Garmin doubles down on komoot integration as Strava clash unfolds
Garmin is beefing up its partnership with komoot while its legal battle with Strava continues to stir controversy. Starting this week, new Garmin Edge users will see komoot promoted directly during onboarding inside the Garmin Connect app.
This change marks a notable contrast in how Garmin is handling its third-party relationships. While the Strava clash has made headlines for all the wrong reasons, the komoot integration shows what smooth cooperation still looks like in the Garmin ecosystem.
Komoot now features in Garmin Edge onboarding
According to a press release issued by komoot, the new onboarding integration will make the app more visible to first-time Edge users. And given the current tension with Strava, the timing of this release is probably not a coincidence.
As they set up their cycling computer, Garmin Connect will now recommend linking to komoot. From there, riders can instantly access route planning, sharing and navigation tools.
This isn’t a new partnership, just the latest phase of an existing one. Garmin and komoot have worked together since 2017. What’s changed is visibility. Garmin is no longer leaving komoot as an optional add-on buried in a settings menu. It is placing it directly in the setup process for a popular product line.
Once linked, the integration allows cyclists to launch saved routes on their device within seconds using Live Sync and a “Navigate with Garmin” button. Komoot also supports mid-ride adjustments without stopping the activity, making it practical for real-world use. Maps can include elevation, surface types and photos from other users to help visualise the route in advance.
Garmin gives komoot exposure while Strava battles in court
This comes at a time when Garmin’s relationship with Strava is under heavy scrutiny. The two companies are currently locked in a legal dispute over features like Segments and heatmaps, but also over attribution rules for device data. Strava has accused Garmin of breaching a 2015 agreement. Garmin, on the other hand, says it simply wants attribution when its data is used.
That fight has spilled onto Reddit, triggered developer backlash and confused the wider fitness community. While Strava has begun enforcing Garmin’s branding requirements anyway, the dispute has already caused reputational damage. Some have called it a self-inflicted wound.
The komoot announcement comes across as low-key and practical. It shows how Garmin can still work closely with partners when both sides are on the same page. Instead of getting caught up in branding arguments, they’re focusing on features that actually help users, like easy route syncing and better planning tools.
This doesn’t change what’s happening with Strava, but it does highlight the contrast. Komoot is getting featured in the Garmin Connect setup flow. Strava, at least for now, has a pending lawsuit.
Subscribe to our monthly newsletter! Check out our YouTube channel.
