New Garmin smartwatch beta update points to upcoming stable release

Garmin has released beta version 26.09 for the Fenix 7, Epix, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and MARQ Gen 2 smartwatches. It arrives a couple of weeks after the brand launched its 26.07 update for these wearables, including several bug fixes.

The key difference between the Garmin beta version 26.07 and 26.09 update is that the ECG feature is now enabled. During beta testing, Garmin typically disables this heart rhythm tracking tool. This development suggests that a stable version of the 26.xx could soon roll out to all users of the Fenix 7 and related smartwatches.

Otherwise, the change log for the Fenix 7 beta version 26.09 release is almost identical. It lists three bug fixes, one of which tackles an issue with the Power Manager app where the text on the watch did not match that shown in the Garmin Connect app. A problem which could cause these smartwatches to shut down when using the Garmin Coach app has been resolved, as has Fixed text irregularities between the watch and Garmin Connect in the Power Manager app. Plus, a bug linked to button navigation for the InReach Widget is said to be fixed.

The Garmin Fenix 7 beta version 26.09 update is rolling out to eligible users over the air (OTA). This means that, when connected to your phone, this update should be installed automatically. It remains to be seen precisely when a stable version of the 26.xx software will become available for all users of the Fenix 7 smartwatch (Fenix 7X Pro Solar curr. $545.53 at Amazon Marketplace).