Garmin is officially initiating the rollout of a new beta software update, version 26.05, targeting a wide range of its popular Forerunner smartwatches. This significant update is set to enhance the user experience for owners of the Forerunner 965, 955, 265, 255, and the entry-level 165 models. Currently, the distribution is measured at a careful 20% of eligible devices, but users should expect this percentage to steadily increase as Garmin continues its phased approach to ensure a stable deployment.
Key Fixes and Stability Improvements
This version of the beta software brings several critical fixes focused on enhancing the stability and core functionality of the watches. A notable correction addresses an important safety feature: the “Find My Device” alert will now properly sound even if the watch is secured with the Passcode feature, removing a previous potential security oversight. Furthermore, the update resolves an issue where users were unable to properly exit the pan/zoom mode on the map if their current activity was paused. Finally, users who rely on the Red Shift display mode will be pleased to know a bug has been fixed that sometimes prevented the mode from automatically disengaging when the user’s set sleep window concluded.
Enhancements for Sports and Music Tracking
For athletes using accessories, Garmin has targeted a specific bug related to their golf sensors. This update fixes missing club averages and suggestions when the watches are paired with CT10 sensors, restoring full functionality for golfers. For music lovers, the software corrects an issue where an incorrect playback time was displayed while fast-forwarding through music tracks, ensuring better control over audio playback.
In a major quality-of-life improvement for multisport athletes, the update now allows users to hold the lap key to change sports during a multisport activity. This simple change effectively frees up a standard press of the lap button to accurately record a lap, rest period, or set within the current sport, streamlining the tracking process. As is standard for any update of this nature, version 26.05 also includes various other bug fixes and general system improvements to boost overall performance.
How to Manually Download the Beta Update
If your device is part of the initial 20% rollout and you want to check for the update right away, you don’t need to wait for the automatic push. You can prompt your watch to check for and install the new software by navigating through the device menu using the following steps: Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates.
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