Feature request: How come Edge devices don't have headphones as ALL sound output option?

3068874
2 months ago

How is this still not possible in 2024, on devices like 1050? Afaik, Hammerhead, and most other smart devices already have these options. Bluetooth has been here for ages.This should be in by default on all devices, or at least the 50 series.

For example, nowadays, many cyclists ride with headphones such as Shokz connected to their phone, but Garmin only has the option of navigation alerts to your phone, while you can't hear other sounds, notifications, radar alerts (needs a separate app), etc. It should be simple to just have the phone (with headphones) as the output option for ALL sound. Then, you could listen to music from a phone while also getting all the sounds from the device there as well.

  • +1 2 months ago

    For example, nowadays, many cyclists ride with headphones such as Shokz connected to their phone, but Garmin only has the option of navigation alerts to your phone, while you can't hear other sounds, notifications, radar alerts (needs a separate app), etc. It should be simple to just have the phone (with headphones) as the output option for ALL sound. Then, you could listen to music from a phone while also getting all the sounds from the device there as well.

  • 0 2 months ago in reply to 3068874

    Put me down for a No vote for this. I hate that cyclists are riding on shared paths plugged in to headphones/earbuds, with poor or no situational awareness. I have abandoned riding on many greenways, because plugged in users make it dangerous.

  • 0 2 months ago in reply to DeanWette

    This really isn’t a matter of "yes or no" but more of when it will be integrated, as the trend is clearly moving in that direction. Many companies in the cycling and fitness industries have already adopted similar technology, and it’s only a matter of time before this becomes available everywhere.

    Also, it's important to note that many cyclists are using bone conduction headphones like Shokz, which are very different from traditional in-ear headphones or earbuds. These innovative systems don't block your ears—they transmit sound through your cheekbones, leaving your ears open to hear ambient sounds like traffic, other cyclists, or pedestrians.

    This provides a safe way to stay aware of your surroundings while still being able to hear navigation alerts, notifications, or radar alerts. It’s a balance of convenience and safety, and when used properly, it actually improves situational awareness rather than reducing it.

    They are actually made for cyclist and runners. I would advise to read more about it first, and then decide for yourself.

  • 0 2 months ago in reply to 3068874

    I know what the bone conducting headphones are, but to generalize that cyclists are using them is just not so. Yes, some are, but the vast majority of cyclists on shared spaces (greenways, etc) are not. Rather, they use Apple earbuds and ride with minimal situational awareness as a result.

    Personally I don't have a need to use them.

  • 0 2 months ago in reply to DeanWette

    Thanks for sharing your comments, but to be honest, I don't understand the point. People are going to still use those, with or without this feature, but when it's added, it actually improves safety and awareness for them. It's a win-win for both.

    My point was more about how the industry is evolving to offer safer solutions for those who want both audio and awareness while riding, and bone conduction is a step in that direction.It’s important to continue developing solutions that balance technology with safety, especially as more people adopt these devices in different settings.

    As with any feature, this could be enabled/disabled based on rider's preference.I totally understand that some cyclists, like yourself, might not have a need for this feature at all. The good news is that you can safely ignore it if it’s not something you use. But if you ever decide to give bone conduction headphones a try, you'll be able to provide feedback based on firsthand experience.

    Garmin has already started enabling spoken audio prompts, and the Varia radar app is also sending alerts to phones/headphones. Competition has also already adopted this, so in my opinion it's a matter of time, hopefully.