# Garmin watch apps can now use the microphone and speaker

Source: https://idevice.com/garmin-watch-apps-can-now-use-the-microphone-and-speaker
Published: 2026-10-23

> Voice notes, spoken workout coaching and audio alerts become possible in third-party apps on Fenix, Forerunner and Venu watches, but only while the app is open and only after you allow it.

Garmin has released Connect IQ 9.3, and third-party watch apps can now use the microphone and speaker. Until now that hardware mostly served Garmin's own features, like the OK Garmin voice controls. The new Audio Capture API hands recorded audio straight to an app, with noise reduction and echo cancellation built in. The Output API plays sound and controls volume and playback position. Supported watches include the Fenix 8 and Fenix 9 families, the Forerunner 570 and 970, the Venu 4, Venu X1 and Approach S72, according to [Gadgets & Wearables](https://gadgetsandwearables.com/2026/10/23/garmin-connect-iq-9-3-audio-api/).

Garmin's documentation shows an error if an app tries to capture audio after it's moved to the background, so recording only works while the app is open. Every app also needs permission to use the mic and speaker. No app can turn your watch into a recorder that runs all day. Garmin's own [OK Garmin feature](https://idevice.com/garmin-s-september-update-turns-on-ok-garmin-and-it-can-cost-days-of-battery) already takes a noticeable bite out of battery life, and an app that wakes the mic often could do the same. The change comes after developers called Garmin out for keeping the Forerunner 170's gyroscope away from their apps, [per Android Authority](https://www.androidauthority.com/garmin-adds-mic-and-speaker-app-access-3727338/).

## Sources

- [Gadgets & Wearables](https://gadgetsandwearables.com/2026/10/23/garmin-connect-iq-9-3-audio-api/) (Gadgets & Wearables)
- [Android Authority](https://www.androidauthority.com/garmin-adds-mic-and-speaker-app-access-3727338/) (Android Authority)