- Live heart rate data will be free for Garmin Cirqa users
- Early testers noted that it had fallen behind the Connect+ subscription
- The new tracker costs $199.99 / £179.99 / AU$299.99
We’ve already put the newly introduced Garmin Cirqa through an extensive hands-on test session and came away very impressed. However, there were complaints from those who had early access to the device that the live heart rate data was locked behind a paywall.
Now Garmin is taking that negative feedback into account: As reported by seasoned tech reporter Ray Maker (via Android Police), live heart rate data will be available to all Cirqa users “in the coming days,” with or without a Garmin Connect+ subscription.
The subscription, which applies to all Garmin wearables, has been the subject of much debate. since its launch last year. For $6.99 / £6.99 / AU$12 a month or $69.99 / £69.99 / AU$120 a year, it gives you access to more metrics and more information about the fitness data you’re accumulating.
Live heart rate readings are generally not locked behind Connect+, so it’s strange that Garmin initially did this with the Cirqa. Whatever the reasoning or confusion, the anomaly is now being fixed, which is good news.
The increase in subscriptions
Good news update! Garmin is making a switch 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 average workout HR unless you had Garmin Connect+). Look…feedback works. Sometimes. 🙂 https://t.co/q5qL8T4YhZJuly 22, 2026
If you’re new to the Garmin Cirqa (and it was only announced a few days ago), it takes on wearables like Whoop and Fitbit Air by giving you a lightweight, capable wrist tracker without the distraction (and battery drain) of a screen.
Both Cirqa and Fitbit Air offer basic tracking and features for free, with plenty of extras available if you sign up for a subscription. With Whoop bands, like Whoop MG, subscription is mandatory; otherwise it’s virtually useless – plans start at $199 / £169 / AU$299 per year.
As we’ve written before, it’s a sign of the times that so many tech devices, from smartwatches to security cameras, now come with monthly subscriptions attached, often robbing the best features of the device in question.
If you’re tempted by a Garmin Cirqa and its screenless design, it’s available for $199.99 / £179.99 / AU$299.99 direct from Garmin, with availability starting tomorrow, July 24, and you’ll 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 receive news, reviews and opinions from our experts in your feeds.
