Tag: Garmin

  • New Garmin Fenix 8 Spin-Off Smartwatch Leaks Online

    New Garmin Fenix 8 Spin-Off Smartwatch Leaks Online

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin launched the Instinct E and Instinct 3 at the start of 2025, followed by the Approach S44 and S50.
    2. Upcoming releases include the Forerunner 970 and LTE versions of the Fenix E and Fenix 8, along with other premium smartwatches.
    3. Garmin is developing the D2 Mach 2, likely based on the Fenix 8, with a focus on aviation features.
    4. Expected enhancements for the D2 Mach 2 include an AMOLED display, Elevate Gen 5 heart rate sensor, and voice assistant support.
    5. The D2 Mach 2’s release date is uncertain, but its mention in support documents suggests an official launch may be imminent.

    It looks like Garmin is gearing up for a busy latter part of the year. To summarize, the company started 2025 with the global launch of the Instinct E and Instinct 3 (currently $449.99 on Amazon). Just a few weeks later, they released the Approach S44 and Approach S50, and then shifted focus to the Instinct 3 Tactical Edition, Tactix 8, and Vivoactive 6 this season.

    New Releases on the Horizon

    Recently, there have been hints that Garmin is not only getting ready to unveil the Forerunner 970 but also LTE versions of the Fenix E, Fenix 8, along with other premium smartwatches. In addition, it seems Garmin is working on a new version of the D2 Mach 1.

    D2 Mach 2 Development

    Particularly, Garmin has begun to include mentions of the D2 Mach 2 in relation to its Grade Adjusted Pace (GAP) software. So far, there’s not much information on how the D2 Mach 2 will differ from the current Mach 1 models. However, the5krunner suggests that Garmin is likely to use the Fenix 8 as a base for the D2 Mach 2, emphasizing its aviation features.

    Expected Features and Release Timeline

    The upcoming D2 is expected to come with enhancements like an AMOLED display, Elevate Gen 5 heart rate sensor, and support for a voice assistant through its microphone and speaker setup. Unfortunately, it’s still unclear when Garmin plans to launch the D2 Mach 2. The fact that it has appeared in Garmin’s support documents suggests an official release might happen soon, though.

    Garmin via the5krunner & Garmin Rumors.

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    New Garmin Fenix 8 Spin-Off Smartwatch Leaks Online
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  • Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Adds New Watch Faces

    Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Adds New Watch Faces

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released beta version 5.01 for the Lily 2 Active smartwatch, marking the third beta update since its launch in October 2024.
    2. The update includes two new watch faces and improved weather forecast display, showing partial data instead of “waiting for data.”
    3. Users can now find their device’s serial number on the About page, along with an update related to Bluetooth.
    4. No new bugs have been reported with beta version 5.01, and it is available to all Garmin Lily 2 Active smartwatch users in the testing program.
    5. Users can enroll in the Garmin Beta Program through their Garmin Connect account to access the latest updates.

    Garmin has begun to distribute beta version 5.01 for the Lily 2 Active smartwatch. This marks the third beta update for this device, which was introduced in October 2024. Previous updates have fixed multiple bugs and added a feature that allows the watch to automatically pause.

    New Features and Adjustments

    The latest beta update introduces two fresh watch faces for users of the Garmin Lily 2 smartwatch. Additionally, there’s been a change to how weather forecasts are displayed; they will now show partial data instead of just saying “waiting for data” when some information is missing. Your device’s serial number can now be found on the About page, and there’s also an update related to Bluetooth. Furthermore, enhancements have been made for the Sensor Hub (34.10) and Text Translations (5.01).

    User Experience

    As of now, no new bugs have been reported by users for the beta version 5.01. The firmware is accessible to all users of the Garmin Lily 2 Active smartwatch (currently priced at $249.99 on Amazon) who are part of the testing program. It will be automatically sent to users through Garmin Connect Mobile. If you’re interested, you can sign up for the Garmin Beta Program via your Garmin Connect account. For additional details, take a look at the Garmin support pages.

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    Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Adds New Watch Faces

     

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  • Garmin Updates Forerunner Smartwatches Ahead of Forerunner 970 Launch

    Garmin Updates Forerunner Smartwatches Ahead of Forerunner 970 Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is set to release new Forerunner smartwatches, likely the Forerunner 970 and 975, along with a budget model, the Forerunner 270.
    2. The exact release date for the new Forerunner models is currently unknown.
    3. Garmin is actively testing software updates for existing watches through its Beta Program, with v23.xx testing initiated in March.
    4. The latest beta update, v23.18, includes five bug fixes for multiple Forerunner models and has been released to 50% of compatible devices.
    5. Specific bug fixes in the beta update apply to the Forerunner 165, 255, 955, and 965 models.

    Garmin is likely to release new Forerunner smartwatches this season, acting as successors to the Forerunner 265 and Forerunner 965 (currently priced at $499.99 on Amazon). Current indications point towards the Forerunner 970 being launched before the Forerunner 975, and there may also be an economical Forerunner 270 introduced alongside them. Although the exact release date for these new models remains uncertain, Garmin is actively working on software upgrades for their current watches through its Beta Program.

    Software Testing Updates

    To summarize, the company initiated v23.xx testing at the end of March, following the rollout of Stable Version 22.22 in February. Sadly, Garmin hasn’t hinted at when a new stable update might come out. Instead, it has replaced Beta Version 23.15 with v23.18, claiming that this new version has been distributed to 50% of compatible smartwatches in most situations.

    Bug Fixes and Changes

    From what we understand, Garmin’s newest beta update introduces five main bug fixes for the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965. Additionally, the changelogs for Beta Version 23.18 include specific bug fixes for the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965. The complete list of changes between Beta Versions 23.15 and 23.18 is outlined as follows:

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  • Garmin Confirms New Features Will Be Behind Paywall

    Garmin Confirms New Features Will Be Behind Paywall

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin launched the Connect+ subscription service at $6.99/month or $69.99/year, while maintaining free access to current features in Garmin Connect.
    2. Connect+ offers tailored insights powered by AI, improved live tracking, and unique achievement badges.
    3. The service is seen as a key part of Garmin’s long-term fitness strategy, according to CEO Cliff Pemble.
    4. Future features may be exclusive to Connect+ subscribers, with positive feedback from early users noted.
    5. Upcoming updates are expected with the launch of the Forerunner 970, which will replace the Forerunner 965.

    Garmin introduced its Connect+ subscription service at the end of March, sparking some debate among users. The service is priced at $6.99 per month or $69.99 per year. Garmin has tried to calm concerns by stating that all current features and data within Garmin Connect will still be accessible for free.

    Connect+ Developments

    Recently, Garmin has provided more information about the future of Connect+ and how it plans to enhance the service. During the Q1 2025 earnings call, Garmin’s President and CEO, Cliff Pemble, shared some insights. He mentioned that Garmin Connect+ is a premium plan that offers tailored insights using artificial intelligence, improved live tracking, and unique achievement badges.

    Enhanced Health and Fitness Insights

    Connect+ aims to boost users’ understanding of their health and fitness through personalized Active Intelligence insights powered by AI. As noted by the5krunner and other observers, Pemble went into more detail, though these specific remarks are not included in Garmin’s earnings call PDF. Instead, they can be found in the linked video starting from 11:23.

    According to Pemble, Connect+ is a “long-term thing for us [Garmin]” and a “very important part” of their fitness strategy moving forward. He also suggested that upcoming features may be restricted to Connect+ subscribers, mentioning positive feedback from early users. While he did not specify what these paywalled features would be, he indicated they would relate to the company’s premium offerings. The first signs of these updates are likely to come with the launch of the Forerunner 970, expected to replace the Forerunner 965 later this season, which is currently priced at $499.99 on Amazon.

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  • Garmin Resolves GPS Problem in New Smartwatch Beta Update

    Garmin Resolves GPS Problem in New Smartwatch Beta Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin beta version 21.15 is now available for Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, Epix 2, Epix 2 Pro, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and MARQ Gen 2 smartwatches.
    2. The update includes bug fixes for GPS connection issues and potential crashes when adjusting golf pin positions.
    3. There is an enhancement to the club sensor menu for golfing users.
    4. A new bug was reported by a user related to the Hunt Activity after the update on the Fenix 7X Solar Sapphire.
    5. Users can update manually by navigating to Menu > System > Software Update > Check for updates.

    The latest update, Garmin beta version 21.15, is now available. This new version is being released to users of the Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, Epix 2, Epix 2 Pro, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and MARQ Gen 2 smartwatches. It follows a series of updates that previously addressed issues related to running dynamics and body battery glance history.

    Bug Fixes Introduced

    With beta version 21.15, two additional bug fixes have been added for the Fenix 7 and similar smartwatches. The first fix resolves an issue where the GPS connection would fail to work properly when users resumed their activities. The second fix aims to prevent a potential crash that could happen when the golf pin position is adjusted. Additionally, for those who enjoy golfing, there’s an enhancement to the club sensor menu which is reported to be better.

    User Reports and Issues

    Despite the improvements, one user on the Garmin forum mentioned a new bug that has emerged on their Fenix 7X Solar Sapphire smartwatch (currently priced at $619.99 on Amazon). They noted that after upgrading to beta version 21.15, an unexpected update appeared related to the Hunt Activity when the Outdoor Map+ QR Code was displayed.

    How to Update Manually

    The beta version 21.15 update for the Fenix 7 and similar devices should already be available to all users via over-the-air (OTA) updates. If you wish to manually check for this update, navigate through Menu > System > Software Update > Check for updates.

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    Garmin Resolves GPS Problem in New Smartwatch Beta Update

     

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  • Garmin Beta Update Adds Voice Command to Fenix 8 and Tactix 8

    Garmin Beta Update Adds Voice Command to Fenix 8 and Tactix 8

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released a new beta update for Fenix 8 and Tactix 8 smartwatches to enhance features and fix bugs.
    2. The update improves the Voice Command tool, allowing users to issue various commands directly from their watches.
    3. Voice Command Files v1.12 includes support for multiple languages, though specific benefits for users are unclear.
    4. Some users have reported a decrease in body battery levels after installing the recent beta updates, with no response from Garmin yet.
    5. Fenix 8 users can access the Voice Command Files v1.12 and join the Garmin Beta Program via Garmin Connect.

    Garmin has rolled out a fresh beta update for the Fenix 8 AMOLED, Fenix 8 Solar, Tactix 8 AMOLED, and Tactix 8 Solar smartwatches. This update comes shortly after the release of beta version 15.26 in late April 2025, which introduced support for Voice Commands for Applied Ballistics and Flying Apps specifically for the Tactix models, in addition to some bug fixes.

    Improvement to Voice Command Tool

    The new beta update offers users the chance to try out enhancements to the Voice Command feature. With the built-in speaker and microphone, Fenix 8 and Tactix 8 users can utilize the voice assistant directly on their smartwatches. It can handle various commands like “find my phone,” “turn on airplane mode,” and “increase brightness.”

    Language Support and User Concerns

    The Voice Command Files v1.12 release includes 17 files that are designed to support multiple languages. Nevertheless, Garmin hasn’t clarified how this update will specifically benefit users. It’s important to note that some users have reported a surprising drop in their body battery levels after installing either beta version 15.26 or Voice Command Files v1.12. As of now, Garmin has not addressed these concerns or provided any solutions.

    Voice Command Files v1.12 is now accessible for all Fenix 8 users (47mm AMOLED currently priced at $984.95 on Amazon) and related smartwatches. If you’re interested in becoming part of the Garmin Beta Program, you can register through Garmin Connect; additional information regarding the testing program can be found on the company’s support website.

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  • Garmin Updates Flagship Smartwatches Ahead of Major Release

    Garmin Updates Flagship Smartwatches Ahead of Major Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is gradually improving the v15.xx software for the Fenix 8 and other smartwatches, preparing for a stable release.
    2. Beta testing for v15.xx started in late March, with the latest beta version being 15.26, which introduces new features.
    3. The recent stable update (System Software 13.37) did not include new features or bug fixes from the beta versions.
    4. Beta Version 15.26 adds voice commands for the Applied Ballistics and Flying apps on the Tactix 8 and includes ten additional bug fixes.
    5. The Sensor Hub firmware has been updated from v34.10 to v34.12 in the latest beta release.

    Garmin is slowly improving the v15.xx software for the Fenix 8 and other smartwatches as they prepare for a stable release in the future. To summarize, the firm has been testing v15.xx versions in beta since late March. They did release a stable update last week, but System Software 13.37 didn’t include any of the new features, bug fixes, or improvements seen in the latest beta versions.

    New Beta Update

    The introduction of a new beta release for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 indicates that Garmin is still not ready to provide a stable v15.xx update. Although the company hasn’t officially stated this, the arrival of Beta Version 15.26, which includes Aviation, Dive, and ECG functionalities, suggests otherwise. According to Garmin, “ECG, Dive, and Aviation features will be available again on versions of beta software that we expect to become live updates.”

    Features and Fixes

    Nevertheless, Beta Version 15.26 now supports voice commands for the Applied Ballistics and Flying apps on the Tactix 8, which is currently priced at $1,299.99 on Amazon. This update also adds ten more bug fixes to the mix, bringing the total number already identified by Beta Version 15.25 to 127. Additionally, Garmin has updated the Sensor Hub firmware from v34.10 to v34.12. The complete list of changes between Beta Versions v15.25 and v15.26 is as follows:

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Fixes Running Dynamics Bug

    Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Fixes Running Dynamics Bug

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched beta version 21.13 for several smartwatches, including Fenix 7 and Epix 2 series.
    2. The update fixes a problem where running dynamics were lost after an hour of use.
    3. A user confirmed the effectiveness of the running dynamics fix on the Garmin forum.
    4. New versions of the Sensor Hub (34.12) and MARQ 2 Sensor Hub (31.12) have also been released.
    5. Users can manually update their watches through the system menu, and the ECG feature will be disabled during the beta testing.

    Garmin has launched the beta version 21.13 for several of its smartwatches, including the Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, Epix 2, Epix 2 Pro, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and MARQ Gen 2. This update comes quickly after beta version 21.11, which addressed various issues related to naps, body battery, and strength activities.

    Running Dynamics Fixed

    In this new beta update, Garmin has focused on a problem concerning running activities. Recently, some users mentioned that their running dynamics were lost after an hour of use. The change log for beta version 21.13 indicates that this issue has been fixed. A user has also verified this on the Garmin forum, confirming the fix’s effectiveness.

    New Sensor Hub Versions

    Additionally, there’s a new version of the general Sensor Hub (34.12) as well as the MARQ 2 Sensor Hub (31.12). It’s still uncertain if these updates are related to the fix for the running dynamics issue or if they offer separate improvements.

    Beta version 21.13 is being rolled out via over-the-air (OTA) updates for the Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, Epix 2, Epix 2 Pro, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and MARQ Gen 2 smartwatches. Users can also manually start the download and installation process by navigating to Menu > System > Software Update > Check for Updates. Garmin reminds owners of devices like the Fenix 7 Pro Solar Sapphire (currently $649.99 at Amazon) that the ECG feature will be turned off during the beta testing phase.

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    Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Fixes Running Dynamics Bug
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  • Garmin Launches Major Update for Flagship Smartwatches with 12+ Features

    Garmin Launches Major Update for Flagship Smartwatches with 12+ Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released Beta Version 15.24 for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8, with nearly 20 changes since the last beta update.
    2. The cumulative updates for these smartwatches have reached almost 150 since the last stable release.
    3. A new stable update has been unveiled, which does not include modifications from the recent Beta Program.
    4. Garmin’s Beta Program has resumed with Beta Version 15.25, introducing an additional twelve changes.
    5. Users in the Beta Program will soon receive an alert for downloading Beta Version 15.25 as an over-the-air (OTA) update.

    Garmin has been quite active recently with their Fenix 8 and other related smartwatches. Just a week ago, the firm released Beta Version 15.24 for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon), which included nearly 20 changes from the last beta update.

    Total Changes Count

    As we tally it up, the cumulative number of updates for these four smartwatches since the last stable release has reached almost 150. Just yesterday, Garmin also unveiled the changelog for a new stable update, which does not include any of the modifications that have been tested over the past month in their Beta Program.

    New Developments on the Horizon

    Amidst all these updates, the company has been seen dropping clues about potential refreshes for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8, details of which we have discussed separately. Now, Garmin has resumed its Beta Program with another build that introduces an additional twelve changes.

    As a result, the upcoming stable update v15.xx should now encompass at least 167 significant changes, featuring 22 new functionalities, 18 enhancements, and 127 bug fixes. However, Garmin has kept the Aviation, Dive, and ECG features turned off in Beta Version 15.25, indicating that more beta releases are on the way before moving to a stable version.

    Beta Program Notifications

    According to a post on Garmin’s forum, users of the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 who are part of the Beta Program can expect to receive an alert to download Beta Version 15.25 in the coming days as an over-the-air (OTA) update. Below is the changelog that lists all the changes made between Beta Versions 15.24 and 15.25:

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  • Garmin Launches New Update for Flagship Smartwatches After Beta Testing

    Garmin Launches New Update for Flagship Smartwatches After Beta Testing

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is preparing a significant stable update for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8, with almost 150 entries in the 15.xx beta version changelog.
    2. A new stable update, System Software 13.37, was released for several devices without prior notice, similar to previous updates like System Software 13.35.
    3. The recent updates do not include the features from the ongoing beta testing, leaving users confused about the changes.
    4. Garmin lacks transparency in sharing update details, choosing to post changelogs on forums instead of within the smartwatch or Connect Mobile app.
    5. The latest update primarily addresses a bug related to Alipay, indicating that a more significant update for premium smartwatches may take a few more weeks.

    In the past few weeks, Garmin has been setting the stage for what looks like a major stable update for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299.99 on Amazon). According to our observations, the changelog for the 15.xx beta version has now reached almost 150 entries, which include bug fixes, new features, and improvements. Sadly, Garmin hasn’t provided any hints about when these 15.xx updates will be available in its stable software version.

    New Updates Rolled Out

    Recently, Garmin has started to quietly release a new stable update for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8, but this update does not include any of the changes that have been in beta testing since last month. Similar to System Software 13.35, Garmin has launched System Software 13.37 without any prior notice, as well as System Software 13.73 for the Tactix 8. This has left many users asking questions on Garmin’s forums about what has actually changed with this new version.

    Lack of Transparency

    On other devices, users can usually find out what improvements come with a new update. For some unknown reason, Garmin chooses not to display a changelog either on the smartwatch itself or within its Connect Mobile app. Instead, these updates are shared on its forums, which Garmin finally did for System Software 13.37. It turns out that this new update only fixes an unspecified bug that was causing issues with Alipay. So, it looks like Garmin intends to hold off for a few more weeks before rolling out a significant update for its latest premium smartwatches.

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