Garmin Releases Comprehensive Beta Update for Enduro 3 and Fenix 8

Garmin has recently released a massive beta update for its top models, the Enduro 3 and Fenix 8 series, including the Fenix E and Tactix 8. This update, version 17.11, introduces a total of 28 new features to these devices through their public beta program.

I am pesonally looking most forward to the sideswipe feature to access the music player and music controls more easily as well as the evening report feature from the recent Garmin 950 and 970. It will be interesting to see if the calculator app is an actual quality of life improvement or just a gimmick. Garmin pay and the LED flashlight were both features I thought were gimmicks. I use both almost on a daily basis.

How to Get the Beta Update

To access the new beta version, you must first sign up for Garmin's beta program. This can be done easily through Garmin Connect on a computer by logging in, clicking the watch icon in the top right corner, selecting your device, and clicking "Join the beta software program." Once registered, you can download the update via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth by navigating to Main Menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check for Updates.

New Interface Features

Improved Navigation and App Access One of the most noticeable changes is the ability to access the app list by swiping left on the watch face, making it easier to find your favorite apps. Additionally, Garmin has added a brand-new calculator app, which is the first time this type of app has been available on Garmin devices.

Advanced Keyboard Features The update introduces significant improvements to text input with several new keyboard options:

• An Emoji keyboard for more expressive communication.

• A Japanese Kana keyboard for Japanese users.

• A Thai keyboard for Thai-speaking users.

• Multiple QWERTY keyboard layouts for better customization.

These keyboards build on previous beta features that had already introduced a QWERTY keyboard with text prediction for English-speaking users.

Training and Health Features

Smart Wake Alarm One of the most exciting new features is the Smart Wake Alarm, originally launched on the Garmin Vivoactive 6. This function creates a 30-minute window to wake you at the optimal time based on your sleep phases, helping to prevent the grogginess associated with waking during deep sleep.

Triathlon and Multisport Support The update brings comprehensive support for triathlon training through adaptive training plans. This feature includes:

• Structured and adaptive training programs that create a balanced mix of swimming, cycling, and running.

• Multisport workout support that allows you to practice transitions between disciplines.

• Triathlon race event support for specific competitions.

Advanced Running Metrics

Several new running metrics have been added, including:

Running Economy This metric shows the energy cost of aerobic running and helps runners understand how efficiently they use energy during a run.

Running Tolerance Running Tolerance is a tool designed to help runners build up mileage while balancing the risk of injury with performance improvements. The feature tracks the body's ability to handle impact by comparing your recent biomechanical load against a personal threshold.

Step Speed Loss Step Speed Loss measures how much you slow down when your foot hits the ground while running. This metric requires the Garmin HRM 600 and is expressed in centimeters per second or as a percentage of your total running speed.

Personal and Lifestyle Features

Custom Focus Modes Garmin has expanded its focus mode feature, which was launched last summer. Users can now create custom focus modes, allowing them to configure various settings for different situations, such as activity, rest, or work-related contexts.

Improved Reports The update includes support for an evening report, which mirrors the popular morning report. The evening report appears before you typically go to bed and reminds you of your sleep goal, upcoming workouts, and calendar events. The expanded morning report support also provides more comprehensive information upon waking, including the weather forecast, sleep data, and nightly heart rate variability status.

Specialized Activities

Sailing Features For those who enjoy sailing, the update introduces several new features:

• A Race Timer data field for the sail race activity to help with timing the start line.

• A Tack Assist data page in sailing activities to help determine if your boat is being lifted or headed by wind changes.

Golf Improvements The update adds a settings menu for the Golf Range Finder, providing better control over golf measurement functions.

Performance Updates and Technical Enhancements

Improved Glances Performance Glance updates provide more detailed insight into training data and performance metrics directly from your wrist.

Music Control New music options have been added to the Music More Controls page, giving you better control over music playback.

Support for Track/Road Transitions The update adds support for automatic transitions between track and road running, making it easier to record varied running sessions.

Disclaimers and Important Notes

It is important to note that this is a beta update, which means the features are still under testing and may contain bugs. Garmin advises that users should anticipate potential issues and may want to wait for the stable release if they prioritize reliability over early access to new features.

I prioritze stability over new features for long haul tracking. My worst fear is the watch restarting during a long tracking session and my data permanently lost. Hopefulle the release fo the beta now will lead to a stable release as early as august or the fall of 2025.

This update is one of the most comprehensive feature packs Garmin has ever released for its premium sports watches, combining features from newer models like the Forerunner 970 and Venu X1 with brand-new functionalities never before seen on Garmin devices. For existing owners of the Fenix 8 and Enduro 3, this update represents a significant value increase at no extra cost, reaffirming Garmin's commitment to supporting its premium devices with continuous software updates.

FULL CANGELOG New Features

• Ability to Access Apps List by Swiping Left on the Watch Face

• Calculator App

• Editing for All Previous Sets in Strength

• Japanese Kana Keyboard

• Music Options to Music More Controls Page

• Support for Track/Road Display Transitions

• Track Run Option for Daily Suggested Workouts

New Features (Previously on Other Devices)

• Custom Focus Modes

• Emoji Keyboard (for Android text responses)

• Evening Report Support

• Expanded Morning Report Support

• Garmin alerts to Notification Center

• Golf Range Finder Settings Menu

• More QWERTY Keyboard Layouts

• Multisport Workout Support

• New Help Dialogs for Breathing Variations

• Performance Glance Updates

• Provisional Finish Point Support

• Race Timer Data Field to Sail Race Activity

• Running Economy Support

• Running Power to the Lactate Threshold Page

• Running Tolerance Support

• Smart Wake Alarm

• Step Speed Loss Support

• Tack Assist Data Page in Sailing Activities

• Thai Keyboard

• Triathlon Adaptive Training Plan Support

• Triathlon Race Events Support

Source courtecy of DC Rainmaker