WARSAW, Feb 1, 2026, 13:24 (CET)
Garmin is releasing an updated Garmin Connect iOS app following user reports of watch-to-phone syncing failures after recent updates. The fix arrives in version 5.21.1, but some users might have to re-pair their devices to get everything working again. (Notebookcheck)
The disruption hits hard since Garmin Connect acts as the link for transferring workouts, health stats, and settings from the watch to the phone. If the Bluetooth pairing between devices breaks down, data transfer grinds to a halt, and the watch quickly loses key functionality that users rely on.
Users reported the issue was confined to iOS, leaving Android unaffected. Complaints came from owners of models like the Fenix 8, Venu 4, and Forerunner 970. When the connection drops, watches lose phone notifications and access to features such as Garmin Pay, the company’s contactless payment system, along with certain navigation functions. (Notebookcheck)
Garmin acknowledged a glitch causing some devices to disconnect after the iOS 5.21 update, according to a statement reported by Gadgets & Wearables. Users still experiencing issues after upgrading to 5.21.1 are advised to unpair and then re-pair their devices. However, Garmin warned this process will erase any Garmin Pay wallet data, requiring users to set it up again. (Gadgets & Wearables)
TechRadar noted that some users managed to fix the issue by deleting the device from Garmin’s web interface and then forgetting it in the iPhone’s Bluetooth settings before re-adding it in the app. Others found success by initiating pairing directly from the watch’s connectivity menu, though results were inconsistent. (TechRadar)
The Apple App Store lists Garmin Connect’s latest version as 5.21.1, with a vague description citing bug fixes and performance enhancements. (App Store)
The patch isn’t working smoothly for all users. Over the last two days, posts on Garmin Forums reported that the newer 5.21.1.1 build still can’t detect certain devices. Some also said their watches vanished from the app, despite Wi‑Fi syncing continuing to function. (Garmin Forums)
Garmin competes in a packed market for premium fitness and outdoor watches, where issues like this can quickly drain support resources and trigger returns. Problems with phone connectivity risk pushing customers toward competitors like Apple and Samsung, known for more reliable links.
Garmin’s advice is straightforward for now: upgrade to 5.21.1. If the watch still shows as “missing,” delete the connection and re-pair it from scratch.
