Garmin’s upcoming heart rate monitor, the HRM-FIT, gets regulatory approval

The Malaysian SIRIM database, responsible for overseeing telecommunications and radio communications equipment in that country, has added a new entry: a heart rate monitor from Garmin named HRM-FIT.

For those who might not be acquainted with the intricacies of the SIRIM database, it functions as a crucial regulatory checkpoint in Malaysia. Before any tech product makes its debut in that market, it needs to be registered on the SIRIM platform. This ensures that all products align with the country’s standards and regulations, providing a layer of assurance to consumers.

It’s worth mentioning that, as of now, no other regulatory body, be it in Asia, Europe, or the Americas, has made any mention of this specific Garmin product. At least, not yet. No doubt, they will in the coming weeks.

Existing Garmin heart rate monitors

Heart rate monitors that connect to smartwatches have gained significant popularity among fitness enthusiasts and athletes. While smartwatches come equipped with their own heart rate sensors, they don’t match the precision of dedicated heart rate monitors. This is particularly the case during intense physical activities. By pairing a smartwatch with a dedicated heart rate monitor, users can harness the best of both worlds: the multifunctionality of a smartwatch and the pinpoint accuracy of a specialized heart rate device.

Garmin is no stranger to standalone heart rate monitors. Sitting at the top of its current range are the HRM-Pro Plus and HRM-Pro. Both priced at $129.99, they not only capture training data with precision but also offer dual transmission capabilities and insights into running dynamics. In fact, those two devices are exactly the same apart from the colour options and battery changing mechanism.

For those on a budget, the HRM-Dual is available at $69.99. Despite the low price, it doesn’t compromise on quality and ensures consistent heart rate data.

Essential reading: Garmin heart rate monitors compared

Swimmers aren’t left behind in Garmin’s lineup. The HRM-Swim, tailored specifically for aquatic environments, ensures that swimmers get accurate heart rate readings, all for $99.99. While the HRM-Run, a favorite among runners, has been discontinued, its legacy in providing detailed metrics for runners remains noteworthy. Garmin also complements its monitors with a range of accessories, from soft straps with electrodes to elastic extenders.

The new kid on the block: Garmin HRM-FIT

As the screenshot below shoes, the SIRIM database lists the new Garmin heart rate monitor with the model number CO3699, named HRM-FIT. This name fits seamlessly within Garmin’s product naming tradition, suggesting it’s a new member of their heart rate monitor family.

The exact specifications of the HRM-FIT remain a mystery currently, so we can only speculate. Historically, Garmin’s heart rate monitors have been chest-based. This design contrasts with some competitors who have diversified their offerings with monitors that can also be worn on the upper arm or bicep. Given the evolving market trends and user preferences, it wouldn’t be surprising if Garmin’s HRM-FIT takes a leap in this direction, offering users more flexibility in how they wear their device.

As of now, there’s no word on when the HRM-FIT will be available for purchase. But its discovery on the Malaysian SIRIM database has certainly piqued our interest.

It’s worth noting that another anticipated Garmin device, the Venu 3, was listed on the SIRIM database a while ago. Its release is also eagerly awaited. Most likely the next edition in the Venu range will land by the end of this month or in early September.

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