Garmin has just released a significant stable software update, version 27.13, for three of its popular cycling computers: the high-end Edge 1040, the versatile Edge 840, and the compact Edge 540. This update packs a range of enhancements and fixes designed to improve the user experience and overall performance of these devices. Let’s delve into the key changes.
Enhanced Visual Feedback and Connectivity
One of the notable additions in this update is the introduction of animations across various performance displays. Cyclists will now experience smoother visual transitions within graphs, gauges, and glances, providing a more dynamic and engaging way to monitor their ride data. Furthermore, Garmin has streamlined the update process by enabling software updates over Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). This allows users to keep their devices current without needing a direct computer connection, offering greater convenience.
Expanded Compatibility and Navigation Tools
For riders utilizing Campagnolo’s latest drivetrains, this update brings preset support for their 13-speed groupsets, ensuring accurate gear information is displayed during rides. Varia Vue users will also appreciate the new support for SD card reformatting directly through the device, simplifying maintenance. Navigational flexibility has been improved with the ability to save a course in the reverse direction, offering new possibilities for exploring familiar routes from a different perspective. Additionally, the Spectator Messaging prompt now features an 8-second timeout, preventing accidental activations during intense riding moments.
Improved Reliability and User Experience
Garmin has focused on enhancing the reliability and overall user experience with several key improvements. The altimeter accuracy has been refined through better rejection of barometer outliers, leading to more precise elevation readings. Pairing new sensors via secure BLE should now be a smoother process, thanks to an improved user experience. For those who frequently tackle long routes, the performance when loading large courses has been optimized, reducing wait times.
The update also addresses gear configuration with an intelligent feature that will automatically apply a valid configuration when a shifting system reports a non-standard gear count, ensuring accurate gear display even in unusual setups. Furthermore, the handling of missing elevation data in elevation graphs has been improved, providing a more consistent and informative display. Map management is also more robust with improved error handling. Finally, Varia Vue support has been generally enhanced, promising a more seamless integration with Garmin’s cycling safety system.
Bug Fixes and Stability Enhancements
Beyond the new features and improvements, this software update includes a comprehensive list of bug fixes aimed at resolving various issues reported by users. These fixes include addressing problems such as dynamic glances not updating correctly, inconsistencies in ClimbPro data, and issues with Garmin Coach workout and plan syncing. The update also resolves problems related to activity data saving, incorrect time remaining in paused workouts, and the disappearance of the ‘Stop Navigation’ option.
Visual inconsistencies, such as the battery status icon in low warning prompts, have been corrected. The order of power and heart rate zones now aligns with Garmin Connect, providing a consistent experience across platforms. Issues with GroupRide glance showing incorrect rider counts, improper sensor names, and duplicate data screen entries have also been resolved. Furthermore, the update tackles problems with manual Wi-Fi sync reporting failures, the missing “add” icon for POIs in Course Creator, and the absence of a tone when connecting new sensors. Garmin has also removed the start timer reminder tone on non-data screens to minimize distractions. Finally, the update addresses issues with the Accept button in connection prompts, pairing third-party power meters via Bluetooth, segment deletion in the settings menu, and color persistence on power off page options.
In conclusion, this software update version 27.13 for the Garmin Edge 1040, Edge 840, and Edge 540 represents a significant step forward in terms of functionality, reliability, and user experience. Cyclists are encouraged to update their devices to take advantage of these improvements and enjoy a more refined and seamless riding experience.
