Deep Dive Digest #17: Garmin Enduro 4 Leaked, Connect IQ 9 & the Helio Strap Pro Question
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References to the Garmin Enduro 4 have been found deep in the Connect app code and probably also in a disguised FCC filing. The leak is tentative but the implications are not. The Enduro has historically lagged the Fenix generation in software and features, which makes its appearance now a signal: the Fenix 8 Pro cycle is done, and Fenix 9 is next. If the Enduro 4 arrives with off-grid emergency features alongside the usual battery-first specification, unlimited battery life and always-on connectivity will have to coexist in the same device for the first time and could become standard on Fenix 9.
Garmin also released Connect IQ 9 without announcement. Six new developer capabilities arrived silently. The detail is on site.
The Amazfit Helio Strap Pro costs twice the original. Most of the wrist hardware is unchanged. The comparison piece on site covers what the premium buys and its mysterious new waist pod.
Body Rocket, the Brighton-based aero sensor start-up, is selling its assets and heading for liquidation. Good technology, wrong market.
Also this week: a technical look at the 9-axis accelerometer and what it does that 3-axis and 6-axis sensors cannot.
Amazfit Helio Strap Pro vs Helio Strap: what’s new and should you upgrade?
The Helio Strap Pro costs twice the original. Most of the hardware is unchanged. Here is what existing owners and new buyers are actually paying for, and whether the upgrade makes sense.
Amazfit Balance 3 graveyard test, lake and first impressions
A graveyard, a misread lake, and a chance run with a sleep tech CEO. First impressions of the Amazfit Balance 3 on a lumpy Stockholm trail, tested against the Forerunner 970 and Apple Watch Ultra 3 for GPS and heart rate.
A sports watch 9-axis accelerometer: better than 3 or 6?
Most of us know an accelerometer helps our watch when GPS struggles. But which type: 3-axis, 6-axis, or 9-axis? Nine sounds best. The answer depends on where you train.
Garmin Enduro 4 Leaked: Price, Features and Release Date
The Garmin Enduro 4 has been found in Garmin Connect app code. Based on Garmin’s release pattern, an August 2026 launch at around $999 looks likely. Here is what we know and what to expect.
Body Rocket liquidation: good technology, wrong market
Body Rocket, the Brighton-based aero sensor start-up, is selling its assets and heading for liquidation after eight years of development. The engineering was genuinely impressive. The market was always going to be the problem.
Garmin World Cup Watch Face: Live Scores on Your Wrist
WC2026 Live Pro is a free Connect IQ watch face that puts live World Cup scores, group standings and the knockout bracket directly on Garmin watches. Scores update during play. No app to open.
The Deep Dive Podcast
Listen to one of our recent discussions on the Deep Dive podcast – EP73 Can Amazfit Hardware Outrun Garmin Software (ft. AI Insights)
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Last Updated on 28 June 2026 by the5krunner
My favourite kit and nutrition
- Injinji – Runners protect your toes. Avoid discomfort and minor injury. Run more. run faster. I use them.
- Garmin 90-degree charging adapter — the small adapter that keeps your charging cables tidy. Essential for race day. I use one.
- Garmin charging puck — the fastest and most reliable way to top up your Garmin before a session. I use one.
- Ravemen FR300 — front light that mounts directly under your Garmin or Wahoo head unit. Keeps your bars clean and your beam pointed where it matters. I use one.
- Body Glide – The Blue anti-chafe stick that all swimmers and many runners use. I use it.
- Maurten — the race nutrition trusted by elite athletes. Gels and drink mix engineered to be easy on the stomach. I use them.
- Garmin Varia RTL515 — radar rear light that alerts you to vehicles approaching from behind. Pairs with your Edge or Garmin watch. I use this model.
- Favero Assioma Pro RS2 — the power meter pedals most serious cyclists end up choosing. Accurate, easy to move between bikes. I use this model.
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tfk is the founder and author of the5krunner, an independent endurance sports technology publication. With 20 years of hands-on testing of GPS watches and wearables, and competing in triathlons at an international age-group level, tfk provides in-depth expert analysis of fitness technology for serious athletes and endurance sport competitors. ID
