Tag: Fenix 7

  • Garmin Smartwatches Now Fully Support WhatsApp with New Update

    Garmin Smartwatches Now Fully Support WhatsApp with New Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Meta has launched a new WhatsApp app for select Garmin smartwatches in the Connect IQ store.
    2. The app is not compatible with older premium models like the Enduro 2, Fenix 7 series, and Forerunner 165.
    3. Compatible smartwatches do not include Enduro 3, Instinct 3, Instinct E, and Instinct Crossover AMOLED.
    4. Users can view recent messages, send emojis, and reply using a built-in keyboard, but voice dictation is not confirmed.
    5. The app allows users to decline calls but not answer them, and it requires a connected smartphone within range to function.

    Garmin recently revealed that Meta has introduced a new WhatsApp app in the Connect IQ store. It’s important to know that this app is only compatible with certain smartwatches. The following are the smartwatches that can use this app:

    Older premium models such as the Enduro 2 and Fenix 7 series are not included. Similarly, the Forerunner 165 is not compatible, even though it hasn’t been replaced yet. Additionally, the Enduro 3, Instinct 3, Instinct E, and Instinct Crossover AMOLED (currently priced at $609 on Amazon) are also not on the list of devices that support the app.

    Features of the WhatsApp App

    On a positive note, the WhatsApp app allows users to see up to 10 recent messages without having to reach for their paired smartphone. Users can send emojis and reactions, and they can even reply to messages using Garmin’s built-in keyboard. However, Garmin hasn’t mentioned if voice dictation is supported.

    Limitations and Requirements

    Garmin also points out that users can only decline incoming calls on compatible smartwatches, with no option to answer those calls. The app retrieves data from a connected Android or iOS device. Thus, the WhatsApp app will not function if your smartwatch and smartphone are beyond range. You can download the WhatsApp app now from the Connect IQ store.

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  • Garmin Smartwatches Receive Music Update for Enhanced Experience

    Garmin Smartwatches Receive Music Update for Enhanced Experience

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin launched Beta Version 26.04 for smartwatches, including Enduro 2, Fenix 7, and Quatix 7.
    2. The update is being rolled out via over-the-air (OTA) and is currently available to 20% of Beta Program participants.
    3. Beta Version 26.04 is not compatible with Pro-branded smartwatches.
    4. The update includes three new bug fixes compared to Beta Version 26.03.
    5. Fixes include resolving a system crash when skipping music tracks, correcting Training Effect estimates in German, and fixing a translation issue in the Solar Intensity Widget.

    Almost a month ago, Garmin launched Beta Version 26.03 for its smartwatches including the Enduro 2, Fenix 7, and Quatix 7 (currently priced at $339.99 on Amazon). Shortly after, the company released a Feature Update package that did not include those smartwatches, nor did it cover the Epix 2, Epix 2 Pro, and Marq Gen 2.

    Arrival of Beta Version 26.04

    Now, Garmin is back with Beta Version 26.04, which is being rolled out as an over-the-air (OTA) update via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. At this time, the update has reportedly reached 20% of participants in the Beta Program. Therefore, it may take a few more days for Beta Version 26.04 to be available on all compatible smartwatches.

    Limitations of the Update

    It’s important to mention that this new update is also not available for any Pro-branded smartwatches. Garmin has informed users that Beta Version 26.04 brings three new bug fixes in comparison to Beta Version 26.03. Specifically, this beta resolves an issue that could lead to a system crash when skipping through music tracks.

    Fixes and Improvements

    In addition, Beta Version 26.04 corrects a different bug that caused Training Effect estimates to not display correctly in German. Lastly, the new update fixes another translation issue that made the Solar Intensity Widget show incorrect information. For further details, you can check Garmin’s forum post.

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  • Garmin Updates Older High-End Smartwatches with New Features

    Garmin Updates Older High-End Smartwatches with New Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released Beta Version 26.03 for Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, and other compatible devices, excluding Marq Aviator Gen 2 and Tactix 7.
    2. The update changes the Upload RAM option to only appear when connected to Garmin Connect.
    3. A fix has been implemented for the Daily Suggested Workout displaying incorrect target type data.
    4. The update can be downloaded over-the-air (OTA) and is currently available to 20% of beta testers.
    5. Users can manually search for updates to bypass the staged rollout process.

    Garmin has started to roll out its latest public beta update for the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro, which currently is priced at $609 on Amazon. This update is also applicable to devices like the Enduro 2, Epix 2, Quatix 7, and the Marq Gen 2. However, the Marq Aviator Gen 2 and Tactix 7 are still not included in the Beta Program.

    New Beta Version Released

    The Fenix 7 and its counterparts have now moved to Beta Version 26.03. This is only the second update within the v26.xx series that Garmin has released for public beta testers. The changelog from Beta Versions v26.02 to v26.03 is somewhat specific.

    Update Features

    Garmin states that they have made changes to the Upload RAM option, ensuring it only appears when the watch is actively connected to Garmin Connect. In theory, this option was supposed to be shown only in these situations. Additionally, the company mentions they have fixed a problem where the Daily Suggested Workout would sometimes display incorrect data for the target type.

    The new update can be downloaded over-the-air (OTA). It’s important to note that at the time of writing, Garmin has only made Beta Version 26.03 available to about 20% of beta testers. Users can bypass Garmin’s staged rollout by manually searching for updates. More information can be found in Garmin’s forum post.

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  • Garmin Update Boosts Wi-Fi for Older High-End Smartwatches

    Garmin Update Boosts Wi-Fi for Older High-End Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released Beta Version 25.08 for the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro, priced at $569.99 on Amazon, fixing three main bugs.
    2. Beta Version 25.10 has been rolled out for additional models like Epix 2, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and Marq Gen 2, but not for Marq Aviator Gen 2 or Tactix 7.
    3. Only 25% of eligible smartwatches have received the new update notification automatically.
    4. It may take several days for Beta Version 25.10 to reach all Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro users in the Beta Program.
    5. The update addresses a Wi-Fi connectivity issue that users reported since Beta Version 25.03.

    Garmin has made a comeback with its Beta Program, introducing a new update for the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro, currently priced at $569.99 on Amazon. Just a few days ago, the firm released Beta Version 25.08. This update, which came in between the launches of the Venu X1 and Quatix 8 Pro, was reported to fix three main bugs found in earlier beta and stable versions.

    New Updates for More Devices

    In addition to the Fenix series, Garmin has now rolled out Beta Version 25.10 for other models including the Epix 2, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and Marq Gen 2. It’s important to mention that beta updates are not available for the Marq Aviator Gen 2 or Tactix 7. Furthermore, Garmin highlights that only 25% of the eligible smartwatches have received a notification for the new update automatically.

    Waiting for the Update

    As a result, it might take a few more days for Beta Version 25.10 to arrive on your Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, or any related smartwatch, even if it’s already part of Garmin’s Beta Program. Notably, more beta versions are expected to come out before the v25.xx development shifts to Garmin’s stable software. In a post on a forum, Garmin indicates that Beta Version 25.10 addresses a problem that stopped a smartwatch from reconnecting to a password-secured Wi-Fi network, an issue that community members had been pointing out since Beta Version 25.03.

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  • Garmin Updates Older High-End Smartwatches After Major Release

    Garmin Updates Older High-End Smartwatches After Major Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released Beta Version 25.08 for the Fenix 7 series, following the previous version 25.03.
    2. The new beta addresses three main issues, including a UI glitch in the map app.
    3. It fixes a bug that could cause the Fenix 7 to turn off during map downloads.
    4. Another fix improves data field display on specific watch faces.
    5. ECG functionality remains disabled, indicating further beta updates are expected before final release.

    Almost a month has gone by since Garmin last provided an update for the Fenix 7 and its similar models. Earlier this week, they unveiled a new color option for the Venu X1, which is currently priced at $699 on Amazon. Now, the company is back at work on Fenix 7 software, releasing Beta Version 25.08.

    New Firmware Details

    This latest firmware supersedes Beta Version 25.03, which included more than a dozen enhancements and was the first v25.xx build that Garmin made public. In contrast, Beta Version 25.08 is the second update of this type and introduces significantly fewer modifications compared to its predecessor. Garmin notes that this new beta addresses three remaining problems, including a UI glitch in the map app that appeared when users were previewing course navigations.

    Bug Fixes Included

    In a post on their forum, Garmin explained that Beta Version 25.08 should also fix a second bug related to the map app, which could cause a Fenix 7 to turn off while maps were being downloaded. Furthermore, this same update will tackle another issue where some data fields were not displaying correctly on specific watch faces. It’s worth mentioning that ECG functionality remains turned off, indicating that more beta versions are on the way before the v25.xx series moves to Garmin’s stable software branch.

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  • Garmin Releases Update for Older High-End Smartwatches with Caveat

    Garmin Releases Update for Older High-End Smartwatches with Caveat

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released Public Beta update Version 23.48 for select smartwatches, including Epix, Enduro 2, Fenix 7, Quatix 7, and Mar Gen 2.
    2. Pro variants, including Tactix 7 and MARQ Aviator Gen 2, will receive support later and are not included in the current Beta program.
    3. Users can manually check for updates by navigating to Menu > System > Software Update > Check for Updates.
    4. The update focuses on enhancing stability, fixing accessory visibility issues, and preventing random shutdowns on the PlaneSync page.
    5. Dive and ECG functionalities are disabled in this version, indicating more beta updates may be needed before a stable release.

    Garmin has started to release a new Public Beta update after launching Beta Version 23.41 at the end of November. This latest update has jumped to Beta Version 23.48, which can be downloaded over-the-air (OTA) for the Epix, Enduro 2, Fenix 7, Quatix 7, and Mar Gen 2 smartwatches. On the other hand, Garmin mentions that support for Pro variants will come later. However, the Tactix 7 and MARQ Aviator Gen 2 (currently priced at $1,299 – refurbished on Amazon) are still not included in Garmin’s Public Beta program.

    Installation Details

    Ignoring that, Garmin has already reported delivering Beta Version 23.48 to all eligible smartwatches at the moment. If your smartwatch isn’t showing the update, you can manually start the installation by going to Menu, then System, and selecting Software Update before clicking ‘Check for Updates’. The main goal of Beta Version 23.48 is to enhance stability.

    Improvements Made

    Garmin has specifically mentioned fixes for a problem where some connected accessories were not showing up in the Sensors and Accessories menu. Also, Beta Version 23.48 aims to stop random shutdowns that could happen on the PlaneSync page. This update also brings general improvements to the iR Remote feature, though Garmin hasn’t provided detailed information on this aspect. Since Dive and ECG functionality have been disabled in this version, it’s probable that Garmin has more beta updates in mind before they can finally release a long-awaited stable version.

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  • Garmin Beta Smartwatch Update: InReach Fixes Now Live

    Garmin Beta Smartwatch Update: InReach Fixes Now Live

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released beta update 23.31 for Fenix 7, Epix, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and MARQ Gen 2 smartwatches.
    2. The update improves stability for the inReach Remote feature, allowing better messaging and SOS capabilities.
    3. Beta version 23.31 is available for manual download and should also update automatically on compatible devices.
    4. The ECG and Dive features remain disabled in this beta update, which is common for beta software.
    5. Future updates may reactivate ECG and Dive features and continue improving user experience.

    Garmin has put out a new beta update for its Fenix 7, Fenix 7X, Fenix 7S, Epix, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and MARQ Gen 2 smartwatches. This beta version, numbered 23.31, comes just a few weeks after the previous one, which was version 23.28 that tackled an issue with inReach messages.

    Update Highlights

    The change log for beta 23.31 reveals an improvement specifically for the Garmin Fenix 7 and other related devices. This update is supposed to provide better stability for the inReach Remote feature. This function enables users to send out messages, start or halt tracking, and even trigger an SOS on a connected inReach satellite communicator directly from their watch.

    Availability and Manual Download

    Recently, a Garmin representative shared on their forum that beta version 23.31 is now accessible to all users of the Fenix 7, Epix, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and MARQ Gen 2 smartwatches. The update should automatically be sent to compatible devices over the air, but it can also be manually installed by going to Main Menu > System > Software Update > Check for Updates. It’s important to mention that the ECG and Dive features are still turned off with this release, which is typical for beta updates. It’s unclear when a new stable version of the 23.xx software will be made available for all Fenix 7 series smartwatch users (Fenix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar 51 mm curr. $670 at Amazon).

    Future Updates

    Garmin’s ongoing commitment to improving its devices is evident with this latest beta release. Users can look forward to more enhancements in future updates, which may include the reactivation of the ECG and Dive features. For now, the stability improvements offered by version 23.31 should enhance the overall user experience on these popular smartwatches.

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    Garmin Beta Smartwatch Update: InReach Fixes Now Live

     

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  • Garmin Updates Fenix 7 with New Stable Beta Build Insights

    Garmin Updates Fenix 7 with New Stable Beta Build Insights

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released System Software 23.18 for the Fenix 7 and related smartwatches, including bug fixes.
    2. The update introduced enhancements like connecting certain sensors via ANT and BLE+.
    3. Garmin returned to the 23.xx beta development to fix overlooked bugs after the initial update.
    4. Beta Version 23.24 was released shortly after Beta Version 23.22, aiming for a stable software version.
    5. Beta Version 23.28 addressed a specific issue but left some features, like Dive and ECG, still inactive.

    Garmin has rolled out a fresh update for the Fenix 7 (currently priced at $399 – renewed on Amazon) and its related smartwatches. To summarize, the company launched System Software 23.18 over a month ago, which included numerous bug fixes.

    Update Highlights

    As previously mentioned, this update also brought some enhancements, such as the ability to connect certain sensors via ANT and BLE+. At first, Garmin was optimistic that System Software 23.18 would mark the conclusion of the 23.xx beta development phase. However, things haven’t turned out as Garmin expected.

    New Beta Releases

    Instead, the company quickly returned to 23.xx beta development to address bugs that were overlooked before. They initially released Beta Version 23.22, followed by Beta Version 23.24 just a few days later. Given their release pattern, it seemed like Beta Version 23.24 might be Garmin’s second attempt at transitioning 23.xx development to a stable software version.

    Ongoing Issues

    However, the launch of Beta Version 23.28 has dashed those hopes. Even though they skipped three intermediate build numbers, Beta Version 23.28 only resolves a problem where IR messages to multiple contacts would not send. Moreover, the Dive and ECG functionalities still remain inactive. Thus, we can reasonably anticipate that Garmin will release another 23.xx beta build before eventually providing a new stable 23.xx update. Sadly, it is still unclear when either of these will happen.

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  • Garmin’s New Sleep Feature Now Available for Select Users

    Garmin’s New Sleep Feature Now Available for Select Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched a new sleep feature called Health Status for its smartwatches, available alongside the Venu 4 priced at $549.99.
    2. The Health Status function focuses on five key metrics: heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), respiration, skin temperature, and Pulse Ox, with a summary of nightly sleep data.
    3. Users can receive notifications for ‘Outlier’ readings that may indicate issues like poor sleep quality or stress, with in-depth graphs available for tracking over time.
    4. The Health Status feature is being expanded to newer Garmin smartwatch models, including the Fenix 7, Forerunner 255, and Instinct 3.
    5. Future updates will allow the latest models, such as the Fenix 8, Forerunner 570, and Venu X1, to access Health Status directly on the watch.

    Garmin has recently announced the rollout of its new sleep feature called Health Status for some of its smartwatch users. This feature was revealed alongside the launch of the Venu 4, which is currently priced at $549.99 on Amazon, as well as the brand’s new Lifestyle Logging option. While it’s still in beta testing on the Garmin Connect mobile app, many users can access it through the web app.

    Health Metrics Overview

    The Health Status function focuses on five key metrics: heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), respiration, skin temperature, and Pulse Ox. Users will find a summary of the data gathered from their previous night’s sleep on this dashboard. Additionally, the typical range for each metric gives a clearer picture, but users should note that it may take 21 to 28 days of data to establish these ranges. During this period, the app will display the message “Calibration in progress.”

    Notification Features

    If any ‘Outlier’ readings are detected, users have the option to receive notifications, which could indicate potential issues like poor sleep quality, increased stress, or even illness. Furthermore, by clicking on each of the five sections in the Health Status feature, users can access more in-depth information, including graphs that track their data over the last week.

    Smartwatch Compatibility

    Garmin is expanding the Health Status feature to its newer smartwatch models, such as the Fenix 7, Forerunner 255, and Instinct 3 (refer to the list below). Additionally, users of the latest models, including Fenix 8, Forerunner 570, and Venu X1 (see the second list below), will also receive an on-watch version of Health Status. This is anticipated to be rolled out in future updates.

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    Garmin's New Sleep Feature Now Available for Select Users

     

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  • Garmin Updates Older High-End Smartwatches Amid Rollout Wait

    Garmin Updates Older High-End Smartwatches Amid Rollout Wait

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released updates for many smartwatches, including older models like the Instinct 2 and Instinct Crossover.
    2. The Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro have not received significant updates, coinciding with the launch of the Fenix 8 Pro.
    3. System Software 22.06 for the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro has not progressed to a stable version since its release nearly three months ago.
    4. Beta Version 23.17 focuses on fixing a bug related to counting workout reps, with ECG features still disabled.
    5. Future builds are anticipated as Garmin continues its beta testing process.

    Garmin has rolled out reliable updates for many of its smartwatches recently, including some older versions like the Instinct 2 and Instinct Crossover. Sadly, this does not hold true for the Fenix 7 or Fenix 7 Pro, as Garmin has just launched the Fenix 8 Pro (currently priced at $1,199 on Amazon).

    Update Timeline

    It’s been nearly three months since Garmin released System Software 22.06 for the Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, and other models such as the Enduro 2 or Quatix 7. Unfortunately, it appears that the company is not making much progress in moving the v23.xx builds to its stable software branch. While Beta Version 23.16 was released about two weeks ago, its successor brings only a single bug fix.

    Focus on Bug Fixes

    Garmin has now introduced Beta Version 23.17, which aims to resolve a problem related to counting reps during workouts. The ECG features are still turned off, indicating that more builds will likely be released before Garmin completes its current round of beta testing. Currently, the detailed list of changes between System Software 22.06 and Beta Version 23.17 includes the following:

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