Buckle up for more subscriptions

The Verge - Apr 11th, 2025
Open on The Verge

Garmin recently announced the introduction of a subscription service for its Garmin Connect app, prompting backlash from users who are upset over features once free now being placed behind a paywall. This follows a price hike for the Fenix 8, further fueling customer dissatisfaction. Competitor Polar has also launched a subscription service for training plans previously offered for free. The shift to subscription models reflects a broader trend in the tech industry, where companies are increasingly relying on software services for revenue.

This move is part of a larger industry strategy, initially popularized by Apple in 2019, to adapt to rising costs and tariffs, such as those introduced by President Trump. With hardware becoming more expensive, companies are focusing on software to sustain growth. However, this transition may alienate loyal customers who are resistant to paying for features they previously received for free. The success of this strategy hinges on whether companies can demonstrate the value of their added services without compromising user trust.

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RATING

6.4
Moderately Fair
Read with skepticism

The article effectively highlights a timely and relevant issue in the tech industry, focusing on the shift towards subscription models by companies like Garmin and Polar. It presents consumer reactions and expert opinions, offering a clear narrative that is accessible to a general audience. However, the article could benefit from more balanced representation of perspectives, particularly from the companies involved, and a deeper exploration of the broader implications of these changes. While the article is informative and engaging, it would be strengthened by more robust sourcing and verification of specific claims. Overall, it provides a solid overview of the current trends and challenges in the wearable tech industry, with room for further exploration and analysis.

RATING DETAILS

7
Accuracy

The story provides a generally accurate account of recent developments in the wearable tech industry, particularly with Garmin and Polar's shift towards subscription models. It correctly identifies Garmin's introduction of a new subscription service and the subsequent backlash from users. However, specific details such as the exact features moved behind the paywall or the precise nature of the price hike for the Fenix 8 are not fully verified within the text. Additionally, while the article mentions the broader trend of companies moving towards subscription models, it does not provide detailed evidence or sources for some claims, such as the impact of President Trump's tariffs on gadget prices. These areas would benefit from further verification and sourcing to enhance the article's factual accuracy.

6
Balance

The article predominantly presents the perspective of consumers who are frustrated with the shift towards subscription models, as evidenced by quotes from users and experts like Robbie Kellman Baxter. While this viewpoint is crucial, the article could benefit from a more balanced representation by including perspectives from the companies themselves, explaining their rationale for the shift. Additionally, the article references historical shifts in the industry, such as Apple's move towards services, but does not equally weigh the potential benefits of these changes for consumers, such as improved features and services. This creates a slight imbalance in the narrative, focusing more on consumer dissatisfaction.

8
Clarity

The article is well-structured and presents information in a clear and logical manner. It effectively uses quotes and examples to illustrate the growing trend of subscription models in the tech industry. The language is accessible and avoids technical jargon, making it easy for a general audience to understand. However, the article could improve clarity by providing more detailed explanations of specific terms, such as 'enshittification,' and by offering clearer distinctions between the different subscription models introduced by Garmin and Polar. Overall, the narrative is coherent and easy to follow.

5
Source quality

The article references comments from social media platforms and industry experts like Robbie Kellman Baxter, which adds some credibility. However, it lacks direct quotes or official statements from Garmin or Polar representatives, which would provide authoritative backing for the claims made. Additionally, the article does not cite specific studies or data to support broader claims about industry trends or the impact of tariffs, which affects the reliability of the information presented. The reliance on social media and anecdotal evidence, while useful for gauging public sentiment, does not fully substitute for robust, verifiable sources.

6
Transparency

The article offers a clear narrative about the shift towards subscription models in the wearable tech industry, but it lacks transparency in certain areas. It does not fully disclose the methodology behind the claims about consumer reactions or the specific impacts of tariffs. While it mentions expert opinions, it does not elaborate on how these experts arrived at their conclusions or the data supporting their views. Additionally, the article could improve transparency by clarifying any potential conflicts of interest, such as whether the author has any affiliations with the companies mentioned.

Sources

  1. https://www.polar.com/en/media-room/polar-introduces-fitness-program
  2. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YeYH9phbZtI
  3. https://the5krunner.com/2025/04/10/new-polar-subscription-fitness-program-details/
  4. https://www.zdnet.com/article/polar-adds-personalized-fitness-subscription-to-its-smartwatch-app-like-garmins/
  5. https://www.androidpolice.com/polar-new-fitness-program-paid-plan/