, enhancing the scrolling experience in the Activity Summary menu.
    3. Users will notice fixes for issues like potential crashes during swimming activities and missing race time predictions in Garmin Coach Plans.
    4. Touchscreen response issues for incoming calls have been fixed for all models except the Forerunner 255.
    5. The update will roll out gradually, and users can manually check for it through the smartwatch’s settings.

    Garmin has kicked off the new year by releasing a new stable update for several of its older Forerunner smartwatches, including the Forerunner 165, which is currently priced at $210 on Amazon. To summarize, the company wrapped up the previous year by launching Beta Version 27.08 for the same smartwatches, promising enhancements for the scrolling experience.

    New Update Details

    Recently, the beta development has transitioned to Garmin’s stable software channel with the launch of Software Version 27.09. While this update doesn’t introduce any new features, it does come with a variety of fixes for bugs found in earlier beta and stable versions. For example, Software Version 27.09 includes improvements that were tested in Beta Version 27.08.

    Enhanced User Experience

    As a result, users of the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965 should notice a more fluid scrolling experience once they update to Software Version 27.09. It’s important to mention that this improvement is limited to Garmin’s Activity Summary menu. Additionally, the update addresses a potential crash that could happen during swimming activities and fixes a glitch that caused race time predictions to be absent from a Garmin Coach Plan. Furthermore, all models except the Forerunner 255 have received a fix that corrects issues with touchscreen actions not responding to incoming calls.

    Bug Fixes and Stability Improvements

    Garmin has also indicated that this update includes a variety of other bug fixes and stability enhancements. Sadly, they have chosen not to disclose the specifics of these additional changes. Software Version 27.09 is expected to be available for all compatible smartwatches over the next few days as part of a phased rollout. In the meantime, users can manually check for the new update by selecting ‘Check for Updates’ after going through Menu, System, and then Software Update.

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  • Garmin Launches Update for Premium Smartwatches After New Release

    Garmin Launches Update for Premium Smartwatches After New Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is preparing a new stable update for the Fenix 8, Fenix 8 Pro, and other smartwatches while continuing beta development for version 21.xx.
    2. A stable build has been released for Fenix E, Quatix 8, and Tactix 8, reverting back to the earlier v20.xx development with System Software 20.29.
    3. System Software 20.29 replaces 20.24 and is the third release in the v20.xx series, following version 20.19 from November.
    4. The update includes three bug fixes, addressing issues with Dive activity crashes on Tactix 8, display problems with airport lists, and the Contacts button on some models.
    5. Approximately 50% of compatible smartwatches have received System Software 20.29, with full availability expected in the coming days.

    In the past few weeks, Garmin has been preparing a new stable update for the Fenix 8, Fenix 8 Pro (currently priced at $1,139.99 on Amazon), and other related smartwatches. Simultaneously, the company has introduced the Quatix 8 Pro to its collection. Although the v21.xx beta development kicked off over a month ago, Garmin has not indicated that this beta phase is nearing completion, as seen in its recent Beta Version 21.16 release.

    Update Release

    Despite this, Garmin has launched a new stable build for the Fenix E, Quatix 8, and Tactix 8, in addition to the Fenix 8 and Fenix 8 Pro. However, the latest update does not signify the end of the v21.xx development. Rather, Garmin has reverted to the earlier v20.xx development with System Software 20.29. This update replaces System Software 20.24 and is actually the third release in Garmin’s v20.xx development series, following the introduction of System Software 20.19 back in November.

    Bug Fixes Included

    As we look forward to Garmin’s next major stable release, System Software 20.29 is likely to keep Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, Fenix 8 Pro, Quatix 8, and Tactix 8 users satisfied with three new bug fixes. In discussions on forums, Garmin has explained that the latest stable update addresses a problem that could lead to crashes when saving Dive activities on Tactix 8 smartwatches.

    Furthermore, System Software 20.29 aims to resolve issues that affected the display of airport lists and the Contacts button on some models. Garmin has announced that System Software 20.29 has been distributed to about 50% of compatible smartwatches. Therefore, it may take several days for the new update to be available on all models.

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  • Garmin Update Boosts Wi-Fi for Older High-End Smartwatches

    Garmin Update Boosts Wi-Fi for Older High-End Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released Beta Version 25.08 for the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro, priced at $569.99 on Amazon, fixing three main bugs.
    2. Beta Version 25.10 has been rolled out for additional models like Epix 2, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and Marq Gen 2, but not for Marq Aviator Gen 2 or Tactix 7.
    3. Only 25% of eligible smartwatches have received the new update notification automatically.
    4. It may take several days for Beta Version 25.10 to reach all Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro users in the Beta Program.
    5. The update addresses a Wi-Fi connectivity issue that users reported since Beta Version 25.03.

    Garmin has made a comeback with its Beta Program, introducing a new update for the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro, currently priced at $569.99 on Amazon. Just a few days ago, the firm released Beta Version 25.08. This update, which came in between the launches of the Venu X1 and Quatix 8 Pro, was reported to fix three main bugs found in earlier beta and stable versions.

    New Updates for More Devices

    In addition to the Fenix series, Garmin has now rolled out Beta Version 25.10 for other models including the Epix 2, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and Marq Gen 2. It’s important to mention that beta updates are not available for the Marq Aviator Gen 2 or Tactix 7. Furthermore, Garmin highlights that only 25% of the eligible smartwatches have received a notification for the new update automatically.

    Waiting for the Update

    As a result, it might take a few more days for Beta Version 25.10 to arrive on your Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, or any related smartwatch, even if it’s already part of Garmin’s Beta Program. Notably, more beta versions are expected to come out before the v25.xx development shifts to Garmin’s stable software. In a post on a forum, Garmin indicates that Beta Version 25.10 addresses a problem that stopped a smartwatch from reconnecting to a password-secured Wi-Fi network, an issue that community members had been pointing out since Beta Version 25.03.

    Garmin’

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  • Garmin Updates Older High-End Smartwatches After Major Release

    Garmin Updates Older High-End Smartwatches After Major Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released Beta Version 25.08 for the Fenix 7 series, following the previous version 25.03.
    2. The new beta addresses three main issues, including a UI glitch in the map app.
    3. It fixes a bug that could cause the Fenix 7 to turn off during map downloads.
    4. Another fix improves data field display on specific watch faces.
    5. ECG functionality remains disabled, indicating further beta updates are expected before final release.

    Almost a month has gone by since Garmin last provided an update for the Fenix 7 and its similar models. Earlier this week, they unveiled a new color option for the Venu X1, which is currently priced at $699 on Amazon. Now, the company is back at work on Fenix 7 software, releasing Beta Version 25.08.

    New Firmware Details

    This latest firmware supersedes Beta Version 25.03, which included more than a dozen enhancements and was the first v25.xx build that Garmin made public. In contrast, Beta Version 25.08 is the second update of this type and introduces significantly fewer modifications compared to its predecessor. Garmin notes that this new beta addresses three remaining problems, including a UI glitch in the map app that appeared when users were previewing course navigations.

    Bug Fixes Included

    In a post on their forum, Garmin explained that Beta Version 25.08 should also fix a second bug related to the map app, which could cause a Fenix 7 to turn off while maps were being downloaded. Furthermore, this same update will tackle another issue where some data fields were not displaying correctly on specific watch faces. It’s worth mentioning that ECG functionality remains turned off, indicating that more beta versions are on the way before the v25.xx series moves to Garmin’s stable software branch.

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  • Strava Adds Adaptive Training and Garmin, Amazfit Integration

    Strava Adds Adaptive Training and Garmin, Amazfit Integration

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Feature: Strava introduces Instant Workouts, a feature for paying customers that simplifies workout planning.
    2. Subscription Cost: The service costs $11.99 per month with annual billing, but a free trial is available.
    3. Training Modes: Users can choose from four modes: Build, Maintain, Explore, and Recover, each targeting different training goals.
    4. Personalized Suggestions: Users receive five tailored workout suggestions based on their training history and performance level.
    5. Integration with Devices: Instant Workouts can integrate with Garmin Connect and Amazfit devices for adaptive training planning.

    Strava, a platform familiar to many athletes, is now introducing a new feature called Instant Workouts. This feature is available exclusively to paying customers, as it is behind a paywall, although there is a free trial period available. The subscription cost is $11.99 per month for an individual user with annual billing, making it somewhat pricey.

    A New Approach to Training

    Instant Workouts is designed to significantly reduce the hassle of planning workouts for athletes. Users can select from four training modes: Build, Maintain, Explore, and Recover. The Build mode likely includes more challenging training sessions aimed at boosting endurance. Maintain focuses on keeping current performance levels, while Recover is for those who are feeling fatigued but still want to engage in light training. Explore is meant for trying out new sports or finding different routes, helping users break through training plateaus.

    Tailored Training Suggestions

    Once a mode is selected, users receive five training suggestions to choose from. A workout or route is then automatically created based on the selected suggestions. Strava claims that these recommendations are personalized according to the user’s training history and performance level. This approach aims to help users avoid overtraining while still allowing for improvements in performance through adequate training intensity. While adaptive training planning isn’t completely new—Garmin has daily training suggestions, and Amazfit wearables also offer adaptive training plans—Strava does integrate with both Garmin Connect and the Zepp app for Amazfit devices.

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  • Garmin Smartwatches Introduce New Navigation Tool in Beta Update

    Garmin Smartwatches Introduce New Navigation Tool in Beta Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released beta version 21.15 for select smartwatches, including Fenix 8 and Tactix 8 models.
    2. The update introduces a feature to disable navigation guidance until users are close to the next direction.
    3. Beta version 21.15 fixes several bugs, including issues with Snowboard activity and Nutrition widget crashes.
    4. Specific issues addressed include volume slider vibrations, third-party map usage, and Storm Alert notifications.
    5. The update is being distributed over the air, with about 20% of eligible users having received it so far.

    Garmin has begun to release a new update for select smartwatches, including the Fenix 8 AMOLED, Fenix 8 Solar, Fenix E, Enduro 3, Tactix 8 Solar, and Tactix 8 AMOLED. This beta version 21.15 comes just a few weeks after the previous update, beta version 21.12, which introduced several new features such as the Battery Manager, Course Planner, and the Lifestyle Logging glance.

    Update Details

    In a recent forum post regarding beta version 21.15, a Garmin representative specified that this update is intended solely for non-Pro models. The change log reveals a new feature that allows users to disable navigation guidance until they are close to the next direction. Additionally, this release addresses numerous bugs.

    Bug Fixes and Enhancements

    With the introduction of beta version 21.15, Garmin has resolved an issue affecting the Snowboard activity, where users were unable to see their runs, as well as potential crashes when navigating the Nutrition widget. The company has also fixed issues related to volume slider vibrations, third-party map usage, and Storm Alert notifications. Moreover, for Solar models, a bug that truncated the dive timer seconds on the display has been rectified.

    Availability and Pricing

    Beta version 21.15 is being distributed over the air to users of the Fenix 8 (47 mm AMOLED Carbon Gray DLC Titanium priced at $1,099.99 on Amazon) and other related smartwatches. As of this moment, Garmin estimates that about 20% of eligible users have received the update.

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  • Garmin Launches New Ultra-Thin Smartwatch Version

    Garmin Launches New Ultra-Thin Smartwatch Version

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has refreshed the Venu X1 with a new color option, ‘Soft Gold with Titanium Caseback’, and a nylon band named ‘French Grey’.
    2. The updated Venu X1 maintains the same features as the original models, including a 7.9 mm thickness, 8-day battery life, and 5 ATM water resistance.
    3. It features a 2-inch AMOLED display and weighs 40 g with the official band included.
    4. The Soft Gold model is priced at $699.99, which is $100 less than its original MSRP during the holiday season.
    5. Garmin’s strategy focuses on enhancing existing products rather than launching new devices, catering to loyal customers.

    Garmin has started the new year by refreshing its product line instead of launching a completely new device. The company has rolled out an update to the Venu X1, introducing a new colour option called ‘Soft Gold with Titanium Caseback’. Alongside this, Garmin has added a complementary nylon band, which is marketed under the name ‘French Grey’.

    Features Remain Consistent

    In terms of features, the updated version does not differ from the original black and green variants of the Venu X1 that were released in June 2025. This Soft Gold version retains a housing thickness of 7.9 mm. It offers a battery life of up to 8 days and comes with a 5 ATM water resistance rating, plus it includes a built-in flashlight. The smartwatch is equipped with a 2-inch AMOLED display, contributing to its total weight of 40 g, which includes the official band from Garmin.

    Pricing and Availability

    The new Soft Gold model is priced at $699.99, aligning it with the price points of its Black and Moss counterparts. This represents a $100 reduction from the smartwatch’s original MSRP, as the Venu X1 was available for $599.99 during the recent holiday season until just a few days ago. You can find the Soft Gold Venu X1 directly from Garmin or order it through other retailers like Amazon.

    Garmin’s updates reflects a strategy to enhance existing products rather than introduce entirely new ones, which may appeal to loyal customers looking for fresh options.

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  • Garmin Nutrition Tracking Feature Faces Issues in Initial Tests

    Garmin Nutrition Tracking Feature Faces Issues in Initial Tests

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin’s Nutrition Tracking feature requires a paid Garmin Connect+ subscription and allows food scanning via barcode or photo recognition.
    2. Setup challenges include the need to unlink MyFitnessPal accounts and set target weights for accurate calorie intake recommendations.
    3. The food scanning technology struggles with complex meals, often misidentifying food items and providing incorrect nutritional data.
    4. The app has limitations, such as using standard portion sizes that may not match personal consumption habits, requiring scales for accuracy.
    5. The smartwatch experience is restricted, with users facing app crashes and limited meal input options directly from the device.

    On Monday, Garmin introduced a new feature known as Nutrition Tracking. This feature is available to those who have a paid Garmin Connect+ subscription. Users can scan their food by either using a barcode or by capturing a photo of their dish with their smartphone camera. The AI technology is designed to recognize the food items. The information collected is then analyzed to reveal nutrient patterns and assess how different diets affect workouts and sleep, among other factors.

    Setup Challenges

    Despite the promising concept, early tests from the5krunner and DC Rainmaker reveal that Garmin’s Nutrition Tracking has its share of challenges. To get started, individuals who used MyFitnessPal for nutrition tracking must first unlink their account from Garmin Connect. After the setup is completed, users can set a target weight. Garmin then uses this information to determine the ideal calorie intake, which is distributed throughout meals like breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks.

    Recognition Issues

    The food scanning feature does not always function as intended. While it can easily identify simple foods like a single banana, it struggles with complex meals containing multiple components. For instance, a plate with three slices of toast may only be recognized as one slice, and the AI often overlooks the butter under jam, leading to incorrect nutritional data.

    Limitations on Smartwatch

    The app also faces challenges when it comes to differentiating between white and wholegrain toast. Many items are registered with a standard portion size of 100 grams, making it necessary to use scales for accurate nutritional recording. This is particularly inconvenient for items like sauces, jam, or honey, as Garmin’s default serving sizes can be quite different from what is actually consumed, based on personal habits.

    The smartwatch experience is somewhat limited; while Garmin shows the calories and nutritional data for the day, users can only add pre-stored meals directly from the smartwatch. Furthermore, reports indicate that the smartwatch app often crashes, according to findings from DC Rainmaker.

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  • Top Polar and Coros Smartwatches: Great Garmin Fenix Alternatives

    Top Polar and Coros Smartwatches: Great Garmin Fenix Alternatives

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin and Zepp Health attract a wide range of users with their wearable devices, capturing significant market share.
    2. Coros and Polar are more recognized among serious athletes, which may explain their lower market shares among casual users.
    3. 2025 introduced display-less trackers, like the Polar Loop, which track heart rate and sleep quality.
    4. Coros’ new Nomad smartwatch features an ECG and the ability to store maps and music directly on the device.
    5. Both Coros and Polar are innovating with software updates and new features while focusing on serious sports enthusiasts.

    Garmin and Zepp Health (Amazfit) are likely to attract a wide range of users with their wearable devices, appealing to both diverse audiences and capturing a significant portion of the market. On the other hand, Coros and Polar seem to be more recognized among serious athletes and running fans rather than the everyday smartwatch wearer, which might explain their lower market shares. While devices from Coros and Polar often serve as comprehensive smartwatches, there is a noticeable emphasis on sports-related activities.

    New Innovations in 2025

    The year 2025 also introduced display-less trackers, with Polar being one of the brands to join this trend. The Polar Loop is equipped with optical sensors that track heart rate, among other functions, and is capable of assessing the quality of sleep. Meanwhile, the Polar Grit X2, launched last year, stands out as a robust outdoor smartwatch that competes well against the likes of the Fenix and T-Rex models. This watch supports navigation using maps that are saved on the device. Additionally, the Vantage M3 is a versatile multisport watch featuring map capabilities, while the Ignite 3 is likely to cater to more typical users. Polar also unveiled new software features in 2025 and provided updates for older gadgets, including an improved Cardio Load feature.

    Coros and Its Latest Offerings

    Midway through 2025, the Nomad smartwatch was unveiled, which includes an ECG and promotes a unique feature for setting activity reminders. Users can store maps and music directly on the device, and Coros still opts for a MiP panel instead of an AMOLED display. The Coros Apex 4, marketed as ideal for mountain sports, also features a MiP display and boasts an impressive battery life of up to 65 hours while using GNSS. Coros has released several software updates as well, including a new option to shorten activities post-completion to prevent the warm-up from affecting the speed run pace. Depending on the smartwatch model, street names can now also be shown.

    Summary of Market Position

    In conclusion, Garmin and Zepp Health continue to dominate the market with their extensive range of wearables, while Coros and Polar focus more on catering to serious sports enthusiasts. The evolution of their products in 2025 shows a commitment to innovate and meet the needs of both dedicated athletes and casual users alike.

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  • Garmin Connect 5.20 Update: New Health Status Timeline Feature

    Garmin Connect 5.20 Update: New Health Status Timeline Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Health Status feature on Garmin devices summarizes key health indicators, including resting heart rate, heart rate variability, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and skin temperature.
    2. Currently, Health Status only shows health data for a single day, which limits its usefulness.
    3. Upcoming updates may allow users to view extended summaries and historical health data by specifying start and end dates.
    4. New data presentation features, like “healthStatusFormatter,” suggest that metrics may be displayed in a more visual format, potentially using diagrams.
    5. Garmin is actively working on improving health tracking features, aiming to enhance user experience and provide deeper insights into personal health trends.

    Attentive readers, particularly those who use Garmin wearables and Garmin Connect, are probably already acquainted with the Health Status feature. This function is now accessible on a range of devices, not just the Venu 4, and it offers a summary of key health indicators. The necessity for such a feature arises, in part, from the vast amount of data that is collected. Health Status gathers information on resting heart rate, heart rate variability, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and skin temperature, and it shows how these five metrics relate to the user’s baseline. This could potentially help in spotting an illness at an early stage.

    Possible Improvements on the Horizon

    Currently, Health Status has a drawback: it only displays these values for a single day. However, Gadgets & Wearables has uncovered some unutilized parameters in the latest version 5.20 of Garmin Connect, implying that this might change soon. Specifically, there is code indicating a function that allows for both a start date and an end date, which opens the door for the possibility of displaying extended summaries, health trends, or historical data overviews.

    New Data Presentation Features

    Additionally, there is a parameter called “healthStatusFormatter,” which hints that the data will be presented in some format. It’s conceivable that a diagram could be utilized here, as this would enable the display of multiple metrics in a consolidated way.

    Gadget & Wearables’ findings show that Garmin is working on making improvements to its health tracking features, which could greatly enhance user experience and provide deeper insights into personal health trends.

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