Garmin kicks off Q3 update cycle: New features, fixed power profiles
Garmin has just released the first alpha/early beta firmware update of its latest quarterly cycle, bringing a host of new features and improvements to select Garmin watch models. This update, version 18.09, is currently available for Fenix 7 series, Epix series, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and MARQ Gen 2 watches.
As this is an early beta release, users need to be part of Garmin’s Beta testing group to access the update. Which means that this update won’t install automatically – you’ll need to manually initiate the installation through your watch’s settings. But you probably know that by now.
Garmin firmware version 18.09: what’s new?
One of the most notable additions in this update is the Garmin Share app, previously available only on Garmin’s bike computers. This feature now allows watch users to share waypoints, workouts, and courses directly between compatible Garmin devices.
The update also introduces a “Dark Mode” for maps and a “Popularity” toggle in map settings, providing users with more customization options for their navigation experience. Garmin says it has made improvements to race time predictions, with early reports suggesting these are now more optimistic. My experience is that these types of predictions have never been great.
While not officially mentioned in the changelog, users are reporting that power profiles have finally been fixed – a welcome improvement. Additionally, editing profiles from Garmin Connect now works seamlessly, addressing a issue for many users. The bug appeared in the beta’s since 17.10. If you have created a custom power profile for an activity, the beta versions will not apply it when you start the activity and will instead use the default profile.
Strangely enough, on the Garmin forums one of the company’s engineers posted the following yesterday: “Our engineers are aware and are investigating the concern with power modes not being used during activities. They are looking to a future software update to address. However, at this time, there are not any updates as to when this will be resolved.”
Other notable improvements include fixes for GPS tracking during snowshoe activities, enhancements to the golf glance feature, and various bug fixes related to Wi-Fi connectivity and screen display.
You can view the full change-log on Garmin’s website.
New Garmin watches to land soon
Looking ahead, the rumor mill is buzzing with excitement about upcoming Garmin releases. A few different retailer leaks suggest that the Fenix 8 series might debut in early September, just ahead of IFA in Berlin.
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The big news? The Fenix 8 is expected to feature an AMOLED display, effectively replacing the current Epix range. For those who prefer the traditional display technology, a Fenix 8 E variant with an MIP display is also rumored to be in the works at a more budget-friendly price point. Lastly, whispers of an Instinct 3 variant are circulating, hinting at an exciting lineup of new Garmin watches in the near future. Of course, none of this has been confirmed by Garmin so take it all with a pinch of salt!
As always, users are encouraged to provide feedback on this beta release. This helps Garmin iron out the bugs before public release.
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