Garmin Connect: Unpopular new version of the app can be downgraded

Following a beta version, Garmin has rolled out a new version of Garmin Connect, which introduces a wide range of features, particularly in relation to health functions and sporting activities. However, the new version has not found universal approval among users. In fact, the new user interface has been met with fierce disapproval by some. Nevertheless, users are not yet obliged to use the new Connect app, even if it has been automatically updated in the meantime. 

Instructions posted on the Garmin forum provide a step-by-step guide. Unsurprisingly, the current version of Garmin Connect must be removed from the smartphone. Users then have to download the APK of an earlier version of Garmin Connect and install it. Under normal circumstances, this procedure is limited to Android smartphones, which also allow the installation of applications outside of the app store quite easily.

After installation, automatic updates for the manually installed and outdated version must of course be deactivated and, depending on the smartphone, an installer must be obtained to install the APK. It is currently unclear how long these old app versions will continue to work. In principle, it is entirely possible for Garmin to prevent communication between the Garmin servers and the old apps. Garmin has not yet made an official statement on the use of the old versions.