Tag: Fenix 8

  • 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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  • Garmin Launches New Update for Flagship Smartwatches After Beta Testing

    Garmin Launches New Update for Flagship Smartwatches After Beta Testing

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is preparing a significant stable update for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8, with almost 150 entries in the 15.xx beta version changelog.
    2. A new stable update, System Software 13.37, was released for several devices without prior notice, similar to previous updates like System Software 13.35.
    3. The recent updates do not include the features from the ongoing beta testing, leaving users confused about the changes.
    4. Garmin lacks transparency in sharing update details, choosing to post changelogs on forums instead of within the smartwatch or Connect Mobile app.
    5. The latest update primarily addresses a bug related to Alipay, indicating that a more significant update for premium smartwatches may take a few more weeks.

    In the past few weeks, Garmin has been setting the stage for what looks like a major stable update for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299.99 on Amazon). According to our observations, the changelog for the 15.xx beta version has now reached almost 150 entries, which include bug fixes, new features, and improvements. Sadly, Garmin hasn’t provided any hints about when these 15.xx updates will be available in its stable software version.

    New Updates Rolled Out

    Recently, Garmin has started to quietly release a new stable update for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8, but this update does not include any of the changes that have been in beta testing since last month. Similar to System Software 13.35, Garmin has launched System Software 13.37 without any prior notice, as well as System Software 13.73 for the Tactix 8. This has left many users asking questions on Garmin’s forums about what has actually changed with this new version.

    Lack of Transparency

    On other devices, users can usually find out what improvements come with a new update. For some unknown reason, Garmin chooses not to display a changelog either on the smartwatch itself or within its Connect Mobile app. Instead, these updates are shared on its forums, which Garmin finally did for System Software 13.37. It turns out that this new update only fixes an unspecified bug that was causing issues with Alipay. So, it looks like Garmin intends to hold off for a few more weeks before rolling out a significant update for its latest premium smartwatches.

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  • Garmin Fenix 8 and Premium Smartwatches Leak with LTE Connectivity

    Garmin Fenix 8 and Premium Smartwatches Leak with LTE Connectivity

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin launched the Fenix E and Fenix 8 smartwatches, introducing AMOLED display options alongside the traditional MiP displays for better visibility and color vibrancy.
    2. The Fenix 8 may receive updates, and there are hints that other models like the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Tactix 8 could also be refreshed.
    3. Potential LTE connectivity for the Fenix 8 has been found in the Garmin Connect app, suggesting future connectivity options for other models.
    4. Garmin’s history indicates that new smartwatch models may appear in the app before their official launch.
    5. It’s uncertain if LTE connectivity will provide full internet access or just limited features like safety and tracking for the upcoming models.

    Garmin made some changes to the Fenix line last year with the launch of the Fenix E and Fenix 8, the latter priced at curr. $948 on Amazon. Previously, the brand had only used Memory in Pixel (MiP) displays for their premium smartwatches, which were great for battery life. However, MiP displays don’t offer vibrant colors and can be hard to see in low light.

    New Display Options

    To find a middle ground, Garmin introduced the Fenix 8 with both AMOLED and MiP display options. Now, it looks like not only the Fenix 8 may be getting an upgrade, but also the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Tactix 8. Garmin hasn’t officially announced any plans to refresh these high-end smartwatches.

    Connectivity Insights

    Interestingly, a source mentioned by Gadgets & Wearables found some visuals in the Garmin Connect app that suggest LTE connectivity for the Fenix 8. It appears that Garmin is also looking at this option when connecting the Enduro 3, Fenix E, or Tactix 8. While this might seem a bit odd, Garmin has a history of adding new smartwatch models to its app before they’re officially released.

    Future Possibilities

    For now, it’s unclear what Garmin’s intentions are regarding LTE connectivity for these smartwatches. In theory, Garmin could offer full internet access for these models, similar to what Apple, Google, and Samsung provide with their LTE versions. However, if the Forerunner 945 LTE is any indication, the LTE connectivity might only unlock limited safety and tracking features for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8.

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    Garmin Fenix 8 and Premium Smartwatches Leak with LTE Connectivity
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  • Garmin Unveils 20+ Major Updates for Flagship Smartwatches

    Garmin Unveils 20+ Major Updates for Flagship Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released a new update in the 15.xx beta stage, adding 19 changes for beta testers.
    2. The update introduces new features for popular smartwatch models like Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8.
    3. The Tactix 8 is currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon and includes 17 bug fixes in the update.
    4. Beta Version 15.24 features updated Sensor Hub firmware, improving sensor pairing visibility.
    5. Garmin’s ongoing development has resulted in nearly 150 changes since System Software 13.35, with more beta versions expected.

    Garmin continues to enhance its leading smartwatches, focusing on bug fixes and upgrades. Recently, the company pushed out a new update in its 15.xx beta development stage, introducing 19 additional changes for beta testers beyond those already available.

    New Features for Popular Models

    The latest update brings new features to the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8. The Tactix 8 is currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon. In addition to the new features, the update also includes 17 bug fixes. Furthermore, Beta Version 15.24 has rolled out, featuring updated Sensor Hub firmware, which upgrades all smartwatches from versions v34.09 and v34.10. While Garmin hasn’t disclosed specific changes, it seems that the upgrade to v34.10 improves how sensors are paired by showing sensors in pairing mode first.

    Ongoing Development and Changes

    According to our calculations, the total changes from System Software 13.35 are approaching 150. However, there’s no indication that Garmin has completed the 15.xx development. The removal of Aviation, Dive, and ECG features suggests that at least one more beta version will be released, if not several. The comprehensive list of modifications between v15.23 and v15.24 is as follows:

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  • Garmin Launches Major Update for Flagship Smartwatches

    Garmin Launches Major Update for Flagship Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released multiple updates for the Fenix 8 software this month, progressing from Beta Version 15.16 to 15.22.
    2. A total of 99 adjustments have been made since Software Version 13.35 was introduced in early March.
    3. Beta Version 15.22 includes 18 additional improvements, primarily focused on bug fixes.
    4. Users can expect a stable update in the future that will introduce nearly twenty new features.
    5. The beta update will be automatically rolled out to eligible smartwatches, but users can manually check for updates in the system menu.

    Garmin has been quite active this month with updates for the Fenix 8 software. They kicked off a new development cycle at the end of March with Beta Version 15.16, quickly progressing to v15.17, then v15.18, and just last week, v15.19. Overall, Garmin states that 99 adjustments have been made since Software Version 13.35 was introduced at the beginning of March.

    Latest Beta Release

    Recently, Garmin jumped ahead in version numbers and introduced Beta Version 15.22 in their Beta Program for the Fenix E, Fenix 8, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299.99 on Amazon). The changelog for the v15.xx series had already been extensive, nearing 100 entries of fixes, enhancements, and new features, but Beta Version 15.22 adds another 18 improvements.

    Focus on Bug Fixes

    Most of the changes in Beta Version 15.22 are focused on fixing bugs. However, users can anticipate a future stable update of v15.xx that should include nearly twenty new features. It’s important to know that Garmin is rolling out this latest beta update automatically to smartwatches that are part of its Beta Program. Therefore, Beta Version 15.22 should be available on your Fenix E, Fenix 8, Enduro 3, or Tactix 8 by the start of next week. If you prefer, you can also manually check for the update by going to ‘Check for Updates’ in the Menu, then System, and selecting Software Update. The complete list of changes from Software Version 13.35 is detailed below:

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