Garmin is pushing out beta software version 17.18 to several of its top-tier smartwatches, including the Fenix 8, Fenix E, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8 models. This update introduces a handy new feature and addresses several pesky bugs, aiming to refine the user experience across these popular devices.
Note: This Beta software available for the Fenix 8 series will have the ECG feature and Dive features disabled.
What’s New? Introducing Theater Custom Focus Mode
A key addition in this beta release is the Theater Custom Focus Mode. While the specifics of this mode aren’t fully detailed in the change log, it’s likely designed to optimize your smartwatch’s behavior in dark, quiet environments like movie theaters, perhaps by dimming the screen, silencing notifications, or adjusting other settings to minimize disruptions. This demonstrates Garmin’s commitment to providing tailored experiences for various user scenarios.
Squashing Bugs: Key Fixes in Version 17.18
Beyond the new feature, a significant portion of this update focuses on improving stability and accuracy by resolving several known issues. One notable fix addresses an inaccuracy where Activity History displayed distance instead of floors climbed for floor climbing activities, ensuring more precise data tracking for vertical pursuits.
Another important correction tackles a security oversight: the update resolves an issue where users could pair their device without confirming a passcode after a device reset. This enhances the security protocols for your smartwatch. Furthermore, the update mends a glitch where Custom Activity Focus Modes weren’t activating on the Activity Stage Page, ensuring these personalized settings function as intended during your workouts.
Enhanced Reliability: Addressing Battery and Connectivity Issues
Garmin has also tackled issues related to battery life and connectivity. Users previously experiencing low battery alerts during sleep mode will find this resolved, leading to less interruption during rest. Additionally, the update rectifies a problem where phone volume control was not working through the smartwatch, restoring seamless audio management from your wrist.
How to Get the Update
Ready to experience these improvements? You can manually download and install the update directly on your compatible Garmin smartwatch. Simply navigate to Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates on your device to initiate the process.
Also Read: First Signs of Garmin Venu 4 Coming Soon: Unpacking the Latest Clues
