Garmin Connect IQ 9.3 Gives Third-Party Apps Microphone and Speaker Access
Garmin Connect IQ 9.3 lets third-party apps use microphones and speakers on Fenix, Forerunner, Venu and Approach watches.
The supported watches include the Fenix 8 and 9 series, the Forerunner 570 and 970, the Venu 4 and X1, the Approach S72, and a few others.
Access to the microphone and speaker had previously been given primarily to Garmin’s own software. The update extends that hardware access to outside developers, who could use it for new recording and audio features.
Android Authority reported that Garmin has been cautious about giving third-party developers access to its smartwatch hardware. Developers recently criticized the company for not previously providing third-party apps with access to the Forerunner 170’s gyroscope, a limitation that can keep developers from adding features users would find useful.
Garmin recently introduced “OK Garmin” voice features. Until the Connect IQ 9.3 update, microphone and speaker access for third-party apps had largely remained with Garmin’s own software.