Garmin releases first major update for mid-range smartwatches to address new smartwatch crashes

Garmin has now started testing what will become the first major software update for the Venu 4. Released less than a month ago (curr. $549 on Amazon), the Venu 4 has only received stable updates so far with v14.xx build numbers. For instance, Garmin moved its latest mid-range smartwatches to Software Version 14.12 last week with fixes for bugs that shipped within Software Version 14.10.

Now, Garmin has kicked off its Venu 4 Beta Program with Beta 15.08. According to the company's forum post, one must install the Venu 4's first beta build by navigating through the Main menu, Settings, System and Software update on a Beta Program-enrolled smartwatch before tapping 'Check for Updates'. Also, it is worth keeping in mind that this beta disables ECG functionality.

As with its other smartwatches, Garmin will re-enable ECG when it is preparing to transition v15.xx development to its stable software branch. Unfortunately, the company has not indicated when that will be the case yet. In the meantime, Garmin has sought to resolve more outstanding bugs, including one that causes system crashes when receiving multiple smart notifications concurrently. Moreover, the Venu 4 can be powered down without entering a passcode once updated to Beta 15.08, too. The full Beta 15.08 changelog from Software Version 14.12 is as follows:

• Allows the device to be powered down without entering a passcode
• Fixes an issue that could cause a voice note to be replayed at half speed
• Fixes an issue that could cause the device to reboot when receiving multiple smart notifications in a row
• Fixes an issue that could cause the notification number on the watch face to be incorrect
• Fixes an issue that could cause the speaker to be muted or for the device to reboot after attempting to answer a phone call while playing music through the speakers
• Fixes an issue that could result in the evening report not displaying at the proper time
• Reduces click sound at the beginning of a voice note
• Various bug fixes and improvements