Helsinki-based sports watch maker Suunto has released a new software update for several of its premium devices, adding recovery tracking, broader sensor compatibility and a range of navigation and usability improvements.
The firmware version 2.44.46 is available for the Suunto Race and Race S models, with the Vertical and Suunto 9 Peak Pro expected to receive the same update later. A new recovery widget provides users with an overview of their recovery status, a feature comparable to those offered by competitors such as Garmin and Polar.
The update also introduces ZoneSense, enabling athletes to set heart rate zone targets before or during exercise, and brings support for multiple external sensors of the same type, including heart rate straps and cycling devices.
Navigation tools have been refined with enhancements to climb guidance and map handling, including waypoint zooming and a zoom range indicator. Users can now download maps without requiring the watch to be on a charger, addressing a longstanding limitation. Swimming functionality has also been improved through better detection of swim styles, while iPhone users will see longer previews in notification alerts.
The update delivers additional technical adjustments, including an upgrade to the GNSS firmware for improved GPS accuracy, overnight Wi-Fi syncing of GPS optimisation data for faster signal acquisition, and a new passcode feature that locks the device when not worn. Suunto said the features aim to improve day-to-day use as well as training precision.
The Suunto 9 Peak Pro will receive the update later, though without support for downloading maps off-charger.
