Amazfit just dropped a massive free software update — and these new features are coming to your smartwatch
Ding-dong, new Amazfit smartwatch features have arrived
Amazfit makes some of our favorite wallet-friendly wearables, including the Helio Ring, which debuted earlier this year and is my go-to recommendation for an affordable, subscription-free Oura Ring alternative.
The brand also recently launched the Amazfit T-Rex 3, an updated ultra-rugged smartwatch model with 27 days of battery, 100 meters of water resistance and a sizable AMOLED screen. And, even though it’s less than two months old, new features have already arrived.
The sports-oriented Amazfit Cheetah Pro and Amazfit Balance smartwatches also see some fresh features. But that’s not all. A new and improved version of the Zepp Health companion app is also here, with additional health-tracking tools like a daily Exertion Score that updates dynamically throughout the day.
The T-Rex 3 gets a new strength training mode
With the latest firmware, T-Rex 3 owners gain access to a new Strength Training mode that can automatically track which muscle groups are activated during a workout and for how long. The new mode additionally monitors the quality of your strength training regiments using metrics like continuity, stability and speed.
The Balance now supports offline maps
Being able to download and save offline maps for navigational use is something hikers and outdoor enthusiasts can appreciate. Often reserved for models well above the Balance’s $179 price tag, this is an upgrade I'm excited to see trickle down from the higher-end T-Rex 3 ($279)
Maps are free to download and include contour details and navigation guidance to get you back to your starting point, should you get lost.
New sports modes for Balance and Cheetah Pro
Both the Balance and Cheetah Pro now feature a Hydro Race tracking mode which can individually monitor the nine different physical activities involved in the multidisciplinary sport. Like offline maps, this feature first appeared on the T-Rex 3. Additionally, the Balance now supports tracking for the racket sport, padel.
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Zepp Health app updates
The Zepp Health app also got a major facelift, starting with a cleaned-up, color-coded UI. Amazfit has also added a daily Exertion Score based on a user’s ‘recovery and readiness’ which makes it sound similar to Garmin’s Body Battery and Samsung’s Energy Score.
Other updates include a new Heart Health Dashboard where metrics like heart rate, resting heart rate, heart rate variability, and blood oxygen and glucose levels are all shown neatly in one place. Finally, the Zepp Health app boasts enhanced user data security that's GDPR-compliant.
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Dan Bracaglia covers fitness and consumer technology with an emphasis on wearables for Tom's Guide. Based in the US Pacific Northwest, Dan is an avid outdoor adventurer who dabbles in everything from kayaking to snowboarding, but he most enjoys exploring the cities and mountains with his small pup, Belvedere. Dan is currently training to climb some of Washington State's tallest peaks. He's also a big photography nerd.