Garmin watch users are grappling with significant issues involving device crashes, particularly during GPS functionality, marking the latest chapter of frustrations for the company’s loyal fanbase. Affected models include popular lines such as the Fenix, Epix, Forerunner, Vivoactive, Venu, and Lily, leaving its users braced for several weeks of uncertainty.
Reports of crashing started surfacing around the end of 2024, leading to widespread outcries from Garmin enthusiasts worldwide. Users have described facing frozen screens when trying to load GPS activities, noting the appearance of a blue triangle symbol on their devices, replacing previous error indicators. According to multiple sources including user testimonies compiled by TechRadar, issues have been reported not just by individuals within the UK and US but also from users across India and France.
The company has acknowledged the growing concerns by placing red banners on their US and UK sites, which state, "We are aware of an issue causing some devices to be stuck on the start-up screen or showing a blue triangle." Garmin's suggested fix is straightforward: press and hold the power button to restart the device. The banner continues with the advice: "If this does not resolve your issue, please click here for more information." Nevertheless, attempts to solve the problem via this method have yielded differing results, frustrating many users.
Inside forums and threads discussing the issue, numerous users have shared their experiences, with many noting mixed success rates when following Garmin's advice. One user reported, "Just sharing - my Garmin Forerunner 255 Music was faced with the infinity loop issue currently underway. No specific trigger, the one moment I received a Teams message, the next it was black-screen and rebooting." This sentiment resonates with countless others who attempted to solve the issue at home but found little relief.
Additional fixes have surfaced, including full factory resets, which, according to experts, can offer temporary relief. TechRadar advises users to back up their watches before attempting such resets, as this process may erase Connect IQ content, Body Battery data, and custom settings. "Until a permanent solution is released, Garmin watch owners are urged to stay updated and proceed with caution," they stress.
Investigations suggest the root of these issues might stem from faulty firmware updates impacting the GPS subsystem. DC Rainmaker, known for his expertise on Garmin products, mentioned potential problems with what he termed "bad satellite pre-cache files" leading to the problematic behavior observed across models including the Forerunner 255 and Fenix 7. This amplification of existing problems has left many users feeling disillusioned.
Garmin’s commitment to addressing these issues remains unimpeached, recently declaring the situation as their “priority number one.” Yet, as of January 2025, no permanent fix has rolled out, leaving users anxious about the usability of their devices heading forward. On Garmin’s support platform, the company shares detailed guidance on resetting devices, with step-by-step protocols provided to help users potentially resolve their issues temporarily.
For those stuck with devices showing unresponsive screens or blue triangles, expert opinions abound on the best course of action. Garmin's guidance promotes prolonged pushing of the power button or utilizing combinations of buttons like START/STOP and BACK to potentially reset any stuck functionality. Until the glitch is officially resolved, these troubleshooting tips may provide the only light at the end of the tunnel.
Despite the setbacks, Garmin’s global community remains resilient and supportive, illuminating the resourcefulness of many users determined to maintain activity levels and access their fitness data. Amidst the turmoil, it’s recommended users delay initiating any GPS activities on their watches until they are confident the issue has been successfully remedied.
Garmin users will undoubtedly continue to watch for updates with bated breath, hoping for effective solutions and restored functionality. Until then, the onus lies with Garmin to stabilize their software and restore the trust their customers have long enjoyed.