Image source: Garmin

Big new features arrive for Garmin Fenix 8 series in Beta 17.11

June 24, 2025 Ivan Jovin Firmware update, Smartwatch 2 min read

Garmin has started rolling out firmware version 17.11 to a handful of its premium watches, including the Fenix 8 and Enduro 3. This Public Beta update brings over key features from the recently launched Forerunner 970, such as smart wake alarms, emoji keyboards, and adaptive triathlon training.

A Forerunner 970 feature drop, now shared

Version 17.11 is a hefty update. The additions include custom focus modes, adaptive triathlon training, running tolerance, race timer fields for sailing and support for running power metrics in new places like the lactate threshold screen.

There’s also a smarter alarm now, with “Smart Wake” allowing the device to gently bring you out of sleep during a lighter phase. Triathlon tracking gets a boost too, with event support and daily workout suggestions tuned for multisport athletes.

On the more casual side, you’re getting new keyboards, including emoji, Japanese kana and Thai. The watch now supports QWERTY layouts beyond the standard option, making replies and quick notes a little easier. Music controls have been expanded. There’s a calculator app now. And if you swipe left from the watch face, you’ll go straight into your list of apps.

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There are also updates to the Morning and Evening Reports, as well as a decent list of bug fixes. Issues with phone icons, stock widgets, HR sensors, cycling ability crashes, and more have been addressed. Garmin has even tweaked how the Find My Device function works, ensuring it always rings at max volume.

This update is for beta testers only

If you’ve got a Fenix 8, Enduro 3 or a Fenix E model, and you’re part of Garmin’s Public Beta program, you can grab the latest update now. Version 17.11 is available via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth through the ‘Check for Updates’ option on your watch. That’s under Menu > System > Software Update.

It’s worth pointing out that this is not a public release. Only watches enrolled in Garmin’s beta testing program are eligible. These updates usually get pushed automatically later in the cycle, once stability is confirmed. Until then, you’ll need to initiate the download manually if you want to try the new features early.

Garmin keeps adding polish

Garmin is clearly still in full support mode for its high-end watches. These latest features bring more parity across the premium range, and there’s a clear focus on rounding out the experience.

If you’ve been using a Fenix 8 or Enduro 3, this beta update might be worth checking out early. Just keep in mind that beta software can come with glitches of its own, even if the feature list looks tempting.

Here is the full change-log.