Garmin Update Makes Many Smartwatches Nearly Unusable

Key Takeaways

1. Significant issues reported with Garmin Forerunner models after software update 27.09, affecting functionalities.
2. Sleep tracking, step counting, and heart rate monitoring have become unreliable or non-functional on the Forerunner 165.
3. Restarting devices may help but is not a guaranteed fix for the problems experienced.
4. Community frustration is high, with many users expressing disappointment and seeking a resolution from Garmin.
5. Garmin has acknowledged the issues but has not yet announced a firmware update to address them.


Several users have experienced significant issues with multiple Garmin Forerunner models after a recent software update. Following the installation of software version 27.09, many people have reported serious problems with their Garmin Forerunner 165, Forerunner 265, and Forerunner 965 (which you can find here on Amazon). These aren’t just small bugs; these issues drastically limit the watches’ functionalities, severely impacting many of their smart features. It’s hard to determine how widespread these problems are, as some users claim they didn’t encounter any issues with the new software. Restarting the devices seems to help in some situations, but it’s not a guaranteed fix. One user on Reddit mentioned experiencing lag after the update.

Sleep Tracking Issues

A particular post highlights that the Garmin Forerunner 165 has stopped tracking sleep data, making it impossible for users to assess both the quality and length of their sleep. The step counter has ceased to function, and heart rate monitoring has become either unreliable or completely erratic. Even though the Forerunner 165 is not entirely unusable, it seems to have lost a significant portion of its smartwatch features. For instance, without reliable heart rate data, users cannot accurately monitor their workouts. Garmin has been made aware of these problems, but an official solution, like a firmware update, has not been announced yet. Those preparing for races may find these issues particularly challenging compared to casual users.

Community Feedback

In discussions on Reddit, many users have shared their frustrations regarding these updates. While some have found workarounds, the overall sentiment is one of disappointment. The lack of timely communication from Garmin has also added to the dissatisfaction. Users are eager for a resolution that restores their watches to full functionality so they can use them without worries. It seems the updates have turned their once reliable devices into sources of stress.

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