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Garmin smartwatch users get over ten new features in update

Garmin’s Forerunner 970 smartwatch is receiving software v16.28
ⓘ Garmin
Garmin’s Forerunner 970 smartwatch is receiving software v16.28
Garmin is rolling out software version 16.28 to some of its running smartwatches. This stable release brings a range of new features to users, including a battery performance glance and more training plans. Plus, insights have been added to the sleep glance, and there are more alarm sounds to choose from.

The Garmin Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches are receiving a stable update. Software version 16.28 appears to mark the end of the 16.xx beta testing cycle, which began in December 2025.

Software version 16.28 brings over ten new features to these Garmin Forerunner smartwatches. There are four new glances: one to track your weight, one with an overview of battery life and performance, one for your favorite sports teams, and another showing how your daily habits might be impacting your health. Plus, the sleep glance now shows a recommended bedtime and wake time.

Garmin has added a series of new training plans for timed workouts, cardio workouts and strength workouts. There are additional settings for color filters and voice alerts, as well as more alarm sounds. On top of this, smart notifications can now be paused until after your activity, a feature which is controlled via the stage menu. The update also tackles bugs linked to indoor cycling, the music player and Wi-Fi uploads. You can find the complete change log in the screenshot below.

According to a Garmin Forum post, software version 16.28 is now available for around 50% of users of the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches (curr. from $719.99 at Amazon). The rollout should be completed in the near future. To download this update, go to the Main Menu > System > Software Update > Check For Updates.

The software version 16.28 change log for the Garmin Forerunner 970
ⓘ Garmin
The software version 16.28 change log for the Garmin Forerunner 970

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > News > News Archive > Newsarchive 2026 02 > Garmin smartwatch users get over ten new features in update
Polly Allcock, 2026-02-13 (Update: 2026-02-13)