Garmin backtracks on Cirqa subscription after outcry from fans and makes a crucial feature available for free

Date:
Thu, 23 Jul 2026 13:38:05 +0000

Description:
Garmin has decided that users of the new Cirqa should be able to access real time hear rate data without a subscription.

FULL STORY ======================================================================Copy link Facebook X Whatsapp Reddit Pinterest Flipboard Threads Email Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter Live heart rate data will be free for Garmin Cirqa users Early testers noticed it had been put behind the Connect+ subscription The new tracker costs $199.99 / 179.99 / AU$299.99
We've already put the newly unveiled Garmin Cirqa through an extensive hands-on testing session , and came away very impressed. However, there were complaints from those who had early access to the device that live heart rate data was locked behind a paywall.

Now Garmin is taking that negative feedback on board: as reported by seasoned tech reporter Ray Maker (via Android Police ), live heart rate data will be available to every Cirqa user "in the coming days", with or without a Garmin Connect+ subscription. The subscription, which applies across all of Garmin's wearables, has been the subject of much debate since it launched last year . For $6.99 / 6.99 / AU$12 per month or $69.99 / 69.99 / AU$120 a year, it
gives you access to more metrics and more insights about the fitness data you're amassing. Latest Videos From Watch full video here:

Live heart rate readings aren't usually locked behind Connect+, so it's strange that Garmin initially made this the case with the Cirqa. Whatever the reasoning or confusion, the anomaly is now being dealt with, which is good news. The rise of subscriptions Good news update! Garmin will be making a change to Garmin Connect Mobile in the coming days, so you'll now be able to see Live HR from Cirqa during a workout (previously, you could only see workout Average HR unless you had Garmin Connect+). See...feedback works. Sometimes. :) https://t.co/q5qL8T4YhZ July 22, 2026 If you're new to the Garmin Cirqa (and it was only announced a few days ago), it takes on the
likes of the Whoop wearables and the Fitbit Air by giving you a capable, lightweight wrist tracker without the distraction (and battery drain) of a display. You may like Is Garmin Cirqa good? I tested it against the best
heart rate strap Coros' CEO on how the smartwatch maker is bucking the trend by swerving subscriptions It looks like Garmin is finally preparing its
Fitbit Air-style band for launch

Both the Cirqa and the Fitbit Air offer basic tracking features and functionality for free, with a pile of extras available if you sign up for a subscription. With Whoop bands, like the Whoop MG , a subscription is compulsory, otherwise it's pretty much useless plans start at $199 / 169 / AU$299 per year.

As we've written about before , it's a sign of the times that so many tech devices, from smartwatches to security cameras, now come with monthly subscriptions attached usually stealing away the best features for the
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If you're tempted by a Garmin Cirqa and its display-free design, it's available for $199.99 / 179.99 / AU$299.99 direct from Garmin, with availability from tomorrow, July 24 and you will be able to record real time heart rate data, via the accompanying Garmin app. Follow TechRadar on Google News and add us as a preferred source to get our expert news, reviews, and opinion in your feeds. Today's best fitness tracker deals Oura Ring 5 399
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Link to news story: https://www.techradar.com/health-fitness/fitness-trackers/garmin-backtracks-on -cirqa-subscription-after-outcry-from-fans-and-makes-a-crucial-feature-availab le-for-free


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