Polar Vantage V3 update brings Grit X2 Pro features & improved accuracy

As previously hinted, Polar Vantage V3 users are in for a treat. A major firmware update is rolling out as we are writing this, bringing a host of new features and improvements. This extensive update brings the Vantage V3 more in line with the newly released Grit X2 Pro.

Polar Vantage V3 firmware update 2.0.19 – the changes

Strava routes & improved navigation: Exploring new trails made easy

The integration with Strava and Komoot has been refined, allowing for seamless synchronization of new routes created on these platforms. Routes are automatically fetched from the service and synced to both your favorites in Polar Flow and the routes on your Vantage V3 watch. This feature simplifies the process of transferring new routes to your device, ensuring you’re always ready to explore new trails or cycling paths.

Navigation receives a welcome boost in this update with the following:

• Breadcrumb trail & route direction: These features improve the device’s usability for trail navigation, allowing athletes to retrace their paths or follow predefined routes with ease, reducing the risk of getting lost.
• Maps accessible via the navigation view: This addition enables users to access maps directly from the watch face, even outside of training sessions, enhancing the Vantage V3’s functionality as a navigational tool.
• Faster maps with optional upgrade: The optional upgrade for faster map loading and smoother navigation ensures that athletes have quick access to the geographical information they need, whenever they need it.

All of this means – no more worrying about getting lost on those adventurous trail runs or hikes!

New training metrics

Polar is doubling down on its outdoor-focused features with the inclusion of several new training metrics.

• Vertical Speed: This metric provides your real-time pace as you ascend or descend. It’s a valuable tool for gauging your effort on climbs and analyzing your overall performance on hilly terrain.
• VAM (Average Ascent Speed): This metric calculates your average speed specifically for uphill sections of your workout. By tracking your VAM over time, you can monitor your progress on climbs and identify areas for improvement.
• 3D Speed: This metric takes into account both horizontal and vertical movement to provide a more comprehensive picture of your overall speed. This is particularly useful for activities like trail running or hiking, where you’re constantly changing elevation.

These new metrics, along with the existing ones offered by the Vantage V3, provide a better data set to analyze your workouts and track your progress. By understanding how these metrics work and how they relate to each other, you can gain valuable insights into your fitness level and training regimen.

Still not done as the improvements don’t stop there.

Polar has also focused on refining heart rate accuracy. Plus heart rate, speed, and power graphs now display data for the last ten minutes directly on the watch, offering immediate feedback on performance metrics during activities.

Additionally, a few new watch face styles offer more customization options to suit your personal style. Here they are, pictured below.

Full change-log

• Vertical speed, VAM, 3D speed
• Breadcrumb trail & route direction
• Maps accessible via the Navigation view outside of training
• Faster maps with optional upgrade (File format change)
• Improved route sync
• Improved OHR accuracy
• New watch face styles and widgets
• Heart rate, speed and power graphs now show data for the last ten minutes
• Minor updates and bug fixes

Positive reception with room for improvement

The update has been met with a generally positive response from the Polar Vantage V3 community. Users on Reddit’s r/Polarfitness subreddit have expressed excitement about the new features, particularly Strava Routes and breadcrumb navigation. These features are seen as valuable additions for outdoor adventurers who rely on their Vantage V3 watches for navigation and tracking.

Essential reading: Polar Vantage V3 vs V2 – a big leap in ability

However, some users have also pointed out areas for improvement. A few comments mentioned that they would like to see the ability to create routes directly on the Vantage V3 itself, rather than relying solely on importing from Strava. Others have expressed a desire for more advanced training features.

Overall, the update is a nice step forward for the Polar Vantage V3. With its improved navigation, enhanced training metrics, and refined accuracy, the device is now even better equipped to help you crush your outdoor goals.

The last update for the Vantage V3 arrived back in December. It focused primarily on bug fixes and minor performance improvements.

Source: Polar

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