Garmin CIRQA trademarks in Europe and Canada point to new sensor

Rumors have been circulating for many months that Garmin is developing an alternative to the Whoop 5.0, the Google Fitbit Air ($99 on Amazon), and the Polar Loop. The launch shouldn’t be too far off now, as following certifications in Singapore and the U.S., Garmin has also registered the brand name CIRQA in Europe with the European Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) as well as in Canada with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) .

In both cases, the patents describe a wearable device that uses electronic sensors to measure physical parameters as well as physical and mental recovery. The product is also said to be capable of detecting physical and emotional stress. This can be interpreted as an indication that Garmin CIRQA features an EDA sensor that measures stress based on the skin’s electrical activity. However, stress could also be inferred from heart rate variability, as some competing products do, so the trademarks do not yet confirm that Garmin will include an EDA sensor.

As a previous certification shows, Garmin CIRQA transmits data exclusively via Bluetooth, the wristband does not have a built-in GPS module. Garmin CIRQA could be marketed not only as a simple fitness wristband but also as an upgrade for smartwatches, because according to rumors, the wearable, for example, when paired with a Garmin Fenix 8, can enable more precise workout recognition and also collect additional data during a workout, allowing for a more accurate analysis. It is not yet known exactly when the Garmin CIRQA will be released.