Garmin has launched a major beta firmware update for its top smartwatches, which brings numerous new functions for training, health tracking, battery management and user convenience. The update is aimed at users of the Fenix series (incl. Fenix 8 Pro), the Enduro 3 models and the brand new Forerunner 970, significantly expanding the possibilities of the devices beyond classic sports and outdoor features.
The most important features in brief:
- Large beta firmware with numerous new features and improvements.
- Focus on battery management, sleep tracking, training and everyday functions.
- Improved control over notifications and workout settings.
- Forerunner 970 gets an exclusive new watch face.
Beta update brings many new functions
Garmin is currently distributing a public beta update for various high-end smartwatch models. Beta version 21.12 is available for the Fenix 8 family, such as the Fenix 8 Pro € 999.99 *. On top of this, users of the Enduro 3, Fenix E (€ 489.00 *) and Tactix 8 can get ready, while the Forerunner 970 gets its own beta (version 16.11).
The update focuses on improvements that noticeably enhance the user experience in everyday life and during training:
Battery management & usability
A new battery manager shows detailed information on battery usage, including performance data and consumption trends. In addition, notifications can be muted during workouts so as not to interrupt training sessions and are only displayed once they have been completed.
Sleep tracking & daily analysis
Improved sleep tracking functions determine an ideal sleep and wake-up time based on the collected data and show how much the user deviates from this. The evening report has been expanded and now also includes floors climbed, for example – useful for everyday tracking and wellness evaluations.
Training & Fitness
Garmin is now also bringing features from other models (“Fitness Coach” from the Venu series) to the top smartwatches. This includes, among other things:
- Fitness coach functions with structured plans and timers.
- Combined activity recordings, with which several sports can be recorded in one session.
Other new features
Other functions include:
- Voice control and advanced voice settings.
- UI optimizations such as album covers in the music player.
- Glances for weight tracking, lifestyle logging and sports scores.
- Improved course planner and other helpers for outdoor and everyday use.
- The Forerunner 970 (€ 780.45 *) gets a new “Ripples” dial
Outlook & availability
As this is currently a beta version, the features are initially available to participants in the public beta program. Garmin is expected to roll out most of the features in stable firmware versions for all compatible devices during Q1 2026.
