Garmin adds new features and improves battery life in smartwatch update

Garmin has released a new stable update for the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches. This likely marks the end of the 15.xx testing cycle, which began in mid-September 2025.

Software version 15.16 brings a wide range of new features and bug fixes to the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches. Features include the new sleep-related Health Glance, which arrived with the Venu 4 smartwatch, and a rolling pace data field. Users can now adjust notification settings on an app-by-app basis, and the Morning Report and Evening Report can be viewed in the Notification Center. New controls include using the down key to close a training alert and the ability to cover the screen with your palm to exit a smart notification.

This stable release also tackles various problems, such as faster-than-expected battery drain, unexpected device reboots and the screen blanking without warning. There is only one difference between the two change logs: there is an additional bug fix for the Forerunner 970, resolving an issue with the "Search Near" functionality on maps, which was not working as expected. You can find the full release notes for software version 15.16 below.

A Garmin representative confirmed in the brand's forum that software version 15.16 is now available for all users of the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches (curr. $749.99 at Amazon). To manually install the update on your watch, go to the Main Menu > System > Software Update > Check For Updates.