# Garmin Forerunner 970

The text version of the iDevice Guide at https://idevice.com/smart-watches/garmin-forerunner/roadmap/forerunner-970. Same data as the page, last updated 2026-10-13.

> Garmin Forerunner 970 runs 15 days in smartwatch mode and 26 hours on GPS, with a titanium bezel and a sapphire lens. $749.99.

- Status: On sale
- List price: $749.99 (The official starting price.)
- Released May 21, 2025 (source: [Garmin](https://www.garmin.com/en-US/newsroom/press-release/sports-fitness/garmin-unveils-the-forerunner-570-and-forerunner-970-its-newest-gps-running-and-triathlon-smartwatches-for-performance-driven-athletes/))
- Guide: https://idevice.com/smart-watches/garmin-forerunner/roadmap/forerunner-970
- Last updated: 2026-10-13

## Can it do this?

- **How long does the battery last?** It runs 26 hours with GPS only. That is 15 days in smartwatch mode. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/garmin-forerunner/roadmap/forerunner-970#can-how-long-does-the-battery-last))
- **What does it cost?** It costs $749.99. That is the list price. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/garmin-forerunner/roadmap/forerunner-970#can-what-does-it-cost))
- **Does it have GPS?** Yes, it has its own GPS. It works without your phone. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/garmin-forerunner/roadmap/forerunner-970#can-does-it-have-gps))
- **Can it get wet — shower, pool, swimming?** Yes, you can shower and swim in it. It is rated to 5 ATM. It is not for scuba diving. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/garmin-forerunner/roadmap/forerunner-970#can-can-it-get-wet-shower-pool-swimming))
- **What sizes does it come in?** One only, a 47mm case. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/garmin-forerunner/roadmap/forerunner-970#can-what-sizes-does-it-come-in))
- **What kind of screen is it?** An AMOLED, so it stays readable in daylight and the blacks are properly black. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/garmin-forerunner/roadmap/forerunner-970#can-what-kind-of-screen-is-it))

## Works with

A smartwatch that works with Android. It also works with iPhone, with some limits.

- **Do Garmin Forerunner watches work with iPhone?** Some features missing. Works with iOS 18.2 or later, but watch text replies don't work. Source: [Garmin](https://www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-025D75CF-3445-49E1-8D81-1AA74AB4E00F/EN-US/GUID-AA356C1E-94FB-4E7E-B7F5-042F134AA86D.html). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/garmin-forerunner/roadmap/forerunner-970#q-iphone))
- **Which iPhones does the Garmin Forerunner 970 work with?** Some features missing. It works with every iPhone that runs iOS 18.2 or later, from the iPhone XR on. Source: [Garmin](https://www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-025D75CF-3445-49E1-8D81-1AA74AB4E00F/EN-US/GUID-AA356C1E-94FB-4E7E-B7F5-042F134AA86D.html). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/garmin-forerunner/roadmap/forerunner-970#q-which-iphones))
- **Do Garmin Forerunner watches work with Android?** Works. Works with Android 9 or later on most compatible phones. Source: [Garmin](https://support.garmin.com/et-EE/?faq=pvL8aWsaLU2iKyvF8VrpP9). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/garmin-forerunner/roadmap/forerunner-970#q-android))
- **Do Garmin Forerunner watches work with fitness equipment and wireless sensors?** Some features missing. Works with compatible ANT+ and Bluetooth sensors. Apple GymKit isn't verified. Source: [Garmin](https://www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-025D75CF-3445-49E1-8D81-1AA74AB4E00F/EN-US/GUID-1E3CECCF-0343-431C-95F0-5716E0341C75.html). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/garmin-forerunner/roadmap/forerunner-970#q-fitness-equipment-sensors))
- **Do Garmin Forerunner watches work with Natural Cycles?** Works. Natural Cycles lists the Forerunner 970 as compatible. Source: [Natural Cycles](https://help.naturalcycles.com/hc/en-us/articles/11992156471709-Which-wearable-devices-are-compatible-with-Natural-Cycles). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/garmin-forerunner/roadmap/forerunner-970#q-natural-cycles))
- **Can you connect Garmin Forerunner watches to a Mac?** Some features missing. Garmin Express works on Macs with macOS 13 or later. Source: [Garmin](https://support.garmin.com/es-ES/?faq=4QVp7mKSIA1LDk5fc1OHX8). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/garmin-forerunner/roadmap/forerunner-970#q-mac))
- **Can you connect Garmin Forerunner watches to a PC?** Some features missing. Garmin Express works on PCs with Windows 10 or later. Source: [Garmin](https://support.garmin.com/es-ES/?faq=4QVp7mKSIA1LDk5fc1OHX8). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/garmin-forerunner/roadmap/forerunner-970#q-windows-pc))
- **Do Garmin Forerunner watches work with Spotify?** Some features missing. Downloads Spotify music with Premium, but only plays saved tracks. Source: [Garmin](https://www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-025D75CF-3445-49E1-8D81-1AA74AB4E00F/EN-US/GUID-8702C05F-0915-455A-AABA-079D8374FCD8.html). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/garmin-forerunner/roadmap/forerunner-970#q-spotify))
- **Do Garmin Forerunner watches work with Garmin Connect without a paid subscription?** Works. Garmin Connect works without a paid Connect+ subscription. Source: [Garmin](https://www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-025D75CF-3445-49E1-8D81-1AA74AB4E00F/EN-US/GUID-AA356C1E-94FB-4E7E-B7F5-042F134AA86D.html). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/garmin-forerunner/roadmap/forerunner-970#q-companion-app-account-subscription))
- **Do Garmin Forerunner watches work with third-party apps like Strava?** Some features missing. Some do, but not every service runs as an app on the watch. Source: [Garmin](https://support.garmin.com/en-US/?faq=FzRNKmYZNt1iKa118RJYAA). Checked 2026-09-21. ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/garmin-forerunner/roadmap/forerunner-970#q-third-party-apps))

## Questions

### Does the Garmin Forerunner 970 come with a charger?

It comes with a proprietary charging cable with USB-C connection. Garmin's in-the-box list does not include a power adapter. Source: [Garmin](https://www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-025D75CF-3445-49E1-8D81-1AA74AB4E00F/EN-US/GUID-7F71C5D0-26C1-40E3-AD73-D233BEAC659A.html). ([on the Guide](https://idevice.com/smart-watches/garmin-forerunner/roadmap/forerunner-970#faq-does-the-garmin-forerunner-970-come-with-a-charger))

---

Source: iDevice (https://idevice.com). Every spec, rumor and grade above links to where it came from. Full Guide: https://idevice.com/smart-watches/garmin-forerunner/roadmap/forerunner-970. This file: https://idevice.com/guide-text/garmin-forerunner-970.md.

## Questions and answers

### Using it

**What does it cost?** It costs $749.99. That is the list price. Source: Garmin

**Does it have GPS?** Yes, it has its own GPS. It works without your phone. Source: Garmin

**What kind of screen is it?** It uses amoled. Source: Garmin

### Sizing and fit

**What sizes does it come in?** Case sizes: 47 mm. 47mm case; sapphire lens and titanium bezel Source: Garmin

### Battery and charging

**How long does the battery last?** It runs 26 hours with GPS only. That is 15 days in smartwatch mode. Source: Garmin

### Water

**Can it get wet — shower, pool, swimming?** Yes, you can shower and swim in it. It is rated to 5 ATM. It is not for scuba diving. Source: Garmin

### Price and models

**When did the Garmin Forerunner 970 come out?** It went on sale May 21, 2025. Announced May 15, 2025. Source: iDevice

**Is there a newer one?** Yes: the Garmin Forerunner 170, out May 15, 2026. Source: [iDevice](/smart-watches/garmin-forerunner/roadmap)

**How much does the Garmin Forerunner 970 cost?** List price: From $749.99. Current price we last read at Garmin: $749.99, October 24, 2026. Source: Garmin

### Returns and warranty

**How long do I have to return it?** 30-day returns The clock starts the day it arrives. Source: [Garmin](https://www.garmin.com/en-US/shop/shipping/)

**Is there a restocking fee?** Restocking fee: not stated by Garmin Source: [Garmin](https://www.garmin.com/en-US/shop/shipping/)

**Can I return it if I opened or wore it?** Send it back like new The item must be in its original condition. Source: [Garmin](https://www.garmin.com/en-US/shop/shipping/)

**How do I get my money back?** How you get your money back Garmin says to allow up to 30 days for the credit to be posted to your account. Source: [Garmin](https://support.garmin.com/en-US/?faq=YuElvOQs6g1MJ099zCOUl7)

**How long is the warranty?** 1-year warranty Starts the day you buy it. Source: [Garmin](https://www.garmin.com/en-US/legal/consumer-limited-warranty/)

**Is there a paid protection plan?** Paid plan available Garmin does not offer extended coverage plans. Source: [Garmin](https://support.garmin.com/en-US/?faq=tYXjJIS9aG7PBpG56HP0j7)

**Is water damage covered?** Water damage not covered Damage caused by water or flood is named as not covered. Source: [Garmin](https://www.garmin.com/en-US/legal/consumer-limited-warranty/)

**Is the battery covered?** Battery covered only for defects Batteries are treated as consumable parts and are not covered unless the damage came from a defect in materials or workmanship. Source: [Garmin](https://www.garmin.com/en-US/legal/consumer-limited-warranty/)

### In the box

**What's in the box?** Proprietary charging cable with USB-C connection, Important Safety and Product Information guide. Source: [Garmin](https://www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-025D75CF-3445-49E1-8D81-1AA74AB4E00F/EN-US/GUID-7F71C5D0-26C1-40E3-AD73-D233BEAC659A.html)

### Works with

**Can you connect Garmin Forerunner watches to a PC?** Garmin Express works on PCs with Windows 10 or later. Some features missing Source: [Garmin](https://support.garmin.com/es-ES/?faq=4QVp7mKSIA1LDk5fc1OHX8)

**Do Garmin Forerunner watches work with Spotify?** Downloads Spotify music with Premium, but only plays saved tracks. Some features missing Source: [Garmin](https://www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-025D75CF-3445-49E1-8D81-1AA74AB4E00F/EN-US/GUID-8702C05F-0915-455A-AABA-079D8374FCD8.html)

**Do Garmin Forerunner watches work with Garmin Connect without a paid subscription?** Garmin Connect works without a paid Connect+ subscription. Works Source: [Garmin](https://www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-025D75CF-3445-49E1-8D81-1AA74AB4E00F/EN-US/GUID-AA356C1E-94FB-4E7E-B7F5-042F134AA86D.html)

**Do Garmin Forerunner watches work with third-party apps like Strava?** Some do, but not every service runs as an app on the watch. Some features missing Source: [Garmin](https://support.garmin.com/en-US/?faq=FzRNKmYZNt1iKa118RJYAA)

**Do Garmin Forerunner watches support phone notifications and replies?** Notifications work on iPhone and Android, but watch replies are Android-only. Some features missing Source: [Garmin](https://support.garmin.com/en-US/?faq=FzRNKmYZNt1iKa118RJYAA)

**How does it charge?** Uses Garmin's charging cable with USB-C or a 5 W or higher adapter. Some features missing Source: [Garmin](https://www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-025D75CF-3445-49E1-8D81-1AA74AB4E00F/EN-US/GUID-7F71C5D0-26C1-40E3-AD73-D233BEAC659A.html)

**Do Garmin Forerunner watches support tap-to-pay?** Uses Garmin Pay with supported banks and cards. Some features missing Source: [Garmin](https://www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-025D75CF-3445-49E1-8D81-1AA74AB4E00F/EN-US/GUID-109340CD-8504-4FA8-9E70-83A071C6CC86.html)

**Do Garmin Forerunner watches support cellular or LTE?** Has no cellular or LTE radio. Doesn't work Source: [Garmin](https://www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-025D75CF-3445-49E1-8D81-1AA74AB4E00F/EN-US/GUID-DEC2B782-96E8-4287-8C8A-5907CC9D3B35.html)

**Do Garmin Forerunner watches support phone voice assistants?** Works with supported phone voice assistants over Bluetooth. Works Source: [Garmin](https://support.garmin.com/en-US/?faq=B0n9YwrwMg4j7yEgevIWgA)

**Do Garmin Forerunner watches support ECG and other advanced health features?** ECG works in supported regions with watch software 5.02 or later. Some features missing Source: [Garmin](https://support.garmin.com/en-US/?faq=YbmyGU4a0tAoZOxVy9doaA)

**Does it work with older Garmin bands?** Works with compatible 22 mm QuickFit 22 bands. Works Source: [Garmin](https://www.garmin.com/en-US/p/610827/pn/010-13008-00/)

**Do Garmin Forerunner watches support satellite SOS?** Needs a separate Garmin inReach device and active subscription. Needs extra hardware Source: [Garmin](https://www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/GUID-025D75CF-3445-49E1-8D81-1AA74AB4E00F/EN-US/GUID-DEC2B782-96E8-4287-8C8A-5907CC9D3B35.html)

**How does it help find a lost watch?** Find My Device works while the watch is still connected. Some features missing Source: [Garmin](https://support.garmin.com/en-IE/?faq=jp2Q6RidNz2gT8ND3TahH9&topicTag=region_lostorstolendevices)

**Do Garmin Forerunner watches support the same features and languages in every region?** Some features, including ECG, depend on your country or region. Some features missing Source: [Garmin](https://support.garmin.com/en-IE/?faq=XW4TwGAinJ2juGDNiANMt8)

**Do Garmin Forerunner watches support family setup or a kids mode?** Partly, through a child account, not a full kids mode. Some features missing Source: [Garmin](https://support.garmin.com/en-US/?faq=HzFDo1em6s0Ss9FFJMFSV5)