Tag: Forerunner 255

  • Garmin Mid-Range Smartwatches Get Major Update

    Garmin Mid-Range Smartwatches Get Major Update

    Key Takeaway

    – Garmin released stable Software Version 28.05 for Forerunner 165, 255, 265, 955, and 965.
    – The update includes 7 to 10 changes depending on the model, with the 955 and 965 receiving the most.
    – All models benefit from activity and workout improvements.
    – The rollout has reached about 20% of eligible devices and will expand in coming days.


    New Update lands for Older Garmin Watches

    Garmin has finalised a new stable update for five of its older mid-range smartwatches. To recap, almost four months have passed since the company issued Software Version 27.09 to the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955 and Forerunner 965 (curr. $599 on Amazon). In the intervening period, Garmin delivered a solitary v28.xx beta update called Beta Version 28.03.

    Mostly Same Features Across Models

    Nonetheless, it has now pushed ahead with the release of Software Version 28.05 globally. According to Garmin, Software Version 28.05 comes with up to 10 changes. However, this is only true for the Forerunner 955 and Forerunner 965. By contrast, the Forerunner 255 and Forerunner 265 benefit from 8 changes, with the Forerunner 165 dropping further to 7 changes from Software Version 27.09. However, all are said to have recieved activity and workout improvements.

    Currently, Garmin reports that Software Version 28.05 should have reached around 20% of eligible smartwatches. This percentage should change in the coming days, though. The changelogs for Software Version 28.05 are as follows:

    All Forerunner x55 and x65 smartwatches:

    • Fixed an issue where the watch could crash during activity sync
    • Improved heart rate accuracy during high-intensity intervals
    • Resolved a bug where sleep data was not syncing to Garmin Connect
    • Added support for new cycling power meter profiles
    • General system stability improvements
    • Updated translations for multiple languages
    • Fixed a rare issue with the altimeter calibration

    Forerunner 955 & Forerunner 965 specific

    • Improved mapping tile loading speed
    • Added new climb pro data fields
    • Fixed an issue where satIQ mode could drain battery faster than expected

    Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955 & Forerunner 965 specific: All four models recieve a fix for race predictor algorithems that were showing incorrect times for some users. Along with this, the update patched a problem with the touchscreen not responding after swimming in salt water.

    Sources
    • Garmin Smartwatch Users Report Major Issues and Criticisms

      Garmin Smartwatch Users Report Major Issues and Criticisms

      Key Takeaway

      1. Major issues with heart rate tracking and elevation data have been reported for Garmin Forerunner models with firmware 27.09.
      2. The problems, affecting multiple users since January, impact workout accuracy and training guidance.
      3. There is concern over Garmin’s handling of these known issues, with some users urging them to address and communicate more effectively.

      What Users Are Saying About Garmin’s Latest Issues

      Many consumers are voicing their disappointment in Garmin on platforms like Reddit and other online forums. The main concern revolves around how the company managing these bugs, especially since the problems seems to have been lingering for a while without proper resolution. Some users report that the issues with models like Forerunner 255, 265, 955, and 965, especially with the latest software version 27.09, are quite serious and ongoing.

      A Closer Look at Heart Rate Problems

      One user on Reddit shared a long post, explaining that the heart rate readings are way off. This is a big problem since real-time heart rate data is crucial for athletes focused on endurance training. It help them monitor effort during workouts, making sure they stay within target zones. When the data is wrong, it makes training plans less effective because athletes might push too hard or too little. Unlike routes, which can be fixed after the fact, heart rate info needs to be accurate during the activity, or it becomes unreliable. The trust in device’s functionality takes a hit when heart rate data cannot be depended upon.

      Elevation Data Glitches and User Feedback

      Additional complaints point to elevation tracking bugs. Users report that exercises performed on flat grounds are mistakenly recorded as climbs. This seems to be connected to the firmware update and has been a problem since early this year. While some owners haven’t encountered these problems, others are frustrated, and it raises questions about how widespread the issues really are. The community feedback is mixed, with both happy and annoyed users. The best advice for anyone affected is to reach out directly with their concerns to Garmin, to help push for a quicker fix and more transparency.

      Implications for Garmin’s Customer Support

      It’s clear that the company needs to step up its game when it comes to software updates and problem resolution. Not addressing known issues creates a classic case of broken trust, especially for serious athletes relying on precise data. Users should be proactive and report their problems; this can help Garmin take notice and work toward a fix. Transparency and quick support response are key to maintaining loyalty, especially when issues are widespread and repeatedly confirmed by multiple users. Both the company and consumers have a role in resolving these technical difficulties.

    • Garmin Updates Mid-Range Smartwatches with Custom Alert Fixes

      Garmin Updates Mid-Range Smartwatches with Custom Alert Fixes

      Key Takeaways

      1. Garmin has released a stable update (System Software 25.06) for several older Forerunner smartwatches.
      2. The update aims to improve overall stability and follows a brief beta testing phase.
      3. Version 25.06 addresses an issue where settings were hidden after adding a custom alert.
      4. The update will be rolled out to Forerunner 165, 255, 265, 955, and 965 over the next few days.
      5. Users can manually check for the update by navigating to Menu, System, Software Update, and selecting ‘Check for Updates’.


      Garmin has released a new stable update for several of its older Forerunner smartwatches, starting from the Forerunner 255 (currently priced at $279 on Amazon). The update, known as System Software 25.06, is the first for the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965 in less than a month. This update comes after a brief beta testing phase that followed the earlier introduction of System Software 25.04 in early September.

      Update Details

      The stable version 25.06 has been released about a week after Garmin made the Beta Version 25.06 available to participants in its public Beta Program. As previously mentioned, version 25.06 is intended to enhance overall stability for all compatible Forerunner smartwatches. Sadly, Garmin has yet to provide additional details on this matter.

      Fixes and Manual Update

      This new stable update addresses a problem that resulted in settings being hidden after a custom alert was added. Software Version 25.06 is expected to roll out to the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965 over the next few days. If your smartwatch hasn’t received the update yet, you can manually check for Garmin’s latest update by going to Menu, System, Software Update, and then selecting ‘Check for Updates’. For further information, refer to Garmin’s forum post.

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    • Garmin Updates Mid-Range Smartwatches with Stability & Alerts Improvements

      Garmin Updates Mid-Range Smartwatches with Stability & Alerts Improvements

      Key Takeaways

      1. Garmin is reducing development focus on the Forerunner 255, 955, 165, 265, and 965 models.
      2. Beta Version 25.02 introduced five changes, while Beta Version 25.06 offered limited significant improvements.
      3. The main update in Beta Version 25.06 aims to enhance general stability.
      4. A specific issue causing settings to disappear on older models has been resolved in the latest update.
      5. Garmin’s strategy now emphasizes stability and bug fixes over introducing new features for existing models.


      Garmin has shifted its focus away from the Forerunner 255, Forerunner 955, Forerunner 165, Forerunner 265, and Forerunner 965, placing them on a reduced development path. To provide some perspective, the firm released Beta Version 25.02 nearly a month ago, which included five main changes compared to its last stable update for those particular smartwatches. Although Garmin has moved on to Beta Version 25.06, it hasn’t introduced many significant improvements.

      Stability Improvements

      One of the key updates in Beta Version 25.06 is aimed at enhancing ‘general stability’. The company also states that they have resolved a problem that might cause certain settings to disappear on older Forerunner models when a custom alert is first added. Users interested in Beta Version 25.06 can download it by going to the Main menu, then Settings, followed by System, and finally Software Update on their smartwatch registered in the Beta Program. After that, they just need to click ‘Check For Updates’.

      Summary of Updates

      Garmin is taking a more cautious approach with the development of its Forerunner line, focusing less on new features and more on stability and bug fixes. This update process reflects the company’s strategy of ensuring that existing models perform reliably, even if it means less frequent updates.

      Source:
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    • Garmin Update Enhances Heart Rate Tracking for Older Smartwatches

      Garmin Update Enhances Heart Rate Tracking for Older Smartwatches

      Key Takeaways

      1. Garmin released stable updates for older Forerunner smartwatches after beta testing.
      2. The last stable update for the Forerunner series was Software Version 24.12, released in late July.
      3. Garmin is focusing on newer models like the Forerunner 570 and Fenix 8, with limited beta updates for older models.
      4. The latest stable update, Software Version 25.04, includes bug fixes and improved heart rate tracking.
      5. The Forerunner 165 did not receive a fix for Power Save Timeout settings, unlike the other models.


      Garmin has rolled out new stable updates for its older Forerunner smartwatches after a brief beta testing period. To summarize, the last stable update for the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965 (currently priced at $589 on Amazon) was released in late July with Software Version 24.12.

      Focus on Newer Models

      Following that, Garmin has shifted its attention to newer models like the Forerunner 570, Forerunner 970, and Fenix 8. While these new models have seen a variety of beta updates, the only beta version offered to the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965 beta testers was Version 25.02. Recently, Garmin unexpectedly moved ahead with Software Version 25.04, which can be manually downloaded by going through these menus on your Forerunner smartwatch:

      Menu > System > Software Update > Check For Updates

      Improvements and Fixes

      As anticipated, this latest stable update is primarily aimed at fixing bugs. One notable fix is for a problem that stopped Strength workouts from being marked as complete in Garmin Run Coach plans. In addition, Garmin has stated that it has enhanced wrist-based heart rate tracking, reducing instances where readings might be inaccurately high during activities. It’s important to mention that the Forerunner 165 is the only one from the five smartwatches eligible for Software Version 25.04 that hasn’t received a fix for Power Save Timeout settings in multisport profiles.

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    • Garmin Forerunner Update Fixes Workout Issues in New Smartwatch

      Garmin Forerunner Update Fixes Workout Issues in New Smartwatch

      Key Takeaways

      1. Garmin has released a stable software update (version 22.24) for several Forerunner smartwatches, including the Forerunner 165, 255, 265, 955, and 965.
      2. The update fixes issues with scheduled workouts displaying one day late and Daily Suggested Workouts appearing blank after completion.
      3. Non-music versions of the Forerunner 165 and 255 can now adjust the smart notification tone, and bugs causing certain Connect IQ apps to crash have been resolved.
      4. Some issues, such as the virtual partner pace and smart notification replies during activities, remain unresolved in this update.
      5. The update is currently being rolled out to 20% of users, but there is no timeline for the full rollout, and users can manually check for updates.


      Garmin has begun to distribute a new stable software update for its Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965 smartwatches. This marks the second live version from the 22.xx series, following the release of version 22.22, which introduced features such as passcode protection, Body Battery TrueUp, and strength training workouts for the Garmin Run Coach and Cycling Coach training plans.

      Update Details

      The change log for the software version 22.24 closely resembles the beta version 22.24 that was released earlier this month. Garmin has mentioned that it fixed a problem where scheduled workouts showed up one day late for users in certain time zones. Additionally, issues with Daily Suggested Workouts appearing blank after completion and a bug related to the last activity tap-in have been addressed.

      Features Restored

      For the non-music versions of the Forerunner 165 ($225.99 at Amazon) and Forerunner 255 smartwatches, the ability to adjust the smart notification tone has returned. Also, an issue that caused some Connect IQ applications to crash on the Forerunner 165 has been fixed. However, the release notes for version 22.24 do not mention resolutions for issues regarding virtual partner pace and smart notification replies during activities, as noted in the beta version of this update. The reason for their exclusion remains unclear.

      User Rollout

      According to a recent post on the Garmin forum, the update version 22.24 has been rolled out to 20% of users. Unfortunately, there is no estimated timeline for when the full rollout will be completed. Users can manually check for the update by navigating to the Main Menu > System > Software Update > Check For Update.

      Source:
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    • Garmin Forerunner Smartwatch Beta Update Fixes Notification Issues

      Garmin Forerunner Smartwatch Beta Update Fixes Notification Issues

      Key Takeaways

      1. Garmin has released a beta update (version 22.24) for the Forerunner series smartwatches, including models 165, 255, 265, 955, and 965.
      2. This update focuses on fixing bugs, including issues with scheduled workouts, blank data in Daily Suggested Workouts, and crashes during smart notifications.
      3. The Forerunner 165 received specific fixes for crashes in Connect IQ apps and notification sound problems.
      4. The update rollout is currently at 20%, and users can manually check for updates in the settings menu.
      5. The previous stable version 22.22 introduced new features like passcode protection and compatibility with the new HRM 200 heart rate monitor.


      Garmin has started to release a new beta update for its Forerunner series smartwatches, including the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965. The update, version 22.24, comes out a few weeks after the stable version 22.22, which introduced features like passcode protection, Body Battery TrueUp, and compatibility with the new HRM 200 heart rate monitor (currently priced at $149.99 on Amazon).

      Focused on Fixes

      As expected, the beta version 22.24 primarily addresses various bugs. Garmin has worked on issues such as scheduled workouts showing on incorrect days in certain time zones and completed Daily Suggested Workouts displaying blank data. Additionally, the crashes that users experienced when trying to use the keyboard to reply to smart notifications during workouts have been reportedly fixed. Moreover, problems regarding virtual partner pace, dynamic source switching, and last activity have also been taken care of.

      Specific Improvements for Forerunner 165

      Only the Forerunner 165 smartwatch has received a fix concerning crashes in Connect IQ apps, which were linked to radial or angled text. Furthermore, some users of the Forerunner 165 pointed out issues with notification sounds; these have now been rectified. According to a post on the Garmin forum, the rollout of the beta version 22.24 is currently at 20%. Users can manually check for the update by navigating to the Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates.

      Source:
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    • Garmin Forerunner Update: Heart Rate Bug Fix in New Beta Version

      Garmin Forerunner Update: Heart Rate Bug Fix in New Beta Version

      Key Takeaways

      1. Garmin released Public Beta Version 22.21 for several Forerunner smartwatches, focusing on bug fixes.
      2. Key fixes include corrections to the maximum heart rate field during swim rest and issues with the race calendar countdown timer.
      3. Some users have reported problems with incorrectly labeled Body Battery events and editing glances.
      4. Ongoing issues include unexpected battery drain that remains a concern for some users.
      5. The update is available to beta program members, who can download it through Garmin Connect settings.


      Garmin has just released the Public Beta Version 22.21 update for its Forerunner smartwatches which includes the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965 models (curr. $588.04 at Amazon). This update comes shortly after version 22.18, which introduced features like passcode support and new custom workouts specifically for the Stair Stepper profile.

      Focus on Bug Fixes

      The main purpose of Version 22.21 is to address a number of bugs found in these devices. The change log mentions that a problem with the maximum heart rate field during swim rest has been fixed. Garmin has also tackled issues related to the set count on the edit reps page, the race calendar countdown timer, and icons in the notification glance tap-in. The release notes conclude by stating that there are several other minor fixes and improvements, yet they do not elaborate on these.

      User Feedback and Concerns

      However, some users have already reported a few potential problems with this update. Garmin is looking into complaints about incorrectly labeled Body Battery events, and a few users are experiencing difficulties in editing glances. The issue of unexpected battery drain also seems to remain an ongoing problem.

      How to Access the Update

      In a post on the Garmin Forum, a representative mentioned that Public Beta Version 22.21 is now accessible to all users who are part of the company’s beta testing program. If you’re a member, you can easily download the update by navigating to Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates. People interested in joining the beta program can do so through Garmin Connect.

      Source:
      Link

    • Garmin Forerunner Updates: Enhanced Run Coach & Cycling Coach Features

      Garmin Forerunner Updates: Enhanced Run Coach & Cycling Coach Features

      Garmin has finished up 2024 by releasing beta updates for its latest Forerunner smartwatches. The company is now providing the same version on its stable development track, which is expected to reach users of the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965 (currently priced at $599.99 on Amazon) in the next few days.

      Update Rollout Process

      Garmin’s update process will take place in a ‘phased rollout’, and as of this moment, it has reached about 20% completion. This means that just a limited number of Forerunner smartwatches might have received a message to download Software Version 21.22 at this time. Users can also manually start the installation of the new update by following these steps on their smartwatch:

      Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates

      What’s New in the Update

      The new update is officially said to provide ‘general bug fixes’ for the Forerunner smartwatches mentioned earlier. However, Garmin’s beta changelog reveals some interesting details. For example, the company noted that it has resolved eight different issues with this update. Moreover, version 22.12 is reported to enhance Garmin Run Coach and Garmin Cycling Coach plans by including added strength workouts. For comparison, Garmin’s last changelog for version 22.12 included the following points:

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    • Garmin Fixes Forerunner Touchscreen Issues with Latest Update

      Garmin Fixes Forerunner Touchscreen Issues with Latest Update

      Garmin is known for updating its smartwatches more often than its competitors, but these updates sometimes come with problems, even with a public beta program in place. Recently, this was the case with Software Version 21.19, which Garmin began releasing to several smartwatches at the beginning of the month.

      Update Issues

      Reports indicate that the update caused touchscreen issues during activities for nearly all smartwatches except for the Forerunner 255 (curr. $284 on Amazon). Interestingly, the changelog for Software Version 21.20 shows that its previous version also had a bug that made the Connect IQ watch face crash on the Forerunner 255. This issue affects all the other Forerunner models mentioned as well.

      Improvements Made

      Furthermore, the touchscreen settings are now supposed to be "respected" on the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965. Additionally, the last two models have fixed a different bug that stopped distance updates during golf activities. Sadly, it is still unclear when a new update focused on features will be made available. For further information, check out the forum posts linked below.

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