Tag: Zepp Health

  • Free Amazfit Update Enhances Sleep and Heart Rate Tracking

    Free Amazfit Update Enhances Sleep and Heart Rate Tracking

    Key Takeaways

    – Zepp Health announced a firmware update (version 2.7.0.2) for the Amazfit Helio Strap, a screenless fitness tracker.
    – The update is 2MB and enhances sensor algorithms, improving accuracy in sleep tracking and monitoring.
    – Automatic activation of sleep monitoring is now included in this update.
    – An upgraded heart rate measurement algorithm improves performance during workouts.
    – Users will receive low battery notifications after waking up if the charge fell below a certain level during sleep.

    Zepp Health has announced a new software update for the Amazfit Helio Strap, a fitness tracker without a screen. This firmware update is labeled as version 2.7.0.2, but it’s not yet clear whether it’s being released to all users at once or if there will be a staggered rollout. It’s worth mentioning that this device just had an update in early December, as we previously reported.

    Update Details

    This update is relatively small, at only 2MB, but it brings several improvements while keeping the core features mostly the same. Zepp Health stated that the sensors have been enhanced with better algorithms, which have been fine-tuned at the software level. Notably, there is an enhanced algorithm for slope tracking, which means the Amazfit Helio Strap will now provide more accurate estimates of sleep duration, sleep quality, and different sleep stages. The changelog indicates that sleep monitoring is now activated automatically.

    Workout Enhancements

    Alongside these sleep-related enhancements, the fitness tracker is expected to perform better during regular workouts, thanks to an upgraded heart rate measurement algorithm that comes with this update. Additionally, users will receive notifications if the battery runs low after waking up, as long as the charge level fell below a certain point while they were asleep. The changelog also mentions that several other known issues have been resolved. The Amazfit Helio Strap is available for purchase on Amazon for $99.

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  • Amazfit Helio Core: Trendy Affordable Wearable Module Launches

    Amazfit Helio Core: Trendy Affordable Wearable Module Launches

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit Helio is a display-free wearable designed to reduce distractions during exercise and may be competition-friendly.
    2. The Helio Core, priced at $70, is available in three colors but does not include a charging base or Helio strap.
    3. The Helio Core features only a sensor unit, processor, built-in storage, and Bluetooth modules, with unclear target users.
    4. The device can be worn under sweatbands or attached to limbs, making it versatile for various workouts.
    5. The lightweight design and lack of a display may appeal to fitness enthusiasts seeking minimal distractions, but more information on performance and compatibility is needed.

    Some readers might already know about the Amazfit Helio, which is a wearable device without a display. This feature means it could be less distracting while exercising and might even be allowed in competitions that ban traditional smartwatches. Alongside the Amazfit Helio, Zepp Health is now introducing the Helio Core, at least for customers in the US. This device, priced at $70, comes in three color options: FireCore, SpiritCore, and NeonCore. However, it’s worth noting that the necessary charging base or Helio strap is not included with the purchase.

    Unique Features of Helio Core

    The Helio Core appears to be quite a unique gadget. Consumers receive only the sensor unit, which contains a processor, built-in storage, and the required modules for Bluetooth synchronization. It’s not exactly clear who Zepp Health is aiming this product at, though it could be integrated with their own wearables. In its most basic use, the Helio Core might be placed under a sweatband or on a strap meant for holding a smartphone. Alternatively, it could also be attached to a leg, which could be practical during leg workouts at the gym. Currently, there’s no information on when or if the Helio Core will be released in other markets or at what price. Meanwhile, the Amazfit Helio Strap is available on Amazon for $99.

    Target Audience and Market Potential

    Zepp Health’s latest offering may fill a niche market. While the Helio Core’s specific user base remains uncertain, its adaptability suggests it could appeal to various fitness enthusiasts. The absence of a display might attract those who prefer minimal distractions while working out, and the lightweight design ensures comfort. However, further details about the device’s performance and compatibility with other products are still awaited.

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  • Amazfit Helio Strap Update: Now Supports Tennis Tracking

    Amazfit Helio Strap Update: Now Supports Tennis Tracking

    Key Takeaways

    1. Amazfit’s Helio Strap initially supported only 27 sports, but a firmware update added a Tennis Mode and improved interface features.
    2. The update enhances tracking accuracy for tennis practice by monitoring workout intensity through heart rate metrics.
    3. A new BioCharge algorithm adjusts energy levels based on factors like stress and sleep, aiming to improve performance metrics.
    4. The update fixes bugs related to heart rate readings, calorie counts, and step tracking, ensuring more accurate fitness data.
    5. The Helio Strap has no subscription fee and is available for a one-time purchase of $99 on Amazon.

    Amazfit’s Helio Strap, introduced in June this year, has rapidly attracted the attention of fitness fans around the globe. However, when it first launched, it only catered to 27 sports, which pales in comparison to the impressive 177 sports available on some of Amazfit’s smartwatches, like the T-Rex 3 we evaluated. This limitation led many users to voice their concerns, especially those interested in ball or racket sports. With the latest firmware update 3.3.6.1, the accompanying Zepp Health app now includes a specific Tennis Mode, along with other interface enhancements.

    Improved Tracking Features

    Before this update, tracking tennis practice with the Helio Strap was often inaccurate. Now, users can effectively monitor their training sessions, as the device assesses workout intensity through heart rate metrics. This data is visually represented in the Zepp workout profile, making it easier for users to analyze their performance.

    New BioCharge Algorithm

    The update also introduces an improved BioCharge algorithm. This feature, akin to Garmin’s Body Battery, is designed to adjust to your energy levels based on factors like stress and sleep. Although past attempts haven’t yielded the expected results, the new algorithm aims to resolve issues related to swift overnight energy loss and low Wake BioCharge scores.

    Minor Fixes and Accessibility

    In addition to these enhancements, the update addresses bugs related to heart rate readings at night, inflated calorie counts during exercises, and incorrect step tracking while swimming and cycling. The entire update is a compact 3.4MB, but users must be on version 9.13.0 of Zepp to access it.

    Unlike many fitness wearables, the Helio Strap does not come with a subscription fee. You can purchase the Amazfit Helio Strap fitness tracker for a single payment of $99 on Amazon.

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    Amazfit Helio Strap Update: Now Supports Tennis Tracking

     

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  • Amazfit T-Rex 3 Pro Smartwatch Pricing and Details Revealed

    Amazfit T-Rex 3 Pro Smartwatch Pricing and Details Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit T-Rex 3 Pro is expected to be priced around £399.90 in the UK and approximately $399 in the US.
    2. It will feature enhancements like a built-in flashlight, Bluetooth call capabilities, and a Route Planning feature.
    3. The smartwatch will use sapphire glass and titanium alloy components for durability.
    4. Battery life is anticipated to last up to 25 days, supporting various diving modes and health monitoring.
    5. The official release date for the Amazfit T-Rex 3 Pro has not been announced yet.

    The new Amazfit T-Rex 3 Pro smartwatch’s pricing might have gotten out early. A retailer in the Philippines recently showcased this gadget, hinting at many of its capabilities. Zepp Health, the parent company of Amazfit, also brought up this high-end smartwatch in a recent update of the Zepp app.

    Pricing Details

    Now, a ‘test’ listing on the Amazfit website in the UK seems to have disclosed its price for this region. Both the 44 mm and 48 mm models are shown to be priced at £399.90; however, it’s improbable that they share the same price, and it’s not clear which variant this RRP applies to. To recall, the T-Rex Ultra was introduced at £399.00, while the T-Rex 3 launched at £279.00. In the United States, the T-Rex Ultra had a price tag of $399.99, and the T-Rex 3 sells for $279.99 (available on Amazon). This suggests that at least one version of the Amazfit T-Rex 3 Pro smartwatch might be priced around $399 in the US.

    Expected Features

    The Amazfit T-Rex 3 Pro smartwatch is anticipated to come with numerous enhancements compared to the T-Rex 3. These upgrades include a built-in flashlight with two color options and a speaker to complement the microphone for Bluetooth calls. It will utilize sapphire glass and have titanium alloy components, including buttons. Additionally, a Route Planning feature has been talked about, along with the BioCharge energy metric. Furthermore, it is expected to deliver a battery life of up to 25 days, various diving modes, and health monitoring features such as skin temperature and heart rate tracking.

    Release Information

    Amazfit has not yet officially unveiled the T-Rex 3 Pro smartwatch, and the launch date is still a mystery for the time being.

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  • Amazfit Helio Strap Update: Enhanced Heart Rate and Sleep Features

    Amazfit Helio Strap Update: Enhanced Heart Rate and Sleep Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Zepp Health has released version 3.1.8.2 for the Amazfit Helio Strap, following the previous update 3.1.2.3.
    2. The update enhances the heart rate algorithm for improved accuracy during exercise and fixes issues with missed heart rate readings.
    3. Sleep metrics have been improved, making sleep scores more accurate by incorporating REM and HRV factors.
    4. A glitch affecting sleep records has been resolved, along with a connection-related problem and several minor bugs.
    5. The update is a 2.46 MB file and will be gradually rolled out via the Zepp app, with the Amazfit Helio Strap priced at $99.99.

    Zepp Health has begun to distribute an update for the Amazfit Helio Strap, now at version 3.1.8.2. This new version comes just a few weeks after the last one, which was 3.1.2.3. The earlier update focused on enhancing the BioCharge metric and improving the automatic activity detection feature.

    Update Details from Users

    The notes regarding version 3.1.8.2 were posted by an Amazfit Helio Strap enthusiast on Reddit. This update is expected to provide further optimizations, particularly for the heart rate algorithm, making it more precise during exercise. The company has also resolved an issue where heart rate readings were sometimes missed.

    Improvements in Sleep Metrics

    Additionally, there are improvements to the sleep score, which should now be more accurate and less likely to overrate the quality of your rest due to the incorporation of REM and HRV factors in the algorithm. Moreover, a glitch affecting sleep records has been addressed. It was reported that both the heart rate and sleep data issues stemmed from a “chip issue.” The last two points in the release notes reveal that a connection-related problem has been fixed, along with several other minor bugs.

    Version 3.1.8.2 is a 2.46 MB file and is being rolled out gradually to users of the Amazfit Helio Strap (currently priced at $99.99 on Amazon). Once it becomes available in your region, you will be able to download it through the Zepp app. In other updates, the company has recently launched the Helio Armband accessory for customers in the US and Europe.

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    Amazfit Helio Strap Update: Enhanced Heart Rate and Sleep Features

     

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  • Garmin’s Growth Driven by Innovative New Wearables

    Garmin’s Growth Driven by Innovative New Wearables

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin’s revenue increased by 20% in Q2 2024, reaching $1.81 billion.
    2. The gross profit margin improved from 57.3% to 58.8%, and the operating profit margin rose from 22.7% to 26%.
    3. Operating profit for the last quarter was $472.3 million, highlighting strong core business performance.
    4. Garmin’s business is divided into five categories: Fitness, Outdoor, Aviation, Marine, and Auto OEM, making it hard to assess smartwatch market performance.
    5. All segments showed year-on-year growth, with the Fitness segment leading at approximately $605 million in net sales.

    Garmin has a wide range of products, and we often cover their news and reviews at Notebookcheck. Recently, the company announced its financial results for the second quarter of 2025 (PDF). These results show that Garmin had a very successful quarter. When comparing quarterly results, they are measured against the same period from the previous year.

    Strong Revenue Growth

    When looking at the second quarter of 2024, Garmin saw its revenue rise a remarkable 20%, reaching $1.81 billion. The gross profit margin also improved, moving from 57.3% to 58.8%, while the operating profit margin increased from 22.7% to 26%. Operating profit, which reflects earnings from core business operations excluding interest and special income, hit $472.3 million in the last quarter. In contrast, Apple reported an operating profit of $28.20 billion (PDF). While this comparison may seem a bit unfair, Apple is also in the wearable market. Zepp Health, on the other hand, generated $59.4 million in revenue during the second quarter of 2025, marking an impressive 46.2% increase year-over-year, which is a significant leap compared to Garmin’s percentage.

    Business Segmentation

    Garmin organizes its operations into five main categories: Fitness, Outdoor, Aviation, Marine, and Auto OEM. This structure means the company does not categorize its products strictly by type. For instance, various models of smartwatches fall under different segments. Forerunner smartwatches belong to the Fitness category, while Instinct wearables fall under Outdoor. This approach makes it challenging to assess the overall performance of the smartwatch market within Garmin. Nevertheless, the annual report highlights substantial growth in wearables. Every segment experienced year-on-year growth, with the Fitness segment leading, achieving net sales of around $605 million.

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  • Amazfit Balance 2 Update Adds New Heart Rate Feature

    Amazfit Balance 2 Update Adds New Heart Rate Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. Zepp Health released software update 3.16.6.1 for the Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch, following the previous update that added an Ultramarathon workout mode.
    2. The update features enhancements for the Helio Strap fitness tracker, allowing users to check its status and see a heart rate source indicator on the smartwatch.
    3. The user experience after workouts is improved, described as “smoother and more natural.”
    4. The much-anticipated BioCharge energy monitoring feature is not included in this update and is still in development.
    5. The update is initially available to users in the US, Italy, and Canada, with global rollout occurring in the following weeks, and requires the Zepp Health app version 9.11.0 or higher.

    Zepp Health has rolled out a fresh update for the Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch. The new version, 3.16.6.1, comes roughly a month after the previous update, which was version 3.16.0.3 that introduced a new Ultramarathon workout mode.

    Improvements with the Update

    Referred to as the Amazfit Balance 2 OTA 3.1 update, software version 3.16.6.1 brings two enhancements related to the Helio Strap fitness tracker, currently priced at $99.99 on Amazon. After connecting the Helio Strap, users can now check its status directly on the smartwatch. Additionally, when the Helio Strap or any other heart rate tracking band is connected, a new indicator icon will show the source of your workout heart rate.

    Enhanced User Experience

    Another notable change with the version 3.16.6.1 update is the improved on-watch experience after workouts, which is described as “smoother and more natural.” You can see the full release notes in a screenshot shared by a Reddit user below. However, one thing missing from this update is the much-awaited BioCharge, a metric for energy monitoring that is presently exclusive to the Helio Strap. A few weeks back, a brand representative mentioned that Zepp Health is still developing this feature for the smartwatch.

    Update Availability

    Generally, Amazfit tends to release updates first to users in the US, Italy, and Canada, with other global users receiving the update in a couple of weeks. You can install this update through the Zepp Health app, which needs to be at least version 9.11.0 to function properly.

     

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    Amazfit Balance 2 Update Adds New Heart Rate Feature

     

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  • Amazfit Balance 2 Smartwatch Update Adds New Running Feature

    Amazfit Balance 2 Smartwatch Update Adds New Running Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new software update (version 3.16.0.3) for the Balance 2 smartwatch includes an Ultramarathon workout mode and sets Tap to Wake as the default option.
    2. Improvements were made to the Digital Crown scrolling experience, and fixes were implemented for the Eject feature and sound issues.
    3. The lag in the Balance 2’s Control Center has been reduced.
    4. The BioCharge feature is still missing after the update, with ongoing enhancements planned by the Amazfit team.
    5. The update rollout began on July 17th, starting in the US, Italy, and China, with broader availability expected by the end of July; users need Zepp App version 9.9.5 to access it.

    Zepp Health has rolled out a new global software update for the Balance 2 smartwatch. The update, version 3.16.0.3, comes just weeks after an earlier version was seen in China, which introduced new HYROX Training Modes and added a recreational scuba diving mode for some users.

    New Features Added

    In this latest update, the Balance 2 now includes an Ultramarathon workout mode. You can find this new mode under Workout > More workouts > Running & Walking. Additionally, Tap to Wake has been set as the default option. If you want to change this setting, you can easily do so by navigating to Watch Settings > Display > Tap to Wake.

    Improvements and Fixes

    The release notes shared on Discord indicate that Zepp Health has improved the Digital Crown scrolling experience during workouts. There’s also a fix for issues related to the Eject feature, which was not functioning as intended, and a problem where sound was absent has been addressed. Furthermore, the lag in the Balance 2’s Control Center is reportedly reduced. However, the BioCharge feature is still absent post-update; the Amazfit team is currently working on enhancements for this feature in the smartwatch format, but they haven’t specified when it will be available for users.

    Update Rollout Details

    While the official changelog mentions that the rollout began on June 17th, it appears that the actual start date was July 17th. The update should currently be reaching users in the US, Italy, and China, with broader availability in other regions expected by the end of July. Once it’s available in your area, you can update your Balance 2 smartwatch to software version 3.16.0.3 (currently priced at $299.99 on Amazon) through the Zepp Health app. Keep in mind that users need at least Zepp App version 9.9.5 to access the update.

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    Amazfit Balance 2 Smartwatch Update Adds New Running Feature
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  • Amazfit Balance 2 XT Smartwatch Launches at US Retailer

    Amazfit Balance 2 XT Smartwatch Launches at US Retailer

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit Balance 2 XT smartwatch has appeared on Best Buy’s website, with no official announcement from Zepp Health yet.
    2. The smartwatch features a compact 38 mm watch face, smaller than the standard 47 mm Balance 2 model.
    3. It includes the new BioCharge Energy Monitoring feature, which tracks energy levels based on exercise, movement, stress, and rest.
    4. The XT version shares most features with the standard model, but it’s unclear if it has a temperature sensor.
    5. The listed price for the Balance 2 XT is $199.99, significantly lower than the standard Balance 2’s price of $299.99, but the final pricing remains uncertain.

    The Amazfit Balance 2 XT smartwatch has been spotted on a US retail site. Although Zepp Health, the brand’s parent company, has not yet made an official announcement regarding this new device, rumors about it have circulated since early this year. Additionally, it has surfaced in a few leaked documents.

    Product Listing Details

    A listing for the Balance 2 XT smartwatch has gone live at Best Buy in the US. According to the page, the smartwatch will feature a compact 38 mm watch face, in contrast to the 47 mm face of the standard Balance 2 model. It’s important to mention that Best Buy previously made an error by listing the original Balance smartwatch as 38 mm, leaving the accuracy of this information uncertain.

    Features and Specifications

    The display image for the Balance 2 XT indicates it will include the new BioCharge Energy Monitoring feature, which was introduced with the Amazfit Helio Strap. This feature, akin to Garmin’s Body Battery energy score, utilizes data from your exercise, movements, stress levels, and rest to give you insights into your energy levels throughout the day.

    The listing shows that the XT version shares nearly all features with the standard model, but it does not specify if it includes a temperature sensor. It is also noted to have an aluminum and fiber-reinforced polymer shell, similar to the standard version, despite earlier rumors that suggested it would be made from titanium.

    Pricing and Availability

    According to the Best Buy page, the Amazfit Balance 2 XT smartwatch is priced at $199.99 in the US, which is $100 less than the standard Balance 2 smartwatch, which is listed at $299.99 on Amazon. However, it’s uncertain whether this price is final or just a placeholder. We’ll need to wait for Amazfit to officially reveal the Balance 2 XT smartwatch to know its full and precise specifications. As of now, the release date for this device remains unknown.

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  • Amazfit Balance 2 Update Adds New Diving Mode Feature

    Amazfit Balance 2 Update Adds New Diving Mode Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. Zepp Health has launched an upgrade for the Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch, which debuted in May 2025 and is now available worldwide.

    2. The update introduces three new HYROX Training Modes: free training, training templates, and timed training (including TABATA, AMRAP, and EMOM formats).

    3. A new scuba diving mode is included, allowing dives up to 45 m (148 ft) and supporting various diving modes (single cylinder, air, nitrox, and no-stop).

    4. Additional features in the update include a safety light for nighttime workouts and improved navigation options with topographic maps.

    5. The update is currently being rolled out in China, with no announced timeline for availability in other regions.

    Zepp Health has revealed the first upgrade for the Balance 2 smartwatch. This device made its debut in China in May 2025 and has since become available worldwide, along with the brand’s Helio Strap (currently priced at $99.99 on Amazon).

    New Training Features

    On Weibo, a popular social media site in China, Zepp Health disclosed information regarding the latest update for the Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch. This update is expected to introduce three innovative HYROX Training Modes to the device: free training, training templates, and timed training, which includes TABATA, AMRAP, and EMOM formats for the timed training.

    Scuba Diving Mode and More

    The new recreational scuba diving mode is finally here, capable of reaching a maximum dive depth of 45 m (approximately 148 ft). It supports single cylinder, air and nitrox, as well as no-stop diving modes. Additional features consist of a safety light for nighttime workouts and a navigation option for topographic maps. Moreover, there are improvements in the app’s display, activity lists, and the layout of maps and track navigation.

    The update seems to be currently being rolled out for users of the Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch in China. However, the company has not yet provided information on when it will be available in other regions.

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