In a move that’s as surprising as it is genuine, Garmin has unveiled its latest smartwatch, the Vivoactive 6. Breaking the mold of typical April Fools’ Day pranks, this isn’t a jest, but a tangible evolution of the popular Vivoactive 5. Garmin has opted for a real product launch, presenting a device that refines and enhances its predecessor, offering users a suite of upgraded features.
Enhanced Display and Core Performance
While many companies shy away from product releases on April 1st due to the day’s inherent skepticism, Garmin confidently steps forward with the Vivoactive 6, a successor to the Vivoactive 5, which debuted a year and a half ago. At the heart of the Vivoactive 6 is a revamped AMOLED display, touted by Garmin as significantly brighter than its forerunner. Though specific brightness metrics remain undisclosed, the 1.2-inch screen retains its crisp 390 x 390 pixel resolution, shielded by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, and maintains the convenience of an Always On Display.
Battery longevity remains a strong suit, matching the Vivoactive 5’s impressive 11-day lifespan. However, Garmin has doubled the onboard storage capacity, catering to users who demand more space for their apps and data. Notably, the Vivoactive 6 expands its location services with the inclusion of BeiDou and QZSS, offering enhanced navigational precision. A key upgrade is the addition of a built-in gyroscope, a feature absent in the Vivoactive 5, broadening the device’s motion-tracking capabilities.
Advanced Health and Lifestyle Features
Garmin has enriched the Vivoactive 6 with a suite of new health and lifestyle functionalities. The introduction of Red Shift mode aims to minimize eye strain during nighttime use, while expanded activity profiles cater to a broader range of fitness enthusiasts. The Daily Suggested Workouts feature now offers more tailored guidance. A standout addition is the Smart Wake Alarm, designed to gently rouse users at the optimal moment within their sleep cycle, based on comprehensive sleep data analysis.
What’s new in Vívoactive 6 Vs 5?
- Sleeker Design: The vívoactive 6 presents a slimmer profile, measuring 10.9mm, a slight reduction from the vívoactive 5’s 11.1mm. A redesigned start/stop button also distinguishes the new model.
- Enhanced Navigation: Expect improved location accuracy with the addition of QZSS and Beidou GNSS support, complementing the existing GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo.
- Expanded Storage: Doubling the onboard storage to 8GB allows for more music and data.
- Novel Smart Wake Alarm: A unique feature, the Smart Wake Alarm, aims to gently rouse you during a light sleep phase within a specified timeframe.
- Advanced Training Tools:
- Access Garmin Run Coach and Strength Coach for structured training.
- Receive Daily Suggested Workouts, currently focused on walking activities.
- Utilize Running Power and Running Dynamics for detailed performance metrics.
- Employ PacePro™ for strategic race pacing.
- Get insights with the Race Predictor.
- Benefit from an expanded selection of sport and activity profiles.
- Follow visual guidance with workout animations for strength, yoga, and Pilates.
- Motion Tracking Improvements: A built in Gyroscope is included for better motion tracking.
Notable Omissions and Release Date
Surprisingly, the Vivoactive 6 omits passcode support, a security feature Garmin had previously integrated into other smartwatches, including the Vivoactive 5, earlier in the year. The watch is compatible exclusively with 20mm watch bands, and the standard bands are designed to fit wrists ranging from 125mm to 190mm in circumference.
The Vivoactive 6 is slated for release on April 4th, with a retail price of $299.99. Consumers will have the choice of four distinct color options.
Also Read: The Latest News About Garmin Vivoactive Series
