Tag: Garmin

  • Garmin Launches Major Update for Flagship Smartwatches with 12+ Enhancements

    Garmin Launches Major Update for Flagship Smartwatches with 12+ Enhancements

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is rolling out firmware updates for smartwatches in its Beta Program, including Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8.
    2. Beta Version 15.23 introduces over 125 changes, focusing on fixing 17 identified bugs.
    3. New features in Beta Version 15.23 include a navigation alert and a Multisport category in the Activity List.
    4. Garmin has not announced a timeline for the next stable update, indicating ongoing work on current beta features.
    5. Key features like Aviation, Dive, and ECG are still disabled in Beta Version 15.23, suggesting more updates are needed before a stable release.

    Garmin is quickly rolling out another firmware update for its latest smartwatches that are part of its Beta Program. Recently, the company has released a series of new builds for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 (currently $1,299 on Amazon) as it aims for a stable update in the future. Just a few days ago, Beta Version 15.22 was launched with an 18-line changelog.

    New Features and Fixes

    Now, Garmin has introduced Beta Version 15.23, bringing the total number of changes from Stable Version 13.35 to more than 125. Essentially, Beta Version 15.23 continues the trend seen in previous beta updates. Garmin is focusing on fixing numerous outstanding bugs, with 17 identified in Beta Version 15.23, matching the count from the previous version. Additionally, the new beta update includes a navigation alert and a Multisport category in the Activity List, which are both great enhancements.

    Future Updates

    At this point, Garmin hasn’t shared when users can expect the next stable update. The significant number of bug fixes in Beta Version 15.23 indicates that there may still be a lot of work needed before the company feels ready to move its latest beta developments to stable software. Usually, the activation of Aviation, Dive, and ECG features signals that a new stable update is on the horizon. However, these features are still disabled in the current beta update. Here’s the complete changelog for Beta Version 15.23:

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  • Garmin Forerunner Smartwatch Display Issue Hotfix Available Now

    Garmin Forerunner Smartwatch Display Issue Hotfix Available Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released Software Version 22.26 Hotfix for the Forerunner 165 smartwatch, following the previous version 22.24.
    2. The new update fixes distortion issues, including repeated text and numbers on the screen, which affected readability.
    3. Both the regular Forerunner 165 and the Forerunner 165 Music were impacted by this problem during activities.
    4. Users in the Garmin Beta Program can access beta version 23.13, which also addresses GPS Walk activity issues and crashes during workouts.
    5. To download the updates, users should navigate to Menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates.

    Garmin has launched the Software Version 22.26 Hotfix for the Forerunner 165 smartwatch. This new update comes after the previous 22.24 version, which was released about a month ago and provided several bug fixes for the device. These fixes addressed issues related to scheduled workouts and Daily Suggested workouts, as well as improving the smart notification sounds.

    Update Details

    The change log for the stable version 22.26 indicates that it fixes a specific problem that may cause distortion in certain situations. Users have reported seeing repeated text and numbers on the screen, making it hard to read, along with some noise in specific areas. This issue has been frequently mentioned in the Garmin forum over the last few weeks and has affected both the regular Forerunner 165 and the Forerunner 165 Music during their activities. The software version 22.26 hotfix can now be downloaded by all Forerunner 165 smartwatch owners (approximately $223.99 on Amazon).

    Beta Program Fixes

    Users participating in the Garmin Beta Program will also see this issue resolved with the beta version 23.13. In addition to fixing this distortion issue, the update also addresses problems with GPS Walk activities, track skipping when using Apple AirPods Pro 2, and crashes that occur when starting workouts. Currently, this beta update is accessible to at least half of the users. To get either of the updates, you can navigate to Menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates.

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    Garmin Forerunner Smartwatch Display Issue Hotfix Available Now
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  • Garmin Launches Major Update for Flagship Smartwatches

    Garmin Launches Major Update for Flagship Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released multiple updates for the Fenix 8 software this month, progressing from Beta Version 15.16 to 15.22.
    2. A total of 99 adjustments have been made since Software Version 13.35 was introduced in early March.
    3. Beta Version 15.22 includes 18 additional improvements, primarily focused on bug fixes.
    4. Users can expect a stable update in the future that will introduce nearly twenty new features.
    5. The beta update will be automatically rolled out to eligible smartwatches, but users can manually check for updates in the system menu.

    Garmin has been quite active this month with updates for the Fenix 8 software. They kicked off a new development cycle at the end of March with Beta Version 15.16, quickly progressing to v15.17, then v15.18, and just last week, v15.19. Overall, Garmin states that 99 adjustments have been made since Software Version 13.35 was introduced at the beginning of March.

    Latest Beta Release

    Recently, Garmin jumped ahead in version numbers and introduced Beta Version 15.22 in their Beta Program for the Fenix E, Fenix 8, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299.99 on Amazon). The changelog for the v15.xx series had already been extensive, nearing 100 entries of fixes, enhancements, and new features, but Beta Version 15.22 adds another 18 improvements.

    Focus on Bug Fixes

    Most of the changes in Beta Version 15.22 are focused on fixing bugs. However, users can anticipate a future stable update of v15.xx that should include nearly twenty new features. It’s important to know that Garmin is rolling out this latest beta update automatically to smartwatches that are part of its Beta Program. Therefore, Beta Version 15.22 should be available on your Fenix E, Fenix 8, Enduro 3, or Tactix 8 by the start of next week. If you prefer, you can also manually check for the update by going to ‘Check for Updates’ in the Menu, then System, and selecting Software Update. The complete list of changes from Software Version 13.35 is detailed below:

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Update Resolves Morning Report Issue

    Garmin Smartwatch Update Resolves Morning Report Issue

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released beta version 14.05 for Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches, following stable version 13.19.
    2. The update fixes issues with the Morning Report tool and workout refresh problems related to Garmin Coach.
    3. Minor bugs have been resolved, but specific details on other enhancements are not provided.
    4. It’s unclear if the update addresses a lock screen bug reported by some users that causes the screen to go black.
    5. Users can download the update through the smartwatch settings, but the ECG feature will be unavailable during beta testing for the Venu 3.

    Garmin is launching the beta version 14.05 update for its Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches. This marks the second update in the new 14.xx testing phase, following the stable software version 13.19 that was released back in March. This prior update improved the Voice Assistant feature for Android devices.

    Morning Report Fixes

    The beta version 14.05 resolves an issue with the widely-used Morning Report tool, where certain images were not shown properly. Additionally, the update addresses a problem where workouts did not refresh when using the Garmin Coach glance. The release notes for this version mention other minor bugs being resolved and enhancements made, but don’t provide specific details.

    Lock Screen Concerns

    It remains unclear if this update tackles a recently noted issue regarding the lock screen, which was brought up in discussions on the Garmin forum. A few users reported that a bug in a previous beta update caused their screen to go black when locked, instead of showing the lock symbol. While someone from Garmin recognized the problem, there have been no further announcements on this matter.

    How to Download

    Users who have the Venu 3, Venu 3s, or vivoactive 5 smartwatches can obtain the update by navigating to Main Menu > Settings > System > Software Update. As is customary, Garmin has stated that the ECG feature will be unavailable during beta testing for the Venu 3 smartwatch (the 45mm Black version currently priced at $449 on Amazon).

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    Garmin Smartwatch Update Resolves Morning Report Issue

     

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  • Garmin Launches Stable Update with Auto Activity Start Enhancements

    Garmin Launches Stable Update with Auto Activity Start Enhancements

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released firmware version 2.29 for the vivomove Trend hybrid smartwatch, six months after version 2.27.
    2. The update introduces a new vibration feature that alerts users at the start of an auto activity for running or walking.
    3. Improvements to system stability are included, though specific details were not provided.
    4. No reported issues from users with the new update so far.
    5. Version 2.29 is available to at least 50% of users, with full rollout timing still unclear; it can be downloaded via Garmin Express or the Garmin Connect Mobile app.

    Garmin has announced a new software update for the vivomove Trend hybrid smartwatch. The latest firmware version, 2.29, is a stable release that comes about six months after the previous version, 2.27. The earlier update fixed a problem related to distance when using Connected GPS.

    New Features and Improvements

    The change log for firmware version 2.29 lists two main changes. The first is a new vibration feature that activates at the beginning of an auto activity. The Auto Activity Start function allows the smartwatch to automatically track your running or walking workout when it senses continuous movement. The second change includes improvements to system stability, but Garmin hasn’t shared any specific details about these enhancements. So far, no users of the vivomove Trend have reported any issues with this update.

    Update Availability

    In a post on the Garmin forum, the company mentioned that firmware version 2.29 should be accessible to at least 50% of vivomove Trend smartwatch users (curr. from $236.52 at Amazon). It’s not clear when the full rollout of this update will happen. Users can download this update through either Garmin Express or the Garmin Connect Mobile app.

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    Garmin Launches Stable Update with Auto Activity Start Enhancements

     

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  • Garmin Updates Flagship Smartwatches with New Features and Fixes

    Garmin Updates Flagship Smartwatches with New Features and Fixes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released Beta Version 15.19 for its premium smartwatches, including Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8.
    2. The update includes nine new improvements, featuring the Stage Timer app for the Tactix 8 series.
    3. Users can now modify vibration patterns for Call Notifications with this update.
    4. Beta Version 15.19 fixes issues related to the Strength Activity’s performance.
    5. Users must manually download the update by checking for updates in the smartwatch’s system menu.

    Hardly any time has gone by since Garmin rolled out a big update for its premium smartwatches. Just to refresh your memory, last week the company launched Beta Version 15.18 for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and now the Tactix 8 smartwatches, which included more than a dozen fixes and enhancements.

    New Features in Beta Version 15.19

    However, Garmin hasn’t slowed down and has now introduced Beta Version 15.19. As its name implies, this version remains part of Garmin’s Beta Program and offers nine new improvements, including the Stage Timer app specifically for the Tactix 8 series. Moreover, this update comes with a feature that allows users to modify the vibration patterns for Call Notifications.

    Bug Fixes and Update Instructions

    Beta Version 15.19 is also reported to fix issues that were affecting the Strength Activity’s performance. It’s important to mention that Garmin is not automatically sending this new beta update to the smartwatches enrolled in the program. Users have to manually download it by going to Menu, System, and then Software Update on an Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, or Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299.99 on Amazon) before clicking on ‘Check for Updates’. Below is the complete list of changes between Beta Versions 15.18 and 15.19:

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  • Garmin Vivoactive 6 Launches at $299 with Bright AMOLED Display

    Garmin Vivoactive 6 Launches at $299 with Bright AMOLED Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched the Vivoactive 6, the successor to the Vivoactive 5, priced at $299.99.
    2. The Vivoactive 6 features a more vibrant AMOLED display, maintaining a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels and supporting Always On Display.
    3. It offers a battery life of up to 11 days and increased built-in storage, along with new features like Red Shift and Daily Suggested Workouts.
    4. The Vivoactive 6 lacks passcode support and is compatible only with 20 mm watch bands.
    5. The watch will be available for order starting April 4 and comes in four different colors.

    Companies usually avoid launching new products on April 1 for obvious reasons. However, Garmin has chosen to unveil the successor of the Vivoactive 5 (currently priced at $214 on Amazon), which was released just a bit over 18 months ago.

    Display Enhancements

    Garmin says that the Vivoactive 6 boasts a more vibrant AMOLED screen compared to the previous model. Nevertheless, they haven’t provided detailed information on this aspect. What they did confirm is that the 1.2-inch display maintains a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, and features Always On Display capability.

    Battery Life and Features

    Similar to its forerunner, the Vivoactive 6 offers a battery life of up to 11 days. This time, Garmin has upped the built-in storage capacity, and it now supports BeiDou and QZSS location services. Additionally, the Vivoactive 6 is equipped with a built-in gyroscope, which was not present in the Vivoactive 5. New features include Red Shift, more activity profiles, Daily Suggested Workouts, and a Smart Wake Alarm designed to wake you ‘gently’ at the ‘best time’ according to your sleep data.

    Missing Features

    Interestingly, the Vivoactive 6 does not include passcode support, which Garmin had rolled out to several smartwatches this year, including the Vivoactive 5. It’s also worth noting that the new Vivoactive is only compatible with 20 mm watch bands. The standard watch bands are made to fit wrist sizes ranging from 125 mm to 190 mm in circumference. The Vivoactive 6 will be up for order starting April 4 for a price of $299.99 and will come in four different colors. For a complete list of differences between the Vivoactive 5 and Vivoactive 6, check out Garmin’s product comparison page.

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    Garmin Vivoactive 6 Launches at $299 with Bright AMOLED Display
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  • Garmin Vivoactive 6 Specs and Pricing Ahead of Launch Rumors

    Garmin Vivoactive 6 Specs and Pricing Ahead of Launch Rumors

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Vivoactive 6 will have a 1.2-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels, similar to the Vivoactive 5.
    2. It is expected to be thinner than the Vivoactive 5, measuring 10.9 mm.
    3. The smartwatch will feature 8 GB of internal storage and support BeiDou and QZSS location services.
    4. New features will include Garmin Share, animated workouts, and additional running metrics.
    5. The anticipated price is around €329 (~$355) in Europe and about $300 in North America.

    Hardly any time has gone by since a Reddit user disclosed some early information about the Vivoactive 6 and a possible new Forerunner smartwatch. Yet, new details about the Vivoactive 6 have come to light just ahead of its expected launch in less than a month.

    Display and Specs

    The Vivoactive 6 is expected to feature an AMOLED display with a diagonal measurement of 1.2 inches and a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels with a density of 325 PPI. In simpler terms, the screen on Garmin’s next Vivoactive will be identical in size and resolution to the one on the Vivoactive 5 (currently priced at $179.95 for refurbished units on Amazon). Unfortunately, it is still unclear if the display will be larger this time around.

    Design and Features

    Reportedly, the Vivoactive 6 will be a bit thinner than the previous model, measuring at 10.9 mm. This new smartwatch is anticipated to come with 8 GB of internal storage and will support BeiDou and QZSS location services. Additionally, Fitness Tracker Test has noted that the Vivoactive 6 will include features like Garmin Share, animated workouts, and running metrics, which were lacking in its predecessor. The website also mentions that the Vivoactive 6 will be priced at €329 (~$355) in Europe, while it is expected to cost around $300 in North America.

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  • Garmin Updates Older Flagship Smartwatches After Nearly a Year

    Garmin Updates Older Flagship Smartwatches After Nearly a Year

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released System Software 28.02 for the Fenix 6 and Fenix 6 Pro smartwatches.
    2. The update is available worldwide and follows nearly a year after System Software 27.00.
    3. System Software 28.02 includes only eight changes, with no new features introduced.
    4. The primary focus of the update is on fixing bugs rather than adding new functionalities.
    5. The update may also be available for other models like Enduro, Marq, and Tactix Delta, but notifications for availability may take time.

    Garmin has begun to release a new stable update for the Fenix 6 and Fenix 6 Pro (currently priced at $369.99 – renewed on Amazon), which is now accessible worldwide. To give some background, it’s been nearly a year since the company launched System Software 27.00 for these smartwatches.

    Previous Updates

    As we mentioned last May, System Software 27.00 fixed numerous bugs while also introducing a handful of new features. However, the latest update, System Software 28.02, brings significantly fewer modifications. In a post on a forum, Garmin mentions that this new update has only eight changes compared to System Software 27.00. Furthermore, none of the updates can be classified as new features.

    Focus on Bug Fixes

    Garmin has once again concentrated on addressing bugs. It’s important to highlight that System Software 28.02 should also be available for download on the Enduro, Marq, and Tactix Delta smartwatches. Do keep in mind that it may take some time for Garmin to send out notifications to all eligible smartwatches regarding the availability of System Software 28.02. Below is the complete changelog for the update:

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  • New Garmin Smartwatch Leaks and Forerunner 975 Release Rumors

    New Garmin Smartwatch Leaks and Forerunner 975 Release Rumors

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is preparing to launch the Forerunner 975 later this year, following the refresh of its Enduro and Fenix series.
    2. A new Vivoactive smartwatch, the Vivoactive 6, is in development and expected to be released next month.
    3. The Vivoactive 6 will come in four color options and feature new silicone bands.
    4. Key features of the Vivoactive 6 include an accelerometer, compass, gyroscope, and several advanced running metrics, but it will not have altimeter or ECG support.
    5. The Vivoactive 6 will use Garmin’s Elevate V5 heart rate sensor and feature a redesigned main hardware button resembling a digital crown for improved comfort.

    It looks like Garmin is getting ready to update one of its well-liked smartwatch lines. Just to summarize, the company refreshed its Enduro and Fenix series last year, introducing the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Fenix 8. Recently, there have been hints that Garmin might be setting things in motion for the release of the Forerunner 975.

    New Developments on the Forerunner 975

    In this regard, new reports have surfaced indicating that the Forerunner 975 could be launched later this year. Meanwhile, there is evidence suggesting that a new Vivoactive smartwatch is already well into its development phase. For context, the Vivoactive 5 (currently priced at $179.95 for refurbished models on Amazon) has been available for more than a year and a half. This device is exclusively offered in a 42 mm case size and features a vivid circular AMOLED display, providing up to 11 days of battery life, along with various functionalities found in Garmin’s pricier models.

    Features of the Upcoming Vivoactive 6

    If the recent leak is correct, then Garmin plans to release a successor in four different color options, each accompanied by matching silicone bands. The Vivoactive 6 is reported to include an accelerometer, compass, and gyroscope, but will not support altimeter or electrocardiogram (ECG) features. Instead, it is expected to include functions such as Ground Contact Time, Vertical Oscillation, Pace Pro, Running Power, and VO2 Max.

    It seems that Garmin has integrated the Vivoactive 6 with its Elevate V5 heart rate sensor array. Furthermore, it appears that Garmin has altered its main hardware button to look more like a digital crown. This change seems to be for comfort, as the button doesn’t seem to have any new features added. According to reports, the Vivoactive 6 is set to be launched next month, although a specific release date has not been disclosed yet.

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    New Garmin Smartwatch Leaks and Forerunner 975 Release RumorsNew Garmin Smartwatch Leaks and Forerunner 975 Release Rumors

     

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