Polar firmware 3.0 brings new tools to Vantage V3 & Grit X2 Pro

Polar has announced its latest firmware update, version 3.0. This is rolling out now for the Vantage V3 and Grit X2 Pro. The update is a sizeable one. It brings an array of features aimed at improving navigation, usability, and workout tracking, while offering more customization options for users.

Improved navigation and exploration

First off, there’s the new Points of Interest (POI) feature. It improves navigation by allowing users to mark and locate essential spots like cafes, shelters, or supermarkets on their map. You can also create custom POIs and navigate to them directly, making outdoor exploration more intuitive and organized.

Another addition is smarter route guidance. If you start mid-route, the system recalculates from your current location instead of directing you back to the original starting point. Compass calibration has also been updated to provide smoother and easier navigation, even when location data is unavailable.

For post-workout exploration, the route overview feature lets users see their completed route right on the watch, offering immediate insights into performance without syncing to Polar Flow.

Added convenience for everyday use

We’ve all had the occasion, you’re in a hurry but your phone is nowhere to be found. Well now you can tap into the “Find Your Smartphone” function on your watch, helping you locate your phone with ease. It displays the last synced location on the watch map and can trigger a sound on the phone when it’s within Bluetooth range. This feature can be quickly accessed from the main menu or drop-down menu, ensuring you don’t waste too much time looking for your phone.

Charging during training is another practical update. You can now recharge your watch while a session is paused or even while it’s still recording, with a helpful “Dry Before Charging” prompt to ensure safety – in case you have been sweating a lot or were in the pool. This is ideal for long workouts or multi-day activities.

Improved workout tracking

Swimming data tracking has been refined to display detailed style-specific metrics right after sessions, providing better insights into distance, pace, and stroke detection. Improvements to the optical heart rate sensor address issues with occasional inaccuracies, ensuring more precise readings during activities.

Cardio load messages have been rephrased to make feedback clearer. They now offer terms like “Relieving” instead of “Under-demanding” and “Constructing” instead of “Overwhelming.”

New customization options

Firmware 3.0 introduces two analog and three digital watch face designs, allowing you a few more options to personalize your timepiece. Along with modern aesthetics, these new designs include oval widgets for quick access to essential stats and settings.

For enhanced usability, the pre-start mode now displays clearer icons for sport profiles and improved GPS status visuals. This makes it easier to prepare for workouts.

Performance and display upgrades

The upgrades don’t stop there. Screen brightness has been adjusted to improve visibility in bright sunlight. Fixes to 3D speed calculations provide more accurate metrics for elevation and terrain variation. Additionally, swimming measurements have been improved for better tracking precision.

Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets

All in all, some nice new features here. As always this is a gradual rollout so may take a while to reach all Vantage V3 and Grit X2 Pro users.

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