Tag: Garmin

  • Garmin Premium Device Software Update Adds Exciting New Features

    Garmin Premium Device Software Update Adds Exciting New Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. New play mode “On Course Practice” added, allowing experimentation on over 42,000 golf courses.
    2. Users can now choose specific holes to play and turn off the Lie Penalty in Home Tee Hero mode.
    3. Improved access to buttons for mulligan, replay, and previous shot metrics in Home Tee Hero.
    4. Introduction of a keyboard simulator feature for use with third-party software via Bluetooth.
    5. Software version 4.80 is automatically available for users and can be manually updated through device settings.

    Garmin has introduced software version 4.80 for the Approach R50, a portable golf launch monitor and simulator. This device, aimed at assisting golfers in enhancing their skills, received its last software update, version 4.60, about three months ago.

    New Features in Version 4.80

    With the arrival of software version 4.80, users can enjoy several exciting new features. A fresh play mode called On Course Practice has been added, enabling you to experiment with different shots on more than 42,000 golf courses. Users now have the ability to pick which hole to play while in a Home Tee Hero round, and the option to turn off the Lie Penalty in this mode is also available. Additionally, the buttons for mulligan, replay, and metrics from the previous shot can now be accessed in Home Tee Hero.

    Enhanced Functionality

    Garmin has also introduced a new keyboard simulator feature for the Approach R50. This feature can be utilized when the device is connected via Bluetooth to a computer that runs third-party simulator software. Moreover, there is a new setting for measurement units for putting, along with a retail demonstration mode.

    Update Availability

    Software version 4.80 is accessible for all Garmin Approach R50 users (currently priced at $4,999.99 on Amazon). The update will automatically install when the device connects to Wi-Fi. Alternatively, you can manually start the update by navigating to Menu > Settings > Software Update > Download and Install.

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  • New Garmin Smartwatch Feature Now Available in Beta Update

    New Garmin Smartwatch Feature Now Available in Beta Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released beta update 16.16 for vivoactive 6, Venu 4, and Venu X1 smartwatches, just ten days after update 16.14.
    2. The new Garmin Connect+ nutrition logging feature allows users to monitor nutritional information by scanning food items.
    3. Access to the nutrition logging feature requires a Garmin Connect+ subscription, which costs $6.99 per month.
    4. Users can view detailed reports and AI-generated insights about their diet’s impact on health.
    5. Beta version 16.16 can be downloaded by eligible users through their smartwatch settings, but the release date for a stable version is still unknown.

    Garmin has unveiled a fresh beta update for the vivoactive 6, Venu 4, and Venu X1 smartwatches. This new beta version, 16.16, comes about ten days after the previous testing version, 16.14. The earlier update improved Garmin Connect Mobile (GCM) Translations to version 3.40.

    New Nutrition Logging Feature

    With the release of beta version 16.16, users of the Garmin Venu X1, Venu 4, and vivoactive 6 smartwatches now have access to an innovative Garmin Connect+ nutrition logging feature. This feature was first revealed in early January 2026. It allows users to monitor nutritional information, including calories and macros, by scanning food items via the brand’s app. Users can also see daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly reports, along with AI-generated insights into how their diet impacts their health.

    Subscription Requirement

    It should be noted that since this is a Connect+ feature, it’s only available to those who have a Garmin Connect+ subscription, which costs $6.99 per month. However, some tests conducted by the5krunner and DC Rainmaker have pointed out various problems with this feature.

    How to Download

    For users of the Garmin Venu 4, Venu X1, and vivoactive 6 smartwatch (currently priced at $299.99 on Amazon) who are part of the beta program, they can download beta version 16.16 by navigating to Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates. It’s still uncertain when a stable version of software 16.xx, which should come with more new features, will be available to all users.

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  • Garmin Update: Support for Latest Chronograph Release Now Live

    Garmin Update: Support for Latest Chronograph Release Now Live

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released a new beta update (Beta Version 13.15) for its Instinct Crossover AMOLED smartwatches, but it has the same changelog as the previous version.
    2. A new stable update (System Software 12.26) has been launched, which is a return to version 12.xx instead of continuing with the 13.xx beta series.
    3. The stable update includes only one bug fix and adds support for the Garmin Xero C2 chronograph.
    4. The update allows all Instinct 3 series smartwatches, including the Instinct E, to manage and show data from the Xero C2.
    5. About 50% of the Instinct 3 series smartwatches have received the OTA notification for System Software 12.26.

    Earlier today, we shared news that Garmin has released a new beta update for smartwatches such as the Instinct Crossover AMOLED. This build, known as Beta Version 13.15, is quite puzzling since it carries the same changelog as the previous one. While we wait for more information regarding this beta update, Garmin has discreetly launched a new stable update for the same lineup of smartwatches.

    A Noteworthy Catch

    Yet, there’s a twist that might surprise those anticipating a significant stable release. To give some background, Garmin began the version 13.xx development over a month ago with the first Beta Version 13.08. Even though the company has rolled out several beta builds since then, it has now returned to version 12.xx for the newest stable update for the Instinct 3 and similar models.

    Details of the Update

    This time around, Garmin has introduced System Software 12.26, which includes just one bug fix. More precisely, this update brings support for Garmin’s latest Xero C2 chronograph. After updating, all smartwatches in the Instinct 3 series will be capable of managing and showing data collected from the Xero C2, including the more affordable Instinct E (currently priced at $199.99 on Amazon). At present, Garmin estimates that roughly 50% of these smartwatches have received a notification to download System Software 12.26 as an over-the-air (OTA) update.

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  • Garmin Rolls Out New OTA Update for Multiple Smartwatches

    Garmin Rolls Out New OTA Update for Multiple Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released a new update for the Instinct 3 series and related smartwatches, including the Instinct Crossover AMOLED.
    2. The latest update, Beta Version 13.15, follows the previous Beta Version 13.14, which aimed to fix issues with a new activity feature.
    3. The update will be delivered over-the-air (OTA) in phases to smartwatches enrolled in the Beta Program.
    4. The changelog for Beta Version 13.15 appears to be identical to Beta Version 13.14, leaving new features unclear.
    5. Garmin is also working on stable updates for the Fenix 7 series while continuing developments for the Instinct 3 series.

    Garmin has started to release a new update for the Instinct 3 and related smartwatches like the Instinct Crossover AMOLED (currently priced at $649 on Amazon). While the Fenix 7 series has just received a stable update today, Garmin is still working on recent beta developments for the Instinct 3 series.

    Update Overview

    To summarize, Garmin rolled out Beta Version 13.14 to its upper mid-range smartwatches just a little over a week ago. This third v13.xx update claimed to fix some problems with a new activity that was causing troubles in the latest builds. Now, it has come back with Beta Version 13.15, which is being released across the Instinct E and Instinct 3 Tactical, along with the Instinct 3 and Instinct Crossover AMOLED.

    Update Process

    This update, known as an over-the-air (OTA) update, will be delivered to smartwatches enrolled in the Beta Program in phases. Sadly, it appears that Garmin has duplicated the changelog from Beta Version 13.14. Therefore, it’s not clear at this moment what new features or enhancements Beta Version 13.15 introduces. We will make sure to update the article if there are any changes in the future.

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  • Garmin Unveils New Smartwatch with AMOLED Display and Unique Features

    Garmin Unveils New Smartwatch with AMOLED Display and Unique Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched the Approach J1 smartwatch, designed specifically for young golfers with a lightweight and sleek design for smaller wrists.
    2. Key features include a user-friendly display, customizable tee-off guidance, club recommendations, and the ability to track scores, with access to over 43,000 preloaded golf courses.
    3. The Approach J1 also tracks other activities like walking, cycling, and running, using GPS for distance tracking, along with standard smartwatch functions.
    4. It features a 1.2-inch AMOLED display, offers an optional always-on setting, and has a battery life of up to 10 days in watch mode or 15 hours using GPS.
    5. The smartwatch will be available on January 23rd for $299.99, making it more expensive than the Garmin Approach S12, which is priced at $199.99.

    Garmin has introduced the latest Approach J1 smartwatch across the globe. This is the company’s first smartwatch designed specifically for young golfers. It’s tailored to fit smaller wrists, featuring a lightweight and sleek design.

    Unique Features for Young Golfers

    The Approach J1 comes with a user-friendly display and a visual timer that indicates the recommended pace for playing. It also provides tee-off guidance that you can customize based on the player’s skill level, and you can set the par to fit their abilities. Additional features include club recommendations and fun animations to celebrate achievements. Golfers can keep track of their scores directly on the watch, with all data accessible through the Garmin Golf app, and it has more than 43,000 golf courses preloaded.

    Multi-Activity Tracking and Smartwatch Functions

    In addition to golfing, the Approach J1 can monitor other activities like walking, cycling, and running, all while utilizing GPS for distance tracking. It also includes standard smartwatch features, such as a step counter, alarm, timer, and stopwatch. The device showcases a 1.2-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels and offers an optional always-on setting. Garmin claims that it can last up to 10 days in watch mode, or 15 hours when using GPS. The watch comes in two colors: Blue/Black with a Black ComfortFit strap and Silver/Purple with a Purple ComfortFit strap.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Garmin Approach J1 smartwatch will be available for purchase starting January 23rd at a price of $299.99/£309.99/€349.99. It’s important to mention that this isn’t the least expensive golf smartwatch from Garmin; in the U.S., the Approach S12 is priced at $199.99 (currently $174.90 on Amazon).

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  • Garmin Forerunner Smartwatch Update: Key Improvements Released

    Garmin Forerunner Smartwatch Update: Key Improvements Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released a new stable update (version 15.52) for the Forerunner 570 and 970 smartwatches.
    2. The update includes bug fixes and minor improvements but lacks detailed information on specific changes.
    3. About 50% of users have started receiving the update, with no confirmed completion timeline.
    4. Users can manually check for the update through the smartwatch’s system menu.
    5. A beta update (version 16.14) has also been released, enhancing the Morning Report feature for select users.

    Garmin is introducing a new stable update for the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches. The release of version 15.52 comes about a month after the previous 15.33 update, which included a few minor enhancements and fixes for these devices.

    Details of the Update

    Version 15.52 is another small update. Similar to the last one, the change log indicates that this version addresses several bugs and brings improvements to the Forerunner series. However, it lacks specific details, making it hard to see how these changes will actually help users. The release notes mention that Garmin has implemented modifications to “support manufacturing,” which probably won’t have a noticeable impact on user experience.

    Rollout Information

    In a post on the Garmin forum, a brand representative mentioned that update version 15.52 has been rolled out to at least 50% of users of the Forerunner 570 (47 mm currently priced from $479.99 at Amazon) and Forerunner 970 smartwatches. It remains uncertain when the rollout will finish. Once it is available for you, you can manually start the installation by navigating to Menu > System > Software Update > Check For Updates. Additionally, these smartwatches recently got a beta update, version 16.14, which enhanced the Morning Report feature for a select group of users.

    Conclusion

    Garmin continues to support its Forerunner series with these updates, focusing on stability and minor tweaks. As users await the full rollout of version 15.52, they can look forward to the potential improvements it may bring, even if details are sparse.

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  • Garmin Smartwatches Get Touchscreen Upgrade in Latest Update

    Garmin Smartwatches Get Touchscreen Upgrade in Latest Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released a stable update (Software Version 27.09) for older Forerunner smartwatches, including the Forerunner 165 priced at $210.
    2. The update includes bug fixes and improvements from Beta Version 27.08, enhancing the scrolling experience in the Activity Summary menu.
    3. Users will notice fixes for issues like potential crashes during swimming activities and missing race time predictions in Garmin Coach Plans.
    4. Touchscreen response issues for incoming calls have been fixed for all models except the Forerunner 255.
    5. The update will roll out gradually, and users can manually check for it through the smartwatch’s settings.

    Garmin has kicked off the new year by releasing a new stable update for several of its older Forerunner smartwatches, including the Forerunner 165, which is currently priced at $210 on Amazon. To summarize, the company wrapped up the previous year by launching Beta Version 27.08 for the same smartwatches, promising enhancements for the scrolling experience.

    New Update Details

    Recently, the beta development has transitioned to Garmin’s stable software channel with the launch of Software Version 27.09. While this update doesn’t introduce any new features, it does come with a variety of fixes for bugs found in earlier beta and stable versions. For example, Software Version 27.09 includes improvements that were tested in Beta Version 27.08.

    Enhanced User Experience

    As a result, users of the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965 should notice a more fluid scrolling experience once they update to Software Version 27.09. It’s important to mention that this improvement is limited to Garmin’s Activity Summary menu. Additionally, the update addresses a potential crash that could happen during swimming activities and fixes a glitch that caused race time predictions to be absent from a Garmin Coach Plan. Furthermore, all models except the Forerunner 255 have received a fix that corrects issues with touchscreen actions not responding to incoming calls.

    Bug Fixes and Stability Improvements

    Garmin has also indicated that this update includes a variety of other bug fixes and stability enhancements. Sadly, they have chosen not to disclose the specifics of these additional changes. Software Version 27.09 is expected to be available for all compatible smartwatches over the next few days as part of a phased rollout. In the meantime, users can manually check for the new update by selecting ‘Check for Updates’ after going through Menu, System, and then Software Update.

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  • Garmin Launches Update for Premium Smartwatches After New Release

    Garmin Launches Update for Premium Smartwatches After New Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is preparing a new stable update for the Fenix 8, Fenix 8 Pro, and other smartwatches while continuing beta development for version 21.xx.
    2. A stable build has been released for Fenix E, Quatix 8, and Tactix 8, reverting back to the earlier v20.xx development with System Software 20.29.
    3. System Software 20.29 replaces 20.24 and is the third release in the v20.xx series, following version 20.19 from November.
    4. The update includes three bug fixes, addressing issues with Dive activity crashes on Tactix 8, display problems with airport lists, and the Contacts button on some models.
    5. Approximately 50% of compatible smartwatches have received System Software 20.29, with full availability expected in the coming days.

    In the past few weeks, Garmin has been preparing a new stable update for the Fenix 8, Fenix 8 Pro (currently priced at $1,139.99 on Amazon), and other related smartwatches. Simultaneously, the company has introduced the Quatix 8 Pro to its collection. Although the v21.xx beta development kicked off over a month ago, Garmin has not indicated that this beta phase is nearing completion, as seen in its recent Beta Version 21.16 release.

    Update Release

    Despite this, Garmin has launched a new stable build for the Fenix E, Quatix 8, and Tactix 8, in addition to the Fenix 8 and Fenix 8 Pro. However, the latest update does not signify the end of the v21.xx development. Rather, Garmin has reverted to the earlier v20.xx development with System Software 20.29. This update replaces System Software 20.24 and is actually the third release in Garmin’s v20.xx development series, following the introduction of System Software 20.19 back in November.

    Bug Fixes Included

    As we look forward to Garmin’s next major stable release, System Software 20.29 is likely to keep Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, Fenix 8 Pro, Quatix 8, and Tactix 8 users satisfied with three new bug fixes. In discussions on forums, Garmin has explained that the latest stable update addresses a problem that could lead to crashes when saving Dive activities on Tactix 8 smartwatches.

    Furthermore, System Software 20.29 aims to resolve issues that affected the display of airport lists and the Contacts button on some models. Garmin has announced that System Software 20.29 has been distributed to about 50% of compatible smartwatches. Therefore, it may take several days for the new update to be available on all models.

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  • Garmin Update Boosts Wi-Fi for Older High-End Smartwatches

    Garmin Update Boosts Wi-Fi for Older High-End Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released Beta Version 25.08 for the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro, priced at $569.99 on Amazon, fixing three main bugs.
    2. Beta Version 25.10 has been rolled out for additional models like Epix 2, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and Marq Gen 2, but not for Marq Aviator Gen 2 or Tactix 7.
    3. Only 25% of eligible smartwatches have received the new update notification automatically.
    4. It may take several days for Beta Version 25.10 to reach all Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro users in the Beta Program.
    5. The update addresses a Wi-Fi connectivity issue that users reported since Beta Version 25.03.

    Garmin has made a comeback with its Beta Program, introducing a new update for the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro, currently priced at $569.99 on Amazon. Just a few days ago, the firm released Beta Version 25.08. This update, which came in between the launches of the Venu X1 and Quatix 8 Pro, was reported to fix three main bugs found in earlier beta and stable versions.

    New Updates for More Devices

    In addition to the Fenix series, Garmin has now rolled out Beta Version 25.10 for other models including the Epix 2, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and Marq Gen 2. It’s important to mention that beta updates are not available for the Marq Aviator Gen 2 or Tactix 7. Furthermore, Garmin highlights that only 25% of the eligible smartwatches have received a notification for the new update automatically.

    Waiting for the Update

    As a result, it might take a few more days for Beta Version 25.10 to arrive on your Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, or any related smartwatch, even if it’s already part of Garmin’s Beta Program. Notably, more beta versions are expected to come out before the v25.xx development shifts to Garmin’s stable software. In a post on a forum, Garmin indicates that Beta Version 25.10 addresses a problem that stopped a smartwatch from reconnecting to a password-secured Wi-Fi network, an issue that community members had been pointing out since Beta Version 25.03.

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  • Garmin Updates Older High-End Smartwatches After Major Release

    Garmin Updates Older High-End Smartwatches After Major Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released Beta Version 25.08 for the Fenix 7 series, following the previous version 25.03.
    2. The new beta addresses three main issues, including a UI glitch in the map app.
    3. It fixes a bug that could cause the Fenix 7 to turn off during map downloads.
    4. Another fix improves data field display on specific watch faces.
    5. ECG functionality remains disabled, indicating further beta updates are expected before final release.

    Almost a month has gone by since Garmin last provided an update for the Fenix 7 and its similar models. Earlier this week, they unveiled a new color option for the Venu X1, which is currently priced at $699 on Amazon. Now, the company is back at work on Fenix 7 software, releasing Beta Version 25.08.

    New Firmware Details

    This latest firmware supersedes Beta Version 25.03, which included more than a dozen enhancements and was the first v25.xx build that Garmin made public. In contrast, Beta Version 25.08 is the second update of this type and introduces significantly fewer modifications compared to its predecessor. Garmin notes that this new beta addresses three remaining problems, including a UI glitch in the map app that appeared when users were previewing course navigations.

    Bug Fixes Included

    In a post on their forum, Garmin explained that Beta Version 25.08 should also fix a second bug related to the map app, which could cause a Fenix 7 to turn off while maps were being downloaded. Furthermore, this same update will tackle another issue where some data fields were not displaying correctly on specific watch faces. It’s worth mentioning that ECG functionality remains turned off, indicating that more beta versions are on the way before the v25.xx series moves to Garmin’s stable software branch.

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