Tag: Garmin

  • Garmin Launches Major Update for High-End Smartwatches

    Garmin Launches Major Update for High-End Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released its first update for the Fenix 8 series and similar models, known as Beta Version 20.13.
    2. The update includes over 50 modifications for Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Tactix 8 smartwatches, improving user experience.
    3. About 20% of Beta Program participants can access the update, with more users expected to receive it soon.
    4. Fenix 8 Pro models are currently not eligible for Beta Version 20.13.
    5. The update includes eight bug fixes, including a fix for crashes related to Active Focus Mode display settings.

    Garmin has rolled out its first update for the Fenix 8 series and similar models, following the addition of the Fenix 8 Pro to its Beta Program just last week. To summarize, the company has been testing version 20.xx builds in its Beta Program for nearly a month. During this period, it has implemented more than 50 modifications for users of Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Tactix 8 smartwatches, as well as for those with the standard Fenix 8 (currently priced at $1,099.99 on Amazon).

    New Beta Update Available

    Now, Garmin has advanced to Beta Version 20.13, which can be downloaded as an over-the-air (OTA) update for participants in the Beta Program who own the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, or Tactix 8 watches. As of now, Garmin says that this update has been offered to about 20% of enrolled users, though this number is expected to grow in the coming days. Alternatively, users can manually check for Beta Version 20.13 by navigating to Settings, System, Software Update, and then selecting ‘Check for Updates’.

    Important Access Information

    It’s important to highlight that Fenix 8 Pro models are not allowed to access Beta Version 20.13. This might change before Garmin releases another beta update, however. In any case, Beta Version 20.13 includes eight fixes for bugs, one of which addresses an issue that caused crashes when modifying settings for Active Focus Mode display. The complete changelog for Beta Version 20.13 is as follows, which brings the total development for version 20.xx to over 60 updates by our estimation:

     

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Receives Second Beta Update

    Garmin Smartwatch Receives Second Beta Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released beta version 15.10 for the Venu 4 smartwatch, following the initial beta version 15.08.
    2. The change log for beta version 15.10 is the same as version 15.08, with no confirmed additional bug fixes at this time.
    3. Key features from beta version 15.08 include the ability to power off the smartwatch without a passcode and reduced sound for starting voice notes.
    4. The previous update also fixed issues with silent speakers, device reboots during calls, and notification count errors.
    5. To install the update, users should go to Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates.

    Garmin is launching a new beta update for the Venu 4 smartwatch. This marks the second beta release for this device, which debuted in September 2025. The initial update, beta version 15.08, was made available in early October 2025.

    Latest Beta Version Released

    A Garmin representative shared in a recent forum post that beta version 15.10 is now accessible for Venu 4 smartwatch users (current price: $559.99 on Amazon). Interestingly, the change log linked to this announcement is the same as that for the previous beta release, version 15.08. As of now, it’s uncertain if there are any additional bug fixes in this latest version that haven’t been mentioned.

    Features from Previous Update

    To recap the features introduced with beta version 15.08, users of the Garmin Venu 4 can now power off the smartwatch without needing to input the device passcode. Also, the sound that plays when starting a voice note has been reduced. Various bug fixes have also been included, addressing issues such as a silent speaker or the device rebooting during phone calls. Garmin has also resolved problems related to the notification count displayed on the watch, the timing in the Evening Report, and crashes triggered by receiving multiple smart notifications. The full change log is provided below.

    How to Install the Update

    If you belong to the Garmin Venu 4 Beta Program and want to download the version 15.10 update, navigate to Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates.

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    Garmin Smartwatch Receives Second Beta Update

     

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  • Garmin Resolves Passcode Issue in Latest Smartwatch Update

    Garmin Resolves Passcode Issue in Latest Smartwatch Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released a beta update (version 5.06) for the Lily 2 Active smartwatch.
    2. The update includes bug fixes for the passcode feature and strength activity metrics.
    3. Calendar-related issues have been addressed, though no specific details were provided.
    4. The update corrects the ANATEL e-label for telecommunications devices in Brazil.
    5. Users can download the update via Garmin Express or the Garmin Connect Mobile app.

    Garmin has rolled out a new beta update for the Lily 2 Active smartwatch. The software version 5.06 comes a few months after the previous 5.05 update, which addressed problems related to step tracking, stress notifications, and weather information displayed on the watch.

    Software Improvements

    The Lily 2 Active software version 5.06 introduces various bug fixes to the smartwatch, which was launched in 2024. This stable update resolves an issue associated with the device’s passcode feature. In certain situations, users were unable to reset the device after entering the wrong password too many times. Additionally, a problem concerning the strength activity, where the status and metrics weren’t converted properly, has been fixed. Garmin has also worked on several calendar-related issues with the watch, although no further specifics were given.

    Important Notes

    The last point in the software version 5.06 change log mentions that Garmin has corrected the ANATEL e-label, a certification required for telecommunications devices sold in Brazil. In a recent update on the Garmin forum, a company representative confirmed that this update is now accessible to all users of the Lily 2 Active smartwatch (currently priced at $299.99 on Amazon). Users can download and install the update through Garmin Express or the Garmin Connect Mobile app.

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    Garmin Resolves Passcode Issue in Latest Smartwatch Update

     

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  • Garmin Fenix 8 Pro Beta Program: Early Access to Features and Updates

    Garmin Fenix 8 Pro Beta Program: Early Access to Features and Updates

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin continually improves its smartwatches by fixing bugs and adding new features to older models.
    2. Users can join a beta program to receive software updates directly on their watches without needing a computer.
    3. Beta software for Garmin smartwatches, like the Fenix 6 Pro, is generally stable despite potential bugs.
    4. The Fenix 8 Pro has certain features disabled in the beta program for safety and certification reasons.
    5. Future updates for the Fenix 8 Pro will likely align with updates for the standard Fenix 8 model.

    Garmin has been improving its smartwatches for a long time after they first come out. Besides fixing bugs, the company adds new features to older models that have been around for a while, including those features seen in the newest watches. This is possible because many Garmin smartwatches share similar hardware and software.

    Beta Program Access

    For those who own a Garmin smartwatch, there’s a chance to join a beta program. Users no longer have to manually install beta software updates using a computer or laptop. Instead, those who sign up for the beta program can conveniently use the OTA update feature right on their watch. Of course, beta versions might still have some bugs and can create other problems, but from what we’ve seen with the Fenix 6 Pro, Garmin’s beta software is usually quite stable.

    Limitations on Fenix 8 Pro

    Another restriction affects the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro (starting at $1,199 on Amazon), which has recently entered the beta program, allowing users to test out the newest smartwatch firmware. However, Garmin still turns off certain features for safety or certification purposes. For example, users of the Fenix 8 Pro who update to the latest beta version will lose access to the ECG or diving functions. Regardless, updates for the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro will likely be released at the same time as those for the standard Garmin Fenix 8 in the future.

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  • Garmin Launches Stable Update for Advanced Model Systems

    Garmin Launches Stable Update for Advanced Model Systems

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Garmin Fenix 8 Pro is receiving a new software update, version 18.81, which is a stable release for all users.
    2. This update focuses on fixing bugs rather than adding new features.
    3. Key fixes include resolving an error message after navigation, correcting authentication code calculations, and improving interface stability when marking reference points.
    4. The update will be rolled out gradually, so not all users will receive it at the same time.
    5. Version 18.81 follows the previous update (version 18.68), which also concentrated on bug fixes without introducing new features.

    The Garmin Fenix 8 Pro is receiving a new software update. Version 18.81 is a stable release, which means it will be made available to all users and not just those in the beta testing program. As is common, this update will be rolled out gradually, so it might not be accessible to everyone right away. The focus of this update is solely on fixing bugs rather than introducing any new features. This isn’t unexpected, as Garmin usually launches new smartwatches (like the relatively new Fenix 8 Pro) with fresh features, which later find their way onto older models through software updates.

    Changelog Details

    The changelog for this software update, version 18.81, lists only three fixes. First, a bug that caused an error message to pop up after exiting a navigation option has been resolved. Second, an issue that could lead to the wrong calculation of an authentication code should no longer happen. Finally, the interface is now expected to work smoothly without freezing when marking a nearby point as a reference point.

    Previous Updates

    The rollout of version 18.81 follows closely on the heels of the previous update, version 18.68, which took place just a week earlier. That update also focused mainly on bug fixes, including some related to Messenger, and aimed to enhance the automatic brightness feature. Like the current update, it did not bring any new features to the table.

    Garmin

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  • Garmin Komoot Update 2025: Improved Navigation & Route Transfer

    Garmin Komoot Update 2025: Improved Navigation & Route Transfer

    Key Takeaways

    1. Komoot enhances features for Garmin devices, improving compatibility for outdoor enthusiasts since 2017.
    2. Users can share routes designed by others easily with Garmin devices through Live Sync.
    3. The updated features provide detailed insights like elevation profiles and surface types for better navigation.
    4. Routes can be adjusted on-the-fly without interrupting activities, simplifying the analysis of rides or hikes.
    5. Komoot is not entirely free; access to some features requires purchasing map packages.

    People who enjoy outdoor activities and often go hiking may know about both Garmin and Komoot. Komoot is compatible with Garmin smartwatches, and the company has recently announced a major enhancement of its features for Garmin devices. Garmin and Komoot have been working together since 2017. However, there is an important limitation to note; Komoot is not completely free or ad-supported, meaning that the features available to users who haven’t bought map packages may be restricted.

    Improved Compatibility for Cyclists

    Moving on, a blog entry from Komoot states that support for bike computers is set to see significant upgrades. In particular, routes designed mainly by other users can now be easily shared with a compatible Garmin device through Live Sync. This allows users to begin navigation in just seconds without needing a lengthy syncing process. Users should find the detailed insights from these Komoot routes, like elevation profiles and surface types, very beneficial.

    Easy Route Adjustments

    Routes can be modified quite simply without interrupting ongoing activities, which will make it easier to analyze individual rides or hikes without having them split into several recordings. In images shared by Komoot, compatibility with bike computers such as the Garmin Edge 540 (starting at $349 on Amazon) is highlighted.

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  • Garmin Smartwatches: Major Changes Ahead with Google Maps Replacement

    Garmin Smartwatches: Major Changes Ahead with Google Maps Replacement

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin offers a wide range of smartwatches at different price points with varied navigation features.
    2. Users can view completed activities on maps via Garmin Connect and its smartphone app, even if the smartwatch lacks this feature.
    3. Garmin may be changing its mapping source from Google Maps to Mapbox for its smartwatches.
    4. Mapbox uses data from OpenStreetMap and is well-regarded in the tech community.
    5. The transition to Mapbox could impact cost and user experience, though the reasons for the change remain unclear.

    Garmin has a broad selection of smartwatches that come at various price levels. These devices also vary in their navigation functions. Depending on which model you choose, you might be able to use maps and navigation features without needing a connected smartphone or an active internet connection.

    Viewing Activities on Maps

    Not every smartwatch has this feature, but even those that don’t allow users to see their completed activities on a map through Garmin Connect and its companion smartphone app. This can help users get a better understanding of their route or discover landmarks they passed along the way.

    Possible Changes to Maps

    According to Garmin Rumors, there may be some changes to the maps used on Garmin smartwatches. We couldn’t verify this information right away when checking previously recorded activities. To be more specific, it seems that Garmin might be switching from Google Maps to Mapbox as the underlying source for its activity maps.

    The change may not be obvious at first glance, but it’s important to note that Mapbox utilizes data from OpenStreetMap. Mapbox is already recognized in the tech community and is employed by various apps and developers. It’s still uncertain whether this move to Mapbox is solely for technical purposes or if Garmin is hoping to cut costs. While Google Maps is free for average users, companies that provide services based on Google Maps incur charges, much like they would with Mapbox.

    Conclusion

    In summary, Garmin’s strategy regarding maps could have significant implications for users. As the company navigates these adjustments, it will be interesting to see how this impacts the overall experience for smartwatch users.

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  • Garmin Fenix 8 Models Receive Important Software Update

    Garmin Fenix 8 Models Receive Important Software Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is rolling out software version 20.12 for several smartwatches, including the Fenix 8 series, currently in beta phase.
    2. Users must request the beta update through the OTA function on their watch, with some features like diving functions and ECG turned off.
    3. The update fixes a bug related to the ECG feature, improving Bluetooth headphone connectivity during usage.
    4. New features include support for inline skating and the ability for users to set personal activity goals.
    5. Navigation improvements include fixes for the Outdoor Maps Plus feature and accurate rep counting for specific workout types.

    Garmin is rolling out a new software version for several of its smartwatches, including the Fenix 8 series, which features the Fenix 8 AMOLED, Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Quatix 8. The software version 20.12 is still in the beta phase, meaning it is only available to those who are part of the beta program. Interested users need to explicitly request the update through the OTA function on their watch. Since this is a beta release, diving functions are turned off, and users can’t perform electrocardiograms.

    Update Fixes

    Despite being in beta, this update aims to resolve a bug related to the ECG feature; Bluetooth headphones are now less likely to lose connection while conducting an electrocardiogram. The brief changelog also mentions improvements for user-defined workouts. Inline skating has been added as a supported activity, and users can now set their own personal activity goals.

    Navigation Improvements

    The remaining updates focus on bug fixes, particularly concerning navigation. For instance, a bug affecting the paid Outdoor Maps Plus feature has been resolved. Additionally, a specific workout type that previously caused incorrect rep counts has been fixed. This automatic counting is especially important for strength trainers. Tactix smartwatch users will also enjoy a properly functioning link to the weather radar.

    Garmin’s commitment to enhancing user experience is evident, even in this beta phase of their software update.

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  • Garmin Releases Stable Update for Latest High-End Smartwatch

    Garmin Releases Stable Update for Latest High-End Smartwatch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released a new stable update for the Fenix 8 Pro, moving from System Software 18.41 to 18.68.
    2. The update addresses bugs and enhances features like the microLED display and LTE capabilities.
    3. The Fenix 8 Pro is not part of Garmin’s Beta Program, unlike the newer Venu 4.
    4. System Software 18.68 includes five bug fixes and three enhancements, focusing on improving LTE functionality.
    5. Notable fixes include resolving issues with Auto LTE mode and Livetrack over LTE during activities.

    Garmin has rolled out a new stable update for the Fenix 8 Pro, marking the third update since its debut at the beginning of September. The smartwatch has transitioned from System Software 18.41 to System Software 18.51 last month, mainly addressing bugs and making enhancements related to new features like Garmin’s microLED display and LTE capabilities.

    Major Update Released

    The company has now upgraded its premium smartwatch to System Software 18.68, bypassing all the intermediate versions. Interestingly, the Fenix 8 Pro has not yet been included in Garmin’s Beta Program (currently priced at $1,199.99 on Amazon). In contrast, the newer Venu 4 has just received its initial beta update.

    Improvements and Fixes

    As per a post on a forum, System Software 18.68 includes five bug fixes along with three distinct enhancements. Similar to previous versions, many modifications in System Software 18.68 are aimed at improving LTE functionality. For example, Garmin reports that it has fixed a problem where the Auto LTE mode would turn off right after an activity ended. Additionally, System Software 18.68 is expected to correct an issue that caused Livetrack over LTE to stop functioning unexpectedly during an activity. The complete changelog for System Software 18.68 is listed below:

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  • Garmin’s Major Update Fixes Smartwatch Crashes for Mid-Range Models

    Garmin’s Major Update Fixes Smartwatch Crashes for Mid-Range Models

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched a beta program for the Venu 4 with Software Version 15.08, following stable updates marked by 14.xx builds.
    2. Users can join the beta program by accessing the software update option in the smartwatch settings.
    3. The beta version disables the ECG feature, which will be reactivated in future stable updates.
    4. Garmin is addressing bugs, including system crashes caused by multiple smart notifications.
    5. The Venu 4 can now be powered down without entering a passcode after updating to Beta 15.08.

    Garmin has begun testing the first significant software update for the Venu 4. Launched less than a month ago (currently priced at $549 on Amazon), the Venu 4 has only experienced stable updates so far, marked by v14.xx build numbers. Recently, Garmin upgraded its latest mid-range smartwatches to Software Version 14.12, which included fixes for bugs found in Software Version 14.10.

    New Beta Program

    Now, Garmin has initiated the Venu 4 Beta Program featuring Beta 15.08. As stated in a post on the company’s forum, users need to install the first beta build of the Venu 4 by going through the Main menu, then Settings, followed by System, and finally selecting Software update on a smartwatch enrolled in the Beta Program, before clicking ‘Check for Updates’. It’s important to note that this beta version disables the ECG feature.

    Future Updates

    Like its other smartwatches, Garmin will reactivate the ECG feature when it is ready to move the v15.xx development to its stable software branch. Unfortunately, the company has not provided a timeline for when that might happen. In the meantime, Garmin is working to fix additional bugs, including one that leads to system crashes when multiple smart notifications are received at the same time. Furthermore, after updating to Beta 15.08, the Venu 4 can be powered down without needing to enter a passcode. The complete changelog for Beta 15.08 from Software Version 14.12 is as follows:

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