Press Release: Latest software release includes breathing variations, rucking activity, stage timer and more.
Garmin (NYSE: GRMN) today announced new software and feature updates for select smartwatches, including fēnix® 8, Forerunner®, Instinct® 3, Lily® 2 Active, Venu® 3 and more. These new features can help customers get the most from their device and take their training to the next level.
Some notable features1 for smartwatches in this software release include:
- Breathing Variations: For a closer glimpse of the user’s health, the breathing variations feature uses Pulse Ox2 to help them better understand shifts in their breathing patterns as they sleep.
- Rucking Activity: Weighted hiking feature allows users to manually input their pack weight for load-carrying exercises to enable more accurate tracking and analysis of metrics like pace, distance, heart rate, VO2 max, calorie burn, elevation and more.
- Pack Weight: For training or trekking, this feature allows pack load to be entered for various activities – including running, trail running, hiking and walking – where carrying extra weight may be involved. Adding pack weight will ensure the user’s VO2 max estimates are not negatively affected.
- Passcode: Help protect sensitive data with a passcode to access smartwatch data. For even greater security, an automatic wrist detection option allows users to set up a pin to regain access once the watch has been removed from their wrist.
- Stage Timer: A new tool for competitive marksmen that gives them alerts via paired hearing protection or from the speaker, so they know the remaining time in their current stage.
Premium feature additions
In addition to the free feature updates above, adventure-seekers and golfers who want even more from their Garmin smartwatch can access new premium features.
Garmin Trails
Extend the adventure with Garmin Trails, making it easier than ever to explore the outdoors. Whether planning a hike, backpacking trip or trail run, users can filter and find trails in select regions that match exactly what they’re looking for – from trail type to dog-friendliness or terrain – accessible in the Garmin Explore or Garmin Connect apps. Users can filter based on features like waterfalls, rivers and forests or on permitting requirements and steepness. Adventurers can also receive trail details, including difficulty, distance, total ascent/descent and estimated time to complete and access the latest community reviews with photos and descriptions.
Explorers can send trails directly to their compatible device for offline access and save a copy to their courses to add points of interest or edit the path with a Garmin Connect+ or Outdoor Maps+ plan. Customers can receive a 30-day free trial when they sign up for Garmin Connect+.
Garmin Golf Membership
Hit the links with premium golf features through a Garmin Golf™ Membership. Venu 3 customers are now able to access many of the premium golf features traditionally available with our premium Approach golf watches. With an active Garmin Golf Membership, golfers can now see the course in advanced detail with access to full-color CourseView maps, touch targeting, PlaysLike distance and Green Contours. Users can add a Garmin Golf Membership on a month-by-month basis ($9.99/month) or save with an annual plan ($99.99/year); both options include a free 30-day trial.
The software updates have started to roll out to compatible devices. Customers can update their smartwatch by enabling automatic updates from their device and syncing with Garmin Connect, or by using Garmin Express™. For a comprehensive list of features coming to associated devices, click here.
Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionized the aviation, automotive, fitness, marine and outdoor markets. Dedicated to helping people make the most of the time they spend pursuing their passions, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday. Visit the Garmin Newsroom, email our media team, connect with @garmin on social, or follow our blog.
1For a comprehensive list of compatible devices, visit garmin.com/en-US/support/software/wearables.
2This is not a medical device and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or monitoring of any medical condition; see Garmin.com/ataccuracy. Pulse Ox not available in all countries.
About Garmin International, Inc.
Garmin Ltd. (NYSE: GRMN) is incorporated in Switzerland, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. Garmin, fēnix, Forerunner, Instinct, Lily and Venu are registered trademarks, and Garmin Express and Garmin Golf are trademarks of Garmin, Ltd. or its subsidiaries.
All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.
More info here.
