Latest news with #Forerunner
Tom's Guide
21-07-2025
- Tom's Guide
Garmin fans, I have good news — we could be about to get 2 new smartwatches very soon
Garmin could be about to announce two brand new fitness-focused smartwatches, according to the latest murmurings across the internet. Specifically, an official tease from the company suggests a new Forerunner model while an unofficial leak could signal a new Venu. Let's start with the official news first. According to an official glimpse from Garmin shared on Chinese social media, we could be looking at a new Forerunner model. The outline of a very Forerunner-esque watch can be seen alongside a date: July 22. Which is tomorrow. According to fitness tipster the5krunner, this could mean one of a few things. Either it's a new China-only model (unlikely) or a region-specific version of a Forerunner that Garmin already makes. Or, failing that, it could of course be a brand new model that we'll get first eyes on this week. Alongside the image outline, the tease has a "1XXX" number alongside it. If that's the product number, it's a strange one — Garmin usually favors a three digit numbering schema. Alternatively, it's the price of the device in yuan. Which, even if it's 1999 yuan ($278 / £207), would make it an affordable Forerunner compared to the other models. Either way, we won't have long to wait to find out if there is a new model coming and whether or not it'll shape up alongside the best Garmin watches already out there. The latest Forerunner is our new top pick for the best Garmin watch. In our Garmin Forerunner 265 review, we called it "a huge improvement" over the previous model. This iteration of the watch brings a gorgeous AMOLED display with a higher resolution, plus Garmin's Training Readiness Score feature. You also get accurate GPS and lots of advanced training metrics at a glance. It's been a minute since Garmin released its last Venu watch, the Garmin Venu 3 back in 2023. So it makes sense the brand would be thinking about a follow-up and according to a report from Notebookcheck, we've just seen our first mention of it. A revised Japanese user manual for the Venu 3, published earlier this month, contains a reference to the Venu 4 when discussing the brand's paid Golf Membership service. The reference states: "In addition, Venu 4 device users can subscribe to Garmin Golf Membership to use course layouts (2nd generation) and PlaysLike distances on the device, and hazard/layup information can be overlaid on the map." Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Which, of course, tells us nothing about the specs or the timeline of the device, other than it likely will exist and probably be useful on the golf course. The Venu 3 was released in August on 2023, so if Garmin wants to keep to the same release cadence, then maybe we'll get more word about the Venu 4 in the coming weeks and possibly a reveal next month. Follow Tom's Guide on Google News to get our up-to-date news, how-tos, and reviews in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button.
WIRED
13-07-2025
- WIRED
The Garmin Forerunner 970 Celebrates Your Race Finish With You
It has 15 new sport profiles compared to the Forerunner 965, including things like Backcountry Snowboarding, Pickleball, and even some motor sports. The list isn't as extensive as the Fenix 8, though, which can track surfing and now works as a full-on dive watch for recreational scuba and freediving. It really feels like the lack is just to differentiate between the Forerunner and Fenix lines, because a software update could do it. Fortunately, the map features have been cribbed from the Fenix 8, and they're excellent. It comes with extensive topographical maps installed. The maps are colorful, bright, and easy to navigate by pinching and tapping. A new feature is Round Trip Routing, with corrections (theoretically). If you're in an unfamiliar city, you can tell the watch that you want to do a 5-mile run and it will suggest a loop for you. If you accidentally take a wrong turn or see some pretty thing you want to go check out, it will fluidly reroute you to get you back to your hotel while hitting your goal distance (within reason, of course). It's such a great idea, but I could never get it to work. If I went off the route, the whole watch would crash, and I had to power cycle it. Hopefully this is something Garmin can fix in a future software update (the updates come roughly once a month). On the upside, I found GPS performance to be accurate, even among trees, cliffs, and tall buildings. A Lot of Competition Photograph: Brent Rose It's worth mentioning that Garmin also launched the new, midrange Forerunner 570. It has a shorter battery life, less-premium materials (Gorilla Glass 3 vs. Sapphire, aluminum bezel vs. titanium), less memory at 8 GB vs. 32 GB, no built-in mapping, and no flashlight. You get the speaker and mic though, and there's the option of a 42 mm display instead of just 47 mm, which is nice for those with smaller wrists. With all that said, a lot of these features are available on the Fenix 8. The Fenix 8 has more expensive materials, like a full titanium body; some of the same hardware, like the mic and speaker, and better battery life. There are some features that aren't currently available, like Running Tolerance, but those are coming via a huge new software update that Garmin just announced. The Fenix 8 is way more expensive than the Forerunner 970, but it's also much older. If the Fenix 8 goes on sale, as it occasionally does, it's a no-brainer to get it instead. The Forerunner 970 is a premium watch with advanced features that will give you a lot of insight and assistance if you're trying to go pro, but it might be overkill if you're not and you occasionally like to surf instead.
Android Authority
12-07-2025
- Android Authority
I've been using Garmin watches for 5 years and just discovered this clever trick
Ryan Haines / Android Authority At this point, I've probably reviewed more than a dozen Garmin watches since taking my place as Android Authority's resident runner. You might say it's become a big part of my personality, but I'd argue it always was one. I've spent countless hours logging countless miles (alright, Strava probably has an accurate number) across everything from the Instinct to the Forerunner to the Fenix, and I thought I knew everything there was to know about Garmin's lineup. At least I did, until I came across a watch band I wanted to swap out. How often do you replace your watch bands? 400 votes Every week 6 % A few times per month 10 % Once or twice per year 37 % Never 48 % Sorry, Quick Release, but it's all about QuickFit now Ryan Haines / Android Authority To make a long story short, I sweat when I run — like a lot. It's not cute or convenient, but it is what it is. Thankfully, most Garmin watches come with silicone watch bands attached, which might pick up just a little bit of the salt I leave behind, but can usually swipe the sweat without too much issue. Unfortunately, I can't say the same about any of Garmin's fabric bands. As soon as I start sweating in them, they may as well be three feet into a swimming pool, and there's nothing I can do about it. So, I decided to ditch them — all of them. I flipped over my Venu X1, popped out its Quick Release pins, and set up to attach the bands from the Epix Pro 2 that I reviewed several months ago. Then, I realized that my plan wouldn't work. While the Venu X1 uses a relatively standard set of quick-release bands like on countless other smartwatches or traditional watches, the Epix Pro 2 and Fenix 8 use something much smarter: Garmin's own QuickFit system. Garmin doesn't always use QuickFit, but when it does, it's absolutely brilliant. For a second, I was annoyed by the mismatch of band styles. A small part of me still might be, but only because I quickly realized how much better life would be if every watch used Garmin's QuickFit setup. See, QuickFit still relies on a basic pin and release structure, but you just have to release the band instead of releasing the pin itself. It takes almost no effort — pull back on a tiny lever and you're free. I'd compare it to the effort of opening a sliding door, which beats having to line up tiny pins and holes any day. And usually, this type of hiccup would elicit a much worse response from me. I'd use it to bash Garmin's inconsistency, urging it to adopt its much better QuickFit bands for all of its watches instead. This time, though, I'll praise a clever feature I never would have noticed otherwise. I've never considered swapping my Fenix 8 or Epix Pro 2 bands, so I needed this sweaty fabric setup to realize how thoughtful Garmin can be. If Garmin can do it, everyone else should, too Ryan Haines / Android Authority Don't get me wrong — I realize that QuickFit is Garmin's thing and there's a good chance it'll stay that way. After all, Apple already has its slotted setup for the Apple Watch, Samsung has its button-based release mechanism for the Galaxy Watches, and Google seems pretty well set on its slide-out bands for the Pixel Watch. But hear me out — there's no reason it can't become the standard for everyone else. Quick Release became almost universal because of its ease of replacement, and QuickFit seems like the natural next step. Not only would it (hopefully) make some of the existing QuickFit bands cheaper, but it would also probably open up the materials and designs that Garmin fans could tap into. As much as I love my reliable rotation of silicone options, I'll readily admit that they're not always the most appropriate for occasions like weddings, so I would love to be able to swap a leather or metal band in to match my watch of the week. And yes, Garmin already has a couple of QuickFit options that embrace those premium materials, but they're designed for the top-end Marq models and can cost in the neighborhood of $300… which is more than I'd spend on most things, let alone a watchband. Opening up the QuickFit system would make it much, much easier to spice up my favorite Garmin watches. Granted, the main thing preventing other brands from adopting QuickFit probably has nothing to do with price. Instead, I'd imagine it comes down to the fact that swapping in a new pin is a pain in the neck. There's no release on the tiny metal bar itself, so if you damage it, you'll have to cut it in half with pliers before inserting a spring-loaded replacement. If you mess that one up, you'll have to chop it off and repeat the process. I think I have steady hands, but it's still enough to make me nervous. But, as I've learned with every QuickFit band I try out, it's only worth being nervous for a second or two. It's easy to get used to the simple releasing mechanism, and I don't think I'll have to replace my QuickFit pins very often — if ever. And, if I don't, I have to believe that every other aspect of Garmin's QuickFit setup is a winner.
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Business Standard
10-07-2025
- Business Standard
Garmin smartwatches gets Google Maps support with turn-by-turn navigation
Garmin has announced that select models of its smartwatches now support the Google Maps app, allowing users to access navigation features directly from their wrist. After setting a destination on Google Maps using an Android smartphone, users will receive turn-by-turn guidance on their Garmin watch while engaging in activities such as walking, cycling, or running. The app is available for free through Garmin's ConnectIQ store and is compatible with certain versions of the Venu, Forerunner, Vívoactive, and Fenix lineups. Navigation and fitness tracking In a blog post, Garmin's Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing, Susan Lyman, said, 'The turn-by-turn notifications will be a game changer for those who want to stay hands-free and keep their phone in their pocket.' With this integration, Garmin smartwatches now deliver turn-by-turn navigation alerts using subtle vibrations, enabling users to follow routes without needing to look at their phone. This feature can be especially useful in crowded areas or when crossing streets. The app can also display the next three turns with a simple tap, providing better situational awareness during movement. The navigation functionality remains active while the watch continues to track fitness data. Whether users are running, walking, or biking, they can receive directions while monitoring metrics such as distance, heart rate, and more. Deeper integration with Health Connect Availability While Garmin has not provided a full list of supported models, users can check the ConnectIQ store to determine compatibility with their device. Although Garmin wearables have long supported third-party navigation tools, the inclusion of Google Maps offers a familiar and reliable alternative, especially for users already within the Android ecosystem.
Yahoo
08-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Garmin smartwatches add turn-by-turn directions with Google Maps
Google Maps app arrives to the Connect IQ Store, providing directions on the wrist OLATHE, Kan., July 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Garmin (NYSE: GRMN) today announced the Google Maps app is now available for free in the Connect IQ™ Store, providing simple, turn-by-turn directions on compatible Garmin smartwatches, including select Venu®, Forerunner®, vívoactive® and fenix® products. After users input a destination into Google Maps on their Android™ smartphone, the app will send notifications to their watch, letting them know about each upcoming turn while they walk, run or cycle. "Whether exploring a new city, mapping out a run or casually cycling with friends, the Google Maps app in the Connect IQ store will keep users going in the right direction. The turn-by-turn notifications will be a game changer for those who want to stay hands-free and keep their phone in their pocket."–Susan Lyman, Garmin Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing For pedestrians For those who prefer to walk to their destination, Google Maps provides on-the-go directions that gently vibrate their Garmin smartwatch to keep users from having to look down at their phones while crossing the street or maneuvering through a crowd. And for even greater awareness, simply tap into the app to see the next three turns. For fitness fanatics Users can still record walks, runs or bike rides on their Garmin smartwatch while using Google Maps, allowing them to track distance, heart rate and more, while also getting notified when it's time to make a turn along the route. Once they arrive at their destination, users can sync their activity data from Garmin Connect to other Android health and fitness apps via Health Connect, providing them with more tools and flexibility than ever before. The Google Maps app is available now in the Connect IQ Store and is free to download. The Connect IQ Store is an all-in-one source for Garmin customers looking to personalize their compatible Garmin devices. With thousands of options to choose from, users can download apps, watch faces, music streaming services and more right to their device. The Connect IQ Store is accessible through the Google Play and Apple App Store. For more information, email our media team or connect with us on LinkedIn. For developers interested in creating on-device applications for Garmin customers around the world, visit the Connect IQ developer site. About Garmin International, Inc. Garmin International, Inc. is a subsidiary of Garmin Ltd. (NYSE: GRMN). Garmin Ltd. is incorporated in Switzerland, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. Garmin is a registered trademark and Connect IQ is a trademark of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Google Maps is a trademark of Google LLC. Android is a trademark of Google LLC. Apple is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved. Notice on Forward-Looking Statements:This release includes forward-looking statements regarding Garmin Ltd. and its business. Such statements are based on management's current expectations. The forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this release may not occur and actual results could differ materially as a result of known and unknown risk factors and uncertainties affecting Garmin, including, but not limited to, the risk factors listed in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 28, 2024, filed by Garmin with the Securities and Exchange Commission (Commission file number 0-31983), and the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 29, 2025 filed by Garmin with the Securities and Exchange Commission (Commission file number 001-41118). Copies of such Form 10-K and Form 10-Q are available at No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and Garmin undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. MEDIA CONTACTS:Brianna Silverman and Natalie View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Garmin International, Inc. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
