Garmin Forerunner Smartwatch Update: New Features & Fixes

Key Takeaways

1. Garmin has not officially confirmed the launch of new Forerunner smartwatches, but rumors suggest the Forerunner 970 may be coming soon.
2. A new version of the Fenix 8 is reportedly in development, along with LTE upgrades for current models.
3. Garmin released a stable software update (System Software 23.20) for current Forerunner smartwatches after nearly two months of beta testing.
4. The System Software 23.20 update includes 24 new features, bug fixes, and improvements for models like Forerunner 165, 265, and 965, as well as older models 255 and 955.
5. Approximately 20% of eligible smartwatches have received the update, and users can manually check for updates via the smartwatch menu.

Garmin has not made any official statements regarding the launch of new Forerunner smartwatches. However, there are growing rumors that the company could be ready to launch the Forerunner 970 worldwide. Additionally, Garmin might have hinted that a new version of the Fenix 8 is also in development, along with LTE upgrades for current models.

New Software Update Details

In the meantime, the company has quietly begun to release a new stable software update for the current Forerunner smartwatches, replacing the previous month’s v22.xx versions. This update, known as System Software 23.20, is the result of nearly two months of beta testing and includes numerous changes for the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 265, and Forerunner 965, as well as the older Forerunner 255 and Forerunner 955 (priced at $373 on Amazon).

Features and Availability

According to our calculations, System Software 23.20 introduces 24 new features, bug fixes, and improvements for the mentioned smartwatches. We’ve made an effort to spotlight some specific changes for each device below. At the moment, Garmin believes that approximately 20% of the eligible smartwatches have received the System Software 23.20 update. If your smartwatch hasn’t received the update yet, you can try to manually start the download by navigating to Menu, then System, followed by Software Update, and pressing ‘Check for Updates’. For more information, check out the changelog and Garmin’s forum links below.

Changes by Model

– All Forerunner smartwatches
– Changes for the Forerunner 165
– Changes for the Forerunner 265 and Forerunner 965
– Specific changes for the Forerunner 965

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