Garmin adds rucking and passcode to Instinct 3 beta

Garmin has kicked off the first public beta cycle for its Instinct 3 range. The update, version 9.07, brings two noteworthy additions: rucking support and the ability to set a passcode on the device.

This update applies to all Instinct 3 models, whether you’re using the standard solar edition or one of the AMOLED variants. However, the actual changes that come to each version differ. While all models benefit from the new passcode function, rucking support is being added only to the Instinct 3 Solar/AMOLED. 

Rucking finally lands on Instinct 3

Rucking is continuing its slow rollout across Garmin’s ecosystem. It debuted in February with the Tactix 8, then made its way to some Fenix models in March. This latest firmware brings it to a non-Fenix device, but only if you’re using the Solar/AMOLED version of the Instinct 3.

Rucking is essentially a loaded walk or hike. It’s common in military fitness training and has gained popularity among civilians looking for a high-effort but low-impact workout. Garmin’s implementation tracks pack weight, which allows for more accurate effort estimates compared to a normal hike. This update also includes support for that pack weight field, which gets its own setting within the rucking activity profile.

Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets

At this point, it looks like Garmin is positioning rucking as a feature for its more premium devices, which is a bit disappointing. From a hardware perspective, there’s no clear reason why most Garmin watches couldn’t support the activity.

Passcode support arrives across the board

Passcode protection is available on all Instinct 3 variants with this update. It’s a basic PIN-based system that activates when the watch is removed and re-worn. While it’s not meant to block advanced tampering, it does add a welcome layer of security — especially if you’re using Garmin Pay or simply want to keep your data a bit more private.

We covered how to set up and use the new passcode system earlier this year. It’s easy to enable through the watch’s settings and doesn’t interfere with daily use once set up. Unlike phone-style security, there’s no lockout timer or biometrics — just a simple code that gets you in when needed.

Other fixes and tweaks worth noting

The full change log includes support for Garmin Connect+, Breathing Variations, along with a spread of fixes and smaller updates across the different Instinct 3 variants.

All products:

• Added support for Garmin Connect+ .
• Added support for Breathing Variations.
• Added Passcode support.
• Added support for additional locations in Weather glance.
• Fixed possible freeze when viewing daily summary.

Solar/E:

• Added Daily Suggested Workouts to Workouts app.
• Fixed possible crashes during GPS activities.
• Fixed issue where HR glance could not be accessed when WHR was disabled.
• Fixed access to activities from History glance.
• Fixed issue where battery estimate would incorrectly display “Low” during indoor activities.
• Fixed issue where battery estimate would not adjust correctly when editing power mode.

Solar/AMOLED:

• Added Rucking activity.
• Added Support for Pack Weight.
• Various Gaming activity fixes and improvements.
• Fixed courses not appearing in race widget.
• Fixed Jump Mode missing from Jump Rope activity settings.
• Fixed issue where device could not connect to PC after using the Gaming activity.

AMOLED:

• Added morning report greeting page animations.
• Fixed done button missing from coordinate entry page.
• Fixed crash in pool swim activity.
• Fixed watch face barometer trend data field.
• Fixed issue with battery saver watch face.
• Fixed flashlight controls flickering when using CIQ watch face.

How to get it

This is the first proper test cycle for Instinct 3 since its launch earlier this year, so more beta builds are likely to follow in the weeks ahead. To check for the update manually, go to Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates on your watch. If you’re enrolled in the beta program, version 9.07 should show up as available.

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