Garmin announced the Edge 1060 cycling computer on 20 October with a built-in microphone and speaker. Voice commands can request ride data, choose a destination or report a hazard while the rider keeps hold of the bars. The device can read information aloud, although voice recognition varies with riding conditions and is available only in selected languages. Its usefulness therefore depends partly on the rider’s language and usual riding environment.
Navigation goes beyond speech control. Edge 1060 can compare route options by travel time, elevation and bike type, and preview distance and reported road hazards before departure. Riders can highlight selected points of interest along the way. Alerts about closures and hazards reported by other users require pairing with a compatible phone and the Garmin Connect app.
The speaker also handles navigation prompts and a digital bicycle bell. Exchanging voice messages with Garmin Messenger users requires a connected smartphone. Physical buttons complement the touchscreen, which may help when wearing gloves or riding in rain. Garmin quotes up to 20 hours of battery life in demanding use and up to 60 hours in battery saver mode; actual endurance will depend on the features in use. The practical buying question is which functions run on the device and which depend on a phone during the ride.