Garmin Connect 5.0, Stages, and More: The Internet on Fire
May 4, 2024
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DC Rainmaker and DesFit discuss Garmin Connect's controversial update, Stages going under, COROS Vertix 2S, and Zwift's software features. They delve into challenges faced by Stages, financial struggles in the bike equipment industry, Chorus Vertex to S watch update, Zwift's innovative features, and Garmin Connect 5.0's user feedback.
Stages faced customer support challenges and layoffs, highlighting issues in responses and employee departures.
COROS released Vertex 2S with improved sensors and potential AMOLED displays, focusing on accuracy and battery life.
Zwift updated its platform with customizable data fields, a new climbing route, and a training API for enhanced user experiences.
Deep dives
Stages Going Under Restructuring
Stages, a power meter and smart bike trainer company in Boulder, Colorado, faced challenges on the customer support side, leading to unanswered tickets and ultimately laying off all employees. Issues included delays in responses and escalations, with key engineers departing for other companies.
Chorus Vertex 2S Upgrade
Chorus released the Vertex 2S with improvements in heart rate sensors and GPS antenna, offering new colorways and enhanced accuracy. The battery claims were reduced due to increased power consumption, but still among the highest in the market. The episode discusses potential future innovations in sport watch technology, including the possibility of transitioning to AMOLED displays.
Zwift Updates for Indoor Cycling
Zwift introduced a refreshed heads-up display design, customizable data fields, and improved gradient visualizations. The platform also launched a new climbing route section and a training API for enhanced workout experiences. These updates aim to enhance user interaction and training capabilities within the Zwift cycling environment.
Updates to Zwift's Elevation Display and Climb-specific Features
Zwift introduces a new heads-up display elevation profile, addressing the confusion and clarity issues of the previous one. Additionally, a new pop-up display for climbs will appear during specific climb sections, enhancing the user experience. The platform is also launching a special climbing route that promises a challenging experience lasting 18 to 25 minutes, appealing to users seeking intense workouts and testing sessions.
Zwift's New Training API Offering Third-Party Workout Integration
Zwift unveils a new training API allowing third-party platforms to seamlessly integrate their workouts into the Zwift ecosystem. This move aims to cater to users who use multiple training platforms simultaneously, enabling them to synchronize and track workouts across platforms. The API's open access approach facilitates a smoother integration process for developers, paving the way for enhanced user experiences and partnerships in the indoor cycling industry.
