Garmin fixes heart rate-related bug in new beta update for smartwatches

Garmin’s Venu 3 and vivoactive 5 (pictured) smartwatches are receiving beta version 16.05. (Image source: Garmin)

Garmin has released a new update, beta version 16.05, for three of its smartwatches. The update resolves an issue linked to the broadcast heart rate feature and another problem with volume controls. Plus, this release also comes with a secondary update for GCM translations.

Polly Allcock, Published 09/10/2025 🇪🇸 🇵🇹 ...

A new beta update has arrived for the Venu 3, Venu 3s and vivoactive 5 smartwatches. Beta version 16.05 is the first release in the 16.xx testing cycle. It arrives about a month after stable software version 15.05, which brought updates for the breathing variations and device passcode features.

With beta version 16.05, Garmin is tackling two issues for the Venu 3 and vivoactive 5 wearables. The first bug fix is linked to the smartwatch's volume control, which was not working as expected. The second resolves a problem found on the broadcast heart rate screen; a bug causing the incorrect time to be shown has been fixed.

Alongside these two bug fixes, there is also an update for Garmin Connect Mobile (GCM) translations, which has been upgraded to version 2.29. However, the company does not explain how users will benefit from this translation related release.

If you are signed up to the Garmin beta program, you can download beta version 16.05 by going to the Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update. It is worth noting that the ECG feature will be disabled in this beta update for users of the Venu 3 smartwatch (45mm Black version curr. $414.99 at Amazon).

The release notes for Garmin beta version 16.05 for the Venu 3 and vivoactive 5 smartwatches. (Image source: Garmin)

Source(s)

Garmin (Venu 3/3s, vivoactive 5)

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Polly Allcock - Senior Tech Writer - 4791 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2021

I've been interested in technology for as long as I can remember. From a young age, I have loved gadgets and understanding how things work. Since graduating, I have worked for several technology companies across FinTech, AdTech and Robotics.

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