Tag: Garmin

  • Garmin Launches Stable Update for LTE Smartwatch

    Garmin Launches Stable Update for LTE Smartwatch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released a stable update (version 5.12) for the Bounce 2 smartwatch designed for kids.
    2. The previous update (version 5.10) improved battery life in poor LTE areas and added support for the Fish activity.
    3. Version 5.12 mainly includes bug fixes, but specific details are not provided.
    4. The update is automatically sent when the smartwatch connects to a smartphone with the Garmin Jr. App.
    5. The Bounce 2 smartwatch is currently priced from $289.99 on Amazon.

    Garmin has rolled out yet another stable update for the Bounce 2 smartwatch made for kids. This second version of the LTE device was introduced earlier in 2025 and comes with features like two-way voice messaging, voice calling, and support for voice commands.

    Recent Updates

    Just a few weeks ago, this Garmin smartwatch received an update to software version 5.10. This was a significant release that improved battery life in poor LTE areas, added support for the Fish activity, along with various enhancements and bug fixes.

    New Update Details

    The latest update for Bounce 2, version 5.12, is quite minor. The change log notes that it includes bug fixes for the smartwatch, but doesn’t provide specifics. Therefore, it remains uncertain how users might benefit from this software update.

    Firmware version 5.12 is now available for all Bounce 2 smartwatch users (currently priced from $289.99 at Amazon). This update will automatically be sent to the smartwatch when it connects to a smartphone that has the Garmin Jr. App. Alternatively, users can sync it through the Garmin Express software on their computers.

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  • Garmin Releases New Stable Update for Multiple Smartwatches

    Garmin Releases New Stable Update for Multiple Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released Software Version 15.33 for Forerunner 570 and 970 after beta testing.
    2. The update follows a previous version 15.16, which was expected to be the last in the v15.xx series.
    3. Users can install the update via an over-the-air (OTA) method or manually through the smartwatch settings.
    4. Version 15.33 is currently available to about 50% of eligible Forerunner 570 and 970 devices.
    5. The update includes “various bug fixes and improvements,” but specific changes remain unclear.

    Garmin has recently moved a beta update for the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 (currently $649 on Amazon) into its stable software release program. To summarize, the company released Beta Version 15.33 a few days back. Before this, Software Version 15.16 had been rolled out, which was supposed to be the last of the v15.xx software updates.

    Return to Testing

    However, various bugs seem to have led Garmin to continue testing within the v15.xx series. Initially, they released Beta Version 15.30, followed by Beta Version 15.33. Now, this last version has been updated to Software Version 15.33, which Garmin is now providing as an over-the-air (OTA) update. Users can also manually install it by going to the Main Menu, selecting System, and then Software Update, and finally tapping ‘Check for Updates’.

    Distribution of the Update

    As of now, Garmin states that Software Version 15.33 has been made available to approximately 50% of Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches that are set to receive stable updates, as opposed to beta updates. For some unexplained reason, they are being quite secretive about the specifics of what changes this update entails. Officially, Version 15.33 brings “various bug fixes and improvements.” It remains unclear if the strange backlight issues mentioned in Garmin’s Community Discussion will be resolved with this update.

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  • Garmin Fenix Smartwatch Update Fixes Map Bug Issues

    Garmin Fenix Smartwatch Update Fixes Map Bug Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. A new software update (version 20.24) has been launched for Fenix 8 series, Fenix E, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8 smartwatches.
    2. The update includes three bug fixes, addressing issues that caused crashes and malfunctioning features.
    3. Specific fixes include problems with locked maps, a flashlight shortcut crash, and an SOS alarm countdown issue during sleep mode.
    4. Garmin announced that the update is being gradually rolled out, with about 50% of users having received it so far.
    5. There is no timeline provided by Garmin for the complete rollout or for new features for the Fenix 8 smartwatches.

    A recent update has been launched for the Fenix 8, Fenix 8 Pro, Fenix E, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8 smartwatches. This system software version 20.24 introduces three bug fixes for these devices. The rollout began just a few days after the beta update 20.23, which addressed a problem related to vibrations.

    Update Details

    The stable version 20.24 fixes two additional issues that could lead to the Fenix 8 and similar smartwatches crashing. One issue was reported to happen when maps were locked, and the other crash was associated with the flashlight shortcut. Lastly, the update includes a fix for the SOS alarm countdown, which was reportedly not functioning correctly during sleep mode.

    Company Announcement

    Garmin shared news of this update in a recent forum post. The company stated that software version 20.24 is being gradually distributed to users of the Fenix 8, Fenix 8 Pro, Fenix E, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8 smartwatches. As of now, about 50% of customers have received it; however, Garmin has not provided a timeline for when the rollout will be complete. It’s still uncertain when new features will be available for the Fenix 8 smartwatches (51mm, Solar, Sapphire, curr. $949.99 at Amazon).

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  • Garmin Releases Update for Older High-End Smartwatches with Caveat

    Garmin Releases Update for Older High-End Smartwatches with Caveat

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released Public Beta update Version 23.48 for select smartwatches, including Epix, Enduro 2, Fenix 7, Quatix 7, and Mar Gen 2.
    2. Pro variants, including Tactix 7 and MARQ Aviator Gen 2, will receive support later and are not included in the current Beta program.
    3. Users can manually check for updates by navigating to Menu > System > Software Update > Check for Updates.
    4. The update focuses on enhancing stability, fixing accessory visibility issues, and preventing random shutdowns on the PlaneSync page.
    5. Dive and ECG functionalities are disabled in this version, indicating more beta updates may be needed before a stable release.

    Garmin has started to release a new Public Beta update after launching Beta Version 23.41 at the end of November. This latest update has jumped to Beta Version 23.48, which can be downloaded over-the-air (OTA) for the Epix, Enduro 2, Fenix 7, Quatix 7, and Mar Gen 2 smartwatches. On the other hand, Garmin mentions that support for Pro variants will come later. However, the Tactix 7 and MARQ Aviator Gen 2 (currently priced at $1,299 – refurbished on Amazon) are still not included in Garmin’s Public Beta program.

    Installation Details

    Ignoring that, Garmin has already reported delivering Beta Version 23.48 to all eligible smartwatches at the moment. If your smartwatch isn’t showing the update, you can manually start the installation by going to Menu, then System, and selecting Software Update before clicking ‘Check for Updates’. The main goal of Beta Version 23.48 is to enhance stability.

    Improvements Made

    Garmin has specifically mentioned fixes for a problem where some connected accessories were not showing up in the Sensors and Accessories menu. Also, Beta Version 23.48 aims to stop random shutdowns that could happen on the PlaneSync page. This update also brings general improvements to the iR Remote feature, though Garmin hasn’t provided detailed information on this aspect. Since Dive and ECG functionality have been disabled in this version, it’s probable that Garmin has more beta updates in mind before they can finally release a long-awaited stable version.

    Garmin’s

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  • Garmin Update: New GCM and CIQ Fixes for Smartwatches

    Garmin Update: New GCM and CIQ Fixes for Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has updated its Instinct 3 series smartwatches with a new firmware version.
    2. The update returns to beta testing with Beta Version 12.23, following a previous update for the Instinct 2 series.
    3. The Instinct E, Instinct 3, and Instinct Crossover AMOLED have not entered a new major release cycle.
    4. The Beta Version 12.23 aims to fix issues in System Software 12.21 related to adding applications in Garmin Connect Mobile.
    5. The update also resolves a bug preventing downloads of courses and workouts on CIQ apps for Instinct E and Solar models.

    Garmin has made a return to its Instinct 3 series smartwatches with a fresh update. This comes after a similar update for the Instinct 2 series, and it signifies a return to beta testing following last month’s rush of beta updates.

    New Firmware Details

    Sadly, Garmin has not transitioned the Instinct E, Instinct 3, or Instinct Crossover AMOLED (currently priced at $649 on Amazon) into a new major release cycle. Instead, the company has brought back its Beta Program with another v12.xx version. Specifically, they have released Beta Version 12.23, which is said to fix two problems that were present in System Software 12.21.

    Fixes in the Update

    The latest update is expected to resolve one issue that could stop owners of the Instinct E, Instinct 3, or Instinct Crossover AMOLED from adding applications in Garmin Connect Mobile. Additionally, Beta Version 12.23 addresses another bug that was preventing courses and workouts from being downloaded on CIQ apps. It’s important to note that these apps are only available for the Instinct E and Solar models. For more information, refer to Garmin’s forum post.

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  • New Garmin Smartwatch Update Brings Exciting Improvements

    New Garmin Smartwatch Update Brings Exciting Improvements

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released new updates for the Venu X1 and Vivoactive 6 smartwatches, priced at $249 on Amazon.
    2. Software Version 15.16 was rolled out nearly a month ago, replacing version 14.12 and including bug fixes and enhancements.
    3. A new Beta 15.31 update is available for manual download, accessible through the smartwatches’ settings.
    4. Users must be part of Garmin’s Beta Program to access the Beta 15.31 update.
    5. Garmin has not specified the improvements in Beta 15.31 compared to version 15.16, and the release date for the next stable update is unclear.

    Garmin has begun to quietly release new updates for its Venu X1 and Vivoactive 6 smartwatches, which are currently priced at $249 on Amazon. To provide some background, the company rolled out Software Version 15.16 for these devices nearly a month ago. This update was also available for the Venu 4 and included numerous bug fixes and enhancements after a thorough beta testing phase, replacing the previous version 14.12.

    New Beta Update Available

    Now, Garmin has introduced Beta 15.31, which requires manual downloading on both smartwatches. To initiate the installation of Beta 15.31, users need to navigate through the Main Menu to Settings, then System, and finally Software Update, where they can tap ‘Check for Updates.’ It’s crucial to point out that both smartwatches must be part of Garmin’s Beta Program to access this latest build.

    Unclear Improvements

    Garmin is being somewhat mysterious about the enhancements that Beta 15.31 offers compared to Software Version 15.16. So far, the company has disclosed that the new beta includes “various” bug fixes and other changes that are not specified. Thus, it remains uncertain how Beta 15.31 advances beyond the earlier versions at this moment. Additionally, Garmin has not announced when a new stable update will be available. For further information, users can refer to Garmin’s forum posts.

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  • Garmin inReach Mini 3: Upgrades, Pricing, and Launch Details

    Garmin inReach Mini 3: Upgrades, Pricing, and Launch Details

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin’s inReach Mini 3 is expected to launch globally soon, with sightings of retail units already occurring.
    2. The inReach Mini 3 features a larger color touchscreen display, while maintaining similar visuals to its predecessor.
    3. The device is thicker and weighs 122 grams but may include solar charging capabilities and topographically accurate satellite maps.
    4. Enhanced speakers, emergency calling, location sharing, and satellite messaging functions are retained in the new model.
    5. Pricing is set at $259.99 for the inReach Mini 3 and $499 for the upgraded Mini 3 Plus, which includes additional messaging features.

    It appears that Garmin’s new inReach device is nearing a global launch. After a short appearance in an official advertisement that was quickly removed, the inReach Mini 3 has been spotted on Reddit by user u/HMITCHR. This Reddit user claims to have bought a retail unit locally, indicating that Garmin might be releasing the device later this week.

    Hands-On Insights

    In the meantime, u/HMITCHR shared some hands-on pictures that showcase not only the inReach Mini 3 (currently priced at $259.99 on Amazon) but also how it stacks up against the previous inReach Mini. Visually, there’s not much that distinguishes the inReach Mini 3 from its predecessor. However, Garmin has upgraded the display to a much larger color touchscreen this time around.

    Size and Features

    Even though the inReach Mini 3 is thicker and weighs 122 grams, u/HMITCHR noted that Garmin might have added solar charging capabilities. Additionally, the new inReach communicator features satellite maps that are topographically accurate. The user also mentioned that the inReach Mini 3 comes with enhanced speakers, while still retaining essential functions like emergency calling, location sharing, and satellite messaging via the inReach network.

    Pricing and Availability

    Moreover, the same Reddit user claims that a nearby retailer offered the inReach Mini 3 Plus alongside the standard Mini 3. The inReach Mini 3 is rumored to have a starting price of $449. In comparison, the inReach Mini 3 Plus is said to be available for $499, which includes photo and audio messaging features, justifying the $50 increase from the current inReach Mini 2. Regardless, both models will be pricier than Garmin’s existing compact inReach communicator.

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  • Garmin Launches Beta Update for Older Mid-Range Smartwatches

    Garmin Launches Beta Update for Older Mid-Range Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released a new beta update (version 17.08) for Instinct 2, Instinct 2X, and Instinct Crossover smartwatches.
    2. The update includes various bug fixes and improvements, but specific details are not provided.
    3. There is a contradiction in the announcement regarding the update’s availability, suggesting users may need to manually check for updates.
    4. Beta updates are typically delivered automatically, so the update may be distributed over-the-air (OTA) as usual.
    5. The timeline for the stable release of version 17.08 for all users is currently unknown.

    Garmin has launched a new beta update for the Instinct 2, Instinct 2X, and Instinct Crossover smartwatches. This beta version 17.08 comes about two months after the stable release of version 17.07, which resolved an issue related to DogTrack distances.

    Minor Update Details

    The new beta update 17.08 is considered a small update, as the change log simply indicates it includes “various bug fixes and improvements” for the Instinct 2 and the other smartwatches. Sadly, Garmin does not provide specific details about the problems it has resolved or the adjustments it has made to enhance these devices.

    Announcement and Inconsistencies

    This beta update was shared in a recent post on the Garmin Forum. One thing to note is a contradiction in the announcement: the title mentions that beta version 17.08 is “Available OTA,” whereas the message implies that users should manually “check for updates.” Usually, beta updates for the Instinct 2 smartwatches are delivered automatically over-the-air (OTA) when the user is connected to the Garmin Connect app or through Garmin Express. So, it is likely that this update is being distributed the same way. It is yet to be seen when the stable release of software version 17.08 will be available for all users of the Instinct 2 (45 mm Solar Graphite, currently priced at $223.35 on Amazon) and its related smartwatches.

     

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  • Garmin Recovery Band Teased as Future of Wearables Release

    Garmin Recovery Band Teased as Future of Wearables Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is planning to launch a new wearable device before the end of the year.
    2. The Index Sleep Monitor, priced at $169.99, is a screenless wearable designed for sleep, worn on the upper arm.
    3. Speculation is growing about a new product called the Garmin Recovery Band, potentially an alternative to Whoop.
    4. An image shared by Garmin hints at a new smartwatch with LED lights, possibly resembling the Venu 4.
    5. There is no confirmation on whether the new device is a re-release of the Venu 4 or a new version, but it may be a slimmer model.

    It seems Garmin is getting ready to unveil a new wearable device before the year wraps up. Earlier this year, there were whispers about the company working on a wearable that doesn’t have a screen. This idea eventually materialized into the Index Sleep Monitor, which is currently priced at $169.99 on Amazon. Garmin designed this monitor to be worn on the upper arm, making it distinct from typical smartwatches, and it is meant to be used only during sleep.

    Speculation About a New Device

    Recently, a post on Garmin India’s Facebook page has sparked fresh rumors suggesting that the company might be crafting an alternative to Whoop. Referred to as the Garmin Recovery Band by sources like the5krunner and Gadgets & Wearables, this mysterious device is not explicitly named in the Facebook post. Instead, Garmin hints that “the future of wearables is almost here,” adding that it will be “coming sooner than you think.”

    What the Image Reveals

    The accompanying image doesn’t give away too much at first glance. However, if you rotate it by 90°, you can see what appears to be a smartwatch with an LED light located between the strap and the top part of its housing. In this regard, the smartwatch bears a resemblance to the Venu 4, especially since Garmin showcases both red and white LED settings.

    Despite this resemblance, the Venu 4 was launched several months ago in India, hitting the market in mid-September, just like it did in the United States. Therefore, it seems unlikely that this teaser is about a re-release of the Venu 4, unless there’s a new version in the works. This device might possibly be a slimmer version of the Venu 4, though no solid information has surfaced at this time.

     

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Users Report Issues with Turn-by-Turn Navigation

    Garmin Smartwatch Users Report Issues with Turn-by-Turn Navigation

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin smartwatch users are experiencing issues with the real-time turn-by-turn navigation feature, particularly after software update 20.19.

    2. Affected models include the Fenix 8, Fenix 7, Forerunner 955, and Enduro 3, with reports shared on forums like Garmin Forum and Reddit.

    3. The problem may stem from missing course_point entities in route files, affecting navigation guidance sent from the Garmin Connect app.

    4. Courses saved on the smartwatch remain unaffected, but may stop working after syncing with the app.

    5. A suggested workaround involves using third-party mapping tools like Plotaroute to create routes and manually uploading the generated FIT file to the smartwatch.

    Many users of Garmin smartwatches are facing a problem related to the real-time turn-by-turn navigation feature. This function alerts users about upcoming turns, displaying the distance to the turn directly on the watch screen. Alerts can be in the form of vibrations or sounds, with maps uploaded to the device via the Garmin Connect app.

    User Reports and Devices Affected

    On forums like Garmin Forum and Reddit, owners of various Garmin models—including the Fenix 8, Fenix 7, Forerunner 955, and Enduro 3 (51mm Solar currently priced at $739.99 on Amazon)—have shared their experiences with this issue. Some users have pointed out that the problem began after the latest system software update, version 20.19. It appears that the issue is linked to the Garmin Connect app, which is responsible for sending navigation guidance to the smartwatch.

    Potential Cause and Impact

    It is believed that the glitch with turn-by-turn notifications may be caused by missing course_point entities in the route files. Courses already saved on the smartwatch are not impacted, but they may stop working the next time you sync with the app. So far, Garmin has not acknowledged this problem nor provided an explanation or a fix for its users.

    Workaround Suggestion

    Nonetheless, a Garmin user known as socorsu on the brand’s forum has proposed a potential workaround. They recommend using a third-party mapping tool, such as Plotaroute, to create your course. After creating the route, you can generate a FIT file that should include the necessary data to activate the turn-by-turn notifications. Users will then need to manually place the FIT file in the “Garmin/New Files” directory on their smartwatch.

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