Garmin Releases Beta Version 21.16 for Fenix 8, Fenix 8 Pro Enduro 3, and Tactix 8

Garmin has officially released Beta Version 21.16, bringing a fresh wave of refinements and bug fixes to its latest flagship wearables. This update is specifically designed for the Fenix 8, Fenix 8 Pro, Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Tactix 8 models.

As with most beta cycles, this release focuses on stabilizing the user interface and polishing new features that were introduced in recent hardware launches.

Note: This Beta Software 21.16 Disables ECG, Aviation, and Dive features. 

Enhanced Navigation and Activity Tracking

One of the standout additions in this build is a new “quiet” mode for navigation. Users can now choose to silence navigation guidance until a directional change is imminent, preventing constant audio or haptic interruptions during straightforward stretches of a route.

Additionally, Garmin addressed a frustrating bug for winter sports enthusiasts. Previously, some users were unable to view individual run data within Snowboard activities; Version 21.16 restores full visibility to these metrics, ensuring your mountain stats are properly logged and accessible.

Interface Refinements and Stability Fixes

Several “quality of life” improvements have been tucked into this update to ensure the premium hardware feels smooth:

• Widget Stability: A known crash that occurred while scrolling through the Nutrition widget has been patched.

• Solar Display: On Solar-powered models, the dive timer has been adjusted so that the seconds are no longer cut off by the edge of the screen.

• Map Organization: A labeling error in the Map Type menu, which caused third-party maps to be identified incorrectly, has been corrected.

Audio and Haptic Calibration

Garmin also fine-tuned the sensory experience of the watches. The update fixes an issue where Storm Alerts failed to trigger tones or vibrations, a critical fix for those using the watch for backcountry safety.

Furthermore, the volume logic has been improved: unmuting the device now correctly restores the volume to its previous level rather than a default setting. The tactile feedback (vibrations) on the volume slider itself has also been smoothed out for a more premium feel.

How to Install the 21.16 Beta

If you are enrolled in Garmin’s Beta Program, you don’t have to wait for the automatic “over-the-air” push. You can pull the update manually by following these steps on your watch:

1. Open the Main Menu.

2. Select Settings.

3. Scroll to System.

4. Tap Software Update.

5. Select Check For Updates.

Also Read: Garmin officially launches AI-powered nutrition tracking for smartwatches