Key Takeaways
1. Garmin is updating older smartwatches like Venu 3, Venu 3S, and Vivoactive 5, despite newer models available.
2. The last stable software update was version 16.05, released in September, with version 17.01 currently in Beta.
3. Beta 17.01 includes improved translations for Garmin Connect Mobile and fixes for pairing with the Garmin Messenger app.
4. Battery life issues for Venu 3 and Vivoactive 5 have not been addressed in recent updates.
5. Users can access Beta 17.01 by checking for updates in the smartwatch settings.
Garmin has transitioned many of its older smartwatches to a significant new software update. Although the Venu 3, Venu 3S, and Vivoactive 5 (currently priced at $199 on Amazon) have been succeeded by newer versions, Garmin still provides updates for them occasionally. However, the company’s release of new patches has noticeably decreased in frequency lately.
Recent Update History
For example, the last stable update was released in September, which included fixes for heart-rate related bugs under version 16.05. This was quickly followed by version 16.07, but both have now been superseded by version 17.01, which Garmin is currently rolling out through its Beta Program. While there’s no word on when v17.xx will become stable, recent activities suggest that a new stable update might be on the horizon.
Details of Beta 17.01
In the meantime, Beta 17.01 is reported to have three main improvements compared to the v16.xx versions. Garmin has included updated translations for the Garmin Connect Mobile, which are now at version 2.30. Additionally, this beta version is expected to resolve a pairing issue with the Garmin Messenger app and another issue related to the EasyCard icon.
Battery Life Concerns Unaddressed
Interestingly, Garmin has not yet tackled the ongoing battery life problems reported for the Venu 3 and Vivoactive since the upgrade to version 16.xx software. Users can download Beta 17.01 on their Venu 3 series or Vivoactive 5 smartwatch by selecting ‘Check for Updates’ after going through the Main Menu, Settings, System, and Software Update. For more information, please refer to Garmin’s forum post.
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