Tag: Garmin

  • 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 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 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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  • Garmin Fenix 8 and Premium Smartwatches Leak with LTE Connectivity

    Garmin Fenix 8 and Premium Smartwatches Leak with LTE Connectivity

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin launched the Fenix E and Fenix 8 smartwatches, introducing AMOLED display options alongside the traditional MiP displays for better visibility and color vibrancy.
    2. The Fenix 8 may receive updates, and there are hints that other models like the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Tactix 8 could also be refreshed.
    3. Potential LTE connectivity for the Fenix 8 has been found in the Garmin Connect app, suggesting future connectivity options for other models.
    4. Garmin’s history indicates that new smartwatch models may appear in the app before their official launch.
    5. It’s uncertain if LTE connectivity will provide full internet access or just limited features like safety and tracking for the upcoming models.


    Garmin made some changes to the Fenix line last year with the launch of the Fenix E and Fenix 8, the latter priced at curr. $948 on Amazon. Previously, the brand had only used Memory in Pixel (MiP) displays for their premium smartwatches, which were great for battery life. However, MiP displays don’t offer vibrant colors and can be hard to see in low light.

    New Display Options

    To find a middle ground, Garmin introduced the Fenix 8 with both AMOLED and MiP display options. Now, it looks like not only the Fenix 8 may be getting an upgrade, but also the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Tactix 8. Garmin hasn’t officially announced any plans to refresh these high-end smartwatches.

    Connectivity Insights

    Interestingly, a source mentioned by Gadgets & Wearables found some visuals in the Garmin Connect app that suggest LTE connectivity for the Fenix 8. It appears that Garmin is also looking at this option when connecting the Enduro 3, Fenix E, or Tactix 8. While this might seem a bit odd, Garmin has a history of adding new smartwatch models to its app before they’re officially released.

    Future Possibilities

    For now, it’s unclear what Garmin’s intentions are regarding LTE connectivity for these smartwatches. In theory, Garmin could offer full internet access for these models, similar to what Apple, Google, and Samsung provide with their LTE versions. However, if the Forerunner 945 LTE is any indication, the LTE connectivity might only unlock limited safety and tracking features for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8.

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Update Resolves Passcode Issue

    Garmin Smartwatch Update Resolves Passcode Issue

    Key Takeaways

    – Garmin is launching beta version 14.07 for Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches.
    – The update includes bug fixes for passcode requests after power cycling and access to Pilates exercise videos.
    – A minor change has been made to the appearance of the calorie graph, along with other unspecified small improvements.
    – Users can download the update through the smartwatch settings, but the ECG app is currently disabled for Venu 3 users.
    – Future enhancements and fixes are expected as Garmin continues to work on improving their smartwatches.


    Garmin is launching a new update for the Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches. The newest beta version, 14.07, is part of the ongoing 14.xx testing cycle, which has provided users with several bug fixes and enhancements related to the recent passcode feature.

    Bug Fixes and Improvements

    The release notes for beta version 14.07 highlight two specific bug fixes. The first addresses a problem with receiving a passcode request following a power cycling activity. The second fix makes sure that exercise videos connected to Pilates workouts are now accessible. Additionally, this update includes a minor change to the appearance of the calorie graph. There are also said to be other small bug fixes and improvements, although no extra details have been shared. As of now, no user feedback has reported any bugs with beta version 14.07.

    How to Download the Update

    You can obtain beta version 14.07 by navigating to the Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update. Like any beta update, the ECG app is currently turned off for users of the Venu 3 smartwatch (45mm Black watch priced at $439 on Amazon). It’s still unclear when the next stable update will be released for the Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches.

    Looking Ahead

    Garmin (Venu 3/3s, vivoactive 5) continues to work on improving their smartwatches, and this latest update is part of their ongoing efforts. Users can look forward to further enhancements and fixes in the future.

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  • Garmin Updates Older Flagships with Incident Detection Fix

    Garmin Updates Older Flagships with Incident Detection Fix

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has expanded the ECG feature to more countries for Fenix 7 series and premium smartwatches.
    2. The company has released Beta Version 21.10, following Beta Version 21.09, with updates for several smartwatch models.
    3. Beta Version 21.09 included enhancements for Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, Enduro 2, and Tactix 7.
    4. Improvements in Beta Version 21.10 address minor bugs in Live Activity software and fix issues with short-distance running and walking activities.
    5. Beta Version 21.10 will be available soon as an over-the-air update through Garmin Mobile Connect or Garmin Express.


    Just recently, Garmin has quietly broadened the reach of its electrocardiogram (ECG) feature to additional countries for the Fenix 7 series and other premium smartwatches. They have also gone back to providing new firmware updates to beta testers, even after rolling out Beta Version 21.09 earlier this week.

    New Developments in Beta Software

    Now, the company has advanced the beta software to Beta Version 21.10 in preparation for a future stable release. To summarize, Beta Version 21.09 introduced several enhancements for the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro, as well as the Enduro 2 and Tactix 7 (currently priced at $1,084.99 on Amazon). However, Garmin has identified enough updates to justify the launch of a new build.

    Improvements and Fixes

    On one side, they assert to have fixed various minor bugs associated with their Live Activity software, but they haven’t given any specific details about these fixes. On the flip side, issues with short-distance running and walking activities are now expected to be resolved. Beta Version 21.10 is also claimed to correct the glitch that was causing incident detection to trigger incorrectly during unsupported activities. You can expect Beta Version 21.10 to become available for compatible smartwatches in the coming days as an over-the-air (OTA) update through Garmin Mobile Connect (GCM) or Garmin Express.

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  • Garmin Updates AMOLED and MiP Smartwatches to Fix Crash Issues

    Garmin Updates AMOLED and MiP Smartwatches to Fix Crash Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is releasing a new stable update for the Instinct E, Instinct 3 AMOLED, and Instinct 3 Solar smartwatches, with the current price at $449.99 on Amazon.
    2. The latest update, Beta Version 9.13, is being rolled out automatically as an over-the-air (OTA) update for users in the Beta Program.
    3. Users will receive notifications for downloading Beta Version 9.13 via Garmin Connect Mobile or Garmin Express when syncing their devices.
    4. Beta Version 9.13 includes fixes for Body Battery issues, crashes in Garmin Share for AMOLED models, and stability improvements for Solar and E models when connected to a computer.
    5. The update also features an upgraded Sensor Hub firmware, now at version 34.10.


    Garmin is slowly moving towards releasing a new stable update for the Instinct E, Instinct 3 AMOLED, and Instinct 3 Solar (currently priced at $449.99 on Amazon). To summarize, the company rolled out System Software 8.09 in mid-March for these models, introducing several changes. Soon after, they transitioned to the development of v9.xx, which they first made public with Beta Version 9.07.

    Update Progression

    Now, Garmin has progressed to Beta Version 9.13 for smartwatches participating in its Beta Program. In a post on its forum, Garmin mentioned that this update will be delivered automatically as an over-the-air (OTA) update. As a result, users can expect to receive a notification for downloading Beta Version 9.13 in the upcoming days, either through Garmin Connect Mobile (GCM) or Garmin Express when syncing an Instinct E, Instinct 3 AMOLED, or Instinct 3 Solar with desktop software.

    Features and Fixes

    According to Garmin, Beta Version 9.13 includes fixes related to Body Battery and watch faces. Additionally, Garmin Share should no longer crash on the AMOLED versions, and the Solar or E models should not experience crashes when connected to a computer. Moreover, Garmin has also included an updated Sensor Hub firmware, which has been upgraded to v34.10 in the latest build. The complete changelog for Beta Version 9.13 is as follows:

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