Garmin's CIRQA almost had a paywall problem, but the company listened
Android Police 2026-07-22 21:28:10
Context: Garmin's new screenless wearable, the CIRQA, was initially set to have a paywall for its live heart rate tracking feature during workouts, requiring users to subscribe to Garmin Connect+. However, after feedback, the company has decided to make an update to the Garmin Connect Mobile app to unlock this feature for CIRQA users. This move aims to compete with other products in the market, such as WHOOP and Google's Fitbit Air.
Key Facts
- The Garmin CIRQA is the company's first screenless wearable device, entering a market dominated by WHOOP and recently challenged by Google's Fitbit Air.
- The live heart rate tracking feature during workouts on the CIRQA was initially only available to users who subscribed to Garmin Connect+, the company's premium service.
- Garmin clarified this information to DC Rainmaker, a well-known figure in the sports technology products space, who reported on the development via Notebookcheck.
- The update to the Garmin Connect Mobile app will allow CIRQA users to access the live heart rate tracking feature without needing to pay for Garmin Connect+.
- WHOOP's subscription service, required for its product to function, can cost up to $359 per year, making Garmin's and Google's subscription-free core features an attractive alternative for consumers.