Last week, we caught our first look at Fitbit’s forthcoming screen-less device. While there’s plenty to anticipate, my attention is drawn to the rumored new wearable from Garmin, which could launch any moment.
Garmin has long dominated the high-end wearable market, catering to demanding users like triathletes and ultramarathon runners. However, the Whoop Strap has emerged as a strong contender. This strap, devoid of a screen or buttons, offers a distraction-free approach to monitoring health, emphasizing the crucial role of rest and recovery in a comprehensive fitness routine. It has gained popularity among professional athletes such as LeBron James and Michael Phelps.
Credit: Stephen Curry Instagram
Despite my fondness for the Whoop Strap, which I’ve used intermittently for about five years, the high annual subscription fee has been a significant barrier. Google’s new Fitbit, showcased by Steph Curry, aims to circumvent this by offering a one-time payment option, similar to most fitness trackers. While this might appeal to beginners, I believe Garmin’s forthcoming product will be a more formidable competitor to Whoop.
A new contender for the throne
Details about Garmin’s new wearable, likely the Garmin Cirqa according to an earlier leak, remain scarce. However, the company’s track record suggests a high level of quality. Garmin wearables are renowned for their durability and superior battery life. For instance, the sleek Garmin Venu X1, which I prefer, can last 8 to 9 days on a single charge, far exceeding the day-long battery life of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8.
Thomas Deehan / Foundry
The Garmin Connect app, already streamlined to focus on essential information, should easily adapt to the new technology. Similar to Whoop, it provides instant insights into how well-rested you are. What remains crucial is for Garmin to clearly convey to existing users the benefits of using the Cirqa alongside their current Garmin watch. Samsung attempted a similar strategy with the Samsung Galaxy Ring, though it didn’t fully succeed in my view.
Personally, consolidating all my fitness data into one app would be advantageous, as switching between Garmin and Whoop software can be cumbersome, especially when conflicting data arises. However, I understand this is a niche requirement.
So where is it?
The Garmin Cirqa was anticipated to launch in March, but its release remains pending. No official explanation has been provided for the delay. There is speculation that Garmin might have paused its release due to insider knowledge about Fitbit’s plans.
While Whoop is well-regarded, Fitbit’s brand recognition is considerably stronger, posing a challenge for Garmin, particularly when targeting newcomers to the fitness world.
Though this is speculative, Garmin might be waiting for Fitbit’s move to make strategic adjustments that could offer a competitive edge. Regardless of the reason, it seems we won’t have to wait much longer to discover what the Cirqa has to offer, and I am eager to see it.
