Tag: Garmin

  • Garmin Updates Older High-End Smartwatches for Better Connectivity

    Garmin Updates Older High-End Smartwatches for Better Connectivity

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released a beta update (Version 23.08) for Enduro 2, Epix 2, Fenix 7, Marq Gen 2, and Quatix 7 smartwatches.
    2. The update is being rolled out gradually over 24 to 48 hours and is available via over-the-air (OTA) installation.
    3. Participants in the Beta Program can manually check for the update through their smartwatch settings.
    4. The update improves sensor connectivity, allowing pairing of certain sensors via Advanced and Adaptive Network Technology (ANT) and Bluetooth Low Energy+ (BLE+).
    5. Connectivity issues with Kestrel environmental monitoring devices have been fixed, but ECG functionality remains disabled in this version.

    Garmin has started to release a fresh update for its Enduro 2, Epix 2, Fenix 7, Marq Gen 2, and Quatix 7 smartwatches, which are priced at $399.99 on Amazon. It’s important to mention that the Marq Aviator Gen 2 and Tactix 7 are not included in this beta rollout. The smartwatches listed above are now being updated to Beta Version 23.08, which is being sent out as an over-the-air (OTA) update.

    Update Rollout Timeline

    As usual, Garmin will be rolling out this new firmware gradually. Generally, the company takes around 24 to 48 hours to complete the rollout of a beta update. If you are a participant in the Beta Program but are outside the current rollout period, you can manually check for Beta Version 23.08. To do this, go to Menu, then System, then Software Update, and tap on ‘Check for Updates’ on your smartwatch.

    New Features and Connectivity Improvements

    In a recent forum post, Garmin has stated that the latest update enhances sensor connectivity by allowing users to pair certain unspecified sensors through Advanced and Adaptive Network Technology (ANT) and Bluetooth Low Energy+ (BLE+). Additionally, Beta Version 23.08 fixes connectivity problems with Kestrel environmental monitoring devices that were present in previous versions. It’s worth noting that ECG functionality is still disabled in this build. Garmin plans to roll out more beta updates before moving the v.23.xx builds to their stable software version.

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  • Garmin Releases GoPro Bug Fix in Smartwatch Beta Update

    Garmin Releases GoPro Bug Fix in Smartwatch Beta Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released a beta update version 10.21 for Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct E smartwatches.
    2. The update includes three new bug fixes, including one that prevents the AMOLED version from crashing when connecting to a GoPro device.
    3. Specific fixes for the Instinct 3 Solar and Instinct E include resolving missing options in the Garmin Connect Mobile app and preventing crashes when viewing glances.
    4. The beta update 10.21 is available to about 20% of users and is distributed via Bluetooth through Garmin Connect Mobile or Garmin Express.
    5. The timeline for a stable version of the 10.xx software for all Instinct 3 users is currently unknown.

    Garmin has launched an additional beta update for its Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct E smartwatches. This version 10.21 update comes just a week after the previous version 10.19, which aimed to address bugs related to heart rate (HR) zones and GameOn Broadcast settings.

    New Bug Fixes Introduced

    With the 10.21 beta, Garmin has rolled out three fresh bug fixes for the Instinct 3 and its related models. In the case of the AMOLED version, a bug that caused the watch to crash when connecting to a GoPro device has been fixed. It remains uncertain if this glitch also impacted users of other models such as the Fenix 8 and Forerunner 970, which can also use the GoPro Camera Control app for Garmin.

    Specific Fixes for Instinct 3 Solar and Instinct E

    Additionally, two bug fixes are specific to the Instinct 3 Solar and Instinct E smartwatches. The first one addresses a situation where users encountered missing options while attempting to edit different Activities and Apps in the Garmin Connect Mobile (GCM) app. The second fix ensures that the devices do not crash when users attempt to view glances.

    Update Availability Status

    According to a post in the Garmin forum, the beta version 10.21 update has been made available to around 20% of users. It is automatically distributed to eligible smartwatches via Bluetooth through GCM or via Garmin Express. It is still not known when a stable version of the 10.xx software will become available for all Instinct 3 smartwatch users .

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    Garmin Releases GoPro Bug Fix in Smartwatch Beta Update
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  • Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Introduces New Auto-Rest Feature

    Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Introduces New Auto-Rest Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. Beta version 12.59 introduces an automatic rest timer for the Strength activity, previously available only for pool swimming.
    2. The exact functionality of the new auto-rest feature for Strength training is currently unclear.
    3. The Tips app is added to assist users in understanding smartwatch features, along with an update for Tips videos software version 1.00.
    4. Previous beta version 12.50 included features like Evening Report, Calculator app, custom focus modes, and Rucking activity.
    5. Users can access the beta update by navigating to the software update section in settings, with no confirmed date for a stable release.

    Garmin has put out beta version 12.59 for the vivoactive 6 smartwatch. This update comes about a month after the previous one, beta version 12.50, which introduced the Evening Report feature and the Calculator app.

    New Features Introduced

    Beta version 12.59 includes an automatic rest timer specifically for the Strength activity. This feature was previously exclusive to pool swimming, where it would automatically create a rest period after detecting a pause for over 15 seconds. However, the exact workings of this auto-rest feature for Strength training remain unclear. Traditionally, after finishing a set, a rest timer would show up, counting down to the next set, allowing users to either wait for the timer to finish or manually start the next set. This strength feature is also newly available in a beta update for the Venu X1 smartwatch.

    Additional Updates

    The release notes highlight the inclusion of the Tips app, which is an interactive tool that helps users understand the features of their smartwatch. Along with this, there’s an update for the Tips videos software, version 1.00. The change log also references four other features that were included in the earlier beta version 12.50: Evening Report, the calculator app, custom focus modes, and the Rucking activity.

    To access this beta update, navigate to the Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates. It’s still unknown when a stable version of the 12.xx software will become available for all Garmin vivoactive 6 smartwatch users (currently priced at $299.99 on Amazon).

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    Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Introduces New Auto-Rest Feature

     

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Adds Two New Features in Latest Beta Update

    Garmin Smartwatch Adds Two New Features in Latest Beta Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released beta version 12.59 for the Venu X1 smartwatch, the second beta since its June 2025 launch.
    2. New features in beta 12.59 include an automatic rest timer for Strength activities and the Tips app for advice on watch features.
    3. The AutoShot detection function for Golf activities has been enhanced.
    4. A fix was made for the lock screen icon issue during Swim activity saving.
    5. Users can download the beta by navigating through the watch’s settings, with no confirmation on when a stable version will be available.

    Garmin has launched beta version 12.59 for the Venu X1 smartwatch. This marks the second beta update for the device since its initial release in June 2025. It comes after the previous beta version 12.50, which introduced the Evening Report feature, a weekly estimate for running tolerance, and daily workout suggestions for track running.

    New Features Included

    With beta version 12.59, two new features have been added to the Venu X1. The first feature is an automatic rest timer specifically for the Strength activity. The second is the Tips app, which is already present in models such as the Fenix 8 and Forerunner 970. This app provides interactive advice on how to utilize your watch’s features to their fullest.

    Improvements and Fixes

    In addition to these features, Garmin has enhanced the AutoShot detection function that is utilized during Golf activities. Furthermore, they fixed an issue where the lock screen icon wouldn’t show up when users attempted to save a Swim activity. There are also other minor bug fixes and enhancements mentioned, although the release notes do not provide specifics on these.

    You can download beta version 12.59 by navigating through the Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates. It’s still uncertain when a stable version of the 12.xx software will become available for all Garmin Venu X1 smartwatch users (currently priced at $799.99 on Amazon).

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    Garmin Smartwatch Adds Two New Features in Latest Beta Update

     

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  • Garmin Venu Smartwatches Update: New Bug Fixes Released

    Garmin Venu Smartwatches Update: New Bug Fixes Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released a new update, Beta 15.02, for Venu 3 and Venu 3S smartwatches in its Beta Program.
    2. The smartwatches are currently priced at $459.99 on Amazon.
    3. The stable software branch has been on Software Version 14.15 since mid-May.
    4. Beta 15.02 aims to fix two bugs: incorrect wheelchair push counts during swimming and the golf auto-shot feature.
    5. Users can check for the update manually through the Main menu, Settings, System, and Software Update.

    Garmin has rolled out a new update for its Venu 3 and Venu 3S smartwatches that are part of its Beta Program. Currently, these smartwatches are priced at $459.99 on Amazon. Just to recap, the company has been keeping its stable software branch on Software Version 14.15 since mid-May. In the meantime, it has focusing on v15.xx builds, which began over a month ago.

    New Build Released

    Now, the company has begun to distribute the third build in this cycle, labeled as Beta 15.02. Garmin suggests in a forum announcement that this update will automatically be pushed at some point. If it doesn’t show up, users can manually check for Beta 15.02 by going to ‘Check for Updates’ found in Main menu, then Settings, System, and finally Software Update.

    Update Details

    As per the company, Beta 15.02 is a rather small update meant to fix two existing bugs. First, the update aims to resolve a problem where wheelchair push counts might increase during swimming sessions. Secondly, the golf auto-shot feature should function correctly again once Beta 15.02 is installed. For more information, users can refer to Garmin’s forum post.

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  • Garmin Fenix 7 and 7 Pro Get Major Update with 12 New Features

    Garmin Fenix 7 and 7 Pro Get Major Update with 12 New Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has initiated beta development for high-end smartwatches, including Enduro 2, Epix 2, and Fenix 7.
    2. The new Beta Version 23.05 introduces 12 enhancements, with 9 of them being bug fixes.
    3. A notable fix addresses a crash issue on the Climb Pro data page.
    4. The Recent Stress Widget has been updated to match the design of the Fenix 8.
    5. A new tip for Pool Swim activity will appear during rest sets in the update.

    Garmin has begun another phase of beta development for its high-end smartwatches, including the Enduro 2, Epix 2, and Fenix 7, which currently sells for $519 on Amazon. It’s worth noting that more than a month has gone by since the last update for these devices. Previously, we mentioned that System Software 22.06 had a brief beta testing period, during which only two builds were made available to testers.

    New Beta Version Released

    Now, Garmin has advanced to the v23.xx builds, starting with Beta Version 23.05. In contrast to the 15 changes seen in the v22.xx testing phase, the new Beta Version 23.05 introduces 12 enhancements for the Enduro 2, Epix 2, Fenix 7, and other related smartwatches. Out of these, 9 are fixes for bugs, including a fix for a crash that could occur on the Climb Pro data page.

    Improvements in Features

    Additionally, Beta Version 23.05 updates Garmin’s Recent Stress Widget to align with the Fenix 8’s design, and it also introduces a line graph for the Breath Variation page. Furthermore, the first v23.xx update brings a new tip for Pool Swim activity that will be shown during a rest set. Below is the complete changelog between System Software 22.06 and Beta Version 23.05:

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  • Garmin Launches Stable Update to Fix Auto-Detect Feature

    Garmin Launches Stable Update to Fix Auto-Detect Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released system software version 6.18 for Approach S44 and S50 smartwatches.
    2. The update fixes a malfunctioning automatic shot detection feature reported by users.
    3. A bug causing incorrect PlaysLike distances was also resolved in this update.
    4. The update is available now for all users of the Garmin Approach S44 and S50.
    5. Smartwatches retail for $399.99 on Amazon, and updates can be installed via the Garmin Golf app or Garmin Express.

    Garmin has launched the system software version 6.18 for its Approach S44 and Approach S50 smartwatches. This new stable update comes just weeks after the last one, version 6.17, which addressed a potential crash issue and fixed a glitch with the hole scoring screen.

    Bug Fixes Included

    In addition, software version 6.18 introduces two important bug fixes for the Approach S44 and S50 models. The first fix addresses an issue where the automatic shot detection feature was malfunctioning. Many users reported this problem on the Garmin forum, and a company representative noted that it happened when the smartwatch was left on for extended periods.

    Improvements to PlaysLike Feature

    The second fix resolves a bug that caused PlaysLike distances to appear incorrectly. This feature, part of the Garmin Golf subscription, provides users with the distance to the green while considering factors like elevation, wind, and air density.

    The 6.18 system software update is available now for all users of the Garmin Approach S44 and S50 golf smartwatches, which currently retail for $399.99 on Amazon. To install the update, users need to access the Garmin Golf smartphone app or Garmin Express.

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    Garmin Launches Stable Update to Fix Auto-Detect Feature

     

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  • No New Garmin Forerunner Smartwatch After Misleading Announcement

    No New Garmin Forerunner Smartwatch After Misleading Announcement

    Key Takeaways

    1. Recent rumors about a new Garmin Forerunner smartwatch were false and stemmed from a promotional image on Weibo.
    2. The actual purpose of the post was to promote a sale on the Forerunner 265, reduced to CNY 1,999 ($279) in certain areas of China.
    3. The Forerunner 265 is currently available in other regions for $421.60, but better deals were available earlier this year.
    4. Garmin has already released two new running smartwatches in 2023: the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970.
    5. Consumers are hoping for a budget-friendly option, but there is uncertainty about the release of models like Forerunner 65 or Forerunner 170.

    Recent speculations about a new smartwatch from Garmin Forerunner have been found to be false. These rumors began circulating after the company posted a mysterious image on the Chinese social media platform Weibo, showing a blurred smartwatch. This led many people to think that a new running device was on the verge of being launched.

    Clarification on the Poster

    In reality, the post was meant to promote an upcoming sale. On July 22nd, in certain areas of China, the Forerunner 265 smartwatch was marked down to CNY 1,999 (around $279), which was mentioned in the promotional poster. This represents a discount of CNY 1,381 (about $192), or roughly 40%, from the original price of CNY 3,380 (approximately $472).

    Discounts in Other Regions

    In other regions, the Forerunner 265 in black and gray is currently available for $421.60, down from $449.99 on Amazon US. However, this isn’t the best deal since the price was lowered to $399.99 earlier in July and even $349.99 during May and early June 2025.

    New Releases and Future Expectations

    Garmin has already introduced two new running smartwatches this year: the Forerunner 570 and the Forerunner 970. Still, many consumers are looking forward to a more budget-friendly option. It remains uncertain if or when Garmin will launch a Forerunner 65 or Forerunner 170 smartwatch.

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    No New Garmin Forerunner Smartwatch After Misleading Announcement

     

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  • Garmin Updates Mid-Range Smartwatches Ahead of Major Rollout

    Garmin Updates Mid-Range Smartwatches Ahead of Major Rollout

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released multiple updates for its beta and stable software versions recently, focusing mainly on new premium models like the Fenix 8 and Tactix 8.
    2. Older models, including the Forerunner 165, 255, 955, and 965, have not received stable updates in over two months, indicating a low priority for these devices.
    3. A new Beta Version 24.10 has been made available for several models, including the Forerunner 165, 255, 265, 955, and 965.
    4. Users can manually download the Beta update by navigating through their smartwatch settings.
    5. The changelogs for the updated models include a bug fix to prevent potential crashes on the watch face.

    In the past few weeks, Garmin has rolled out a significant number of updates for both its beta and stable software versions. Typically, the company focuses on its newest premium models, specifically the Fenix 8 and Tactix 8, leaving other devices behind. The introduction of the Forerunner 570, Forerunner 970, and Venu X1 appears to have pushed older or mid-range smartwatches even lower on the priority list.

    Update Delays for Older Models

    For instance, the older Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965 (currently priced at $599 on Amazon) have not seen a new stable update in over two months, since Garmin released System Software 23.20. At the same time, these watches have been stuck on version 24.07 in Garmin’s Beta Program for nearly a month now.

    New Beta Version Release

    Nevertheless, Garmin has now advanced its Beta Program with the rollout of Beta Version 24.10. This update is available for the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965 starting today. Users can manually download the update by going to the Main menu, then Settings, followed by System, and finally Software Update on their Beta Program-registered smartwatch. After that, just hit ‘Check for Updates.’ As usual, the changelogs for these five smartwatches are quite similar, featuring a bug fix aimed at preventing potential crashes on the watch face. Additional details can be found on Garmin’s forum.

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  • Garmin Updates Flagship Smartwatches with Focus Mode Enhancements

    Garmin Updates Flagship Smartwatches with Focus Mode Enhancements

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has moved to Beta Version 17.18 after briefly switching to v15.xx builds.
    2. The Beta Version 17.18 includes six improvements, bringing the total changes since v15.33 to over 100.
    3. Five of the updates in 17.18 are bug fixes addressing various issues.
    4. One new feature added in this update is a theatre mode for custom focus mode functionality.
    5. The beta is available for Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 smartwatches as part of Garmin’s Beta Program.

    Garmin is moving forward with its new beta development phase after briefly switching to v15.xx builds last week. To give some background, the firm released Beta Version 15.33 but quickly moved that update to its stable software line, which included a fix for a certain problem that might happen when an Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, or Tactix 8 (currently $1,299.99 on Amazon) smartwatch was left on for several days.

    New Beta Release

    Soon after, Garmin provided v17.17 to its public beta testers, introducing 16 changes from the previous version. Now, the company has upgraded Beta Version 17.17 to Beta Version 17.18, which can be downloaded for Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, or Tactix 8 smartwatches that are a part of Garmin’s Beta Program.

    Improvements and Features

    As stated in the company’s forum post, Beta Version 17.18 includes six more improvements. Consequently, the development for v17.xx has now exceeded 100 changes since System Software 15.33. Among the enhancements in Beta Version 17.18, five are bug fixes, while one introduces a new feature. As the changelog below points out, Garmin has added a theatre mode to its custom focus mode functionality in this latest beta update. The bug fixes aim to resolve problems related to custom focus modes, sleep mode, activity history, and device resets. For more details, refer to the changelog below and Garmin’s forum post.

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    Garmin Updates Flagship Smartwatches with Focus Mode Enhancements

     

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