Bluetooth poor connection with headset

I have a Fenix 8 47mm Solar. Previously using JBL 760NC headset vía bluetooth with no problems. Upgraded to Sony WH1000MX4 and as soon as i start playing music micro cuts start to happen in the connection.

Watch BT + JBL760NC works perfect.

Phone BT + JBL760NC works perfect.

Phone BT + Sony WH1000MX4 works perfect.

Watch BT + Sony WH1000MX4 works wrong.

I'm guessing a watch problem. Beta version 13.18

I was previously in love with my instinct 2 camo expecting a major upgrade to fenix 8 but battery drain issues plus this is letting me down.

Any comments? Any help?

Thanks in advance

ps: my english is not good... sorry about that :D

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0 Dallace 3 months ago

I can say I have noticed something similar with my Fenix 8 and my Pixel Buds. I have never noticed using my Fenix 6 having connection drops while running/walking/hiking while connected to the watch.

With my Fenix 8, if I hold my arm down low or behind me (as it swings) it can cut out momentarily. This doesn't seem to happen when running since I assume my arm is higher/closer, but when walking/hiking it is straight and lower. (further away).

It's not a *big* problem but was a surprise and not ideal.

0 7162912 3 months ago

I had a pair of Xiaomis that had the similar issue, it turned out that I should take out first the left earbud (I wear a watch on left hand) and then the right (I was doing it other way round) because the first bud that connects becomes the master and the second connects to the first one, so it is better that the master is on the same side as the watch.This should not be the case with newer models, but it is still worth a try....

0 Dallace 3 months ago in reply to 7162912

My buds don't auto-connect to my watch. It feels like a weird process to pull out one, then go through the connection process, then put on the second. but that is an interesting idea. I don't walk/hike much so it's a pretty minor issue for *me* but would be an interesting test.

+1 Garmin-Laurie 3 months ago in reply to Dallace

Update January 31, 2025:

We are sorry you are experiencing Bluetooth connection issues. Please review the following FAQs to assist in troubleshooting headphone connectivity.

Bluetooth Headphone Compatibility for Garmin Music Watches

I Am Having Bluetooth Headphone Connection Issues With My Watch

If the headphones used have an additional footpod/Accelerometer sensor feature, ensure it is not paired as a footpod. (Look for "FP" in the sensor details of the paired headphones) Specific to Jabra headphones, we have this; Audio Cuts Out When Using My Jabra Headphones With My Garmin Music Watch

Some customers have experienced an improvement to reception by temporarily disabling the watch's Bluetooth connection with their phone. This is not a permanent fix, but may help your experience while we investigate.

If you are having this issue, after the above steps, our engineers would love to help investigate this further. Please feel free to reach out to me via Private Message.

0 maxc 3 months ago in reply to Garmin-Laurie

As mentioned in previous threads I use Beats Fit Pro. No issue indoor. I experience some cuts out when running outdoor, I.e. the issue is when GPS is activated.

0 2121411 3 months ago in reply to Garmin-Laurie

LOL.

0 jeanpaulm 3 months ago in reply to Dallace

FYI I have noticed the same with my Fenix 8. Quite an annoyance. Same issue happens if my phone is in my back pocked and I cross my arms.