Tag: Fenix 8

  • Fenix 8 and Garmin Smartwatches Gain Accuracy with 5Hz Recording

    Fenix 8 and Garmin Smartwatches Gain Accuracy with 5Hz Recording

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin smartwatches feature a GNSS module for location tracking, measuring distance, speed, and heart rate.
    2. A new tracking method may be introduced, calculating locations at 5Hz (five times per second) for better accuracy.
    3. This feature is aimed at downhill mountain bikers and may require a Synaptics GNSS module, possibly found in the Garmin Fenix 8.
    4. Increased tracking frequency could enhance GPS accuracy, especially for users with varying speeds or winding routes.
    5. Real-time data accuracy, including current speed and acceleration, may improve, but challenges remain in dense environments.

    Garmin smartwatches typically come with a GNSS module that helps track the user’s current location. While you’re on the move, this data allows you to measure the distance traveled and consider factors like time or duration and speed. If heart rate information is included, it becomes easier for users to monitor their performance.

    Upcoming Features for GNSS Tracking

    A recent leak suggests that Garmin may soon introduce a new method for tracking GNSS locations at a much higher frequency. Specifically, the position will be calculated five times every second, or at a rate of 5Hz, rather than just once each second. This information was shared by the5krunner, referencing @JohnW. Initially, this feature seems to be aimed at downhill mountain bikers, who typically travel at fast speeds. It’s not clear which Garmin smartwatches will support this feature, but there are hints that it could require a Synaptics GNSS module, potentially found in devices like the Garmin Fenix 8 smartwatches (starting at $799 on Amazon). It remains uncertain if this upgrade will extend to other types of activities.

    Potential Benefits for Different Users

    In general, this increased frequency might enhance the accuracy of GPS location tracking. However, how useful it will be could depend on several factors. Let’s consider two contrasting situations. An endurance athlete running steadily on a straight path might not notice much difference. But if that runner varies their speed (like during interval training) or runs on a winding route, this new method could prove quite advantageous.

    Improved Real-Time Data Accuracy

    It’s also possible that the accuracy of real-time data shown on the smartwatch, such as current speed, could see improvements. This might also extend to how acceleration is measured, making it useful for detailed analysis during short sprints, like a 100-meter dash. Nonetheless, one common limitation exists: the GNSS module must accurately capture the current position, which can be challenging in dense forest areas, for instance.

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  • Garmin Launches Stable Update for High-End Smartwatches

    Garmin Launches Stable Update for High-End Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released a stable update (System Software 15.32) for Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 smartwatches.
    2. This update follows Beta Version 15.32, which aimed to fix issues from the previous update (System Software 15.31).
    3. The update resolves crashes related to closing the Action Menu in CIQ Apps.
    4. ABI sensors are now functioning correctly and transmitting data to the Tactix 8.
    5. Approximately 20% of Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Tactix 8 users have received the update, with at least 50% of Fenix 8 owners also notified.

    Garmin has released an additional update for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299.99 on Amazon), following the rollout of Beta Version 15.32 earlier this week. To give some background, Beta Version 15.32 was launched about two weeks after Garmin believed it had completed its lengthy development of version 15.xx.

    Software Changes and Fixes

    As we noted previously, System Software 15.31 introduced nearly 100 modifications to Garmin’s premium smartwatches. However, it also brought along some new issues, which Garmin is now trying to fix with Beta Version 15.32. The company has now moved this update to its stable software channel, and it is being released as System Software 15.32.

    What’s New in the Update

    After installing the update, users should no longer experience crashes when they try to close an Action Menu in a CIQ App. Additionally, ABI sensors are expected to function properly and transmit data to the Tactix 8. Garmin reports that approximately 20% of Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Tactix 8 smartwatches have already received notifications to download this new stable software update. In contrast, the company states that at least 50% of Fenix 8 owners have been offered the same update. For more information, you can check Garmin’s forum posts.

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  • Garmin Update Fixes Device Crashes on High-End Smartwatches

    Garmin Update Fixes Device Crashes on High-End Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is working on the Fenix 8 series software after releasing Software Version 15.31 last month.
    2. A new public beta version, Beta Version 15.32, has been released for testers.
    3. Garmin has not announced when Beta Version 15.32 will transition to stable software.
    4. The update aims to fix issues with ABI sensors and prevent crashes in certain smartwatch models.
    5. The affected smartwatch models include Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8.

    Garmin is back at work on the Fenix 8 series software after they released Software Version 15.31 last month. Just to remind everyone, the company launched v15.31 to fix issues less than a month ago following over thirty days of beta testing. At first, Garmin believed that v15.31 would be the final update for its v15.xx development cycle. But that hasn’t turned out to be true.

    New Beta Version Released

    Now, Garmin has rolled out a new update for public beta testers, called Beta Version 15.32. As of now, Garmin hasn’t revealed when this update will move to the stable software branch. However, since Beta Version 15.32 has almost reached all beta testers, it indicates that a stable version could be coming soon.

    Bug Fixes Included

    Garmin claims that Beta Version 15.32 fixes two issues that have been present in the recent beta and stable versions. Firstly, this new software will correct a problem where ABI sensors were unable to send data accurately to Tactix 8 smartwatches (currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon). More crucially, this update should also fix a bug that might cause an Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, or Tactix 8 smartwatch to crash after an Action Menu is dismissed in a CIQ App. For more information, check out Garmin’s forum.

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  • Garmin Fenix 8 Pro Rumors: LTE Connectivity Features Expected

    Garmin Fenix 8 Pro Rumors: LTE Connectivity Features Expected

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is developing LTE options for the Fenix 8 series, as demonstrated in recent showcases.
    2. The Fenix 8 Pro is expected to be launched with LTE connectivity, but no major design or hardware changes will be introduced.
    3. Previous mentions of LTE features in the Garmin Connect app have been removed, yet evidence of it was captured in a video.
    4. The Fenix 8 Pro will include features like Emergency Assistance and live tracking, similar to the Forerunner 945 LTE.
    5. The Fenix 8 Pro will not support music streaming or the ability to make and receive calls or texts, and release and pricing details are still unknown.

    Garmin Rumors has shared fresh details about the possible updates to Garmin’s LTE smartwatch lineup. To summarize, Garmin was seen demonstrating LTE features for the Fenix 8. This was also noted for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299.99 on Amazon), all of which included a ‘Phone’ section in Garmin’s pairing issue animation.

    LTE Connectivity in Development

    Per Garmin Rumors, the company is working on adding LTE options to the Fenix 8 series. However, it won’t come in the way the Garmin Connect app hinted at. Interestingly, the company has since taken down these mentions. Yet, we managed to capture a video of it before it vanished, which you can check out below.

    Future Fenix 8 Pro Release

    Garmin Rumors mentions ‘intel’ but doesn’t provide a clear source, stating that LTE will be integrated into the Fenix 8 line with an upcoming Fenix 8 Pro launch. Unlike past models, Garmin’s ‘Pro’ versions aren’t expected to introduce new designs, sensors, software, or hardware upgrades. Instead, the main upgrade will be the LTE connectivity.

    Features of the Fenix 8 Pro

    Even so, Garmin Rumors suggests that the Fenix 8 Pro will operate its LTE modem similarly to the Forerunner 945 LTE. This means it will include features like Emergency Assistance and Garmin’s live tracking software, but it won’t support music streaming or the capability to make and receive calls or texts. Sadly, there is no information yet on when the Fenix 8 Pro will be released or its pricing details.

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  • Garmin May 2025 Updates: New Rucking Features and Sleep Enhancements

    Garmin May 2025 Updates: New Rucking Features and Sleep Enhancements

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released significant software upgrades for its smartwatches, including the Fenix 8 series, Instinct 3, and Venu 3 series.
    2. New features include Breathing Variations for tracking sleep breathing changes and new rucking activities for improved workout accuracy.
    3. Enhanced security features include a passcode option and optional wrist detection.
    4. The Stage Timer tool is designed for competitive shooters to receive time alerts through connected hearing protection.
    5. Premium offerings are upgraded with Garmin Trails, connecting to Connect+ and Outdoors Maps+ services.

    Garmin has revealed significant new software upgrades for many of its smartwatches, including the Fenix 8 series, Instinct 3, and Venu 3 series. The company has also mentioned Forerunner models, although it hasn’t specified which ones. It’s likely that this includes the Forerunner 255 to Forerunner 965 (currently priced at $499.99 on Amazon), rather than the recently released Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970.

    New Features for Enhanced Performance

    In a recent press statement, Garmin shared that the newest feature updates aim to improve device security, health insights, and workout accuracy. One notable addition is the Breathing Variations tool, which tracks breathing changes during sleep using Pulse Ox data from compatible smartwatches. Additionally, the updates include new rucking activities and Pack Weight features for strength training, enhancing the precision of calorie burn and VO2 max statistics.

    Enhanced Security and Competitive Tools

    The updates from Garmin also bring its highly anticipated passcode feature and optional wrist detection. Furthermore, they’ve introduced the Stage Timer, a useful tool for competitive shooters that can send time alerts through connected hearing protection. Garmin is also upgrading its premium offerings with new functionalities like Garmin Trails, which connect to its Connect+ and Outdoors Maps+ services. For more in-depth information, check out Garmin’s full press release.

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  • Garmin Prepares for Stable Update Release for Flagship Smartwatches

    Garmin Prepares for Stable Update Release for Flagship Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is set to release new smartwatches, including LTE versions of Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Forerunner 970, along with a new Forerunner 570 model.
    2. Garmin is actively updating its current smartwatch lineup, with recent stable releases for the latest Forerunner models after beta testing.
    3. Beta Version 15.29 indicates the end of the beta phase for several models, following a series of feature-rich updates.
    4. The latest beta version addresses a crash issue for certain models, providing improved stability for users.
    5. Key features like Aviation, Dive, and ECG remain inactive, suggesting that another beta version may be released before finalizing the software.

    It appears Garmin is making strides to introduce a number of new smartwatches. To summarize, there’s been signs of the company gearing up LTE versions of their Fenix E, Fenix 8 and several premium models, along with the Forerunner 970 and even a new edition of Fenix 8. Interestingly, it seems a smartwatch known as the Forerunner 570 will be launching soon as well.

    Ongoing Updates for Current Models

    In the meantime, Garmin has been hard at work providing multiple updates for their current smartwatch lineup. Just yesterday, they rolled out a stable version for the latest Forerunner models after around two months of beta testing. It seems that the beta phase for the current Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, or Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299.99 on Amazon) is also nearing its conclusion.

    Development Insights

    Although Garmin hasn’t confirmed it outright, the details in Beta Version 15.29 imply this is the case. Recently, the company has been introducing a plethora of new features and fixes with each beta version, reaching a peak with Beta Version 15.27 at the start of the week. In contrast, Beta Version 15.29 presents only a minor bug fix, often indicating that the beta development stage is winding down.

    Important Bug Fixes

    That said, Beta Version 15.29 is reported to address a potential crash issue when navigating, which should be a relief for beta testers using the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, or Tactix 8. However, the fact that features like Aviation, Dive, and ECG are still inactive suggests that Garmin plans to release at least one more beta version before moving the v15.xx development to its stable software line. For further information, you can check Garmin’s forum post.

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  • Garmin Update for High-End Smartwatches Fixes System Crashes

    Garmin Update for High-End Smartwatches Fixes System Crashes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is developing a beta update for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 smartwatches.
    2. The recent System Software 13.73 update did not include features available in beta since late March.
    3. Beta Version 15.27 is the tenth public build in the v15.xx series, focusing on bug fixes.
    4. Aviation, Dive, and ECG functions have been disabled in Beta Version 15.27.
    5. The update includes fixes for known issues, including three crash-related problems.

    It appears that Garmin is still working on its new beta update for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299.99 on Amazon). Although the company finished April by rolling out System Software 13.73 for its four premium smartwatches, this update didn’t include any of the modifications that have been available to beta testers since late March.

    Context of the Update

    For some background, Garmin went through more than a dozen v13.xx beta versions before it released System Software 13.35 to its stable software lineup. The launch of Beta Version 15.27 marks the tenth public build in the v15.xx series, not counting the Voice Command Files update that was sent out at the end of last week.

    Features Disabled

    However, it’s worth noting that Garmin has turned off the Aviation, Dive, and ECG functions in Beta Version 15.27. Consequently, this will not be the concluding beta update for this developmental phase, even though Garmin has made over 150 adjustments since its last stable update.

    This time, the focus has primarily been on implementing new bug fixes, with ten highlighted in the changelog for Beta Version 15.27. Interestingly, it has taken until now to address three issues that could lead to crashes, one of which might happen when a user selects a recent course from a saved application. The complete list of changes between Beta Versions v15.26 and v15.27 includes the following:

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  • Garmin Beta Update Adds Voice Command to Fenix 8 and Tactix 8

    Garmin Beta Update Adds Voice Command to Fenix 8 and Tactix 8

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released a new beta update for Fenix 8 and Tactix 8 smartwatches to enhance features and fix bugs.
    2. The update improves the Voice Command tool, allowing users to issue various commands directly from their watches.
    3. Voice Command Files v1.12 includes support for multiple languages, though specific benefits for users are unclear.
    4. Some users have reported a decrease in body battery levels after installing the recent beta updates, with no response from Garmin yet.
    5. Fenix 8 users can access the Voice Command Files v1.12 and join the Garmin Beta Program via Garmin Connect.

    Garmin has rolled out a fresh beta update for the Fenix 8 AMOLED, Fenix 8 Solar, Tactix 8 AMOLED, and Tactix 8 Solar smartwatches. This update comes shortly after the release of beta version 15.26 in late April 2025, which introduced support for Voice Commands for Applied Ballistics and Flying Apps specifically for the Tactix models, in addition to some bug fixes.

    Improvement to Voice Command Tool

    The new beta update offers users the chance to try out enhancements to the Voice Command feature. With the built-in speaker and microphone, Fenix 8 and Tactix 8 users can utilize the voice assistant directly on their smartwatches. It can handle various commands like “find my phone,” “turn on airplane mode,” and “increase brightness.”

    Language Support and User Concerns

    The Voice Command Files v1.12 release includes 17 files that are designed to support multiple languages. Nevertheless, Garmin hasn’t clarified how this update will specifically benefit users. It’s important to note that some users have reported a surprising drop in their body battery levels after installing either beta version 15.26 or Voice Command Files v1.12. As of now, Garmin has not addressed these concerns or provided any solutions.

    Voice Command Files v1.12 is now accessible for all Fenix 8 users (47mm AMOLED currently priced at $984.95 on Amazon) and related smartwatches. If you’re interested in becoming part of the Garmin Beta Program, you can register through Garmin Connect; additional information regarding the testing program can be found on the company’s support website.

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  • Garmin Updates Flagship Smartwatches Ahead of Major Release

    Garmin Updates Flagship Smartwatches Ahead of Major Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is gradually improving the v15.xx software for the Fenix 8 and other smartwatches, preparing for a stable release.
    2. Beta testing for v15.xx started in late March, with the latest beta version being 15.26, which introduces new features.
    3. The recent stable update (System Software 13.37) did not include new features or bug fixes from the beta versions.
    4. Beta Version 15.26 adds voice commands for the Applied Ballistics and Flying apps on the Tactix 8 and includes ten additional bug fixes.
    5. The Sensor Hub firmware has been updated from v34.10 to v34.12 in the latest beta release.

    Garmin is slowly improving the v15.xx software for the Fenix 8 and other smartwatches as they prepare for a stable release in the future. To summarize, the firm has been testing v15.xx versions in beta since late March. They did release a stable update last week, but System Software 13.37 didn’t include any of the new features, bug fixes, or improvements seen in the latest beta versions.

    New Beta Update

    The introduction of a new beta release for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 indicates that Garmin is still not ready to provide a stable v15.xx update. Although the company hasn’t officially stated this, the arrival of Beta Version 15.26, which includes Aviation, Dive, and ECG functionalities, suggests otherwise. According to Garmin, “ECG, Dive, and Aviation features will be available again on versions of beta software that we expect to become live updates.”

    Features and Fixes

    Nevertheless, Beta Version 15.26 now supports voice commands for the Applied Ballistics and Flying apps on the Tactix 8, which is currently priced at $1,299.99 on Amazon. This update also adds ten more bug fixes to the mix, bringing the total number already identified by Beta Version 15.25 to 127. Additionally, Garmin has updated the Sensor Hub firmware from v34.10 to v34.12. The complete list of changes between Beta Versions v15.25 and v15.26 is as follows:

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  • Garmin Launches Major Update for Flagship Smartwatches with 12+ Features

    Garmin Launches Major Update for Flagship Smartwatches with 12+ Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released Beta Version 15.24 for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8, with nearly 20 changes since the last beta update.
    2. The cumulative updates for these smartwatches have reached almost 150 since the last stable release.
    3. A new stable update has been unveiled, which does not include modifications from the recent Beta Program.
    4. Garmin’s Beta Program has resumed with Beta Version 15.25, introducing an additional twelve changes.
    5. Users in the Beta Program will soon receive an alert for downloading Beta Version 15.25 as an over-the-air (OTA) update.

    Garmin has been quite active recently with their Fenix 8 and other related smartwatches. Just a week ago, the firm released Beta Version 15.24 for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon), which included nearly 20 changes from the last beta update.

    Total Changes Count

    As we tally it up, the cumulative number of updates for these four smartwatches since the last stable release has reached almost 150. Just yesterday, Garmin also unveiled the changelog for a new stable update, which does not include any of the modifications that have been tested over the past month in their Beta Program.

    New Developments on the Horizon

    Amidst all these updates, the company has been seen dropping clues about potential refreshes for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8, details of which we have discussed separately. Now, Garmin has resumed its Beta Program with another build that introduces an additional twelve changes.

    As a result, the upcoming stable update v15.xx should now encompass at least 167 significant changes, featuring 22 new functionalities, 18 enhancements, and 127 bug fixes. However, Garmin has kept the Aviation, Dive, and ECG features turned off in Beta Version 15.25, indicating that more beta releases are on the way before moving to a stable version.

    Beta Program Notifications

    According to a post on Garmin’s forum, users of the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 who are part of the Beta Program can expect to receive an alert to download Beta Version 15.25 in the coming days as an over-the-air (OTA) update. Below is the changelog that lists all the changes made between Beta Versions 15.24 and 15.25:

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