Garmin releases major new update for high-end smartwatches

In recent weeks, Garmin has furnished many of its recent smartwatch releases with new updates. Now, it is the turn of the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro (curr. $734.99 on Amazon), which have been left on System Software 25.11 since the end of January for those running stable software. In the intervening period, Garmin has been developing a v26.xx replacement on its Beta Program, culminating in Beta Version 26.09 almost two weeks ago.

As expected, the company has transitioned this firmware to its stable channel, which it is distributing globally as System Software 26.09. For reference, the new update is also rolling out to the Enduro 2, Epix 2 and Marq Gen 2, among others. As far as we can tell, Garmin has delivered the same twelve changes to all eligible smartwatches, of which ten are bug fixes. Additionally, System Software 26.09 introduces Rally 110 and Rally 210 support as its sole new feature.

Moreover, the new update updates the Upload RAM option so that it only displays when a smartwatch is connected to Garmin Connect. Garmin claims to have resolved multiple frequently-complained-about issues too, including ones affecting the Coach app and music playback that could cause smartwatches to shut down unexpectedly. Currently, Garmin claims to have offered System Software 26.09 to around 20% of eligible smartwatches. Hence, it could take a few days before the update reaches your Enduro 2, Epix 2 or Fenix 7. The full list of changes between v25.11 and v26.09 is as follows:

• Added Rally 110/210 Support.
• Fixed an issue where setting a custom GPS configuration for certain activity profiles would not save.
• Fixed an issue where text in the Solar Intensity widget was missing a proper translation.
• Fixed an issue where the compass calibration tutorial video would sometimes not display.
• Fixed an issue where the Daily Suggested Workout would sometimes display invalid data for the target type.
• Fixed an issue where the Stages Power Meter would sometimes not pair.
• Fixed an issue where the text listing the estimated Training Effect did not fit on the screen when the watch is configured to German.
• Fixed an issue where the watch face would sometimes erroneously switch to battery saver mode.
• Fixed an issue where the watch might shutdown in the Garmin Coach app.
• Fixed an issue where the watch would sometimes shutdown when skipping music.
• Fixed text irregularities between the watch and Garmin Connect in the Power Manager app.
• Update the Upload RAM option to only display when the watch is connected to Garmin Connect.