Garmin releases major new update to high-end smartwatches with more than a dozen features and improvements

Garmin has finally released a new stable update for the Fenix 8 and the cheaper Fenix E (curr. $615 on Amazon). Arriving in the wake of the Fenix 9 and Fenix 9 Pro, System Software 23.31 is the first new stable update since System Software 22.44 from late August.

However, the new update is the first major release in almost four months. As we discussed last month, System Software 22.44 was one of several interim updates to rectify issues found after introducing System Software 22.35 in May. Setting that aside, Garmin is currently not offering System Software 23.31 to the Enduro 3 or Pro-branded smartwatches like the Fenix 8 Pro or Quatix 8 Pro.

Also, it claims to have offered the new update to approximately 20% of eligible smartwatches so far. Typically, Garmin takes a few days to finish a full software rollout. In the meantime, one can request the update manually by navigating through the main menu to Settings, System and Software Update before tapping 'Check for Updates'.

Across several forum posts, Garmin reports that System Software 23.31 introduces 18 new changes to the Fenix 8 series. Of those, four are new features, including the option of sharing Dive Computer settings from within the Garmin Share app. Additionally, the company has bundled numerous bug fixes aimed at improving Garmin Coach and workout experiences. The full changelog between System Software 22.44 and System Software 23.31 is as follows:

• Adds a suggested quick workout for running.
• Adds context to volume control.
• Adds dive computer settings sharing in the Garmin Share app.
• Adds the XC Ski Indoor activity.
• Fixes an issue that could cause music volume to increase after an alarm sounds.
• Fixes an issue that could cause the device to reset during a strength activity free workout.
• Fixes an issue that could cause the device to reset when installing audio prompt software and host software simultaneously.
• Fixes an issue that could result in pace/speed dropouts, especially during interval training.
• Fixes an issue where the training days shown on the watch might not match the days shown in the Garmin Coach plan.
• Fixes an issue with not being able to start a suggested multisport workout.
• Fixes an issue with selecting rest days for daily suggested or Garmin Coach plan workouts.
• Fixes other minor issues.
• Fixes the on-screen lap shortcut no longer showing in HIIT workouts.
• Fixes volume level not returning to the correct setting after water ejection.
• Improves the flashlight shortcut to cycle through the on, off, and strobe modes during an activity.
• Reduces false unlocks when using the touch lock feature.
• Supports Xero range and sensor data in the Applied Ballistics app.
• Updates translations.