Garmin Forerunner 955 receives public update with new auto-detection tool

Software version 18.22 allows the Garmin Forerunner 955 smartwatch to intelligently detect the beginning of a new sport in a multisport activity like a triathlon. Other new features include Lap Undo, the Sleep Coach glance and a jump rope activity. For runners, you can now view data for many tracks around the world. Also said to be improved with the update are headset compatibility and the performance of the optical heart rate sensor in colder conditions. However, many users have flagged continued problems with the heart rate measurements taken by the optical sensor, complaining that the readings are inaccurate. The Garmin team has responded, asking some users to provide contact details to share further information to help them diagnose the issue.

The update also contains a range of bug fixes, tackling problems with backlight brightness, touchscreen settings in sleep mode, and problems that could cause the Forerunner 955 smartwatch to crash. Version 18.22 is downloadable from Garmin Connect Mobile or Garmin Express. At the time of writing, the company suggests that the rollout is 50% complete; Garmin has yet to indicate when all smartwatch users can expect access to the update.