Introduction
The Garmin Vivoactive 3 Music is a versatile GPS smartwatch designed for an active lifestyle. It features integrated music storage, contactless payment solutions with Garmin Pay, and over 15 preloaded sports apps. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your device.

Image: Front view of the Garmin Vivoactive 3 Music smartwatch, showcasing its round display and classic black design.
What's in the Box
Ensure all items are present upon unboxing:
- 1 Garmin Vivoactive 3 Music device
- 1 Charging/data cable
- 1 Quick start manual
Setup
1. Charging the Device
Before first use, fully charge your Vivoactive 3 Music. Connect the charging cable to the charging port on the back of the device and plug the USB end into a power source.

Image: Rear view of the Vivoactive 3 Music, showing the optical heart rate sensor and the charging port.
2. Pairing with Your Smartphone
- Download the Garmin Connect app from your smartphone's app store (available for Android and iPhone).
- Enable Bluetooth on your smartphone.
- Open the Garmin Connect app and follow the on-screen instructions to create an account or sign in.
- On your Vivoactive 3 Music, press and hold the side button to turn it on.
- Follow the prompts on the watch to select your language and begin the pairing process.
- In the Garmin Connect app, select "Garmin Devices" > "Add Device" and choose your Vivoactive 3 Music.
- Confirm the pairing code displayed on both your watch and phone.
3. Initial Device Settings
After pairing, the app will guide you through setting up personal information, activity tracking preferences, and other initial settings.
Operating Instructions
Basic Navigation
- Touchscreen: Swipe up or down to scroll through widgets and menus. Tap to select.
- Side Button: Press to view the activity list or return to the watch face. Hold to access controls menu (power, Garmin Pay, music controls, etc.).
- Side Swipe: Swipe on the left side of the bezel to quickly scroll through widgets and menus.
Activity Tracking
The Vivoactive 3 Music tracks various activities and health metrics.

Image: The watch display showing a list of selectable activities such as Run, Bike, and Pool.
- Starting an Activity: Press the side button, select an activity (e.g., Run, Bike, Swim), and press the button again to start.
- GPS: For outdoor activities, wait for the GPS signal to acquire before starting.
- Heart Rate: The optical heart rate sensor continuously monitors your heart rate. View your heart rate data on the watch face or in the Garmin Connect app.

Image: The watch display showing current heart rate and a graph of heart rate over the last four hours.
Music Features
Store up to 500 songs directly on your watch and listen with Bluetooth headphones.

Image: The watch display showing options for music, including "My Music" and "iHeartRadio".
- Loading Music: Connect your watch to your computer using the charging cable. Use the Garmin Express application to transfer music files.
- Connecting Headphones: Hold the side button, select the music icon, then select "Headphones" to pair Bluetooth headphones.
- Playing Music: From the music control widget, select "My Music" or a connected music service to browse and play tracks.
Garmin Pay
Make contactless payments directly from your watch.
- Setup: In the Garmin Connect app, go to "Garmin Pay" and follow the instructions to add your credit or debit cards.
- Using Garmin Pay: Hold the side button, select the wallet icon, enter your passcode (if enabled), and hold your watch near the contactless reader.
Smart Notifications
Receive alerts for incoming calls, texts, and app notifications from your paired smartphone.
- Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone and the watch is within range.
- Manage notification settings through the Garmin Connect app.
Maintenance
Cleaning the Device
- Regularly clean the device and strap with a damp cloth.
- Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
- Rinse the device with fresh water after exposure to chlorine, saltwater, sunscreen, or other chemicals.
Battery Care
- Avoid extreme temperatures when charging or storing the device.
- Charge the device fully before long periods of inactivity.
- The average battery life is up to 7 days in smartwatch mode. GPS and music usage will reduce battery life.
Software Updates
Keep your device's software up to date for optimal performance and new features. Updates are typically managed through the Garmin Connect app or Garmin Express on your computer.
Water Resistance
The Vivoactive 3 Music has a water resistance rating of 5 ATM (50 meters). This means it is suitable for splashes, rain or snow, showering, swimming, diving into water, and snorkeling. It is not suitable for scuba diving or high-speed water sports.
Troubleshooting
Device Not Turning On
- Ensure the device is fully charged. Connect it to the charging cable and a power source for at least 30 minutes.
- Perform a soft reset by holding the side button for 15 seconds.
Unable to Pair with Smartphone
- Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your smartphone and the watch is in pairing mode.
- Restart both your smartphone and the Vivoactive 3 Music.
- Remove the device from the Garmin Connect app and your phone's Bluetooth settings, then attempt to pair again.
GPS Not Acquiring Signal
- Ensure you are in an open outdoor area with a clear view of the sky.
- Remain stationary for a few minutes while the device attempts to acquire satellites.
- Sync your device with Garmin Connect to update satellite data (EPO file).
Music Playback Issues
- Ensure your Bluetooth headphones are paired and charged.
- Verify that music files are properly loaded onto the device via Garmin Express.
- Check the volume settings on the watch.
Specifications
| Model Name | Garmin Vivoactive 3 Music |
| Part Number | 010-01985-02 |
| Brand | Garmin |
| Display Size | 1.3 inches |
| Display Type | LCD |
| Display Resolution | 240 x 240 pixels |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth |
| GPS | Integrated GPS |
| Heart Rate Sensor | Optical heart rate sensor |
| Water Resistance | 5 ATM (50 meters) |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion |
| Battery Life (Smartwatch Mode) | Up to 7 days |
| Weight | 38 Grams |
| Case Material | Polymer |
| Band Material | Silicone |
| Compatible Phones | Android, iPhone |
Warranty Information
The Garmin Vivoactive 3 Music comes with a limited warranty. For specific terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty documentation included with your product or visit the official Garmin website. This warranty typically covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
Support
For further assistance, product updates, or detailed FAQs, please visit the official Garmin support website:
- Garmin Support Center: support.garmin.com
- Garmin Connect App: Access help resources directly within the app.
- Garmin Express: For software updates and map management, download Garmin Express from garmin.com/express.
You can also find additional information and community forums on the Garmin website.







