The Garmin Approach S62 GPS golf watch was released more than two years ago. So it is well due for an upgrade. The $500 device features a larger display and longer battery life than its predecessor, the S60. The watch includes a 1.3-inch screen, Pulse Ox sensor, Garmin Elevate heart rate monitor, and a multitude of added features. The battery life comes in at 14 days in smartwatch mode. This falls to 20 hours with GPS. Both are a significant improvement over the S60.

The Approach S62 is equipped with 41,000 preloaded courses and provides golfers with essential information to enhance their experience. Notable features include PlaysLike Distance and a Virtual Caddie that offers advice on club choice and aim, taking into account factors like wind speed, course layout, and typical swing distances. The watch also provides helpful features such as Hazard View, GreenView, and Go Green for yardage accuracy.

The Garmin Golf app complements the Approach S62. It offers access to golf performance analysis, handicap index, fairway, approach shot hit/miss percentage, and more. The app also enables users to participate in leaderboards and tournaments.

Multiple size options, Wi-Fi connectivity

The successor to Garmin’s Approach S62 golf watch seems to be in development. As a new filing with the Singapore regulatory authority suggest, the upcoming device will feature WiFi connectivity, a notable upgrade from the previous model. The inclusion of WiFi, in addition to Bluetooth and ANT+, indicates that Garmin aims to further enhance the user experience and streamline data accessibility for golfers.

Interestingly, the regulatory database lists two devices with similar model numbers (A04431 and A04432). This could imply the possibility of two size options for the new timepiece. This development showcases Garmin’s efforts to cater to a wider range of customers with varied preferences, potentially making their golf watch series even more appealing to the market.

The other possibility could be something with an AMOLED display. Garmin is moving in this direction, and introducing AMOLED options across its range. The most recent examples are the Forerunner 965 and 265. A golf watch might be an excellent candidate for something with a high-res AMOLED screen.

A new handheld GPS for golf

Another device that has been added to the regulator’s database in May goes under the number A04624. This is listed as a handheld GPS device. We are just speculating here, but it might be the updated version of the G80 GPS golf launch monitor or the successor to the G12. The latter is a simple golf rangefinder that you can clip on to your belt or golf bag.

The market for golf watches has seen steady growth as golf lovers increasingly embrace wearable technology to enhance their on-course performance. Garmin’s GPS golf watches, such as the Approach S62, provide users with access to valuable data. The increasing popularity of golf and the demand for data-driven performance insights continue to fuel the expansion of this niche market, presenting Garmin with promising opportunities.

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This should come as no huge shock to anyone as the Swiss company has done something similar with some of its other watches. For example, there’s a special golf version of its Connected Modular 45.

Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets

The company released the Connected Calibre E4 model around two months ago. It comes in a 42mm and a 45mm option and both of these will run Google WearOS 3.0 once it is made available later this year. For now they pack WearOS 2.

With an entry price of $1,800, this is a luxury watch so its mostly about the branding and premium build. But beyond that, the Calibre E4 model has the Snapdragon Wear 4100+ processor on-board, along with built-in satellite connectivity and the usual fitness and health sensors.

Tag Heuer Connected Calibre – Golf Edition

The special Golf Edition is a revamped version of the larger, 45mm diameter of that watch. It has a masculine rather than gender-neutral design and comes with a sapphire crystal protected 1.39 inch OLED screen. The case has a titanium build with a Diamond-like Carbon (DLC) finish. 

A nice touch is the rubber around the bold black crown which serves to make it easier to twist and navigate through the various golf course maps. To help with menu navigation, there are two mechanical-like pushers on either side of the crown.

Golf specific design and functionality

This special edition slaps on some golf-specific design elements such as a ceramic bezel with 1-18 scale for use on the golf course. A nice touch are the magnetic ball markers on the titanium clasp of the white strap that can be used on the go. In the box you’ll also find a plain, perforated black strap for use when you are away from the golf course.

In terms of golf-specific functionality, the watch has automatic swing detection. This is automatically triggered when the timepiece registers a movement on the golf course.

The app is quite feature rich, as well. Tag Heuer Golf App comes with detailed 2D mapping of hazards and distances for more than 40,000 golf courses around the world. The interface shows distances, hole numbers and club information. What’s more, the software records shot distances as you walk to the ball which helps with the club recommendation tool, there’s in-depth statistical analysis, it keeps score in real time and driving zone features. The iOS app can even generate 3D renderings of the ball trajectory.

Beyond that the watch taps into the Tag Heuer Sport app for fitness and health tracking. Smart functionality includes support for notifications, weather, an agenda app, music control, Google Pay and translate.

This watch sounds like quite a complete solution for golf lovers. Of course, this is to be expected considering the thing starts at $2,650 on Tag Heuer’s website. That works out to $150 more than the regular version of the Connected Calibre E4.

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A smart putting green for your home or office? Why not. PUTTR makes everyday practice interesting allowing you to connect and compete with others. It is certainly a big step up from the traditional thing.

Home putting mats are useful. They allow you to perfect one of the most important aspects of the golfing game – putting. It is said to account for over 40% of golf shots. But do you put in enough practice? Most golfers don’t. They tend to practice a few shots here and there, and leave it at that.

An interesting solution comes from a Redondo Beach, Los Angeles-based startup. They have created an Indiegogo project for PUTTR – what might be the first connected putting green. Ot at least – one of the first. It comes with games, lots of stats and is portable. Think of it as a Peloton for putting.

Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets

The thing has something called “integrated computer vision technology” that works through a tiny connected camera that records all the action. The AI is able to figure out the line and speed of the ball, and this is sent via Bluetooth to the iOS or Android app in real-time.

The high-quality green offers a choice between 27 different puts ranging from 3 to 11 feet. There are straight, left and right puts available from each of the eight distance points. You can then check which shots you are consistently making, which require more work and how you compare to pros. The software works from practically any connected device, including smartphones, tables, laptops, Apple TV and Google TV.

In addition to regular practice, you can also choose arcade style games or connect with others for online tournaments. This is probably the most novel aspect of PUTTR and something that will hopefully entice you to keep practicing and improving.

Finally, there’s also the PUTTR Club. This is an optional paid for subscription service that offers interactive instruction from PGA professionals and other premium content to help you improve. It also allows you to connect and compete with other PUTTR Club members.

And when you’re done, simply roll the green. It tucks away nicely in the aluminium case for out-of-the-way storage. As shown in the images above, the case looks good. So definitely not something you’ll have to keep out of sight – hidden away in the garage.

If you are not finding enough time to get to the green, PUTTR may pique your interest. It will allow you to fit practice time around your schedule, and the gamified element will help to keep you engaged.

There’s over a month to go in the Indiegogo campaign. PUTTR starts at $499, which is 25% off the final retail price when the product launches in April 2022. The company has managed to raise over $80,000 so far, which is more than three times above its $25,000 project goal.

Price:$449 and up

Funding open:
$81,252 out of $25,000 goal
38 days left

Estimated delivery: April 2022

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The trio shares some functionality. This includes over 42,000 preloaded courses from around the globe so you are ready to hit the green wherever you are. The watches are compatible with Garmin’s Approach CT10 club tracking sensor and connect to the Garmin golf app.

The built-in GPS allows for some other common features. Players will get accurate yardages to the front, middle, and back of the green, hazards, doglegs, layups and more. There’s also a useful Green View that shows the green’s actual shape and for more precise yardage calculations.

Here is where the watches differ.

Garmin Approach S42

The $299 S42 is the snazziest looking of the three. It comes with a nice 1.2 inch colour touchscreen. This makes it really stand out from the other variants which only have a monochrome display.

You can use the S42 as a regular sports watch or for golfing. The quick release mechanism means the bands can be easily swapped to make the timepiece fit any occasion.

To help you with your game the S42 has an AutoShot round analyser that tracks and auto-records shot distances. When you’re not on the course keep it on for comprehensive activity and sleep stats, exercise monitoring and move reminders. To keep you connected at all times, there are also smartphone notifications and vibration alerts.

Battery life is very decent. Between charges, the S42 is good for up to 10 days in smartwatch mode and 15 hours with GPS switched on.

Garmin Approach S12

This is a cheaper version which sacrifices some of the premium build quality of the S12. As mentioned, there’s no colour display but to make up for the $199 S12 comes with a larger 1.3 inch screen.

That should make it easily readable in all conditions. If not you can transition into something Garmin calls the “Big Numbers display mode”.

The stripped back design means battery life is better. You’ll be able to squeeze around 30 hours between charges in GPS mode. That’s double what you get on S42. If longer battery life is important to you, this is the one to choose.

Garmin Approach G12 GPS golf rangefinder

Last but not least is something for those that don’t want a golfers watch on their wrist. The $149 G12 is pretty much the same as the S12 when it comes to features. So a 1.3 inch high-res monochrome display, along with a thin and compact design and 30 hour battery life in GPS mode.

Where the device differs is in the way you are meant to wear it. The G12 comes with a clip that attaches to your belt. A lanyard loop is also here to make sure the whole thing is securely attached.

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Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets

The Swiss company has done something similar with the Connected Modular 45. In 2019, it came out with an edition designed specifically for golfers that features an app to improve their game. Now it has done the same with the 2020 Tag Heuer Connected that went on sale in March starting at $1,800.

To remind, the 2020 iteration in the Connected lineup comes with some big upgrades over the predecessor. The company has decided to do away with customizable or replaceable components and focus on delivering a streamlined device that works well. It also throws a heart rate monitor into the mix for the first time.

The golf edition builds on this and makes it more of a wearable for those into the sport. You get everything from the regular edition including the 1.39-inch OLED touchscreen, Qualcomm Snapdragon 3,100 chip, built-in GPS, 440mAh battery. There’s also 8GB of storage and 1GB of RAM for lag-free performance.

The luxury golfing device has a 45 mm black titanium case that is paired with a sporty white rubber strap with green stitching. There’s a matte black ceramic bezel ring laser around the display, engraved with the numbers 1 to 18 indicating the 18 holes in a round of golf. Interestingly, the watch display marks the hole you are playing in real-time on the numbers.

You also get the great iOS/Android golf app to go along with the watch along with the new TAG Heuer Sports application. The golf specific app features key insights to improve your game including shot distances, hazards, layups, scores and pro stats. This has detailed info on over 40,000 golf courses captured using 3D mapping technology which cover some 99% of golf courses worldwide. The golf app also has a new Driving Zone feature which utilizes stats from a player’s past rounds to calculate the best zone for them to target.

The TAG Heuer Connected Golf Edition can be purchased from the Tag Heuer website for $2,550. The device is also available at TAG Heuer boutiques and select retailers.

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Golf is a great way to unwind. But let’s face it. It 2020 and you want something that lets you know after a round what you did right and what to do to improve. We’ve seen all matter of smart golf equipment, from swing analyzers to GPS watches and trackers. Now we can add a smart golf ball to this list.

Just launched on Indiegogo, Graff Golf is the world’s first intelligent golf ball. The thing is embedded with sensors that enable location tracking up to distances of 300 feet, as well as a detailed analysis ​of your game.

To use, sync the ball with your smartphone, and select your club and swing using the app. Start playing and the smartphone will automatically keep tabs on a wealth of analytics. This includes spin rate, spin direction, exit velocity, hang time, apex height, carry distance, ball speed, launch angle and score.

Of course, everyone wants to improve their skills. To this end the software provides you with insights into your game and there’s a library of drills to take your game up a notch. The more shots you hit, the more comprehensive the data will be. The stats are compared to stats from pros so you can see exactly where there is room for improvement. There’s also a challenge section in the app with badges and rewards to be earned, and competitions with friends and others.

Everything was designed by three John Hopkins University students – golf enthusiasts. Now they are looking for your help to bring the product to the world. A $199 pledge gets you 3 standard-sized smart golf balls, a Bluetooth wireless charging system and access to the smartphone app. Delivery is expected this summer.

Price: $199 and up

Funding open:

$17,765 raised out of $20,000 goal
29 days left

Estimated delivery: June 2020

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Garmin has today unveiled the Approach S62 GPS golf watch. It comes with a larger display, some new features and longer battery life compared to its predecessor, the S60.

Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets

The company has had a slow start to the year with no big announcements at CES 2020. This was a surprise considering it had used the Las Vegas gathering in the past to launch new devices.

But things seem to be ramping up this week with the announcement of the Tactix Delta watch. This was followed up with the scratch-resistance ceramic Approach S62 golfers watch today.

The timepiece is essentially a new version of the Approach S60. It comes with some healthy upgrades such as:

• A 1.3 inch display versus 1.2 inches, making it 17% larger than the previous model. The resolution has also been boosted from 240 x 240 pixels, to 260 x 260.
• Pulse Ox sensor, along with the latest Garmin Elevate heart rate monitor
• Added heart rate features: HR Zones, HR alerts, HR calories, % HR max, % HRR, HR Broadcast
• Manual lap and Physio Trueup
• Body Battery and all-day stress tracking
• Garmin Pay
• Text Responses, Find My Watch, Sunrise/sunset times
• Battery life of 14 days in smartwatch mode (versus 10 days on the S60). With GPS this falls to 20 hours which is more than double the 10 hours on the S60.

As you’d expect, there are an array of features to enhance your golfing experience. This includes 41,000 preloaded courses, and options such as PlaysLike Distance. Garmin has also introduced a Virtual Caddie that lets you know which club to use and where to aim. To do this it takes into account factors such as wind speed, course layout, and the distance you typically swing with each club.

“The Approach S62 gives golfers access to essential golfing information like no other watch on the market with a style that goes beyond the clubhouse,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales.

“Thanks to our new built-in Virtual Caddie and detailed course maps, the Approach S62 has the power to instantly transform into a caddie that knows you and 41,000 courses worldwide.”

If you’re unable to see the pin, the S62 will show you the direction where to aim. The Hazard View gives you an overview of spots to avoid, while GreenView and Go Green features help with yardage accuracy.

For more insights open up the Garmin Golf app. This provides you access to your handicap index via the new golf performance widget, fairway, approach shot hit/miss percentage, green in regulation percentage and analysis for strokes gained. The app also has a social aspect letting you participate in leaderboards and tournaments.

The Approach S62 can be picked up on Garmin.com for $499.99 from today. It comes with Quickfit bands so you can customize it to your liking with leather, silicone, nylon and titanium options.

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To use MLM simply download the accompanying smartphone app, calibrate the device, and choose between the live video tracer with replay, stats or GPS map mode. Then, place the smartphone or tablet in the MLM cradle looking down at the line of play.

Rapsodo says MLM spits out metrics with professional level accuracy. This includes info on distance, ball speed, club head speed, smash factor, launch angle and launch direction.

The app allows you to watch video replies of each shot overlaid with metrics. This includes an active tracer to analyse the ball flight. The gizmo also taps into your phone’s GPS, to show where all of your shots land on the actual course or range.

Auto club recognition means there’s no need to let the app know which club you are using. Simply wave the club in front of your phone camera. You can then use the app to visualise the ball flight for each club on a distance map and access typical distances for every club in your bag. This will help you know which type of club to choose for each shot on the course.

Measuring just 5.3 inches in length and 10.2 ounces in weight MLM is very travel friendly. You can store it in the accompanying storage case.

Battery life is also good. The 10 hour USB rechargeable battery should be enough for even the longest of practice sessions.

“We’re excited to be able to leverage Rapsodo’s strengths in tracer technology and real time data to make training for the game of golf easier, more accessible, and fun,” said Batuhan Okur, founder and CEO of Rapsodo.

“The Mobile Launch Monitor’s personalization and accuracy will enhance players’ skills and experience.”

The $499.99 MLM is now available for pre-order on Rapsodo’s website. Delivery is slated for August 15th.

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Essential reading: Best GPS golf watches to hone your skills

In terms of design, the device comes with a sunlight-readable 1.2” colour touchscreen display and metal bezel. Its quick release bands ensure you can tailor the look to fit any occasion.

Preloaded with over 41,000 courses internationally, the Approach S40 has a plethora of features designed to make your game more enjoyable and take it up a notch. One of its features allows for manual pin positioning for accurate approach shots. This enables golfers to quickly reference distances to the front, middle and back of the green as well as hazards and doglegs. The watch spits out precise yardages, it boasts a scorecard feature and there’s AutoShot game-tracking that automatically records shot distances.

But the S40 is more than just a golfers watch. It doubles-down as an everyday smartwatch tracking activities such as steps, distance, calories and sleep. It also includes built-in multi-sport profiles. The smart functionality consists of notifications for calls, texts, emails and other alerts.

Battery life is pretty good. Between charges the watch can last 15 hours on the course, and up to 10 days in smartwatch mode.

The Approach S40 is available on garmin.com for $299.99. For even more precise automatic game tracking, there’s a bundled version that adds a three-pack of Approach CT10 club sensors. At the time of writing, estimated availability is 3-5 weeks.

“The hallmark of the new Approach S40 is its superb ability to offer high-quality functionality on the course as well as off the course,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin worldwide vice president of consumer sales.

“The Approach S40 looks great on your wrist and gives golfers exactly what they need with a mix of high-sensitivity GPS golf accuracy on the course, and top-notch smartwatch capabilities that track everyday activities.”

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Essential reading: Best golf GPS watches to hone your skills

The luxury golfing device comes in two iterations, a 45 mm diameter and a 41 mm diameter version. In terms of design, both come with a ceramic bezel ring laser engraved with the numbers 1 to 18, indicating the 18 holes in a round of golf. The lettering is filled with white lacquer which makes it stand out from the black finish. The case is made from PVD titanium.

The watch has an AMOLED 1.39″ screen (41mm version comes with a 1.2″ screen) covered with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. The touch-display supports multiple finger recognition.

As you would expect, there are plenty of smarts under the hood. Just like the original, the Golf Edition comes with GPS, NFC, water resistance down to 50 metres, 4GB of storage memory, lithium battery for more than a day of full power.

The Wear OS device keeps tabs on your basic fitness stats thanks to an accelerometer and gyroscope (but no heart rate sensor). It also has the ability to send messages, receive notifications, play music and more.

Tag Heuer has also developed a golf app for iOS and Android smartphones. It features key insights to improve your game including shot distances and scores. It also comes with detailed info on some 39,000 golf courses captured using 3D mapping technology. The app is available to download for free and can be used on earlier models of the watch, as well.

“The TAG Heuer Connected Modular 45 ‘Golf Edition’ was designed specifically for golfers and anyone who is fascinated by the sport. Every aspect of the smartwatch and the app – from design to function – was created to enhance the player’s game,” said TAG Heuer Project Manager Matthieu Soudan.

“Off the course, the watch is a stylish accessory that features cutting-edge digital technology. It’s important to point out that it is, first and foremost, a connected watch, which means that the Golf app is only one of many other apps and functions that can be used with the timepiece”.

The Connected Modular 45 Golf Edition can be purchased from the Tag Heuer website for CHF 1,950. It comes with a synthetic leather and rubber strap with beautiful white with green stitching. A black rubber strap is also included in the package as well as three Tag Heuer-stamped golf balls.

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