Garmin Unveils Major Update for High-End Smartwatches with New Features

Key Takeaways

1. Garmin launched a major update (System Software 17.28) for the Fenix E, Fenix 8, Enduro 3, Quatix 8, and Tactix 8 models.
2. The update includes 42 new features, such as Evening Report, Custom Focus Modes, Garmin Triathlon Coach, and Smart Wake Alarm.
3. A total of 114 improvements were made compared to the previous version (System Software 15.33).
4. The update features 65 bug fixes and six minor adjustments, including changes to the Find My Device service.
5. Currently, only about 20% of compatible smartwatches have received notifications to download System Software 17.28.

Garmin has just launched a major update for the Fenix E and Fenix 8 models, along with other smartwatches like the Enduro 3, Quatix 8, and Tactix 8, which is currently priced at $1,399.99 on Amazon. To give some background, the company unveiled its August 2025 Feature Update for various models just yesterday. A few days earlier, they rolled out Beta Version 17.25 for the Fenix 8 and its counterparts, marking it as the eleventh version in the v17.xx beta series.

New Features and Improvements

This update consolidates all the modifications from the beta testing phase into a stable version. Known as System Software 17.28, it seemingly includes the same enhancements for the Enduro 3, Quatix 8, and Tactix 8 as those seen in the Fenix E and Fenix 8. According to our tally, this latest update brings 114 improvements compared to System Software 15.33.

Details of the Update

In particular, System Software 17.28 introduces 42 fresh features, which include the Evening Report, Custom Focus Modes, the Garmin Triathlon Coach, and a Smart Wake Alarm. Additionally, it implements around six minor adjustments, such as modifying the Find My Device service to produce sounds at the highest volume. Garmin classifies most of the upgrades as bug fixes, with System Software 17.28 containing 65 of these. At present, Garmin indicates that only about 20% of compatible smartwatches have received alerts to download System Software 17.28. For context, the update features the following changelog applicable to all eligible smartwatches:

Source:
Link