Image source: Garmin

Garmin Venu 3 Bluetooth SIG certification & the absence at IFA Berlin

The Garmin Venu 3 has received Bluetooth SIG certification, in addition to the one from the Singapore regulator that we spotted earlier. The company is not on the list of attendees at IFA in Berlin which may be an indicator of a launch before the big tech gathering


The evolution of Garmin Venu 3

Initial regulatory approval

The Venu 3’s journey began with its appearance in the Malaysia regulator SIRIM’s database, marking the first step towards its release. This initial regulatory approval set the stage for what’s to come. To remind, the last version in the series landed in January 2022 in the form of the Venu 2 Plus. It brought with it the addition of a built-in microphone and speaker.

First retailer leak

The excitement grew with the first retailer listing on Volza, confirming the existence of a smaller variant of the Garmin Venu 3. This leak provided tangible evidence of the device’s imminent launch, adding to the anticipation.

Understanding Bluetooth SIG

Now we get the stamp of approval from Bluetooth SIG (Special Interest Group). We just spotted it, and no one has reported on it, as someone has added the filing as a temp entry.

Bluetooth SIG plays a crucial role in the development of Bluetooth technology. The Garmin Venu 3’s certification by Bluetooth SIG is another indicators of readiness for the market.

Garmin Venu 3 Bluetooth SIG
Image source: Bluetooth SIG

Interestingly, the only regulatory certification we are missing currently is from the FCC (Federal Communications Commission). It is quite possible this will land in the days ahead.


Features and expectations

GNSS support

The Venu 3 is expected to include support for multi-band GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System). This support ensures a faster connection and greater accuracy.

Enhanced performance metrics

With the potential for improved recovery advice, Training Readiness, HRV status, and more, the Venu 3 could offer a more comprehensive fitness tracking experience. The current devices in the range are lacking in that department.

Additional sensors

The device is likely to include upgraded sensors like the expected Garmin Elevate Gen 5 and possibly skin temperature tracking. The later would be a first for a Garmin watch.

LTE Connectivity

The possibility of proper LTE connectivity could make the Venu 3 an even better all-purpose smartwatch. It would allow users to make calls, text, and more without a smartphone.

Multiple size options

The reintroduction of two sizes adds to the device’s appeal, catering to a broader audience. To remind, we are expecting the regular Venu 3 along with a smaller 3s variant.

Competitive pricing

A potential reduction in selling price could make the Venu 3 more competitive in the general smartwatch market. The watch is quite pricey as it is.


Garmin and the IFA in Berlin – a regular attendee

Garmin has regularly attended the IFA in Berlin, and this attendance has featured prominently in the company’s launch strategy in the past. However, last year, the company announced only the Venu Sq 2 at Europe’s tech gathering, scaling back its approach from earlier years. Looking at the list of attendees for 2023, the list does not even mention the company.

Essential readingTop fitness trackers and health gadgets

Garmin’s possible absence from the IFA event, coupled with the Bluetooth SIG certification, leads to speculation that the company may launch the Venu 3 before the event, signalling a shift in strategy. Or perhaps they will be added to the list of attendees in the weeks to come. The event is being held in Berlin between 1st and 5th of September, so there is still time.

Regardless, we should get the Venu 3 soon. This appears to be the only Garmin watch on the near-term horizon as no other regulatory filings have been spotted. It’s’s quite possible things will ramp up in late September and October, ahead of the holiday shopping season.

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Ivan Jovin

Ivan has been a tech journalist for over 7 years now, covering all kinds of technology issues. He is the guy who gets to dive deep into the latest wearable tech news.

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