QZSS & Beidou support on Garmin’s latest watches: what it means for users

Garmin seems to have quietly expanded satellite coverage on its new Fenix 8 series and Enduro 3 watches. This addition involves support for two additional Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS): QZSS (Quasi-Zenith Satellite System) and Beidou.

While this development might seem subtle, it could be important for users in specific scenarios. Garmin’s high-end watches have traditionally supported GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo. Now, with the inclusion of QZSS and Beidou, the devices are potentially leveraging more satellites to enhance accuracy and reliability.

Understanding QZSS and Beidou

Before diving into the practical benefits of this expanded coverage, it is important to understand what QZSS and Beidou are.

• QZSS (Quasi-Zenith Satellite System): This originates from Japan. QZSS aims to provide highly accurate positioning services in the Asia-Oceania region. Now, this can work as a stand-alone system. But it is primarily designed to augment a GPS signal. For example in urban and mountainous environments where GPS signals may be weak or obstructed.
• Beidou: This is China’s answer to GPS and is a bit wider in coverage than QZSS. Nevertheless, it is mostly used in Asia. Like GPS, it provides positioning, navigation, and timing services, and its use is becoming more common outside of China.

Who might benefit from this addition

The support for QZSS and Beidou seems to be a software enhancement rather than a hardware upgrade. Garmin has not made it clear. But it seems the GNSS chipset is identical between the latest generations of Garmin watches.

Unsurprisingly, users who will see the most benefit from this are those who live in Asia. Those in Japan and parts of Oceania will likely benefit from more accurate positioning due to the inclusion of QZSS. For other users in Asia the addition of Beidou could provide better overall coverage and accuracy, especially in regions where GPS and GLONASS may have limited effectiveness.

Essential reading: Best fitness trackers and health gadgets

In essence, the integration of Beidou and QZSS into Garmin’s multi-GNSS capabilities allows the watches to access signals from more satellites, which can lead to more reliable location readings. This is particularly advantageous for those who venture into extreme environments, such as trail runners, hikers, or backcountry skiers, where maintaining a strong satellite signal is critical.

However it is worth noting that not all users will notice significant improvements, even those who live in Asia. For individuals who primarily use their Garmin watches in areas with strong GPS and GLONASS signals, the difference may be minimal. Additionally, the benefits of QZSS are very region-specific.

Overall, this expansion is a targeted enhancement aimed at specific regions and situations where enhanced satellite coverage can make a difference, rather than a universal upgrade for all users. So most of us will not really see any change with this expanded satellite coverage.

Like this article? Subscribe to our monthly newsletter and never miss out!