I tested Garmin's new subscription, and I really appreciate that it isn't mandatory.

      For years, I have preferred Garmin devices over Fitbit. The reason? Although Garmin devices tend to be more expensive than those from Fitbit, I always deemed the extra costs associated with Fitbit's subscription model to be unnecessary. A fitness device can last a long time without needing an upgrade, and Fitbit's monthly fee of $13 adds up considerably over time.

      However, Garmin took an unexpected turn by introducing a subscription fee, restricting certain features behind a paywall, which frankly disappointed me.

      I might be overreacting a bit, but it did annoy me. That annoyance lingered until I had the chance to try out the features myself while testing the Garmin Vivoactive 6. I found that some features I initially thought would be trivial turned out to be quite beneficial. That said, it's not a must-have device — which is a positive aspect.

      Garmin's new AI seems somewhat unhelpful.

      Despite my earlier frustration, I was eager to explore Garmin's new features. Among them, the one I looked forward to the most was Garmin’s “Active Intelligence”. According to Garmin, this AI suggests exercises and insights based on my health and physical data. Sounds appealing! I appreciate receiving insights and directions.

      So far, it has informed me that, after two nights of poor sleep totaling only six hours, I’m tired and should sleep earlier. It also suggested that, at 11am, I still have time to go for a walk. Not exactly groundbreaking.

      I understand what Garmin aims to achieve with this feature. It’s clear they want this to serve as your personal pocket cheerleader and coach, and with more time and development, it might fulfill that role. However, right now, it isn’t providing much value. If it were a minor added feature, I would find it a quirky addition. As a paid feature, though, like many AI-driven offerings, it’s underwhelming. Would I pay for this? Even at $7, it's not particularly impressive.

      However, one feature has been game-changing.

      Interestingly, the other features I initially overlooked have left a positive impression.

      The ability to adjust a workout mid-activity is a fantastic addition. While this is mainly beneficial for specific activities (it’s not as useful during runs, for example), it’s particularly effective during weightlifting. I often found it frustrating to correct the number of lifts or the weight during my workouts, as tapping a small watch screen while resting isn’t ideal. Being able to make adjustments from my phone's larger screen is much more convenient since it displays lifts, heart rate, and other live statistics. If you're a regular weightlifter or gym-goer, it's a point in favor of the subscription.

      The other features, while not as compelling, are definitely in the “nice to have” category. Extra challenges and badges are enjoyable but not worth paying for. I also don’t particularly like the idea of Garmin coaches reviewing my running training plans. I prefer working from home to avoid interaction, and I didn’t go to those lengths just to have fitter individuals critique my running abilities. I faced enough judgment during school sports days, thanks.

      Another noteworthy new feature is the enhancement to LiveTrack. Now, when you start a run, LiveTrack can automatically notify your selected contacts. I appreciate this feature, but it’s frustrating that such a safety-related option is a paid feature; it feels like it should be included for free.

      It may not be for everyone, but that’s actually a good thing.

      The best aspect of these new features is that they are simply additions. Nothing has been taken away, and all the elements you've enjoyed in Garmin Connect remain available for free. This is probably the best way to implement a paywall, as it avoids resentment by not removing any features you might have used, while still enticing you with new offerings.

      Is the new subscription tempting enough? This is my initial impression with the Vivoactive 6, and I might change my mind later; however, at the moment, I would say no. There are instances where it excels — live statistics for weightlifting are genuinely impressive, and they provide a solid reason to pay $7 monthly. But for everything else? It’s challenging to justify the expense for casual runners, swimmers, or gym-goers. More serious athletes might find value in the coaching and live adjustments, but personally, I think of it as a fun optional bonus rather than a necessity.

      Why does this make me feel happy? Because Garmin has successfully retained everything that made Connect great, even with the introduction of the subscription fee. Nothing has been lost; you only have more to gain. And that’s just how it should be.