Garmin Vivoactive 6 leak shows familiar design with subtle changes

As first covered here, leaked images and early specs of the Garmin Vivoactive 6 suggest it won’t look much different from the previous model. But under the hood, there are signs of modest yet valuable upgrades for runners.

Garmin’s mid-tier all-rounder seems poised for a spring launch, with April 2025 now tipped as the likely reveal window.

Design changes are minimal

Visually, the Vivoactive 6 is nearly identical to the Vivoactive 5. The only noticeable change in the leaked renders is a redesigned top button on the right-hand side. It’s no longer flush with the case — instead, it protrudes more, which could improve tactile feedback during workouts.

Here are some images (not hosted on our website).

Color options include four case variations: black, white, orange, and green. These are paired with matching strap and bezel combinations.

Here is the Vivoactive 5 for comparison. As can be seen, both buttons on the right-hand side are flat. We don’t really notice any other differences.

So far, there’s no clarity on case sizes. Vivoactive 5 launched in a single 42mm option, which was a step down from the Vivoactive 4 that came in both 40mm and 45mm sizes. Garmin may stick to one size again to streamline production, but multiple sizes would make sense given the broader fitness appeal of the line.

Elevate V5 likely makes its way in

Sensor-wise, the leak mentions the expected suite: heart rate monitor, accelerometer, compass and gyroscope. Missing from the list are a barometric altimeter and ECG. That’s disappointing for some, as those sensors remain wishlist items among Garmin fans. Their absence likely reflects Garmin’s desire to keep the Vivoactive under the more premium Forerunner and Venu lines.

Still, the inclusion of Garmin’s latest Elevate V5 heart rate sensor would be a real upgrade. The previous model was launched back in 2023 – so it used Elevate V4. Version 5 brings better low-intensity tracking, improved performance during intervals, and better accuracy on darker skin tones — all areas where V4 had room to improve.

Running metrics take center stage

While the Vivoactive series has traditionally targeted general fitness users, the leak hints at a tilt toward runners. Running Dynamics metrics — including vertical oscillation and ground contact time — are reportedly coming to the Vivoactive 6. That brings it in line with features seen on higher-end Forerunner models.

Also on the list: Running Power and PacePro. The former estimates real-time effort based on factors like incline and wind, while the latter provides split-by-split guidance based on course elevation. Together, these tools offer deeper insight into performance and planning — a meaningful upgrade if accurate.

VO2 max tracking and other features already present in previous models, are also expected to return.

What’s not confirmed yet

There’s no word yet on GPS specs, but built-in GNSS is almost certain. Likewise, the AMOLED display is expected to carry over from the Vivoactive 5.

Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets

Garmin hasn’t traditionally included a microphone or speaker in the Vivoactive range. So it’s worth watching to see if Vivoactive 6 joins that trend.

Battery life, pricing, and software updates remain unknown. But if Garmin sticks to the usual playbook, expect around 11 days in smartwatch mode and a price near $299. Of course, as with all leaks, all of these remains unconfirmed until Garmin makes things official.

Subscribe to our monthly newsletter! Check out our YouTube channel.