Garmin hits hard with its new firmware update 10.20 for the vivoactive 5. On the program: a “Find my phone” tool based on GPS, a Garmin Messenger application to stay in touch even in poorly covered areas, and an improvement in the accuracy of heart rate measurement. An update that promises to transform your experience with the connected watch!
The vivoactive 5 moves up a gear
Good news for owners of the Garmin vivoactive 5: firmware update 10.20 is being deployed. On the menu, a host of new features that have already proven themselves on other models like the Fenix 7 and the Forerunner 955.
Among the most notable additions, we find:
- The Garmin Messenger application and its dedicated widget, to contact your loved ones even in areas where mobile coverage is limited
- The “Find My Phone” tool that uses GPS to guide you to the last known location of your smartphone
- Dynamic heart rate data source switching for increased accuracy when wearing both the watch and a heart rate monitor
A trio of new features that promise to revolutionize the daily use of your vivoactive 5. Garmin once again demonstrates its know-how in terms of innovation and optimization of its connected watches.
A two-step update
The deployment of update 10.20 is accompanied by a new version of GCM Translations (2.17). According to the latest information communicated by Garmin on its forum, 75% of vivoactive 5 users can already download the firmware.
You have two options for updating your watch:
- Via the Garmin Connect mobile app
- Using Garmin Express software on a computer
Note that the Garmin Venu 3 also benefits from a similar update. Enough to offer a harmonized user experience on the latest generations of Garmin connected watches.
Bugs to watch closely
While the new features brought by the 10.20 update are tempting, some users have reported problems with the dynamic heart rate monitor switching tool. An anomaly that Garmin will probably have to correct in a future patch.
Despite this small hiccup, this major update demonstrates Garmin’s commitment to offering ever more complete and efficient connected watches. On-board innovations, such as the “Find my phone” function, meet real user needs and reinforce the relevance of the vivoactive 5 compared to the competition.
Garmin, leader in watchmaking innovation
With this update, Garmin confirms its status as a pioneer in the connected watch market. The American brand continues to push the limits by integrating new and useful features in everyday life.
This desire for innovation is reflected in the history of Garmin:
- In 2003, Garmin launched the Forerunner 201, the first GPS watch dedicated to runners.
- In 2011, the Forerunner 610 introduced a color touchscreen, a revolution for the time
- 2015 marks the arrival of the Forerunner 235, the first Garmin watch with an integrated heart rate monitor
- With the Fenix 5 in 2017, Garmin democratizes contactless payment from the wrist
Today, with benefits like “Find my phone”, the vivoactive 5 is part of this line of major innovations. A connected watch designed for demanding users, who do not want to sacrifice anything between functionality, design and performance.
By integrating more and more cutting-edge technologies into its watches, Garmin proves that it is one step ahead. A profitable strategy that allows the brand to stand out in an ultra-competitive sector, where every innovation counts to attract consumers. With this update, the vivoactive 5 is sure to turn heads and confirms its place among the best smartwatches of the moment. Looking forward to the next update!