Garmin, a trusted manufacturer of smart sport and fitness devices, is under fire from former partner and fellow fitness tracking developer Strava for alleged patent infringement.
In a recent lawsuit filed Sept. 30, Strava claims Garmin infringed on patents related to its segments and heatmapping features. As part of the complaint, Strava requests that Garmin pause the sale of popular watches and other devices that support segments or heatmapping, per a recent report from The Verge. If successful, the lawsuit could have a significant impact on Garmin users, particularly those who rely on Garmin devices to track running and cycling events.
Collaboration turned into competition
Divided over segments
Segments, a motivating and bragging rights feature from Strava and Garmin that enables users to view and compare performance metrics on a specific route or course, is under contention.
The two entities previously worked together under a Master Cooperation Agreement that promoted compatibility with Strava segments on Garmin products, according to Runner’s World. The lawsuit alleges that Garmin breached the agreement by developing competing software.
Consequently, Strava is taking legal action to prohibit Garmin from selling any product that supports segments.
Hot over heatmaps
Strava and Garmin are also at odds over heatmaps, a feature they both offer that enables users to find and recommend popular running and cycling routes.
Although Garmin launched heatmap functionality in 2013, a year or so prior to Strava filing for its heatmap patent, Strava claims Garmin emulated its heatmap functionality. Similar to the segments complaint, Strava has insisted Garmin discontinue product sales that feature heatmapping.
What it means for Garmin users
Pending a possible legal resolution or settlement, Garmin users will experience no disruptions to device availability or use. However, should Strava score a legal success in its complaint against Garmin, the latter may have to significantly adjust or outright remove segments and heatmaps functionality.
​​​​​​​In response to an inquiry into the situation, Garmin stated it does not comment on pending litigation.
Legal disputes such as these can take months or years before reaching a resolution. We’ll keep an eye on the feud between Strava and Garmin to keep you informed of the impact it could have on your devices.
