What is Garmin Stealth Mode?
If you’re an avid Garmin user, you may have heard of a feature called “Stealth Mode”. It’s a relatively new feature that has been introduced by Garmin in some of its newer models, like the instinct tactical and the tactix delta. In this article, I will take a closer look at what Garmin Stealth Mode is, how it works, and why you might want to use it.
What is Garmin Stealth Mode?
Garmin Stealth Mode is a feature that allows you to turn off certain features on your Garmin device. When activated, it will disable all wireless communication on your device, making it invisible to others. This means that your location and activity data will not be shared with others, and you will not receive any notifications or alerts while in Stealth Mode.
How Does Garmin Stealth Mode Work?
Garmin Stealth Mode works by turning off the wireless communication on your device. This includes Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections, as well as cellular data. When you activate Stealth Mode, your device will stop sending and receiving data, making it invisible to others.
To activate Stealth Mode, simply go to the Settings menu on your Garmin device and select “Privacy”. From there, you can turn on Stealth Mode and customize the settings to your liking. You can choose to turn off all wireless communication or only certain features, such as notifications or location sharing.
There might be some minor differences in instructions depending on what model you have. However, you will always be able to find all the information on the official Garmin support site.
For example, the instructions for the Garmin instinct tactical can be found here: Stealth mode instinct tactical.
Why Use Garmin Stealth Mode?
There are several reasons why you might want to use Garmin Stealth Mode. Here are a few of the most common:
Privacy
If you’re concerned about your privacy, Garmin Stealth Mode is a great way to ensure that your location and activity data are not shared with others. Whether you’re out for a run or on a hike, you can rest easy knowing that your movements are not being tracked.
Battery Life
Another benefit of Garmin Stealth Mode is that it can help extend the battery life of your device.
It’s pretty logical, since you turn off certain (power-consuming) features, you will save power. This way you will be able to use your watch for a longer period.
Distractions
If you’re tired of constant notifications and alerts, Garmin Stealth Mode can help eliminate distractions. By turning off all wireless communication, you can focus on your activity without any interruptions.
Safety
Finally, Garmin Stealth Mode can also be a safety feature.
This is might be useful for certain military purposes, but you could also find yourself in a situation/area where you simply don’t want to be tracked. Stealth mode does provide an additional layer of safety.
Conclusion
Garmin Stealth Mode is a useful feature that can provide added privacy, extend battery life, and reduce distractions. Whether you’re out for a run or on a hike, activating Stealth Mode can help you focus on your activity without any interruptions.
FAQs
Is Garmin Stealth Mode available on all Garmin devices?
No, Garmin Stealth Mode is only available on certain newer models of Garmin devices.
Can I still use my Garmin device when Stealth Mode is activated?
Yes, you can still use your Garmin device for tracking your activity, but you will not be able to receive notifications or alerts.
How do I activate Garmin Stealth Mode?
To activate Garmin Stealth Mode, go to the Settings menu on your Garmin device and select “Privacy”. From there, you can turn on Stealth Mode and customize the settings to your liking.
Can I still track my activity data while Stealth Mode is activated?
Yes, you can still track your activity data while Stealth Mode is activated, as long as you have GPS enabled on your device. However, location information will not be stored on the watch.
What Garmin watches have stealth mode?
This can change overtime, but at the beginning of 2023 the following watches are compatible with stealth mode:
- Instinct 2 Solar Tactical
- Instinct Solar Tactical
- Instinct Tactical
- MARQ Commander
- tactix 7 series
- tactix Delta series
I’m personally a big fan of the Garmin Instinct series, so if you are looking for recommendations, you can’t go wrong with any of the instinct options.
However, if you want to have the stealth feature, make sure that you have a tactical edition.
Conclusion
The answer to the question, what is Garmin stealth mode is pretty straightforward.
The stealth mode turns off certain functionalities, which disables wireless communication. Also, information will not be stored on the watch the watch during stealth mode. You can still use most features, even location, but the location will not be stored.
Also interested in learning more about Garmin expedition mode? I recently wrote an article about that: What is Garmin expedition mode?
Looking for the best garmin watch for hiking? Take look here: Best garmin watches for hikers.