Garmin watches now support navigation via Google Maps
Garmin is bringing Google Maps to its sports watches. The app is now available to download from the Connect IQ Store.
Google Maps lands on Garmin watches.
(Image: Garmin)
Google Maps is moving into Garmin watches. The new app is available on selected models from the Venu, Forerunner, Vivoactive and Fenix series. Similar to smartwatches, it can be used to display turn-by-turn directions directly on the wrist.
Android smartphones required
According to Garmin, users must first enter the planned destination on their Android smartphone. The navigation instructions are then transferred to the watch. The function then informs the user of any changes in direction while on foot or by bike.
Garmin also explains that pedestrians are alerted to upcoming direction changes with the help of vibrations to save them having to look at their smartphone. Users can also have the next three turns displayed on the smartwatch.
The new navigation feature does not get in the way of sporting activities: users who record an activity with their Garmin watch, including distance, heart rate and other sensor data, can use the Google Maps app for navigation at the same time.
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At the end of the run or other activity, users can synchronize their activity data from Garmin Connect with other Android health and fitness apps via Health Connect.
The fact that Garmin does not offer Google Maps for iPhone users is probably due to Apple's limited interfaces. Just a few months ago, Pebble founder Eric Migicovsky made the restrictions imposed by Apple on smartwatch providers clear during the announcement of the new Pebble models. Apple makes it "systematically almost impossible" for third-party providers of wearables to create a good experience for iPhone users. Apple refers to security and data protection, but Migicovsky emphasized that he himself sees things very differently. "It's clear that they are using their market power to lock customers into their ecosystem." (afl)
