ⓘ Notebookcheck
Fenix 8: Smartwatch receives new software update
Garmin is rolling out a new software update and offering it for various smartwatches. At best, this should significantly improve the user experience. The update is not yet being rolled out to all users. It is available for the Fenix 8 model versions, but not for all versions.
Garmin is rolling out a new software version to various premium smartwatches. Specifically, software version 21.32 is being rolled out to the non-Pro Fenix 8 models (on Amazon). The update also applies to the closely related Enduro 3 and Tactix 8 models. This is a beta update, which may still contain bugs and is only offered to participants in the beta program. As usual with beta updates, several functions are temporarily disabled: ECG recordings can no longer be performed, while diving and aviation features are turned off. Installing the update and joining the beta program should therefore be considered carefully.
Compared to previous stable software versions, there are no new features this time, but Garmin says it has fixed several bugs. Specifically, the glance for tracking body weight should now display correctly on all models, as should the display of sports results. According to the changelog, Solar devices previously showed only a black screen during weight training activities – this issue should now be fixed. In addition, notifications for achievable activity goals could previously stop appearing after the first notification; this issue has also been fixed. Another cause of crashes has reportedly been eliminated, as some devices could reportedly crash during HIIT workouts. Garmin also says it has improved Course Planner performance.
I have been active as a journalist for over 10 years, most of it in the field of technology. I worked for Tom’s Hardware and ComputerBase, among others, and have been working for Notebookcheck since 2017. My current focus is particularly on mini PCs and single-board computers such as the Raspberry Pi – so in other words, compact systems with a lot of potential. In addition, I have a soft spot for all kinds of wearables, especially smartwatches. My main profession is as a laboratory engineer, which is why neither scientific contexts nor the interpretation of complex measurements are foreign to me.