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Garmin Connect IQ System 7 arrives with new features

The Garmin Connect IQ System 7 has arrived alongside API level 5.0.0. (Image source: Garmin)
The Garmin Connect IQ System 7 has arrived alongside API level 5.0.0. (Image source: Garmin)
The Garmin Connect IQ System 7 is now available in beta form for developers. The update brings a new API level, 5.0.0, alongside a wide range of features. These include an “Always On” display mode improvement, an upgrade for the Communications module and Bluetooth bonding.

Garmin has announced the beta release of Connect IQ System 7 which comes with a new API level, 5.0.0, bringing many improvements to help developers optimize their apps. The new software is the latest in a string of updates, like the upgrade to CIQ 6.2.0 which took place in June, bringing features like scalable fonts and changes to user review requests. 

The first change in the release notes relates to the “Always On” mode, available on various newer models with an AMOLED screen. Historically, the tool was only available if less than 10% of the display pixels were in use. Now, it will be controlled by luminance, again with a 10% limit, enabling the use of a more significant number of pixels. It could be that this tool is backwards compatible with smartwatches like the Garmin Venu 3, though this has not been confirmed.

With API 5.0.0, the Communications module has been improved to allow data fields to be passed directly to cloud services. Plus, BLE bonding, allowing gadgets to remember and reconnect to previously linked devices, is enabled thanks to Just Works technology. Other changes include reducing the code space needed for common operations, and Tuple expands on Dictionary typing for linear arrays. You can download the System 7 SDK beta from the SDK Manager. Those on the device beta program can expect accompanying firmware in January.

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Polly Allcock, 2023-12-22 (Update: 2023-12-22)