Garmin expands passcode feature beyond Garmin Pay: Here’s how it works

Garmin has added a new passcode feature to select watches, giving users more control over their device’s security. Previously, the passcode was only required for Garmin Pay, but now it can be used more broadly to lock the watch when removed from the wrist.

Now that the whole fiasco with the Garmin GPS bug is behind us, we can turn our attention to new updates. And there’s currently one rolling out that adds this feature on the Fenix 8, Enduro 3, and Fenix E as part of Beta Version 20.13. For Forerunner models, even though it is not mentioned in the change-log, it is included in Beta Version 22.18.

The change allows users to either disable the passcode, keep it on only for Garmin Pay, or enable it whenever the watch is removed. So it is entirely up to you and entirely optional. If you already use Garmin Pay, you won’t need to set up a new passcode—your existing one will now apply whenever the watch is taken off and put back on. As long as you have enabled the setting.


How to set up or change your passcode

The passcode settings can be accessed directly on the watch by long-pressing the middle left button, navigating to System, and selecting Passcode. From there, you can enable or disable the feature or change the four-digit code.

Garmin Passcode

If you prefer using the Garmin Connect app, you’ll find the option under Garmin Pay in your device settings. This is also where you can entirely reset your Garmin Pay functionality.


A few things to watch out for

Garmin has shared some important notes about this feature. If you need to change your passcode on the watch, make sure the device is actively connected via Bluetooth to Garmin Connect Mobile (GCM). Also, if you enter the wrong passcode too many times, the watch will reset to factory settings, wiping all personal data. This reset behavior is temporary and will be removed once Garmin ensures most users have received the GCM 5.9 update.

If you’re not seeing the update in your phone’s app store yet, be cautious when using the passcode feature with the older GCM 5.8 version. Some of the passcode management features are only available in GCM 5.9, so you may prefer to wait for the update before making any changes.

Having said that, I enabled the feature this morning on GCM 5.8 and experienced no issues. I set the passcode and it worked perfectly when the watch was removed. After a few seconds of inactivity the device would not switch on until I entered the correct 4 digit number.

As I do not use Garmin Pay, this is a feature I do not see myself using. But it is good to know that it is there – in case I change my mind and want the extra security.

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Ivan Jovin

Ivan has been a tech journalist for over 7 years now, covering all kinds of technology issues. He is the guy who gets to dive deep into the latest wearable tech news.

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