Suunto software update January 2026 – why this is a genuinely big deal
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Suunto have kicked off 2026 with one of their most meaningful watch updates in recent years. The Suunto software update January 2026 (version 2.50.26) is not cosmetic, not marketing fluff, and not limited to a single model. It’s a broad, practical upgrade that makes the Race S, Race 2 and Vertical 2 noticeably better to use – especially for people who actually train, race, or spend long days outdoors.
In our opinion, this update matters because it shows clear intent from Suunto: they’re listening to users, refining the core experience, and closing the gap on areas where competitors have traditionally shouted loudest.
Below is a clear breakdown of what’s new – and why it’s relevant if you already own a Suunto, or are considering upgrading.
What’s included in the January 2026 Suunto update?
The update rolls out automatically once your watch syncs with the Suunto app and will install overnight (battery needs to be above 50%). You can also install it manually via Settings > General > Software update .
1. Much smarter sensor control (finally)
One of the most welcome changes is per-sport sensor control. You can now:
- Enable or disable connected sensors by individual sport mode
- Select sensor services separately (power, HR, speed, etc.)
This is exactly how it should have worked all along. It’s cleaner, more logical, and avoids wasting battery or cluttering data when you don’t need it.
2. Proper multisport handling (Race S, Race 2 & Vertical 2)
Multisport athletes will notice a big leap forward:
- Automatic transitions in triathlon and swimrun
- Circular transitions between sports in predefined multisport modes
- New default sport modes for duathlon, aquathlon and swimrun
This brings Suunto firmly into “serious multisport” territory rather than feeling like a workaround.
3. New data fields that actually add value
This update introduces several useful, real-world metrics, not gimmicks:
- Instant, average and lap NGP (Normalised Graded Pace)
- Peak power
- Peak pace and speed
- Ascent/descent to next waypoint
For trail runners and long-distance athletes, ascent/descent to the next waypoint is a standout – it’s the sort of data you use, not just admire afterwards.
4. ZoneSense becomes far more usable
ZoneSense has been quietly improving, and now it’s properly integrated:
- Adjustable as a target to follow during activity
- Zone distribution shown clearly in the activity summary
This makes ZoneSense far more actionable during training rather than just a post-exercise curiosity.
5. Mapping and navigation improvements
All three priority models benefit from:
- New map orientation options (north-up or heading-up)
- Larger, clearer map data fields
- Improved ascent and descent accuracy
- Better altimeter stability
Navigation clarity is one of the reasons people choose Suunto in the first place – and this update strengthens that advantage.
Model-specific highlights
Suunto Race S & Race 2
- Significantly improved wrist heart-rate accuracy
- Sport mode options remembered more reliably
- New paired sensors automatically enabled where relevant
- Race 2 only: SuuntoPlus apps increased from two to three
The wrist HR improvement alone will matter to a lot of users, particularly those who prefer not to run with a chest strap.
If you’re looking at upgrading:
- Suunto Race S Stainless Steel
- Suunto Race 2 Stainless Steel
Suunto Vertical 2 (AMOLED)
The Vertical 2 gains many of the same improvements, plus:
- Improved flashlight user interface
- Smoother overall menu transitions
- Better swimming accuracy
- Weather data now downloading over Wi-Fi
This continues to position the Vertical 2 as a serious expedition and ultra-distance watch rather than just a “big battery” option.
Available as:
- Suunto Vertical 2 Steel – AMOLED
- Suunto Vertical 2 Titanium – AMOLED
Our take: why this update matters
This update does two important things:
- It rewards existing Suunto owners
No new hardware required, no paywalls – just a better watch than you had last year.
- It strengthens the upgrade argument
If you’re coming from an older Suunto (or even considering switching brands), the Race S, Race 2 and Vertical 2 now feel far more refined and future-proof.
In short, this isn’t just maintenance. It’s a statement update – and it reinforces why Suunto watches have been selling so strongly for us recently.
If you already own one of these watches, update it.
If you’re thinking about upgrading, this update makes the decision easier.
And yes – we’ll keep covering Suunto properly, because this is exactly how software support should be done.
