A new beat on your wrist: YouTube Music set to launch on Garmin watches

Imagine running down your favourite trail, keeping pace with your favourite Youtube Music song, all without having to carry your phone. That's soon to become a part of the Garmin experience.

For those not in the know, YouTube Music is a music streaming service developed by – you guessed it – YouTube. Launched in November 2015, the platform provides an interface for music streaming. It allows users to browse through songs and music videos on YouTube based on genres, playlists, and recommendations. The service also offers an optional premium tier. This enables an ad-free experience, background play, along with downloading songs for offline playback.

According to 9to5google‘s sources, the YouTube Music app is set to expand its presence on third-party devices. This move aims to improve existing third-party experiences, similar to what has been done with Sonos​​.

The most immersive YouTube Music experience has, until now, been available on Android, iOS, and the web. But one of the forthcoming integrations is a YouTube Music app designed specifically for Garmin smartwatches​.

Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets

This will allow users to leave their phones at home during runs or workouts, providing direct access to their favourite music on their wrist​. An important addition as Youtube Music is the only streaming platform used by some.

There is some speculation on whether this feature will only be available on LTE-supported watches, like the Forerunner 945 LTE. However, Garmin users are hopeful that the YouTube Music integration will support offline music sync, similar to the functionality on non-LTE Wear OS watches​​.

Garmin, known for its rugged, reliable smartwatches, will benefit significantly from this integration. The company's Connect IQ store already hosts apps from Spotify, Deezer, and Amazon Music. YouTube Music was the one significant omission. It's expected arrival is about several years late – but better late than never!

Spotify, for instance, allows offline playback for premium users. This is a feature that lets users sync playlists to their watch and play music without the need for an internet connection. Amazon Music, on the other hand, gives users access to a vast library of songs, though it currently lacks an offline playback feature.

Deezer, another player in the Garmin ecosystem, differentiates itself with Flow, a personal soundtrack feature. It plays a continuous mix of your favorite music and new recommendations.

With the introduction of YouTube Music, users are likely to look forward to the rich and diverse content it boasts. This includes official albums, singles, remixes, live performances, and a wealth of music videos. Coupled with its recommendation algorithm, YouTube Music could make it a strong contender against the existing services. However, it remains to be seen if it will include features like offline playback on Garmin devices.

While Google has not officially commented on the integration, the prospect of YouTube Music on Garmin watches has already sparked a wave of excitement within the Garmin community​. As one user said, ‘Happy dance. Happy run!’​.

Like this article? Subscribe to our monthly newsletter and never miss out!