Garmin Connect
The companion app for Garmin watches and trackers, for reviewing workouts, health trends and device settings
by Garmin International · listed Nov 8, 2026
Quick verdict
If you own a Garmin device, you need this app, and the free features cover most people's needs. Without Garmin hardware, there is no reason to install it.
Best for Garmin watch and tracker owners who want to review their workouts, sleep and health trends on their phone
Reviewed by AppsPicks on Nov 8, 2026. How we review
Garmin Connect review
Garmin Connect is the phone app you pair with a Garmin watch or fitness tracker, such as a Forerunner, Venu or fenix. It collects what the device records, including runs, rides, steps, heart rate, sleep and stress, and turns it into activity breakdowns and long-term trends. It is mainly for people who already own Garmin hardware. Without a compatible device, there is little to do in it.
Day to day, you open it after a workout to check splits and stats, or in the morning to see how you slept. You can rearrange the home screen so the numbers you care about come first. You can also build structured workouts and routes that sync to your watch, and compete with friends on leaderboards. The app also handles device settings and support, so you will spend time in it even when you are not training. It can share data with services like Strava and MyFitnessPal, and on iPhone with Apple Health.
Why we picked it: If you wear a Garmin, this is where your data becomes useful, and the core analysis comes free with the device.
Watch out for: The menus are dense and take time to learn. Keeping GPS running in the background can drain your phone battery quickly.
What we like
- Detailed activity statistics and long-term health trends at no extra cost
- Custom workouts and routes sync straight to your watch
- Home screen can be reordered to show the metrics you use most
- Connects with Strava, MyFitnessPal and Apple Health
- Handles device setup, settings and support in one place
What could be better
- Of little use without compatible Garmin hardware
- Crowded menus and many settings can overwhelm new users
- Background GPS use can noticeably drain phone battery
- Some newer features may sit behind Garmin's optional Connect+ subscription
Questions about Garmin Connect
Is Garmin Connect free?
Yes, the app is free to download, and its core tracking and analysis features cost nothing. Garmin also offers an optional paid tier called Connect+ with extra features.
Does it work on iPhone and Android?
Yes, it is available on both the App Store and Google Play.
Do I need a Garmin device to use it?
In practice, yes. The app is built around data from a paired Garmin watch or tracker, so most of its features need one.
Why does the Android version ask for SMS and call log permissions?
Garmin uses these permissions to show incoming calls and texts on your watch and to let you reply from it. You only need them if you want phone notifications on your device.
Can I send my data to other apps?
Yes, it can sync with Strava and MyFitnessPal, and with Apple Health on iPhone.
From the developer: how Garmin Connect describes itself
The Garmin Connect™ app is your one-stop source for health and fitness data. Whether you’re training for a race, keeping active or just staying on top of your health, Garmin Connect provides the information and inspiration you need to reach your goals. Once you pair your phone(1)with a Forerunner®, Venu®, fēnix® or another compatible Garmin device(2), you can review your tracked activities and health metrics. Plus, you can create workouts, build courses and challenge your friends on the leaderboard. With Garmin Connect you can: - Personalize your home screen, so the most helpful information is instantly visible - Analyze your activities with detailed statistics(3) - Create customized workouts and courses - Review trends in health metrics like heart rate and steps - Earn badges for accomplishments - Sync with other apps like Apple Health, MyFitnessPal and Strava - Get support for Garmin devices and their features Learn more about Garmin devices and how they work with the Garmin Connect app at Garmin.com. (1) See compatibility requirements at Garmin.com/BLE (2) See a full list of compatible devices at Garmin.com/devices (3) See Garmin.com/ataccuracy Note: Continued use of GPS running in the background can dramatically decrease battery life.
Text from the app store listing, quoted for reference. Our own take is above.
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