Garmin releases fresh Fenix 7 smartwatch update to fix heart rate sensor bug

Garmin is now rolling out Beta Version 20.15 to the Fenix 7 (curr. $429.99 on Amazon) and other associated smartwatches as the sixth update in its v20.xx beta cycle. For context, Beta Version 20.15 follows roughly a week after the debut of Beta Version 20.14, which shipped with half a dozen changes.

By contrast, Garmin lists three this time around, although one line references 'various' undisclosed bug fixes and improvements. In a similar vein, Beta Version 20.15 adds updated translations, again without any further clarification. The new update also introduces a bug fix that prevented heart rate sensors from turning off when battery saver mode is active.

Beta Version 20.15 arrives with its ECG functionality disabled. As a result, it would seem that at least one more beta update will follow before Garmin finalises a fresh stable package. If your Epix 2, Enduro 2, Fenix 7, Marq Gen 2 or Quatix 7 smartwatch remains on an older beta build, you can move it onto Beta Version 20.15 by heading to Menu, System, Software Update and then tapping 'Check for Updates' to bring about its download manually. The full list of changes between Software Version 19.41 and Beta Version 20.15 is as follows:

• Added CIQ System 8: Supports the latest Connect IQ apps, watch faces, and data fields.
• Added connection type information for paired sensors.
• Fixed adding glance folders via Android GCM.
• Fixed crash after panning or zooming in map.
• Fixed devices not entering MTP mode when gaming sensors are enabled.
• Fixed Elevation Alert Tones.
• Fixed headphones not connecting on first attempt.
• Fixed heart rate sensors not turning off in battery saver mode.
• Fixed image drawing for Outdoor Map Plus.
• Fixed possible crash in the Coach widget.
• Fixed possible crash in the smart notification widget.
• Fixed possible crash on structured workouts.
• Fixed potential LiveTrack Crash.
• Improved smart notification widget to marquee long notifications.
• Improved Swim workout rest screen.
• Updated Running Track Database.
• Updated Translations.
• Various bug fixes and improvements.