Garmin has released a new version of its vivoactive 3 that adds features focused on music and mobile payments. The new device is named the vivoactive 3 Music to distinguish it from the model that was released in August 2017, which will continue to be sold as a more effective option.
Garmin is a recognized brand that has been building GPS navigation and fitness devices for many years. From the Speak Plus to the Approach Z80, the company has showed that it is not afraid to develop products that span across many categories.
Smart watches have become very popular over the last few years, with products like the Apple Watch, Samsung Gear, and the Moto 360, consumers have had many options to choose from to get the features that suit their needs. Garmin has also been competing in this arena for quite some time and its latest watch shows that they remain committed to this lineup.
The integration of music is one of the features that helps the new watch stand out from its sibling. Music was also a focus of Apple in its latest release of the Apple Watch Series 3 that lets you stream songs on-the-go if you opt for a cellular version and choose to pay the monthly fee to your carrier.
Since the vivoactive 3 Music does not have cellular connectivity, streaming music while out and about will not be an option. Instead users will need to sync offline playlists from compatible services like iHeartRadio and Deezer (not available yet, but coming soon).
Like most wearables, this watch does not have a headphone jack. Garmin has opted for wireless listening via Bluetooth headphones, a route that most devices of this size have also chosen. While Bluetooth headphones are likely a more comfortable option, they also are an added cost for folks that do not already own a pair.
Music is not the only feature that Garmin’s new wearable wields. They also tout that the device will be able to make mobile payments via Garmin Pay wallet. Apple and Samsung watches have offered mobile payments for many years, so customers that prefer Garmin to other brands are sure to appreciate having this feature.
Although some features feel overdue, a couple of features put this watch ahead of the competition. The vivoactive 3 Music has 7-day battery life and an always on display. Both of these are features that most Apple Watch users would love to have.
The Garmin vivoactive 3 Music is priced at $299.99 and is available for purchase today at Amazon and directly from Garmin.
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