Key Takeaways
1. Garmin released beta version 13.18 for the Instinct 3, Instinct E, and Instinct Crossover smartwatches, featuring bug fixes and enhancements.
2. A stable system software update (version 12.26) was made available, adding support for the Xero C2 Chronograph smartwatch.
3. The Instinct Crossover smartwatch will receive a new watch face design in the beta update, but details and visuals are not provided.
4. The beta version 13.18 has been rolled out to about 50% of users, with no timeline for full rollout given.
5. Users of the Instinct Crossover will benefit from a bug fix addressing weight setting issues during Strength activities.
The Garmin Instinct 3, Instinct E, and Instinct Crossover smartwatches are currently being updated with new beta software. The most recent update in the testing phase, version 13.15, was released in mid-January 2026. On the same day, stable system software 12.26 was made available to all users, which introduced support for the new Xero C2 Chronograph, priced at $699.99 on Amazon.
New Beta Version Released
Garmin is now introducing beta version 13.18 to users of the Instinct 3 and similar smartwatches. There are reports of several bug fixes and small enhancements for everyone, although specific information has not been disclosed.
Update for Crossover Smartwatch
The Garmin Instinct Crossover smartwatch will also benefit from a fresh watch face design as part of the beta version 13.18 update. Sadly, the company hasn’t provided a name or details about this new watch face in the change log, nor have they shared any visuals to show what it looks like. Additionally, users of the Instinct Crossover will receive a bug fix aimed at correcting an issue that affected some when trying to set their weight during Strength activities.
Rollout Information
In a recent update on the Garmin Forum, the company mentioned that beta version 13.18 has been rolled out to approximately 50% of users with the Instinct 3, Instinct E, and Instinct Crossover smartwatches. However, they haven’t given specifics on when the over-the-air (OTA) rollout will be fully completed.
Source:
Link