Tag: Smartwatch Update

  • Amazfit New Smartwatch with AMOLED Display and 30-Day Battery Life

    Amazfit New Smartwatch with AMOLED Display and 30-Day Battery Life

    Key Takeaway

    1. The Cheetah 2 Ultra offers up to 30 days of battery life, thanks to a 44% larger 780 mAh battery.
    2. It features a 1.5-inch, 480 x 480 AMOLED display with increased size and resolution compared to the Pro.
    3. The watch has doubled its storage to 64 GB and uses a more powerful HS3s CPU for better performance.
    4. The device is housed in a grade 5 titanium alloy casing and supports 22 mm watch straps.
    5. It is priced at €599 in the Eurozone and includes two straps in the box.

    Introduction to the Cheetah 2 Ultra

    Not long ago, Amazfit unvaild the Cheetah 2 Pro worldwide, and now they are back with an even more rugged option, the Cheetah 2 Ultra. Seems like they are really focus on trail runners this time, with a set of features that supports long outings. The Ultra model aims for Goliath like endurance, promising a huge boost in battery life compared to the Pro version, which goes for about $449 at the moment.

    Battery Life and Charging Details

    For all the adventurers out there, the new Ultra boasts impressive power reserves. Amazfit claims it can last up to 30 days in typical smartwatch use or 60 hours straight with continuous GPS location tracking turned on. To make this possible, they’ve bumped up the battery size by 44%. The previous 540 mAh inside the Pro was swapped for a 780 mAh battery. So that’s a lot more stamina for your outdoor pursuits.

    Display & Storage Upgrades

    In terms of screen, the Ultra keeps a similar AMOLED panel, that shines at a whopping 3,000 nits brightness. It gets bigger too, growing from 1.32 inches to 1.5 inches, and it slightly improves resolution from 466 x 466 to 480 x 480 pixels. Storage gets doubled to 64 GB which is quite a jump for a smartwatch. They also installed a new HS3s CPU, promising better overall performance than the HS3 in the Cheetah 2 Pro.

    Build Quality and Design

    The Ultra’s casing is built tough, with a grade 5 titanium alloy body that offers both strength and lightweight feel. Plus, it’s got physical buttons that seem durable enough for tough conditions. It supports standard 22 mm watch straps, so customization and replacements are simple. The retail price is set at €599 in the Eurozone, and it arrives with two straps included to start with.


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    • Amazfit Premium Smartwatch Launches New Map Features

      Amazfit Premium Smartwatch Launches New Map Features

      Key Takeaway

      1. The update enhances route planning with adjusted alert sensitivity and faster turn notifications.
      2. Support for more detailed topographic maps with improved contour line accuracy has been added.
      3. The Podcast and Music apps are now available in additional countries, and the sleep algorithm has been improved.

      New Firmware Update for the Amazfit Active 3 Premium

      Hey user! So, Amazfit just dropped another update for the Active 3 Premium smartwatch, and it seems this year’s update game is kinda strong. They already released version 3.7.0.6 not long after the watch hit the shelves, and now they follow up with 3.10.0.5. They say it’s all about making the route planning feature better, like more precise and reactive. The update’s main focus is on improving your navigation experience, with better alerts when you leave a trail and faster turn notifications, so you don’t miss a beat or turn. Additionally, the maps now show more details like contour lines, making navigation even cooler, especially if you’re into outdoor adventures or hiking.

      Enhanced Mapping and Notification System

      I tell ya, the new topographic maps with improved contour line accuracy are a real game-changer. Plus, the alert system for when you drift off-route has become more finely tuned, so you’ll get notices quicker. This means no more missing your directions because of sluggish updates. The settings adjustments for alert sensitivity and the speed of turn notifications really help improve the overall navigation experience for folks using this smartwatch, especially during rigorous activities.

      Feature Expansion and App Improvements

      Now, talking about the apps, the Podcast and Music features are now available in a bunch more countries, including some in the EU, as confirmed by a Reddit user. They also say that the sleep tracking algorithm got better, which is always a good thing because more accurate sleep data can help you understand your sleep patterns better. It’s like they’re not just fixing bugs but trying to make the whole experience smoother and more feature-rich. The full details of the update are visible in the screenshot they shared, so you can check out all the tweaks and improvements there.

      Availability and Pricing

      This firmware update is slowly rolling out to users probably in phases, meaning not everyone will get it at the same time. If you wanna get it, keep an eye on your device for notifications. The watch itself is listed at about $169.99, but there’s no official word yet on when all users can expect the update to be everywhere. So, patience might be necessary, but it’s just a matter of time before everyone can enjoy the new features.

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    • Amazfit Launches Major Smartwatch Update with New Map Features

      Amazfit Launches Major Smartwatch Update with New Map Features

      Key Takeaway

      1. The new firmware version 2.17.0.4 introduces Workout Audio Alerts and support for third-party audio sources in the Music app.
      2. It adds the Lactate Threshold metric to help users gauge workout intensity and endurance.
      3. The update features a Route Planning tool for creating routes on the watch or in the Zepp app.
      4. The rollout is happening gradually through the Zepp app.

      Amazfit recently announced a new update for its Balance 2 XT smartwatch, and it looks like it’s packed with exciting features. This comes just after the company introduced firmware version 2.16.2.1, which mainly focused on weather data improvements.

      New Features for Better Workout Experience

      This latest software version 2.17.0.4, as shared on Reddit, brings some noteworthy audio features. Now, users can enjoy Workout Audio Alerts that beep during exercise routines, signaling pacing or milestones, whether through the watch’s built-in speaker or connected headphones. Moreover, the watch now supports audio streaming from third-party sources within the Music app, adding more flexibility to their workout playlist options.

      Enhanced Health Metrics and Route Planning

      In addition to audio updates, the new firmware adds the Lactate Threshold metric to the Balance 2 XT. This important health indicator helps to measure workout intensity and endurance levels in real-time and over time, providing vital insights for training optimization. Furthermore, a Route Planning feature is now included, letting users plot routes either directly on the watch or via the Zepp app, making outdoor activities more manageable.

      Availability and How to Update

      The rollout of software version 2.17.0.4 is happening in phases, meaning not everyone will get the update simultaneously. When it’s available to you, it will come through the Zepp app, which you can use to download and install the update on your Balance 2 XT. Keep an eye on notifications and update prompts to enjoy these new features as soon as possible.

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    • Garmin Smartwatch Update Fixes Workout Bugs

      Garmin Smartwatch Update Fixes Workout Bugs

      Key Takeaways

      1. The Garmin Instinct 3 Solar, Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct E, and Instinct Crossover have received a software update to version 13.29.
      2. This update fixes a bug that caused crashes in the Interval Workouts feature on the Instinct 3 and similar models.
      3. It is uncertain if version 13.29 will be the last in the 13.xx update series, which started in February 2026.
      4. Previous updates in the series included new features like Treadmill Walk activity and Trucking tools support.
      5. The update is available for all affected smartwatch owners and can be installed via the Garmin Connect app or Garmin Express software.


      The Garmin Instinct 3 Solar, Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct E, and Instinct Crossover smartwatches have just received an important software update. The new system software version 13.29 comes shortly after the previous version 13.27/13.28, which addressed some issues with the Goal Alert feature and Gear Tracking.

      Update Fixes

      Similar to the beta version 13.29, this stable update fixes a bug that could lead to crashes in the Instinct 3 and similar smartwatches. The problem particularly impacted users who were utilizing the Interval Workouts feature.

      Future Updates

      It’s unclear if system software 13.29 will mark the end of the 13.xx update series. The first stable version in this line was released in mid-February 2026. This version included various enhancements for the Instinct smartwatches, such as a Treadmill Walk activity, new support for Trucking tools, and additional customization for the well-liked Morning Report option.

      Availability

      A Garmin representative recently shared on the Garmin Forum that System Software 13.29 is now accessible for all owners of the Instinct 3 Solar, Instinct 3 AMOLED (currently 45 mm priced at $449.99 on Amazon), Instinct E, and Instinct Crossover smartwatches. Users can easily install this update using the Garmin Connect app or Garmin Express software.

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    • Polar OS 5 Update: New Features for Vantage M3 and Grit X2 Pro

      Polar OS 5 Update: New Features for Vantage M3 and Grit X2 Pro

      Key Takeaways

      1. Polar OS 5 is now available for five smartwatches, including the Vantage M3, Grit X2 Pro, and Ignite 3.
      2. New user-friendly features include multiple alarms, a night mode for watch faces, and a blood oxygen tracking chart.
      3. The maps app has a new dark mode and introduces two new watch face widgets for sleep quality and activity levels.
      4. Users can now rate their workout intensity post-exercise, allowing the smartwatch to customize future workouts.
      5. Improvements include fixing iPhone notification repetition and enhanced performance for zooming in the maps app.


      Polar has begun to release the Polar OS 5 update for five different smartwatches. This includes the Polar Vantage M3, Grit X2 Pro, and Ignite 3 (starting at $305 on Amazon). As is typical, it might take several days for the update to reach all users of these devices. The current software versions being distributed are as follows:

      New Features and Convenience

      The update mainly brings user-friendly features. With Polar OS 5, users can now set multiple alarms straight from their smartwatch, and a night mode has been added to the watch faces. When “Do Not Disturb” is activated, the display only illuminates slightly when a button is pressed. Furthermore, some watch faces can now present a more simplified time format. An additional feature is a new chart that tracks blood oxygen levels over time.

      Enhanced User Experience

      The maps application is also receiving a dark mode, which is designed to be gentler on the eyes. Polar OS 5 introduces two fresh watch face widgets, or complications, that provide insights into last night’s sleep quality and weekly activity levels. When the smartwatch is charging, it can display the current time.

      Feedback and Improvements

      Post-workout, Polar OS 5 prompts users to rate how tough their workout was on a scale of 1 to 10. This feedback helps the smartwatch tailor future workouts based on the user’s performance. In addition, Polar has fixed a problem that caused iPhone notifications to repeat, and there have been enhancements to performance when zooming in the maps app.

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    • Huawei Smartwatch Update Adds New Heart Health Feature

      Huawei Smartwatch Update Adds New Heart Health Feature

      Key Takeaways

      1. The Huawei Watch Ultimate 2 is receiving the HarmonyOS 6.0.0.209 update, starting with users in China.
      2. A new research project for assessing coronary heart disease risk is introduced, with data collected over three to four days.
      3. Enhancements include a new wheelchair activity tracking mode and improved cycling and skiing features.
      4. Users can now remotely control their smartphone camera from the smartwatch.
      5. The availability of the update outside of China is currently unknown.


      The Huawei Watch Ultimate 2 smartwatch is getting another update. It was first released in October 2025 as the next version of the original Watch Ultimate, and the last update happened in December 2025, upgrading it to HarmonyOS 6.0.0.156.

      New Features in Update

      Currently, Huawei is launching HarmonyOS software version 6.0.0.209 for the Watch Ultimate 2 smartwatch, starting with users in China. According to a change log posted on Weibo, a new research project concerning coronary heart disease risk is being introduced. Participants in this trial will receive a risk analysis based on data the watch gathers over three to four days. However, the method for calculating these results isn’t fully explained; users are recommended to consult with a healthcare professional if the watch indicates any potential health issues.

      Activity Tracking Enhancements

      The update to HarmonyOS 6.0.0.209 also introduces a new mode for tracking wheelchair activities, enabling users to tailor their experience via Activity Tracking > Triple Ring Settings. For cyclists, there’s a new feature that provides a real-time simulated cadence metric, along with 3D distance compensation alerts and an option to choose the type of bike. The skiing mode has reportedly been improved, offering measurements such as maximum and average speed, slope gradient, and total descent. Additionally, users with Android smartphones can now control the device’s camera remotely from the watch.

      Availability Concerns

      It’s not yet known when the HarmonyOS 6.0.0.209 update will be available for Huawei Watch Ultimate 2 users (currently priced at €872.03 on Amazon DE) outside of China.

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    • Huawei Launches Major Update for Two Smartwatches

      Huawei Launches Major Update for Two Smartwatches

      Key Takeaways

      1. Huawei is launching update 6.0.0.173 for the Watch GT 6 and Watch GT 6 Pro smartwatches, enhancing features from the GT 5 series.
      2. The update includes a real-time virtual cadence feature for outdoor cyclists and improved high altitude monitoring using heart rate and SpO2 levels.
      3. Music playback functionality has been refined, along with enhancements to time display for car key and smart lock key card swipes in the Huawei Health app.
      4. Improved connection with third-party earbuds and better system stability in certain situations are also part of the update.
      5. The update is being rolled out globally, with the Watch GT 6 priced at €299.99 on Amazon Germany.


      Huawei is launching a new update for its Watch GT 6 and Watch GT 6 Pro smartwatches. These devices were introduced in Europe in September 2025, bringing several enhancements over the previous GT 5 series.

      New Features and Improvements

      With the release of update 6.0.0.173, both the Huawei Watch GT 6 and Watch GT 6 Pro now include a real-time virtual cadence feature. This function is tailored for outdoor cyclists, as it calculates your pedalling speed. Additionally, the high altitude monitoring feature has seen improvements; it now uses heart rate and SpO2 levels to send alerts for any possible altitude adaptation issues.

      Software Optimizations

      Moreover, the changelog for version 6.0.0.173 mentions that the music playback functionality has been refined, but no specific details were given. Huawei also notes enhancements to the time display associated with the car key and smart lock key card swipes in the Huawei Health app. The connection with third-party earbuds is claimed to be better as well. Finally, the release notes mention that the system stability has been improved in “certain situations,” although these specifics are not detailed.

      Global Rollout

      It seems that software version 6.0.0.173 is being made available worldwide for users of the Watch GT 6 (currently priced at €299.99 on Amazon Germany) and the Watch GT 6 Pro smartwatches. Usually, updates are first sent to users in China, with the rest of the world receiving them in the weeks that follow.

      Huawei Central, for Chinese Smartwatches’

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    • Amazfit Smartwatch Update Adds New BioCharge Features for Users

      Amazfit Smartwatch Update Adds New BioCharge Features for Users

      Key Takeaways

      1. The latest update for the Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch is version 3.35.0.5, adding two new workout modes: Rucking and Mountain hiking.
      2. New BioCharge features include a trend chart and a Morning card for daily energy level overview.
      3. Users can now take screenshots on the smartwatch, which are saved to their connected smartphone.
      4. Improvements include enhanced Activity reminders, optimized Outdoor Run algorithm, and better Portuguese language support.
      5. The update will be rolled out in phases, starting in regions like China, the US, and Canada, with installation available via the Zepp app.


      A recent update for the Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch has been shared by users on Reddit. The previous update, version 3.30.0.2, was released at the end of October 2025. A similar update has also been sent to the more affordable Balance XT model.

      New Features Introduced

      The latest version, 3.35.0.5, brings two additional workout modes to the Amazfit Balance 2. The first mode is Rucking, which allows users to input the weight of their backpack, while the second mode is for Mountain hiking. Furthermore, two new features related to BioCharge have been added: a BioCharge trend chart and a Morning card that provides a daily overview of energy levels. Also, a new Silent icon has been introduced in the Control Center.

      Enhanced User Experience

      Users of the Balance 2 smartwatch can now take screenshots by pressing both the crown and the lower button at the same time. These screenshots are automatically saved to the connected smartphone. Zepp Health has also worked on improving Activity reminders, fixing an issue that could lead to unplanned notifications. The Outdoor Run algorithm has been optimized for better energy efficiency, and there have been enhancements to the Portuguese language option. Additionally, the Weather data source and its refresh logic have been improved, along with map icons. Lastly, if you clear all notifications in the Notifications Center, it won’t automatically bring you back to the watch face.

      Update Rollout Details

      The software version 3.35.0.5 is expected to be released in phases for Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch users (currently priced at $299.99 at Amazon), starting in regions like China, the US, and Canada, with other areas to follow in the upcoming weeks. When the update becomes available in your area, you can initiate the installation through the Zepp app.

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    • Garmin Launches Stable Update for LTE Smartwatch

      Garmin Launches Stable Update for LTE Smartwatch

      Key Takeaways

      1. Garmin released a stable update (version 5.12) for the Bounce 2 smartwatch designed for kids.
      2. The previous update (version 5.10) improved battery life in poor LTE areas and added support for the Fish activity.
      3. Version 5.12 mainly includes bug fixes, but specific details are not provided.
      4. The update is automatically sent when the smartwatch connects to a smartphone with the Garmin Jr. App.
      5. The Bounce 2 smartwatch is currently priced from $289.99 on Amazon.


      Garmin has rolled out yet another stable update for the Bounce 2 smartwatch made for kids. This second version of the LTE device was introduced earlier in 2025 and comes with features like two-way voice messaging, voice calling, and support for voice commands.

      Recent Updates

      Just a few weeks ago, this Garmin smartwatch received an update to software version 5.10. This was a significant release that improved battery life in poor LTE areas, added support for the Fish activity, along with various enhancements and bug fixes.

      New Update Details

      The latest update for Bounce 2, version 5.12, is quite minor. The change log notes that it includes bug fixes for the smartwatch, but doesn’t provide specifics. Therefore, it remains uncertain how users might benefit from this software update.

      Firmware version 5.12 is now available for all Bounce 2 smartwatch users (currently priced from $289.99 at Amazon). This update will automatically be sent to the smartwatch when it connects to a smartphone that has the Garmin Jr. App. Alternatively, users can sync it through the Garmin Express software on their computers.

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    • Amazfit T-Rex 3 Update: Zepp OS 5.0 Now Available

      Amazfit T-Rex 3 Update: Zepp OS 5.0 Now Available

      Key Takeaways

      1. The Amazfit T-Rex 3 smartwatch is receiving its first update for Zepp OS 5.0 since September 2025.
      2. The update features a new user interface, updated animations, and accessibility options like adjustable font sizes.
      3. New activities, including Scuba Diving, hiking, and weighted hiking, have been added, along with a BioCharge feature for tracking energy levels.
      4. The T-Rex 3 now supports topographic maps and is compatible with the Stryd pod, with new alerts for uphill routes and a Jet Lag Manager.
      5. The software rollout for version 4.1.5.1 is gradual, starting in China, the US, and Canada, before expanding to a wider audience.


      Amazfit’s T-Rex 3 smartwatch seems to be getting its first update for Zepp OS 5.0. The last time this model saw an update was in September 2025, when it received new running dynamics along with extra keyboard layouts.

      Update Details

      Users in the Amazfit T-Rex 3/3 Pro Group on Facebook and the 4PDA forum have noted that Zepp Health is now releasing software version 4.1.5.1 for this smartwatch. The upgrade to Zepp OS 5.0 introduces a new user interface for the T-Rex 3, featuring updated animations and a more fluid experience. There’s a new option to modify font sizes under the Accessibility settings, and users can take screenshots by pressing the SEL and DOWN buttons at the same time. One user mentioned that Scuba Diving has been added as a new activity.

      New Features

      The eagerly awaited BioCharge feature replaces the older Body Battery function, allowing users to keep track of their energy levels. New sports activities, such as hiking and weighted hiking, are now included, and users can also add weights to workouts like trail running, mountain climbing, and hill climbing. The T-Rex 3 now supports topographic maps for activities like kitesurfing and skydiving, and it is also compatible with the Stryd pod for runners. Additionally, uphill alerts have been introduced as part of route guidance, along with a new Jet Lag Manager. Furthermore, users can zoom in on images within the Notification center and adjust their nap records.

      Rollout Process

      Software version 4.1.5.1 is being rolled out gradually to T-Rex 3 smartwatch users (currently priced at $226 on Amazon). Typically, updates are first made available to users in China, the US, and Canada, before becoming available to a broader audience about a week later.

       

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