what you need to know
- Garmin has released a beta update (version 17.10) for several smartwatches, introducing a host of changes.
- This beta is available for Fenix 7/7 Pro, Fenix 7s/7s Pro, Fenix 7x/7x Pro, Epix/Epix Pro Gen 2 (all sizes), Enduro 2, MARQ Gen 2 and Quatix 7 models.
- It is worth noting that the beta version temporarily disables the ECG function of the Fenix 7 series.
Garmin has released a new beta update for its range of smartwatches, which includes a host of changes.
The smartwatch maker has announced that Beta version 17.10 is available for a number of Garmin watches such as Fenix 7/7 Pro, Fenix 7s/7s Pro, Fenix 7x/7x Pro, Epix/Epix Pro Gen 2 (42mm/47mm sizes / 51mm size), Enduro 2, MARQ Gen 2 and Quatix 7 (via NotebookCheck). But if you’re using a Garmin MARQ Aviator Gen 2 or Tactix 7, you’re not participating in the beta.
Garmin has released a massive changelog for the 17.10 beta, which contains a ton of new features and a few tweaks to make things better.
- Added the ability to find lost phones during activities using GPS.
- Added applying ballistic wind mode (Tactix only).
- Added indoor walking activity.
- Messenger application added.
- Added Recovery Advisor as an option in morning reports and overviews.
- Added self-evaluation for more activity types.
- Fixed issue allowing battery saver mode as power mode name.
- Fixed incorrect DSW on watch faces.
- Fixed an issue that resulted in the Rhythm Flashlight not being enabled correctly when the activity resumes later.
- Fixed an issue with piste counting in the “Last Sport” overview.
- Fixed an issue with altimeter panning in large font mode.
- Fixed an issue with the Morning Report workout page.
- Fixed issues with some watch face data fields.
- Fixed a potential issue that caused the touchscreen to not be fully operational after the display woke up.
- Fixed potential issue with weather map overlay.
- Fixed a possible shutdown issue in morning reports.
- Fixed an issue where the body battery widget could turn off when viewing near midnight.
- Fixed a possible shutdown issue when loading activity history with auto-locking enabled.
- Improved access to other characters on the touch keyboard by adding hold options to certain keys.
- Improved “Find My Phone” alert prompt UI.
- Rename rock climbing to mountaineering.
However, Garmin mentioned that this beta version will turn off the ECG (electrocardiogram) function in the Fenix 7 series. So if you only care about regular EKG checks, you might want to skip this update.
However, according to Garmin, the Fenix 7 series’ ECG functionality should be back online once the beta reaches its final stages before official release. The company assures us that the EKG should work fine on other compatible models.
If you are part of Garmin’s public beta program, you can access version 17.10 beta menu > system > Software update and hit Check for updates on your watch.
Keep an eye out for the end of the public beta cycle, as Garmin plans to start sending out beta updates in the normal way via OTA updates.