Amazfit is rolling out a new update for three of its current smartwatches. Firmware version 6.2.104.6 is rolling out to the Balance 3, Balance Ultra, and Cheetah 2 Ultra, introducing three new features: a rotating map view for navigation, automatic dive detection, and a Bluetooth speaker mode. In addition, there are several minor improvements to workout tracking and user experience.
Key Points at a Glance
- Amazfit is rolling out firmware version 6.2.104.6 (approximately 20 MB) for the Balance 3, Balance Ultra, and Cheetah 2 Ultra.
- New features include a rotating map view (“Advance Up”), global automatic dive detection, and a Bluetooth speaker mode.
- The algorithm for calculating the lactate threshold while running has been revised.
- All three watches run on Zepp OS 6 and share the same software version.
Amazfit Update 6.2.104.6: These Three Features Are New
The most noticeable change concerns the Maps app. With the “Advance Up” view, the map will now orient itself so that your line of sight points upward. Instead of a map rigidly oriented toward the north, the display rotates with you. When running, hiking, or cycling, this means you no longer have to mentally recalculate the route, which should work particularly well on the large displays of the Balance models.
Second, there’s a global automatic dive detection feature for the diving workout. Until now, you had to start the activity manually before each dive. In the future, the watch will automatically detect when you enter the water. Technically, this is easily achievable for a smartwatch with an air pressure sensor: Underwater, the measured pressure rises significantly within a few seconds, without any significant horizontal movement. However, it remains to be seen how reliably the watch will detect the start and end of a dive in practice.
The third new feature turns the smartwatch into a Bluetooth speaker. If the watch is connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth, audio from the phone can be played through the watch’s speaker. Whether this is actually useful in everyday life remains questionable, as the built-in speakers naturally don’t deliver great sound quality. As an additional option, though, it’s a nice bonus.
Improved Lactate Threshold and Training Fine-Tuning
In addition to these three highlights, the changelog lists several optimizations that are particularly relevant to athletes. Amazfit has revised the algorithm for calculating the lactate threshold while running. The lactate threshold is a key parameter for runners, as it marks the intensity at which lactate accumulates faster than the body can break it down. A more accurate determination directly aids in training management. However, it will likely take a few threshold runs to determine whether the new estimates actually differ.
In Track Run mode, the unit display has been adjusted for users of the imperial system. Curiously, according to the release notes, distance measurements will continue to appear in metric units, so this is not a complete switch to miles. Amazfit has also reorganized the data carousel that appears after pausing a workout. Ideally, this saves you a few swipes to reach the information you want. Another change affects the interface that appears when you reach a navigation destination. The manufacturer hasn’t provided specific details on exactly what has changed visually there.
A Single Update for Three Amazfit Smartwatches
It makes sense for Amazfit to roll out the same software package to the Balance 3, Balance Ultra, and Cheetah 2 Ultra. All three models run on Zepp OS 6 and share most of the sports and mapping features, even though the manufacturer positions them differently. The Cheetah 2 Ultra had just received major updates last month, including Zepp OS 6 and enhanced HYROX features. Firmware 6.2.104.6 continues this trend, but this time places a stronger emphasis on navigation and everyday use.
With a starting price of 369 euros, an AMOLED display with a brightness of up to 3,000 nits, and 64 GB of storage, the Amazfit Balance 3 (on Amazon) is already the most exciting of the three watches for price-conscious buyers.
Overview: What Firmware 6.2.104.6 Brings to the Table
| Category | Change |
|---|---|
| Navigation | New “Advance Up” map view (looking upward) |
| Diving | Global automatic dive detection in the dive workout |
| Audio | Watch can be used as a Bluetooth speaker for smartphone audio |
| Running | Revised algorithm for lactate threshold |
| Track Run | Customized unit display for the imperial system (distance remains in metric units) |
| Usage | Rearranged data carousel after a workout break |
| Navigation | Refined interface upon reaching the goal |
| Compatibility | Balance 3, Balance Ultra, Cheetah 2 Ultra (all running Zepp OS 6) |
Frequently Asked Questions About the Amazfit Update
Which Amazfit smartwatches are receiving firmware version 6.2.104.6?
The update is intended for the Amazfit Balance 3, Balance Ultra, and Cheetah 2 Ultra. All three run on Zepp OS 6.
How large is the update?
The firmware package is about 20 MB and is distributed via the Zepp app.
What’s the most important new feature?
For most users, the most useful feature is likely to be the rotating “Advance Up” map view, along with automatic dive detection and Bluetooth speaker mode.
Can I now play music on the watch?
The watch can be used as a Bluetooth speaker to play audio from a paired smartphone. However, the sound quality of the small speakers is limited.
Conclusion
The Amazfit update 6.2.104.6 isn’t a huge leap forward, but it strikes the right balance. Automatic dive detection enhances the outdoor capabilities of all three watches, while the rotating map and the revised lactate threshold make the biggest difference in everyday use and during workouts. The Bluetooth speaker is more of a gimmick than a real selling point. Bottom line, this is exactly the kind of maintenance update that Amazfit has consistently delivered for several models recently—one that noticeably improves a smartwatch over time.
