Tag: Fenix 7

  • Garmin Fenix 7 Beta Update Enhances Sleep Tracking Features

    Garmin Fenix 7 Beta Update Enhances Sleep Tracking Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released beta version 21.06 for the Fenix 7 and other smartwatches shortly after beta version 21.05.
    2. The update includes improvements to the breathing variations page in sleep analysis and various user interface fixes.
    3. A persistent bug causing watches to restart repeatedly remains unresolved in this update.
    4. Users have reported issues with Garmin Coach training plans and missing glance features after updating to version 21.06.
    5. The update is available for several models, including Fenix 7 and Epix 2, but not for Tactix 7 or Marq Aviator Gen 2.


    Garmin has put out a new beta update for the Fenix 7 and some of its other smartwatches. This beta version 21.06 was released just a few days after beta version 21.05, which included several bug fixes for these devices.

    Improvements in User Interface

    As per the change log for beta version 21.06, this update brings enhancements to the breathing variations page that is part of sleep analysis. In addition, there are various fixes related to the user interface (UI), but no extra details are given on those changes.

    Ongoing Issues

    Sadly, a bug that makes these watches restart repeatedly seems to still be present in this update. Users began to notice this problem after they installed beta version 21.04 on different watch models. It has been occurring during running sessions, Garmin Coach workouts, or when turning off the device. Furthermore, after updating to version 21.06, some users have reported problems with Garmin Coach training plans and missing glance features.

    Availability of the Update

    The Garmin beta version 21.06 is now accessible for the Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro (47mm Solar Sapphire curr. $639 at Amazon), Epix 2, Epix 2 Pro, Enduro 2, Quatix 2, and Marq Gen 2 smartwatches; however, the company has indicated that this update does not apply to the Tactix 7 or Marq Aviator Gen 2. If you’re interested, you can sign up for the Garmin beta program on the Garmin Connect website.

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  • Garmin Launches Major Update for Older Flagship Smartwatches

    Garmin Launches Major Update for Older Flagship Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched version 21 software for Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, and similar smartwatches.
    2. Users must manually download the update through the smartwatch’s menu; it does not auto-download.
    3. Beta Version 21.04 includes five modifications from System Software 20.22.
    4. The update features various bug fixes and enhancements, though specific details are not provided.
    5. Beta Version 21.04 fixes two additional bugs, including one that could cause a crash in the Garmin Coach widget.


    Garmin has just launched the latest major software version for the Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, and other similar smartwatches like the Enduro 2 (currently priced at $671 on Amazon). Earlier this month, the company rolled out System Software 20.22 for these devices, shortly before revealing its larger Q1 2025 update.

    New Version Available

    Now, Garmin is offering version 21 software, which users can access through its Beta Program. It’s important to note that this new update won’t automatically download to a Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, Epix 2, Epix 2 Pro, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, or Marq 2, even if they are part of the Beta Program. Users need to manually start the download by navigating to Menu, System, and then Software Update on their smartwatch, followed by selecting ‘Check for Updates’.

    Changes in Beta Version 21.04

    Garmin states that Beta Version 21.04 introduces five modifications compared to System Software 20.22. Among these is a bundle of ‘various’ bug fixes and enhancements, but Garmin has not shared any specific details. Furthermore, Beta Version 21.04 addresses two additional bugs, one of which could lead to a crash in the Garmin Coach widget. The complete list of changes related to Beta Version 21.04 is outlined below:

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  • Garmin March Update: New Features for Smartwatches and Bike Computers

    Garmin March Update: New Features for Smartwatches and Bike Computers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released stable updates for the Fenix 7, Fenix 8, Fenix E, and Enduro 3 smartwatches.
    2. The Q1 2025 update includes improved functionality and new features for fitness and outdoor devices.
    3. Free software updates will roll out over the coming weeks, and users can enable automatic updates.
    4. Key upgrades include passcode support and keyboard enhancements, but not for Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro models.
    5. Older Garmin smartwatches now have better workout execution scores and Body Battery Trueup functionality.


    Garmin has been consistently providing stable updates for its range of smartwatches recently. Notably, the Fenix 7 and Fenix 8 models have received new stable updates in the past week, along with related models such as the Fenix E and Enduro 3, currently priced at $899.99 on Amazon.

    Summary of Updates

    In its latest feature update, Garmin has outlined all the changes made to its currently supported smartwatches. According to a press release, the company describes its Q1 2025 update in this way:

    As part of our ongoing commitment to enhance our products and offer better features for current users, we are thrilled to unveil our upcoming feature update for smartwatches and cycling computers. This update brings improved functionality and new features to many of our fitness and outdoor devices.

    Update Availability

    The free software updates have started to roll out and will continue throughout the next weeks. Users can update their smartwatch or cycling computer by turning on automatic updates from their devices.

    Garmin also clarifies that the new update includes five main upgrades, such as passcode support and enhancements to the keyboard. However, these features are not available on the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro, nor do they include strength workouts for Garmin Cycling and Garmin Run coaches. Older Garmin smartwatches have received better workout execution scores and Body Battery Trueup functionality. Interestingly, the comparison table included below is identical to one that leaked nearly two months ago. Check out the graphics below for additional details.

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  • Garmin Updates Older Flagship Smartwatches with Essential Bug Fixes

    Garmin Updates Older Flagship Smartwatches with Essential Bug Fixes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has completed the beta phase for Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, and Tactix 7 smartwatches.
    2. System Software 20.16 introduced over 20 updates but also some new bugs.
    3. A major issue was the failure of external heart rate sensors to connect automatically during activities.
    4. System Software 20.22 has been released to fix these bugs and is rolling out globally.
    5. Around 30% of eligible smartwatches are expected to receive the update notification by now.


    Garmin has wrapped up the latest beta phase for its Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro, along with other smartwatches like the Tactix 7, which currently costs $1,149 on Amazon. Just to remind you, the company rolled out System Software 20.16 less than a month ago, which included over 20 updates to its software.

    New Bugs Found

    Unfortunately, this recent update also brought along some new bugs that weren’t in the previous stable versions. In light of this, Garmin re-entered its public Beta Program, promising to address these issues swiftly. One of the main problems was that external heart rate sensors were not connecting automatically when activities were started.

    Fixes in the Latest Update

    Now, System Software 20.22 is said to resolve this bug and more, and it started rolling out globally just yesterday. As is typical, not all Enduro 2, Epix 2, Fenix 7, or Tactix 7 smartwatches will receive the update at the same time. Garmin has indicated that around 30% of eligible smartwatches should have gotten a notification to download System Software 20.22 by this point. You can find the complete changelog for this new stable update below.

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  • Garmin Fenix 7 and 7 Pro Fix Sensor Pairing Issues Before Update

    Garmin Fenix 7 and 7 Pro Fix Sensor Pairing Issues Before Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is no longer focusing on software updates for the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro models.
    2. Attention has shifted to newer models like the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Fenix 8, which receive regular updates.
    3. Recent updates for the Fenix 7 series included System Software 20.16, but it introduced bugs affecting external sensor connections.
    4. Garmin is working on fixing the issues with a Beta Version 20.21, which has reached some public testers.
    5. The ECG feature remains disabled in the new beta version, indicating more updates may be needed before a stable release.


    The Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro (currently priced at $649.99 on Amazon) are now considered older models of smartwatches. Because of this, Garmin is no longer focusing on their software updates. Instead, attention has shifted to the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Fenix 8, which receive many bug fixes, new features, and other enhancements on a monthly basis.

    Recent Changes in the Fenix 7 Series

    In the last few weeks, there have been a lot of changes regarding the Fenix 7 series, although they may not be what Garmin was expecting. The company recently wrapped up its latest round of beta testing before releasing System Software 20.16 to its stable software branch.

    Issues with System Software 20.16

    The launch of System Software 20.16 also aligned with the increase of ECG compatibility across Europe and the UK. Nevertheless, there were reports of a bug that came with the update, which caused problems with external sensors not connecting automatically during activities like using heart rate monitors (HRMs).

    Now, Garmin is working to fix this problem, and they are distributing Beta Version 20.21 to address it. The company claims that this update has already reached half of the public beta testers. However, Garmin has decided to keep the ECG feature disabled in this new beta version. This suggests that there might be at least one more beta update before they release a stable version. Just for reference, the complete changelog for System Software 20.16 should include the updates introduced with Beta Version 20.19 as well.

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  • Garmin Fenix 7 HRM Connection Issues After Recent Update

    Garmin Fenix 7 HRM Connection Issues After Recent Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. System Software 20.16 was released for Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro, marking a significant update after several months.
    2. The update includes expanded ECG support for Epix 2 Pro and Fenix 7 Pro in Europe and the UK.
    3. Several bugs were identified in System Software 20.16, prompting the release of Beta Version 20.19 to address them.
    4. Garmin is investigating a connection issue with external sensors that persists in Beta Version 20.19.
    5. More beta updates are expected before a new stable version of System Software 20.16 is released.


    Last week, System Software 20.16 was released for the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro (currently priced at $549.99 on Amazon), marking the first significant update for these models in several months. Notably, this rollout of System Software 20.16 also aligned with the expansion of ECG support for the Epix 2 Pro and Fenix 7 Pro in Europe and the UK.

    Bugs in the Update

    It appears that System Software 20.16 was delivered with several bugs that Garmin is addressing in its Beta Program. As a result, the company has launched Beta Version 20.19, which it states has reached all compatible Enduro 2, Epix 2, Fenix 7, Quatix 7, and Marq Gen 2 smartwatches. In a brief changelog, Garmin notes that the latest update aims to resolve crashes that happen not just during jump rope sessions but also ‘during lengthy activities’.

    Ongoing Investigations

    Furthermore, Garmin is looking into a problem that stops external sensors like heart rate monitors (HRMs) from automatically connecting when an activity is chosen and launched. Beta testers have reported that this flaw came with System Software 20.16 and continues with Beta Version 20.19. Therefore, there is a good possibility that the latter will be succeeded by more beta updates before a new version of System Software 20.16 is released. For more information, you can check Garmin’s specific bug report page.

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  • Garmin Adds ECG Support for Epix 2 Pro and Fenix 7 Pro Watches

    Garmin Adds ECG Support for Epix 2 Pro and Fenix 7 Pro Watches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin launched the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Fenix 8 smartwatches, replacing the Fenix 7 series.
    2. The Fenix 8 is priced at $1,099.99 on Amazon.
    3. The Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro received a stable software update called System Software 20.16.
    4. ECG support has expanded to the EU for the Epix 2 Pro and Fenix 7 Pro, but not officially in the UK.
    5. Updating to Software Version 14.68 or higher activates the ECG feature in the EU.


    Garmin has launched the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Fenix 8 smartwatches, which replaced the Fenix 7 series last year, with the Fenix 8 being priced at curr. $1,099.99 on Amazon. Even though these new models came out a few months ago, Garmin is still adding new features to its older flagship models.

    New Software Update

    This week, the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro smartwatches received a stable software update called System Software 20.16. This update brings CIQ System 8 and addresses several existing bugs. As noted by Gadgets & Wearables, this same update also adds electrocardiogram (ECG) support for the Epix 2 Pro and Fenix 7 Pro in additional markets.

    Expanded ECG Availability

    Previously, Garmin limited ECG features to North America and parts of Southeast Asia, but now it has expanded availability throughout the European Union (EU). It’s important to mention that this support does not officially cover the United Kingdom.

    Reports from Gadgets & Wearables indicate that ECG now functions on both the Epix 2 Pro and Fenix 7 Pro in the UK, but results may vary for users. You don’t actually need to update to System Software 20.16 to access ECG in the EU; instead, simply updating to a build with Software Version 14.68 or higher will activate the ECG feature. Here is the complete list of countries where ECG should work:

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  • Garmin Fenix 7 & 7 Pro Updates: Over 20 New Features Released

    Garmin Fenix 7 & 7 Pro Updates: Over 20 New Features Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released System Software 20.16 for the Fenix 7 series, Enduro 2, and Tactix 7, ending the v20.xx beta phase.
    2. This is the first stable update since December, with the previous significant update being version 19.34.
    3. System Software 20.16 includes support for CIQ System 8 and various bug fixes, particularly five that address crash issues.
    4. Approximately 20% of eligible smartwatches have received the update, with users able to manually check for updates.
    5. All versions of System Software 20.16 include the same list of changes and improvements.


    Garmin has started to release new stable updates for the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro (curr. $549.99 on Amazon), as well as for the Enduro 2 and Tactix 7, among other compatible devices. This update, System Software 20.16, signifies the conclusion of the v20.xx beta phase that kicked off with Beta Version 20.10 in January.

    New Features and Fixes

    The System Software 20.16 is the first stable update for the Fenix 7 series and its counterparts since December, when Garmin provided System Software 19.41. Notably, System Software 19.34 was the last significant stable update for the Fenix 7 series, with following updates mainly aimed at fixing specific bugs instead of adding new functionalities.

    Update Availability

    Consequently, System Software 20.16 comes packed with a variety of changes, including support for CIQ System 8. Additionally, this update includes numerous bug fixes, with five specifically addressing crash issues. Currently, Garmin states that about 20% of the smartwatches eligible should have received System Software 20.16. Users can manually initiate the update by going to Menu, then System, followed by Software Update, and tapping ‘Check for Updates’ on their Enduro 2, Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro or Tactix 7 smartwatch. For reference, all versions of System Software 20.16 should include the same list of changes, outlined as follows:

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  • Garmin Fixes LiveTrack Issues on Fenix 7 and 7 Pro with Update

    Garmin Fixes LiveTrack Issues on Fenix 7 and 7 Pro with Update

    Garmin recently released a stable update for the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro, which is currently priced at $688.99 on Amazon. This update, labeled System Software 19.41, didn’t bring many new features to the Fenix 7 series and its counterparts. Instead, it primarily aimed to fix a bug that caused the Connect IQ app to crash.

    Ongoing Issues

    There are still several unresolved bugs, which Garmin has been addressing through its Beta Program this month. The latest Beta Version 20.13 is available for manual download or through Garmin’s over-the-air (OTA) service. Unfortunately, there are not many official enhancements to report, with the only mentioned fix addressing a LiveTrack crash issue.

    Future Updates

    Garmin hasn’t given any clues about when we might see the next stable update. The release of Beta Version 20.13, with the ECG and Dive features disabled, indicates that this is likely not the final beta in this development cycle. Currently, the v20.xx builds introduce the following changes from System Software 19.41:

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  • New Garmin Update: Body Battery TrueUp & Workout Enhancements

    New Garmin Update: Body Battery TrueUp & Workout Enhancements

    Garmin has been actively releasing new beta updates for its range of smartwatches and cycling computers. Recently, they have rolled out updated firmware for the Fenix 7 series and all currently supported Forerunner smartwatches.

    Upcoming Changes in Q1 2025

    Various sources have acquired an overview of Garmin’s intended stable updates for Q1 2025, which are expected to be released later this quarter. It’s important to mention that the accompanying image has not been verified yet. Therefore, we can’t ensure it’s free from alterations or photoshopping, even though it aligns with the design of previous Garmin feature launches.

    New Features on the Horizon

    The new features noted seem to align with what Garmin has been trialing in its recent beta versions. For example, Strength Workouts will be integrated into Garmin’s Run and Cycling Coach suites. Based on the image shown below, Strength Workouts are likely to be available for all recent Edge cycling computers, most Forerunner smartwatches, and the Fenix 8 (currently priced at $1,099.99 on Amazon), but will not be available for the Fenix 7 series or its Enduro, Marq, Quatix, and Tactix models.

    Garmin is also expected to introduce Body Battery TrueUp, which syncs body battery data to a single Garmin account for use across various devices. In addition, the Q1 2025 update will bring passcodes; however, this feature will not be available for the Enduro 2, Fenix 7, and other similar devices. When enabled, the passcode feature locks the smartwatch with a custom PIN if it detects that it is no longer being worn. Unfortunately, it’s not clear when these new features will actually be released, other than sometime this quarter. For more information, please refer to the graphic below.

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