Garmin has released a new beta firmware update, version 16.37, for its Venu X1, Venu 4, and vivoactive 6 smartwatches, arriving about a month after the previous beta 16.28, which introduced notification snoozing.
This latest update focuses on enhancing the Course Planner feature, promising better route planning performance across all three models, though Garmin has not shared detailed specifics. Additionally, system translation capabilities have been improved to polish the user experience.
Garmin has also addressed key stability issues in 16.37. Two bugs that could cause unexpected crashes-particularly when using headphones or during high-intensity interval training (HIIT)-have been fixed on vivoactive 6 and related devices. Another fix resolves an issue where users were receiving only a single daily goal notification, ensuring more consistent alerts.
Beta testers can manually download the update by navigating through their watch menus:
- Main Menu → Settings → System → Software Update → Check for Updates
For context, these Garmin smartwatch models currently retail for around $295 each.
Improvements to Garmin Course Planner in beta 16.37
The update targets enhanced route planning quality on the Venu X1, Venu 4, and vivoactive 6, improving the navigation experience for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts.
Bug fixes for stability and notification reliability
Key bug fixes in version 16.37 include:
- Fixes for crashes when using headphones
- Resolution of crashes during high-intensity interval training (HIIT)
- Correction of daily goal notification issue, ensuring users receive consistent alerts
Garmin’s smartwatch update strategy compared to competitors
Compared to Apple, Samsung, and Google’s wearables, which frequently update health metrics and app ecosystems, Garmin emphasizes steady refinement of navigation tools and workout stability. This approach underscores its focus on users who prioritize precision and reliability in athletic and outdoor activities.
Future outlook for Garmin smartwatches
It will be interesting to see if Garmin integrates more advanced training analytics or expands smartwatch functionality beyond fitness, potentially bridging the gap with more app-rich competitors. The ongoing beta updates suggest a strategy balancing core athletic features with broader smartwatch appeal.