Tag: software update 6.17

  • Garmin Launches Two Quick Stable Updates for Smartwatches

    Garmin Launches Two Quick Stable Updates for Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin’s Approach S44 and S50 golf smartwatches have received a minor software update, version 6.17.
    2. The update fixes a crash issue on the primary golf screen and corrects an error with the scoring screen after completing a hole.
    3. This update follows the major version 6.16, which added features like device passcodes and compatibility with Garmin’s Approach CT1 club trackers.
    4. Version 6.17 is currently available to about 60% of users and can be installed via Garmin Express or the Garmin Golf app.
    5. The Approach S44 and S50 smartwatches are priced at $299.99 on Amazon.


    Garmin’s Approach S44 and S50 golf smartwatches are now getting an update. The new system software version 6.17 is considered a minor upgrade for both devices.

    Update Details

    The changelog for version 6.17 indicates that it addresses two bugs. It fixes a potential crash issue that some users encountered when using the primary golf screen. Additionally, it corrects an error where the incorrect scoring screen was displayed after completing a hole.

    Previous Major Update

    This update follows a larger release, version 6.16, which introduced several new features. These included support for a device passcode and various settings that can be managed through the Garmin Connect mobile application. Furthermore, the watches became compatible with Garmin’s Approach CT1 club trackers, along with the Find My Gear feature in the Garmin Golf app. There was also the introduction of a new Rangefinder settings menu, and the Approach S50 received a new Breathing Variations tool.

    User Access

    As per updates on the Garmin forum, software version 6.17 is already accessible to around 60% of users of the Approach S50 and S44 smartwatches (currently priced at $299.99 on Amazon). Users can install the update through their computer using Garmin Express or via their smartphone using the Garmin Golf app.

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  • Garmin Forerunner Smartwatches Update: Improved Battery Life

    Garmin Forerunner Smartwatches Update: Improved Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released software version 6.17 for the Forerunner 570 and 970 smartwatches, marking its first stable update since their launch in May 2025.
    2. The update improves battery life for the Forerunner 970 and the 47 mm version of the Forerunner 570, though specific improvements in battery duration are not disclosed.
    3. A translation update is now available for users in Japan, but the update does not address reported bug issues on Garmin forums, such as touchscreen problems and rebooting issues.
    4. Users can access the software update by navigating to Menu > System > Software Update > Check For Updates on their smartwatches.
    5. The Forerunner 970 is priced at $549.99 on Amazon and is expected to last up to 15 days, while the Forerunner 570 (47 mm) can last up to 11 days on a single charge.


    Garmin has rolled out software version 6.17 for the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches. These running devices were introduced in late May 2025. This update is the first stable one for these watches, which Garmin refers to as a hotfix.

    Battery Improvements

    The software update, version 6.17, reportedly boosts the battery life “on watch face” for the Forerunner 970 and the larger 47 mm version of the Forerunner 570 (currently priced at $549.99 on Amazon). Sadly, Garmin hasn’t provided any details about how much battery life has improved. Just to remind, the Forerunner 970 is expected to last up to 15 days, while the Forerunner 570 47 mm can last up to 11 days on a single charge.

    Translation Updates and Issues

    For those who bought one of these new Forerunner smartwatches in Japan, an update for translations is now available. The last note in the change log is a bit mysterious, mentioning “changes to support manufacturing.” However, the software release doesn’t seem to address any bug fixes related to problems users have reported on the Garmin forum. These include touch-screen issues on the Forerunner 570 and a rebooting problem on the Forerunner 970 that is connected to features like Google Assistant and maps.

    How to Get the Update

    Garmin states that software version 6.17 is accessible now for all users of the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches. To download this update, simply navigate to Menu > System > Software Update > Check For Updates.

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