Garmin released the Connect IQ 9.3 update, and a major inclusion here is that it finally lets third-party apps access the mic and speaker on supported smartwatches. The supported device list is relatively big, including the new Fenix 9 series, among others. For a company that’s usually restrictive about giving developers access to its hardware, this is definitely a welcome change.
Garmin’s latest update allows third-party apps to access the watch’s mic and speaker
There’s reportedly a new audio capture feature that lets apps record audio through the watch’s microphone. Developers can choose between WAV and Ogg formats. Garmin apparently also offers noise reduction and echo-cancellation filters. Apps receive the audio in small chunks as they record, allowing them to process speech in real time.
Meanwhile, the new audio output feature lets apps play audio from saved clips, audio generated when the app is running, and others. Apps can control playback, adjust the volume, and track playback progress. Apps need separate permission to play audio. That said, it’s not clear whether apps can choose between the watch’s speaker and Bluetooth headphones.
Apps will need permissions to access them
Previously, microphone and speaker capabilities were mainly used by Garmin’s own features. However, the company has recently started opening up this technology, with the introduction of “OK Garmin” voice features. Needless to say, this access opens the door for new possibilities for third-party apps. We may finally see developers adding certain features.
Besides the Fenix 9 series, the supported watches include the Fenix 8 series, Forerunner 570 and 970, the Venu 4 and X1, Approach S72, and others. However, there are a few limitations that are worth noting. Third-party apps can only record while they’re active and not when they’re running in the background. Apps will also need permissions to access the microphone or speaker.
The company is only opening access to third-party apps, so nothing changes for users right away until developers update their apps.
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