Garmin intros first touchscreen Forerunner GPS watch
updated 10:00 am EDT, Tue April 12, 2011
Garmin Forerunner 610 adds touch to GPS running
Garmin stepped up the interface for its GPS watches on Tuesday through the new Forerunner 610. The addition gives it a more intuitive control scheme that lets runners plot their direction along with starting training routines. The surface is grayscale to save battery life and is also weatherproof, making it safe to use not just in rain but after a sweat-inducing run.
The change of interface also adds a few new features. Training Effect shows the impact on fitness; Virtual Racer provides a Nike+ style tracking system that lets users either race against their own best times or compete against others on Garmin Connect. Run/walk alerts can keep certain features active for those who prefer to use mixed speeds.
A vibration motor in any mode will shake the 610 if the wearer reaches a set distance, pace, and even a target heart rate if an optional ANT+ heart monitor is linked up.
Garmin hasn't given out a price, but the watch will be on sale as of the Boston and London marathons.
