Tag: Garmin

  • Garmin Launches Major Update for High-End Smartwatches

    Garmin Launches Major Update for High-End Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released a new update for its premium smartwatches, including Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8, currently available through its Beta Program.
    2. The latest update, Beta Version 20.10, focuses on fixing existing bugs from the previous Beta Version 20.07.
    3. Key bug fixes include correcting weather icons that were not displaying properly on MiP screens and addressing timer message glitches.
    4. The update also enhances the Navigation Preview Page by displaying the total distance left during a course activity.
    5. Beta Version 20.10 is likely one of several beta updates as Garmin continues the v20.xx development process.

    Garmin has rolled out a fresh update for several of its premium smartwatches following a wave of recent software launches. This latest update focuses on the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon), but it is still only available through its Beta Program for now.

    Update Background

    To give some background, Garmin kicked off its 20.xx development last week with the launch of Beta Version 20.07. While this initial beta introduced various new features, the next one prioritizes fixing existing bugs. Specifically, Beta Version 20.10 brings five major bug fixes, including a fix for weather icons that were not displaying correctly on smartwatches with MiP screens.

    Additional Fixes and Features

    In addition to the fixes mentioned, Beta Version 20.10 aims to correct other glitches, such as a message about the maximum active timer appearing when a timer starts. Furthermore, the latest update enhances the Navigation Preview Page, now showing the total distance left during a course activity. Keep in mind that Beta Version 20.10 is probably just the second of several beta updates before Garmin wraps up the v20.xx development process. Below is the complete changelog for the most recent beta update from Garmin:

    Conclusion

    Garmin’s commitment to improving its smartwatches is evident with these updates. Users can look forward to a smoother experience as the company continues to refine its software.

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  • Garmin Updates Older Mid-Range Smartwatches After Instinct Crossover

    Garmin Updates Older Mid-Range Smartwatches After Instinct Crossover

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released a new stable update (System Software 17.07) for the Instinct 2 series smartwatches.
    2. The previous update (System Software 17.06) included bug fixes for several models in the Instinct series.
    3. Garmin recently launched new models, including the Instinct Crossover AMOLED and Tactical Edition, priced at $749.99.
    4. Users can manually update their smartwatches if they haven’t received a notification for the latest software.
    5. System Software 17.07 primarily addresses DogTrack distance issues in Metric units, with potential fixes for the flashlight feature included.

    Garmin has rolled out a new stable update for its Instinct 2 series smartwatches. To give you some background, the company released System Software 17.05 over a month ago, which included a variety of bug fixes for the Instinct 2, Instinct 2X, and all models in the Instinct Crossover series. Coincidentally, Garmin also launched the Instinct Crossover AMOLED and the Instinct Crossover AMOLED Tactical Edition, which is currently priced at $749.99 on Amazon.

    New Developments

    In the midst of these product launches, Garmin released Beta Version 17.06 for the existing models. We discussed this update previously, as it addressed a problem where the strobe flashlight feature would stay on even after an activity was finished. Now, Garmin has shifted its focus for the Instinct 2 series to System Software 17.07, which the company states has been made available to roughly 20% of the smartwatches up to this point.

    Manual Update Process

    If you haven’t seen a notification for downloading System Software 17.06 on your smartwatch, you can manually initiate it. Just tap on the Main menu, go to Settings, then System, and select Software Update, followed by Check For Updates on your Instinct 2 or Instinct Crossover smartwatch. As noted in the accompanying forum, System Software 17.07 primarily addresses DogTrack distance problems when using Metric units. However, we suspect that the fix for the flashlight issue may also have been quietly included in Garmin’s latest update.

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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.

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  • Garmin Model Design Flaw: Customer Reports and Concerns

    Garmin Model Design Flaw: Customer Reports and Concerns

    Key Takeaways

    1. Design Flaw: Users report that the Vivosmart 5’s watch unit can fall out of the wristband due to a design issue.
    2. Wristband Quality: The wristband material wears down quickly, leading to a loose fit and potential loss of the watch unit.
    3. Customer Service Concerns: Users express dissatisfaction with Garmin’s customer service, citing limited solutions offered for the issue.
    4. Need for Transparency: There is a call for Garmin to be more open about product quality issues and provide better support to customers.
    5. Affordable Replacement Options: Replacement wristbands with improved durability are available at low cost, suggesting a potential solution for affected users.

    Garmin’s Vivosmart 5 has been on the market for a while and remains easy to find at many stores. Recently, a user on Reddit strongly recommended against buying the Vivosmart 5, noting what seems to be a significant design issue. The user highlighted a specific concern about the main watch unit’s housing within the wristband, leading to the watch unit potentially falling out completely. Moreover, they pointed out that this issue seems to affect many users, not just them. Additionally, the user expressed disappointment with Garmin’s customer service, mentioning that the only solution offered was a replacement watch for $129, rather than a refund or an alternative model.

    Issues with Wristband Quality

    In our opinion, Garmin does share some responsibility in this matter, though the reasons might not be clear at first. As described by the Reddit user, the watch unit itself is not flawed. The problem lies with the wristband material, which wears down rather quickly, causing the Vivosmart 5 to become loose. Garmin could have warned customers about this issue. While it’s unusual for such a problem to arise after nine months, replacement wristbands with an improved design and better durability are quite affordable, especially on platforms like Amazon. Given the design (the Vivosmart 5 looks like a small puck), the way the watch unit fits within the wristband makes it more susceptible to falling out, unlike traditional watches that use spring pins to secure the unit in place.

    Conclusion

    The discussion on Reddit raises important questions about product quality and customer support. It seems that while the Vivosmart 5 has a lot of potential, the materials used in the wristband might not meet user expectations. It would be beneficial for Garmin to address these concerns more openly and provide better solutions for their customers.

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  • Bold Color Limited Edition Garmin Smartwatches Now Available

    Bold Color Limited Edition Garmin Smartwatches Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched the Instinct 3 Supernova Collection, featuring four exclusive smartwatches inspired by outer space.
    2. The collection includes different models with varying sizes and color schemes, priced between $399.99 and $499.99.
    3. Key features include an integrated flashlight, smartphone alerts, multi-band GPS, health metrics monitoring, workout logging, and Garmin Pay.
    4. The Supernova Collection is a limited edition, with an unknown number of units produced.
    5. Available for purchase on Garmin’s online store and various retailers, including Amazon, in North America and Europe.

    Garmin has introduced the Instinct 3 Supernova Collection globally. This collection includes four exclusive smartwatches that showcase striking colors with blue highlights, drawing inspiration from outer space. They can be found in various countries, such as the US, the UK, and the Netherlands.

    Pricing and Models

    The Instinct 3 45 mm AMOLED watch comes in a fresh Black with Bolt Blue/Black Band color scheme, with a price tag of $449.99/£389.99/€449.99. The 50 mm AMOLED variant is available in Black with a Black/Bolt Blue Band, featuring a more subdued look, and costs $499.99/£429.99/€499.99. For those looking for a smaller option, the Instinct 3 45 mm Solar watch in Whitestone with a Whitestone/Bolt Blue Band is mainly white and retails for $399.99/£349.99/€399.99. Lastly, the larger Instinct 3 50 mm Solar Whitestone with a Black/Bolt Blue Band sports a white bezel alongside a predominantly black strap.

    Features and Availability

    These limited edition smartwatches share the same pricing as the regular Instinct 3 color options, and their features are reportedly the same, too. They come equipped with an integrated flashlight, smartphone alerts, and multi-band GPS. Users also have the ability to monitor various health metrics, log workouts, and utilize Garmin Pay for contactless payments.

    Garmin highlights that the Instinct 3 Supernova Collection will only be available for a limited duration, but the exact number of units produced remains unknown. Customers can buy these watches from the brand’s online store or at various retailers, including Amazon, in North America and Europe.

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    Bold Color Limited Edition Garmin Smartwatches Now Available

     

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Detects Early Pregnancy Using Heart Metrics

    Garmin Smartwatch Detects Early Pregnancy Using Heart Metrics

    Key Takeaways

    1. Users reported that Garmin smartwatches detected changes in heart rate and heart rate variability (HRV) before they confirmed their pregnancies.
    2. Several users shared experiences of their devices showing significant increases in resting heart rate and drops in HRV, prompting them to take pregnancy tests.
    3. Screenshots from the Garmin app displayed trends indicating higher heart rates, lower HRV, and reduced body battery levels during early pregnancy.
    4. Heart rate and HRV are linked to autonomic nervous system performance, which can be affected by hormonal changes during pregnancy.
    5. The information shared is anecdotal, and Garmin has not provided official comments regarding these observations.

    A Garmin smartwatch user on the company’s unofficial subreddit recently shared an experience where their device noticed signs of pregnancy before they themselves did. The Reddit user, u/kalechipsmoothie, observed changes in resting heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV), and body battery metrics days to weeks prior to taking positive pregnancy tests.

    Shared Experiences

    This user is not the only one; several others have also recounted similar stories. Other users noted their Garmin devices detected odd heart data ahead of pregnancy confirmation. One user reported a gradual rise in resting heart rate from a typical level of around 54 beats per minute (bpm) to 80 bpm, which prompted them to take a pregnancy test that confirmed their condition. Another user was excited about how the smartwatch identified drops in HRV, often linked to physical stress, thus warning them before they experienced any noticeable symptoms.

    Visual Evidence

    The original post featured a screenshot from the Garmin app displaying trends in heart rate, HRV status, and body battery levels over several weeks. These visuals indicated increasing heart rates, diminishing HRV scores categorized as “unbalanced” or “low,” and lowering body battery levels, suggesting heightened stress or reduced recovery during the early stages of pregnancy.

    Important Indicators

    Heart rate and HRV are commonly accepted markers of autonomic nervous system performance. The onset of pregnancy leads to hormonal shifts that influence cardiovascular behavior, such as elevated heart rates and modified HRV. The Garmin body battery metric aggregates HR, HRV, stress, and activity data to estimate energy levels; users have reported that these values notably decreased as their pregnancies advanced. Interestingly, Garmin Connect already has a feature that allows users to track symptoms and monitor baby growth.

    Nevertheless, it’s crucial to keep in mind that this information is solely anecdotal and comes from community feedback. Garmin has not released any official comments on this matter.

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Update Fixes Battery Drain Issue

    Garmin Smartwatch Update Fixes Battery Drain Issue

    Key Takeaways

    1. A beta update version 15.05 is being distributed for the Garmin vivoactive 6 smartwatch.
    2. The update allows users to view Morning and Evening Report summaries in the Notification Center.
    3. A new gesture control lets users dismiss notifications by covering the screen with their palm.
    4. The update addresses a battery issue that caused faster draining in certain situations.
    5. Availability of the beta update has not been officially confirmed by Garmin; users can check for updates in the settings menu.

    A new beta update, identified as version 15.05, seems to be making its way to the Garmin vivoactive 6 smartwatch. This comes after the release of the stable software version 12.74, which included a fix for a bug related to Wi-Fi downloads for users.

    User Reports Indicate Changes

    Several users on the Garmin forum have mentioned that beta version 15.05 is being distributed for the vivoactive 6. However, Garmin has not made an official statement about this update yet. One forum participant, who owns the smartwatch, claims that this new update includes three main changes. The first one lets users view their Morning Report or Evening Report summaries right from the Notification Center on the watch.

    Gesture Control Enhancements

    The second change introduces a new gesture control for the vivoactive 6. Users can now dismiss a smart notification simply by covering the screen with their palm. Lastly, this beta update is reported to fix a battery issue that was causing faster draining in certain situations.

    Update Availability and Instructions

    It’s still uncertain when Garmin will formally recognize the beta version 15.05 update for the vivoactive 6 smartwatch (curr. $299.99 at Amazon). Users can check for the update by navigating to Menu > Settings > System > Software Update. A similar beta update for the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches was released earlier in September 2025.

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  • Garmin’s New Sleep Feature Now Available for Select Users

    Garmin’s New Sleep Feature Now Available for Select Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched a new sleep feature called Health Status for its smartwatches, available alongside the Venu 4 priced at $549.99.
    2. The Health Status function focuses on five key metrics: heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), respiration, skin temperature, and Pulse Ox, with a summary of nightly sleep data.
    3. Users can receive notifications for ‘Outlier’ readings that may indicate issues like poor sleep quality or stress, with in-depth graphs available for tracking over time.
    4. The Health Status feature is being expanded to newer Garmin smartwatch models, including the Fenix 7, Forerunner 255, and Instinct 3.
    5. Future updates will allow the latest models, such as the Fenix 8, Forerunner 570, and Venu X1, to access Health Status directly on the watch.

    Garmin has recently announced the rollout of its new sleep feature called Health Status for some of its smartwatch users. This feature was revealed alongside the launch of the Venu 4, which is currently priced at $549.99 on Amazon, as well as the brand’s new Lifestyle Logging option. While it’s still in beta testing on the Garmin Connect mobile app, many users can access it through the web app.

    Health Metrics Overview

    The Health Status function focuses on five key metrics: heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), respiration, skin temperature, and Pulse Ox. Users will find a summary of the data gathered from their previous night’s sleep on this dashboard. Additionally, the typical range for each metric gives a clearer picture, but users should note that it may take 21 to 28 days of data to establish these ranges. During this period, the app will display the message “Calibration in progress.”

    Notification Features

    If any ‘Outlier’ readings are detected, users have the option to receive notifications, which could indicate potential issues like poor sleep quality, increased stress, or even illness. Furthermore, by clicking on each of the five sections in the Health Status feature, users can access more in-depth information, including graphs that track their data over the last week.

    Smartwatch Compatibility

    Garmin is expanding the Health Status feature to its newer smartwatch models, such as the Fenix 7, Forerunner 255, and Instinct 3 (refer to the list below). Additionally, users of the latest models, including Fenix 8, Forerunner 570, and Venu X1 (see the second list below), will also receive an on-watch version of Health Status. This is anticipated to be rolled out in future updates.

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    Garmin's New Sleep Feature Now Available for Select Users

     

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  • Garmin Updates Older Pro Smartwatches After Long Wait

    Garmin Updates Older Pro Smartwatches After Long Wait

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released a stable update (System Software 23.18) for the Fenix 7 series but not for Pro models.
    2. The Epix 2 Pro, Fenix 7 Pro, and Tactix 7 Pro are currently excluded from this update.
    3. These Pro models received a similar update through Garmin’s Beta Program.
    4. Users can manually install System Software 23.18 on Pro models by checking for updates in settings.
    5. The update is expected to bring various changes and enhancements to previous generation Pro smartwatches.

    Almost a week has gone by since Garmin launched a fresh stable update for the Fenix 7 series. Unlike earlier updates, this time Garmin chose not to release System Software 23.18 to all models at the same time. Instead, they decided to block the new update from being available for the Fenix 7 Pro, Tactix 7 Pro, or Epix 2 Pro (curr. $549 – refurbished on Amazon).

    Update Availability

    On the other hand, both smartwatches were able to get a similar update through Garmin’s Beta Program. It’s unclear why the company excluded the Epix 2 Pro, Fenix 7 Pro, and Tactix 7 Pro from the rollout of System Software 23.18. As of now, Garmin states that no Pro models can access System Software 23.18.

    Manual Installation Steps

    However, users have found a way to install System Software 23.18 on the Pro versions regardless. It seems that owners of the Epix 2 Pro, Fenix 7 Pro, and Tactix 7 Pro just need to manually check for the update. They can do this by going to Settings, then System, followed by Software Update, and finally tapping ‘Check for Updates’. For those interested, the update is supposed to introduce various changes and enhancements to Garmin’s previous generation Pro smartwatches.

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  • Garmin Launches New Health Tracking Feature for All Users

    Garmin Launches New Health Tracking Feature for All Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin introduced the Lifestyle Logging feature alongside the upcoming Venu 4 smartwatch, available to all Garmin Connect app users.
    2. The feature helps users monitor health and wellness by tracking various habits, such as journaling, sauna use, and dietary choices.
    3. Users can log daily activities, including alcohol consumption, meal types, and workouts, with reminders for consistency.
    4. Lifestyle Logging combines user data with information from connected devices to analyze health trends over different time periods.
    5. To start using the feature, download the latest version of the Garmin Connect app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

    Garmin has introduced an exciting new feature called Lifestyle Logging. This was revealed together with the upcoming Venu 4 smartwatch, which is expected to hit the market in September 2025. Interestingly, the new tool seems to be available to all users of the Garmin Connect mobile app.

    Track Your Health

    The Lifestyle Logging feature is meant to assist you in monitoring your health and wellness. You have the option to choose from numerous habits, including journaling and using a sauna, along with other aspects like allergy symptoms and breastfeeding, to record. Garmin suggests starting with just a few habits. Each day, you can log these activities, including whether you drank alcohol, ate healthy or heavier meals, and if you worked out. Additionally, you can track personalized behaviors and receive reminders to help you log your activities.

    Analyze Your Data

    Garmin takes the data you provide and merges it with health information gathered from your connected device, such as sleep score and resting heart rate. With Lifestyle Logging, you can observe how your habits and other elements impact your overall health. You can analyze trends over different periods, with reports available for one day, seven days, four weeks, and twelve weeks.

    Get Started Today

    To begin utilizing the Garmin Lifestyle Logging feature, simply download the most recent version of the Garmin Connect app from either the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.

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