Garmin intros an updated vívosmart HR with GPS tracking capabilities

After just recently announcing the vívomove fitness watch, Garmin has now taken the wraps off its new vívosmart HR+ activity tracker. While it’s pretty much just an upgraded version of the super-popular vívosmart HR from 2015, there are still a few notable improvements you’ll want to check out.

So what does it bring to the table? Most notably, the HR+ comes with GPS tracking capabilities and automatic activity detection. These are two features that were noticeably missing from the OG vívosmart HR, so we’re really happy to see Garmin bring them to another device. The addition of a built-in GPS will allow users to more accurately track distance, time and pace for their workouts, and also view a map of their route in the Garmin Connect application. Also, thanks to the GPS, the HR+ is getting some new running features like personal records, virtual pacer, Auto Pause, Auto Lap and walk/run mode.

Using a feature called Garmin Move IQ, the vívosmart HR+ will now be able to automatically detect which activity you’re currently doing. So whether you’re running, walking, biking, swimming or training on the elliptical, the HR+ will be able to recognize that and record your data in the Connect app.

Of course, it can also track your steps taken, distance traveled, calories burned, floors climbed and active minutes. It also has a water rating of 5 ATM and offers all-day heart rate monitoring.

Garmin says the vívosmart HR+ will last up to 5 days on a single charge, just like its predecessor. That’s with GPS turned off, though. If you want to use the built-in GPS, you’re estimated to get about 8 hours of battery life. Ouch.

The new tracker is now available at Garmin.com for $219.99 and comes in Black/Shark Fin Gray, Imperial Purple/Kona Purple and Midnight Blue/Bolt Blue color options. Interested in learning more? Head to the source link below for the details.