Garmin’s new screen-free fitness tracker doesn’t require a subscription - The Verge

What the report says

The Verge reports that Garmin has introduced the Cirqa Smart Band, a $199.99 fitness and wellness tracker designed without a display. The screen-free approach is meant to reduce distractions and help the device reach up to 10 days of battery life between charges. Garmin is selling the Cirqa now through its online store, according to the report.

The band uses heart rate, blood oxygen, skin temperature and motion sensors to monitor activity and health metrics throughout the day and night. It comes with an adjustable fabric strap that can be worn on the wrist or upper arm, and is offered in french gray, mauve, captain blue and black. Users can control activity tracking through the Garmin Connect app or assign a favorite workout shortcut to the device’s single side button.

According to The Verge, the Cirqa can track more than 80 activities, including running and yoga. In the app, users can review training progress, workout effectiveness and recovery guidance. Overnight, the band can provide sleep-stage details, breathing and heart-rate information, and an overall sleep score. Garmin also says skin temperature readings can support menstrual cycle tracking, including period predictions and past ovulation estimates.

The launch matters because Garmin is positioning Cirqa against other minimalist fitness wearables while avoiding subscription fees. The Verge notes that it is cheaper than Whoop’s hardware model, which requires plans starting at $199 a year, but more expensive than Google’s $99 Fitbit Air, whose advanced features are tied to an optional $99 annual Google Health Premium subscription.