Garmin smartwatches tipped to gain Google Maps support with future updates

It seems that a major maps update could be headed to future Garmin smartwatches. To recap, Garmin released the Forerunner 970 (curr. $749.99 on Amazon) with turn-by-turn map directions. However, it seems that the company could be working with Google to bring Google Maps support to certain devices.

Specifically, a recent Google Maps update adds a few clues that Google is working to add Garmin compatibility in one form or another. As Garmin Rumors notes, it seems that certain Garmin smartwatches will be capable of receiving Google Maps prompts as Wear OS already can. Unfortunately, the Google Maps APK does not reveal which smartwatches Garmin and Google plan to support.

For reference, current Wear OS smartwatches can either begin turn-by-turn navigation directly or mirror what is being shown on a smartphone. Hopefully, this extends to a Forerunner 970 or Fenix 8 emitting haptic feedback to denote an upcoming turn too. There is a chance that Garmin could extend this support to LTE connectivity, which is rumoured to be launching later this year as part of a Fenix 8 Pro refresh.