On January 7, 2026, the latest Suunto software update was rolled out by the company, version 2.50.26, bringing a host of innovative features and performance enhancements to select watches.
This over-the-air (OTA) update via the Suunto app ensures your device stays cutting-edge, whether you’re tackling trails, swimming laps, or competing in multisport events.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the key additions, improvements, and which Suunto models are compatible
What’s New in Suunto Update 2.50.26?
This major release focuses on multisport functionality, sensor customization, and data accuracy, making it one of Suunto’s most athlete-centric updates yet. From smarter interval training to enhanced navigation, here’s a breakdown.
Innovative New Features
Suunto has packed this update with tools to streamline your workouts and provide deeper insights:
- Customizable Sensor Management: Enable or disable connected sensors per sport mode, and select specific services (e.g., heart rate from a strap but not cadence). This prevents conflicts and tailors your setup for precision.
- Expanded Sport Modes: New default modes for duathlon, swimrun, and aquathlon, plus automatic transitions in triathlon and swimrun for seamless multisport tracking.
- Advanced Data Fields: Track instant, average, and lap Normalized Graded Pace (NGP), peak power/speed/pace, and ascent/descent to your next waypoint—ideal for trail runners and hikers.
- ZoneSense Enhancements: Set ZoneSense as a training target, with zone distribution visible in your log summary for better intensity management.
- Multisport Transitions: Circular transitions in predefined modes let you loop between activities effortlessly.
- Navigation Upgrades: Choose between north-up or heading-up map orientation for intuitive route following.
- SuuntoPlus App Expansion: Run up to three SuuntoPlus apps simultaneously during activities, unlocking more data fields and screens (up to 27 fields and 10 screens).
- Demo Mode: A new in-store or event demo mode simulates watch functions for showcases.
These features cater to endurance athletes, making the update a game-changer for those querying “Suunto multisport update 2026.”
Key Improvements and Bug Fixes
Beyond new additions, Suunto addressed user feedback with reliability boosts:
- Wrist Heart Rate Accuracy: Significant enhancements for more reliable readings during intense sessions (not available on Vertical 1, Vertical 2, or 9 Peak Pro models).
- Barometric Algorithm: A “smart” update with a 2m initial threshold, 0.5m resolution, and advanced weather filtering for stable altitude tracking in tough conditions.
- Pool Swimming Detection: Faster stroke and rest recognition, plus accurate interval logging.
- User Interface Tweaks: Smoother menu transitions, larger map data fields (not on 9 Peak Pro), and improved flashlight UI (Vertical 2 only).
- Connectivity Perks: Weather data now downloadable over WiFi (not on 9 Peak Pro), and new sensors auto-enable in compatible modes.
- General Optimizations: Better altimeter stability, ascent/descent calculations, and fixes like proper airplane mode functionality.
These refinements ensure your Suunto watch performs flawlessly, whether you’re searching for “Suunto Vertical software improvements” or “Suunto Race heart rate update.”
Compatible Suunto Watches: Who Gets What?
Not all features roll out universally due to hardware differences. Here’s the compatibility breakdown:
Watches Receiving All Updates
- Suunto Race 2 and Vertical 2: These flagship models get the full suite, including the ability to run three SuuntoPlus apps at once, flashlight UI improvements (Vertical 2), and all sensor, multisport, and data enhancements.
Watches Receiving Partial Updates
- Suunto Race (1) and Race S: Most features are included, like sensor management, new sport modes, ZoneSense, and improved HR accuracy. However, they miss out on running three SuuntoPlus apps simultaneously (limited to two) and some UI tweaks.
- Suunto Vertical 1: Gains core updates such as interval upgrades, barometric improvements, and multisport transitions, but excludes wrist HR enhancements and WiFi weather downloads.
- Suunto 9 Peak Pro: Supports basics like new data fields, sensor tweaks, and pool swimming fixes, but lacks advanced map features, WiFi connectivity, and HR improvements.
For example, enabling three SuuntoPlus apps at once is exclusive to Race 2 and Vertical 2, while Race S sticks to the previous limit. Check your model’s release notes on Suunto’s site to confirm.
Suunto Run will not receive these updates because it runs on a different OS platform.
How to Install Suunto Software Update
Updating is simple: Connect your watch to the Suunto app on your smartphone. If the battery is at least 50% (or 20% for some models), the OTA download starts automatically, installing overnight.
It’s a staged rollout, so availability may vary by region.
This January 2026 Suunto software update solidifies the brand’s commitment to innovation, blending outdoor ruggedness with smart training tools.
Whether you’re a trail enthusiast or triathlete, these changes could transform your experience. Stay tuned for more Suunto watch updates as we test them in the field!
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