Garmin launches Connect IQ System 8 beta with new features and watch face editor

Garmin has announced the launch of the beta version of the new Connect IQ System 8, which is now available for testing by app developers.

Here's What We Know

This update, which comes a year after the previous version of System 7, aims to simplify the process of creating applications for the brand's smartwatches by offering enhanced functionality.

The update brought important changes for developers. Garmin has added an extension for Visual Studio Code that simplifies application development. Now you can quickly find errors, get function hints, and easily search for change definitions. Also, watches that support the new system have an additional 16 MB of memory for applications.

A new key feature is the watch face editor, available directly on the smartwatch. It allows developers to create up to four variants of Connect IQ watch faces without the need to connect to a computer. This feature is only supported on current models, such as the Fenix 8 (51mm Solar).

The updated notification module also allows users to perform certain actions in the background while the app is running.

Developers can download the beta version of the Connect IQ System 8 SDK and access devices for testing via the Connect IQ SDK manager. If you would like to join the beta programme to test the new features, you can sign up through Garmin Connect and join the programme.

This update provides developers with more options to build apps and customise Garmin smartwatches, helping to improve the user experience.

Source: Garmin