Amazfit Active 2 gets running form tracking as Balance 2 adds Stryd support

Zepp Health has rolled out new firmware for the Active 2 Round and Balance 2. The first gets running form metrics, screenshot support and more responsive workout controls, while the Balance 2 gains Stryd integration.

Active 2 Round adds running form metrics

The latest firmware (version 6.3.8.3) is now rolling out for the Active 2 Round in the US, Canada and China, with a global release set for October 10. You’ll need Zepp Health app version 9.13 or later to install it. The update makes the watch more useful for daily training, with added metrics and smoother workout handling.

It brings support for vertical oscillation and ground contact time, which are helpful if you’re working on running technique. While it’s not the full set of Running Dynamics you’d find on more expensive gear, it’s a solid addition.

You can now take a screenshot by pressing both side buttons at once. Probably not something you will use often, but it’s now there if you want to.

Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets

Other changes include a new ultra-marathon mode and jump rope reminders. Heart rate visuals now show whether readings are coming from the internal sensor or a Bluetooth chest strap.

Workout controls have been tightened up as well. The screen will now unlock automatically when you raise your wrist during a session, and the buttons will respond even if the screen is off. It all helps keep things running more smoothly mid-workout.

Here’s the change-log:

• Support for Watch Screenshots (by pressing two buttons simultaneously).
• Support for Running Form metrics (vertical oscillation and ground contact time).
• Ultra-marathon sports mode, jump rope reminders, different heart rate icons during exercise (to differentiate between Bluetooth external heart rate devices), automatic unlocking when raising your wrist during exercise, and button functionality whether the screen is or is not active.
• Optimized in-workout controls, including wrist-raise unlock and direct button response.

Balance 2 update brings Stryd integration and better BioCharge handling

A separate OTA (version 3.24.6.2) is now live for Amazfit Balance 2. The biggest change is support for Stryd. Once connected, the app offers more detailed running power metrics and better post-run analytics. That is big news for those that like to use this workout accessory.

Wi-Fi connection errors are now more clearly flagged. Activity reminders have also been improved to provide more relevant cues during the day.

More importantly, the way Balance 2 works with the Helio Strap has been fine-tuned. Zepp Health has tweaked algorithm handling for more accurate recovery and strain data when the two devices are paired. A glitch that caused BioCharge data to display incorrectly has also been fixed.

Here’s the change-log:

• Added support for the Stryd accessory, providing more comprehensive and accurate data after connection.
• Improved Wi-Fi connection failure notifications.
• Enhanced reminder content in the Activity app.
• Improved algorithm accuracy when Balance 2 works with the Helio Strap.
• Fixed an issue where BioCharge data displayed abnormally.

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