Tag: Garmin Forerunner 970

  • Garmin Launches Update with 25+ Features for Mid-Range Smartwatches

    Garmin Launches Update with 25+ Features for Mid-Range Smartwatches

    Key Takeaway

    1. Garmin is rolling out Beta Version 17.16 for the Forerunner 570 and 970, available only to enrolled beta testers who manually request the update.
    2. The update includes 28 changes for the Forerunner 570 (mostly bug fixes) and 5 improvements for the Forerunner 970.
    3. Both models now support a silent mode accessible via a shortcut, and users can control the Battery Manager app using voice commands.

    Latest Updates for Garmin Forerunner Models

    Garmin has begin a new phase in the development of its Forerunner series, specifically for the 570 and 970 models (now priced around $749). The company recently upgraded these models to Software Version 16.37, but now they are testing out a new Beta version 17.16. Interestingly, this update is only available if you actively request it, as Garmin hasn’t rolled it out to everyone automatically.

    How to Access the Beta Software

    If you’re interested in trying the new Beta Version 17.16, you’ll need to do it manually. First, make sure your device is enrolled in Garmin’s Beta Program. Then, on your watch, go to the Main Menu, tap Settings, then System, and finally Software Update. From there, select Check for Updates. Keep in mind, this process isn’t automatic; Garmin is only offering this pre-release version to those who ask for it.

    This beta release has a total of 28 changes focusing mainly on bug fixes, with the Forerunner 570 getting 21 of those, and the Forerunner 970 gaining 5 new updates too. One cool thing is both watches now support a silent mode that can be turned on via a button shortcut or through the control loop – making it easy to switch off sounds quickly.

    New Features and Improvements

    Another feature added is the ability to open the Battery Manager app using voice commands, which should help users manage their battery life more efficiently. Garmin has also included multiple improvements and bug fixes to enhance user experience and device stability.

    • 28 total changes for Forerunner 570 (21 bug fixes)
    • 5 additional improvements for Forerunner 970
    • Support for silent mode, quick access
    • Access Battery Manager via voice command

    Changelog Highlights

    The specific details of the updates are documented in the Garmin changelog sheets for both models, showing a focus on bug fixing and user-friendly features. Owners of the Forerunner 570 and 970 should consider enrolling in the Beta Program if they want to test the latest software updates first, keeping in mind that beta updates may contain bugs or incomplete features.

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Update: Over 10 New Features for Users

    Garmin Smartwatch Update: Over 10 New Features for Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Garmin Forerunner 570 and 970 smartwatches received a stable software update (version 16.28) ending the 16.xx beta testing phase.
    2. The update introduces over ten new features, including glances for weight tracking, battery performance, favorite sports teams, and daily habit health impacts.
    3. New training plans for timed workouts, cardio, and strength training are added, along with extra settings for color filters and voice alerts.
    4. Smart notifications can now be paused during workouts, and the update fixes bugs related to indoor cycling, music player, and Wi-Fi uploads.
    5. The update is currently available to about 50% of users, with a full rollout expected soon; installation can be done via the smartwatch’s system settings.

    The Garmin Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches have just received a stable software update. This update, labeled version 16.28, marks the conclusion of the 16.xx beta testing phase that started back in December 2025.

    New Features Added

    With software version 16.28, users can expect over ten fresh features for their Garmin Forerunner devices. Among these enhancements, there are four new glances: one for weight tracking, another providing an overview of battery life and performance, one dedicated to your favorite sports teams, and a final glance that shows how your daily habits could be affecting your health. Additionally, the sleep glance now includes suggestions for optimal bedtime and wake time.

    Enhancements for Training

    Garmin has introduced a variety of new training plans specifically for timed workouts, cardio sessions, and strength training. Users will also find extra settings for color filters and voice alerts, along with a wider selection of alarm tones. Moreover, smart notifications can now be temporarily paused until after your workout, which is managed through the stage menu. This update also addresses bugs related to indoor cycling, the music player, and Wi-Fi uploads. You can see the full change log in the image below.

    Availability of the Update

    As per a post on the Garmin Forum, software version 16.28 is accessible to approximately 50% of users of the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches (currently starting at $719.99 on Amazon). The rollout is expected to be completed shortly. To install this update, navigate to Main Menu > System > Software Update > Check For Updates.

    Garmin’s

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  • Garmin Mid-Range Smartwatches Receive Beta Update with Fixes

    Garmin Mid-Range Smartwatches Receive Beta Update with Fixes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released new beta updates for the Forerunner 570 (version 15.31) and Forerunner 970 (version 15.30) after the stable software version 15.16.
    2. The updates focus on various bug fixes and improvements, but specifics on benefits to users are unclear.
    3. Users of the Forerunner 970 are experiencing ongoing issues with text message alerts not appearing or notifying them.
    4. Alerts from other apps and incoming calls on the Forerunner 970 are functioning properly, but the text message issue remains unaddressed by Garmin.
    5. Users can access the beta software by navigating through the smartwatch’s settings to check for updates.

    Garmin has just unveiled new beta updates for its Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches. These updates come nearly a month after the stable software version 15.16 was released, which introduced features such as Health Status, app-level notification controls, and a gesture that lets users exit notifications by simply placing their palm on the screen.

    Beta Version Details

    The Forerunner 570 is getting beta version 15.31, while the Forerunner 970 is getting beta version 15.30. It’s a bit confusing why these updates have different version numbers. The change logs for both watches merely mention “various bug fixes and improvements,” leaving it unclear how these updates might actually benefit users of these running watches.

    Notification Issues Persist

    One issue that seems to remain unresolved is regarding text message alerts. Users of the Forerunner 970 have shared on the Garmin Forum that notifications are not appearing on their screens or creating sounds or vibrations, which is what they would expect. However, alerts from other apps and incoming calls do not seem to be affected. Garmin hasn’t publicly addressed this problem yet, so it’s uncertain when a fix might be available.

    How to Access Beta Software

    If you’re part of the Garmin beta program for the Forerunner 570 or Forerunner 970 smartwatches (currently starting at $646 on Amazon), you can now download the latest beta software. To do this, navigate to Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates.

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Expands New Feature to More Users

    Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Expands New Feature to More Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Garmin Forerunner 570 and 970 receive a beta update (version 15.07) shortly after fixing battery drain issues in version 15.05.
    2. New health features include the Health Status feature and support for cycling VO2 max on select watch faces.
    3. Improved functionalities allow users to dismiss training alerts, switch sports in multisport activities, and turn off the device without a passcode.
    4. Several bug fixes address problems with incoming calls, evening reports, and strength activities, along with quieter voice note click noises.
    5. Users can download the update by navigating through the settings menu, but the ECG app is currently disabled during the beta testing phase.

    The Garmin Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches have a new beta update, now at version 15.07. This update comes just a few weeks after the last one, beta version 15.05, which fixed an issue that caused the battery to drain quicker than normal.

    New Health Features

    According to the release notes for beta version 15.07, there’s now a way for users to keep an eye on changes in their health data and overall wellbeing. This includes the new Health Status feature, which was first introduced with the Venu 4 smartwatch (currently priced at $549.99 on Amazon). Additionally, there’s support for cycling VO2 max on certain watch faces, though the specific faces are not mentioned.

    Improved Functionality

    Once users install beta version 15.07 on their Forerunner 570 or Forerunner 970, they will have new functionalities. They can use the down key to dismiss training alerts, hold the lap key to shift between sports in a multisport activity, and turn off the device without needing a passcode. Furthermore, a variety of bug fixes have been made to resolve issues related to incoming calls, the evening report, and the strength activity. Garmin has also mentioned that the click noise at the beginning of a voice note has been quieter. A complete change log screenshot can be found below.

    How to Download the Update

    To download Garmin beta version 15.07 for the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970, users should navigate to the Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates. As usual with testing updates, the ECG app is currently disabled and will be available again when a stable software version is released.

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    Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Expands New Feature to More Users

     

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  • Garmin Releases Beta Update to Fix Smartwatch Battery Drain Issue

    Garmin Releases Beta Update to Fix Smartwatch Battery Drain Issue

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched beta testing for Forerunner 570 and 970 smartwatches with version 15.05.
    2. New features include separate app notification management and alerts for Evening Reports.
    3. Improvements include enhanced countdown timers, reduced activity selection lag, and automatic exit from sleep mode after activities.
    4. Bug fixes address issues with voice commands, race display, and battery drain.
    5. The update is not yet available for all users, and the smartwatches are priced at $749.99 on Amazon.

    Garmin has kicked off a fresh beta testing phase for the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches. The latest beta version, 15.05, comes about a month after the previous stable update, version 12.70. This past update introduced features such as bedtime recommendations visible in the Evening Report, daily workout suggestions for Track Run, and a calculator application.

    New Features in Beta 15.05

    With the launch of beta version 15.05, users of the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 are now able to manage notifications for each app separately. The notification center has been updated to include the Morning Report and Evening Report. Additionally, users can receive tone or vibration alerts when their Evening Report is created. Also, you can dismiss a smart notification by simply covering the screen with your palm.

    Improvements and Fixes

    This update enhances the countdown timer for “time to race day” displayed in the race glance, and it reduces the lag experienced when selecting an activity. Another improvement is that the watch now automatically exits sleep mode after an activity is completed close to the end of a sleep window. In addition, there are fixes for bugs related to voice commands during music playback and issues where secondary races appeared instead of primary ones. Garmin has also resolved a situation that could cause faster than normal battery drain.

    The full change log for the beta version 15.05 is listed below. To manually download the update, navigate to the Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates. It is not yet known when these updates, enhancements, and bug fixes will be available to all users of the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 (currently priced at $749.99 on Amazon) smartwatches.

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    Garmin Releases Beta Update to Fix Smartwatch Battery Drain Issue

     

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  • Garmin Smartwatches to Get Google Maps Support in Future Updates

    Garmin Smartwatches to Get Google Maps Support in Future Updates

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched the Forerunner 970, featuring turn-by-turn navigation, priced at $749.99.
    2. Garmin is reportedly working with Google to integrate Google Maps support into select smartwatches.
    3. The integration may allow Garmin devices to provide navigation prompts similar to Wear OS devices.
    4. Current Wear OS smartwatches can initiate navigation or display info from a connected smartphone.
    5. Future Garmin updates, like the Fenix 8 Pro, may include LTE connectivity alongside Google Maps support.

    It appears that a significant maps update might be on its way for upcoming Garmin smartwatches. To summarize, Garmin has launched the Forerunner 970 (currently priced at $749.99 on Amazon) which includes turn-by-turn navigation. However, there are indications that the company is collaborating with Google to introduce Google Maps support for select devices.

    Google Maps Compatibility

    A recent update from Google Maps has hinted that Google is planning to integrate Garmin compatibility in some capacity. Garmin Rumors suggests that certain Garmin smartwatches could soon receive Google Maps prompts, similar to how Wear OS devices currently operate. Unfortunately, the APK for Google Maps does not specify which Garmin smartwatches will be included in this collaboration.

    Features of Current Wear OS Devices

    For context, the existing Wear OS smartwatches can either initiate turn-by-turn navigation directly or display what is visible on a connected smartphone. It would be great if this functionality could also be applied to the Forerunner 970 or Fenix 8, allowing them to provide haptic feedback for upcoming turns. Moreover, there’s a possibility that Garmin might incorporate this support with LTE connectivity, which is expected to be introduced later this year as part of the Fenix 8 Pro update.

    u/bendotlc via Garmin Rumors

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    Garmin Smartwatches to Get Google Maps Support in Future Updates

     

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  • Garmin Forerunner Smartwatches Update: Improved Battery Life

    Garmin Forerunner Smartwatches Update: Improved Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released software version 6.17 for the Forerunner 570 and 970 smartwatches, marking its first stable update since their launch in May 2025.
    2. The update improves battery life for the Forerunner 970 and the 47 mm version of the Forerunner 570, though specific improvements in battery duration are not disclosed.
    3. A translation update is now available for users in Japan, but the update does not address reported bug issues on Garmin forums, such as touchscreen problems and rebooting issues.
    4. Users can access the software update by navigating to Menu > System > Software Update > Check For Updates on their smartwatches.
    5. The Forerunner 970 is priced at $549.99 on Amazon and is expected to last up to 15 days, while the Forerunner 570 (47 mm) can last up to 11 days on a single charge.

    Garmin has rolled out software version 6.17 for the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches. These running devices were introduced in late May 2025. This update is the first stable one for these watches, which Garmin refers to as a hotfix.

    Battery Improvements

    The software update, version 6.17, reportedly boosts the battery life “on watch face” for the Forerunner 970 and the larger 47 mm version of the Forerunner 570 (currently priced at $549.99 on Amazon). Sadly, Garmin hasn’t provided any details about how much battery life has improved. Just to remind, the Forerunner 970 is expected to last up to 15 days, while the Forerunner 570 47 mm can last up to 11 days on a single charge.

    Translation Updates and Issues

    For those who bought one of these new Forerunner smartwatches in Japan, an update for translations is now available. The last note in the change log is a bit mysterious, mentioning “changes to support manufacturing.” However, the software release doesn’t seem to address any bug fixes related to problems users have reported on the Garmin forum. These include touch-screen issues on the Forerunner 570 and a rebooting problem on the Forerunner 970 that is connected to features like Google Assistant and maps.

    How to Get the Update

    Garmin states that software version 6.17 is accessible now for all users of the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches. To download this update, simply navigate to Menu > System > Software Update > Check For Updates.

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    Garmin Forerunner Smartwatches Update: Improved Battery Life
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  • New Garmin Smartwatch Workouts Coming Soon for Fitness Fans

    New Garmin Smartwatch Workouts Coming Soon for Fitness Fans

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin may introduce new walking and swimming workouts for select smartwatches.
    2. The new swim workouts are expected to help improve technique and stamina with various intensity levels.
    3. There will be recovery sessions and timed workouts for users preparing for events.
    4. New walking workouts may include interval training and focus on mental wellness.
    5. The release date and compatible smartwatches for these features are still unknown.

    Two fresh features for Garmin smartwatches seem to have been leaked. These rumors surfaced after the launch of the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970, which introduced new functionalities like Evening Report, Running tolerance, and Running economy.

    New Workouts on the Horizon

    A report from the5krunner suggests that Garmin might be adding new walking and swimming workouts to certain smartwatches. These could potentially be new Daily Suggested Workouts. The swim workouts might also connect to the newly unveiled Garmin Triathlon Coach for the Forerunner 970 (currently priced at $749.99 on Amazon). This feature in the Garmin Connect app offers users a complimentary training plan aimed at achieving fitness goals or preparing for races.

    Enhancing Technique and Stamina

    The anticipated swimming workouts are designed to assist users in improving their technique and stamina. They will present various intensity levels, with some tailored for open water swimming. Additionally, there will be recovery sessions to help the body recuperate, along with timed workouts to challenge users before an event. This information closely resembles the ‘Swim Workouts’ segment on the specialized Garmin Triathlon Coach webpage.

    Walking Workouts and Mental Wellness

    It’s still uncertain if the new walking workouts will also be tied to a Garmin Coach training plan. Reportedly, the walking workouts will feature a variety of intensities and durations, including interval training and recovery-based sessions. There seem to be workouts aimed at enhancing mental wellness, encouraging breathing awareness, and immersing oneself in nature.

    In both cases, the5krunner references their reliable source, @JohnW. The timing of the launch for these new Garmin swimming and walking workouts, as well as which smartwatches will support them, remains unclear.

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  • Garmin Introduces Evening Report Feature for Select Smartwatches

    Garmin Introduces Evening Report Feature for Select Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched the Evening Report feature for the Forerunner 570 and 970 smartwatches, available from May 21st, 2025.
    2. The Evening Report assists users in planning their evenings by providing summaries of sleep targets, future workouts, and events before bedtime.
    3. It displays the Body Battery score, next day’s weather forecast, and advice from the Garmin sleep coach, enhancing user experience.
    4. Users can customize the Evening Report settings to choose what information they want to see or disable the feature.
    5. The Evening Report will also be available for Fenix 8 series, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8 smartwatches in a future software update.

    Garmin has introduced a new Evening Report feature for its Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches. These devices were announced earlier this month and became available on May 21st, 2025.

    Evening Report Overview

    The Evening Report is similar to the existing Morning Report feature that was first introduced with the Garmin Lily in 2021. The Morning Report provides a daily overview when users wake up, including important details like their Body Battery score, upcoming Calendar events, and a Suggested Workout.

    Enhancing User Experience

    The new Evening Report is designed to assist smartwatch users in planning their evenings. This summary is shown just before the user usually goes to sleep, reminding them of their sleep targets, future workouts, and any scheduled events. Additionally, it displays the Body Battery score, a weather forecast for the next day, and advice from the Garmin sleep coach. Users can personalize their Evening Report by navigating to Watch Settings > Notifications & Alerts > Report Settings > Evening Report, allowing them to select which information they want to see or turn off the feature entirely.

    Comparison with Previous Features

    It’s important to mention that this feature is more sophisticated compared to the older Daily Summary option, which is found on devices like the Venu 3 and vivoactive 5. Similar to the Evening Report, this notification is delivered a few hours before the user’s expected sleep time, showing how their activities and stress levels have influenced their Body Battery score.

    A recent article indicates that the Evening Report feature will also be made available for the Fenix 8 series, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8 smartwatches (currently starting at $1,299.99 on Amazon) in an upcoming software update.

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    Garmin Introduces Evening Report Feature for Select Smartwatches
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  • Garmin Forerunner 570 & 970 Now Available with HRM 600 Monitor

    Garmin Forerunner 570 & 970 Now Available with HRM 600 Monitor

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches, along with the HRM 600 heart rate monitor.
    2. The Forerunner 570 is priced at $549.99, making it the most affordable option among the new models.
    3. The Forerunner 970 is only available in a 47 mm size and costs $749.99, which is 50% more than the recently reduced Forerunner 965 priced at $499.99.
    4. The HRM 600 heart rate monitor is available for $169.99 but is not yet sold by third-party sellers like Amazon.
    5. Garmin offers the Forerunner 570 in 42 mm and 47 mm sizes with multiple finish options available.

    Garmin has recently begun offering the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 worldwide, having unveiled both models last week along with the HRM 600. Interestingly, the HRM 600 is also available starting today, but it’s not yet sold by third-party sellers like Amazon. For your information, the HRM 600 is priced at $169.99 for the XS-S and M-XL sizes; you can check out our launch article for more technical specifications.

    Pricing and Availability

    When it comes to Garmin’s new Forerunner smartwatches, the Forerunner 570 stands out as the most affordable option at $549.99. Presently, Garmin has various stocks of all 42 mm and 47 mm sizes, providing three different finishes for each. The full-color names for the Forerunner 570 include:

    – 42 mm
    – 47 mm

    Forerunner 970 Specifications

    On the other hand, the Forerunner 970 is only available in a 47 mm size, similar to the Forerunner 965. However, the Forerunner 970 costs a staggering 50% more than the 965, since Garmin has lowered the price of the Forerunner 965 to $499.99. For complete technical information, please refer to our Forerunner 970 launch article. Currently, the latest smartwatch from Garmin is priced at $749.99 and comes in the following finishes.

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