Garmin has announced significant improvements to its Connect IQ Store, addressing long-standing user complaints and expanding the platform's offerings. The update introduces in-app purchases, a wider selection of watch faces and apps, and enhanced integration with popular services like GoPro.

Simplified Payment with Garmin Pay

For Garmin users who usually download apps via the Connect IQ Store, the task can be cumbersome, especially when it comes to paying for apps. With the recent update, half of your worries are now solved.

The integration of Garmin Pay now streamlines this process, making it easier for users to purchase both free and paid apps. This improvement addresses a common frustration among Garmin users, providing a more seamless experience.

Garmin Watch Faces You Can Check Right Now

Although the Connect IQ Store still trails behind Google Play and Apple's App Store in terms of app variety, Garmin's latest announcement brings several notable additions.

According to The Verge, four Disney-themed watch faces featuring characters from Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars are now available, along with three Porsche watch faces and one from the golf brand TaylorMade. Additionally, a number of space-themed watch faces have been introduced, offering more customization options for users.

New GoPro Camera Control App

A significant addition to the Connect IQ Store is the GoPro Camera Control app. This app allows Garmin users to connect their GoPro cameras to their smartwatches, enabling them to start and stop recordings and take pictures directly from their wrists. This functionality adds a new level of convenience for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers who use both Garmin devices and GoPro cameras, Pocket-Lint writes in its report.

How Much are the Garmin Watchfaces and Apps?

Garmin has set a suggested retail price of $4.99 for watch faces and apps in the Connect IQ Store. While some may find this price steep, especially given the abundance of free options on other platforms, it is not uncommon for specialized apps and watch faces to carry a price tag.

The smartwatch maker knows that innovation is needed and it's also what the users want. Moreover, the expansion will also allow Garmin to compete with Samsung, Apple, and other major players in the market.

The introduction of these new features and the ongoing expansion of the app store reflect Garmin's efforts to compete with major players like Apple, Samsung, and Google.

Competing in the Smartwatch Market

Garmin's efforts to enhance its app store come at a time when the competition in the smartwatch market is intensifying. Apple and Samsung have recently released rugged smartwatches and continue to add advanced fitness tracking features, challenging Garmin's dominance in this niche. By beefing up its app store and adding valuable features like YouTube Music, Garmin aims to maintain its competitive edge and attract a broader user base.

While Garmin still has room to grow its app selection compared to industry giants, these enhancements demonstrate its commitment to improving user experience and competing in the ever-evolving smartwatch market.