– Garmin released the May 2026 Smartwatch and Cycling Computer Feature Update.
– The update adds Gear Tracking and Bosch eBike smart system support on Edge devices (e.g., Edge 550, Edge 1050).
– Premium golf features have already rolled out to Fenix E and Fenix 8 series via System Software 22.35.
– More device updates are planned over the coming weeks, with no specific timeline provided.
Garmin’s Recent Activity and New Updates
Garmin has had a busy few months, with multiple product announcements and software updates having occured since its previous Feature Update. For instance, the company updated its Forerunner smartwatch series in mid-May with the release of the Forerunner 70 and Forerunner 170 (curr. $299 on Amazon). They also quietly improved the battery life on some older models but didnt announce this widely.
Focus on Cycling Computers
Now, it has returned with the May 2026 Smartwatch and Cycling Computer Feature Update. For some reason, Garmin has focused on the latter in its official announcement. Currently, it has only showcased added Gear Tracking and Bosch eBike smart system on Edge devices like the Edge 550 or Edge 1050. The Edge 550 is priced at $399.99 and the Edge 1050 is priced at $599.99. However, the May 2026 update is also said to include the following changes: new navigation alerts for dangerous turns, better integration with Di2 shifting, and improved climbpro profiles.
- Gear Tracking now supports chain and cassette wear monitoring
- Bosch eBike smart system compatibility for real-time battery and assist data
- Automatic crash detection and live tracking improvements
Rollout Status and Premium Features
According to Garmin, these new features have already begun rolling out in some cases. For instance, the ‘premium golf features’ described in the comparison chart above appear to have already been expanded on the Fenix E and Fenix 8 series with the release of System Software 22.35. These golf features include improved hazard overlays and green contour maps, avaliable only on the higher-end models. The Fenix E starts at $799.99 while the Fenix 8 series ranges from $999.99 to $1,499.99 depending on size and materials.
Upcoming Device Updates
Garmin claims it will continue to update devices over the coming weeks. Unfortunately, it has not yet given any timescale for doing so. This is frustrating for users who rely on consistent firmware schedules. Please see the images above and below for more details, as well as Garmin’s official announcement. The company is expected to push these updates to other compatible models like the Venu 3 and Instinct 3 series in the near future.