Amazfit is deploying a major software update across eight smartwatch models to introduce manual swimming rest intervals, FTMS rowing machine support, and a specialized “Always Lock” screen mode. According to the company, the update targets the Balance Ultra, Balance 3, T-Rex Ultra 2, T-Rex 3 Pro, T-Rex 3, Cheetah 2 Ultra, Cheetah 2 Pro, and Active 3 Premium, though specific feature availability varies by device.
New Training Tools for Swimmers and Rowers
The most significant addition for aquatic athletes is the “Manual Rest” function. According to Amazfit, this allows swimmers to manually mark rest periods, ensuring that swimming and resting phases are recorded as separate segments rather than a single continuous session.
For indoor cardio, Amazfit has added FTMS (Fitness Machine Service) rowing machine support. Compatible watches can now connect to supported hardware, such as Concept2 rowing machines, to record power and distance data directly to the wearable.
Performance Optimizations and Hardware Control
To prevent accidental inputs caused by rain, sweat, or the use of gloves, Amazfit introduced “Always Lock” screen mode. This setting disables the touchscreen, forcing the user to rely on physical buttons for workout control.
The update also introduces “Athlete Defaults,” a setting managed via the Zepp app that automatically applies preferred configurations—such as maximum GPS accuracy and notification muting—before a workout begins. Amazfit notes this specific feature is limited to the Cheetah 2 Ultra, Cheetah 2 Pro, Balance Ultra, and Balance 3 models.
General usability improvements include faster map rendering and more fluid panning and zooming of route maps both before and during exercise. The company also simplified the process for setting alarms.
Amazfit Support Lifecycles and End-of-Life Dates
While current users receive new features, Zepp Health has updated its support list regarding device longevity. According to reporting from okosora.net via Notebookcheck, three devices launched in 2024 will reach their end-of-software-support in 2026.
The Amazfit T-Rex 3, Bip 5 Unity, and Helio Ring are scheduled to receive their final software updates in 2026.
Did you know? Zepp Health is shifting its update strategy. Devices debuting after June 2025 will receive three years of support, up from the previous two-year cycle.
Comparison of Support Durations by Model
| Device | Support End Date | Support Duration |
|---|---|---|
| T-Rex 3 / Bip 5 Unity / Helio Ring | 2026 | 2 Years |
| Amazfit Active 2 NFC | Varies | At least 2.5 Years |
| Amazfit Up Open-Ear | Varies | Up to 4 Years |
| Post-June 2025 Models | TBD | 3 Years |
Zepp Health stated that while functional updates stop after the official lifecycle, the company may still issue patches for critical bugs or severe security vulnerabilities to ensure continued safe use of the devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Amazfit watches get the new swimming and rowing features?
The update targets the Balance Ultra, Balance 3, T-Rex Ultra 2, T-Rex 3 Pro, T-Rex 3, Cheetah 2 Ultra, Cheetah 2 Pro, and Active 3 Premium, though some features are model-specific.
What is the “Athlete Defaults” setting?
Available via the Zepp app for select models, it automatically sets GPS to maximum accuracy and mutes notifications when a workout starts.
Will my Amazfit watch stop working after 2026?
No. According to okosora.net, functional updates will stop for certain 2024 models in 2026, but Zepp Health may still provide critical security patches.
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