Watchlink#
A small wireless bridge that connects the Apple Watch Ultra 1 to the Garmin Edge MTB, enabling the Apple Watch to receive and display the Garmin’s live sensor data. Solves the fundamental incompatibility between the Apple Watch (Bluetooth LE only) and the ANT+ ecosystem used by Garmin and most cycling sensors.
In the Network#
Garmin Edge MTB ──ANT+──► Watchlink ──Bluetooth LE──► Apple Watch Ultra 1The Edge broadcasts aggregated sensor data (power, cadence, speed, heart rate) over ANT+. The Watchlink receives that stream and re-transmits it to the Apple Watch over Bluetooth LE — allowing Apple Watch cycling apps to display live ride metrics alongside the Watch’s own GPS and heart rate data.
Key Specifications#
| Attribute | Spec |
|---|---|
| ANT+ role | Receiver (pairs to Garmin Edge as display device) |
| Bluetooth role | Transmitter (BLE to Apple Watch) |
| Operating range | Within ~3 m (10 ft) of Apple Watch |
| Apple Watch compatibility | Series 3 or later |
| Power | Internal battery (Pod version) |
| Form factor | Small clip/wearable pod |
How It Works#
- The Watchlink Pod is paired to the Apple Watch via the Watch Link app
- The Watchlink pairs to the Garmin Edge as an ANT+ display client (like a secondary head unit would)
- The Edge’s ANT+ broadcasts (power, cadence, speed from connected sensors) are received by the Watchlink
- The Watchlink relays those metrics to the Apple Watch over Bluetooth LE using standard GATT fitness profiles
- Apple Watch apps (e.g., Workouts, third-party cycling apps) see the data as if it came from a BLE sensor
Compatible Equipment#
Works with any ANT+ transmitting device, including:
- Garmin Edge series head units
- Concept 2 rowing machines
- Wahoo KICKR trainers
- Life Fitness, Precor, Technogym (gym equipment)
Apple Watch App#
The Watch Link Heart Rate App on the App Store manages the pairing and data relay. The app must be open on the Watch during rides for data relay to function.
Why This Exists#
Apple Watch has no ANT+ radio. The entire cycling sensor ecosystem (power meters, cadence sensors, Di2, Varia) runs on ANT+. The Watchlink bridges this gap, allowing Apple’s fitness ecosystem and Garmin’s cycling ecosystem to coexist on the same wrist.