Garmin became known for the handheld GPS receivers they released for cars. Yet, they have created some wearable devices in more recent times. Now, the company is introducing the Vivoactive HR sports watch and an improved version of their entry level activity tracker, called Vivofit 3. The Vivoactive HR features a better design compared to the regular Vivoactive, as the design of the new watch is better integrated with the strap. Another big addition to the new watch is the integrated heart-rate monitor, so no extra hardware is needed to get this measurement while exercising. It obviously includes a GPS sensor to track positioning while running, cycling, swimming, golfing, rowing and skiing or snowboarding, each of the sports have its own custom settings.
The color screen of the Vivoactive HR is readable even in direct sunlight, as it features Chroma Display technology. This display is also less power-hungry, as the watch can last for up to eight days in activity tracking mode. The GPS sensor needs more energy, though, so with the GPS turned on, the battery can last for up to 13 hours. There’s also a built-in accelerometer to track additional movements. Another new feature on the Vivoactive HR is called Move IQ, it automatically detects if users are walking, running, biking, swimming or elliptical training, so there’s no need to start a timed activity to track each of these sports. The Connect IQ platform lets you review your daily activities, so users can also know if they have reached their goals, it can also provide health-related tips. The watch also supports widgets and different watch faces, it can track sleep patterns and users can participate in challenges with their friends. The Vivoactive HR will be available in Q2 2016 and it is priced at $250, additional straps in different colors include black, white, yellow and red, each of them cost $30.
The Vivofit 3 also features a new design compared to its predecessor, it features an improved but smaller backlit display to show steps, calories, distance and the most intensely active moments of the day. The band is water resistant and it also features Move IQ, so it can automatically recognize which sport is being practiced. The standard coin battery is user-replaceable and it can last for up to a year. The Vivofit 3 is priced lower than its predecessor, it now costs $100 and additional band colors can be purchased at $30, while those made by Jonathan Adler cost $40.
