Seattle, WA – Garmin has rolled out a new beta firmware update (version 10.18) addressing a widely reported flashlight malfunction on its Instinct 3 series smartwatches. The fix comes after weeks of user complaints about the flashlight feature sporadically failing to activate or dimming unexpectedly during use—a frustrating hiccup for outdoor enthusiasts relying on the tool during pre-dawn hikes or emergencies.
According to the official beta release notes, the patch optimizes the flashlight’s power management system and resolves a software conflict that caused erratic behavior. Engineers also fine-tuned gesture controls to prevent accidental triggers—a secondary annoyance noted in community forums.
"This beta directly tackles the root cause of the flashlight instability," a Garmin community manager confirmed in the beta announcement thread, urging testers to submit feedback before the stable release.
The update, available over-the-air (OTA) to beta participants, includes minor battery optimizations unrelated to the flashlight. Early testers on Reddit and Garmin’s forums report immediate improvements, with one user noting, "Finally, no more frantic wrist-shaking just to get light during a campsite bathroom run."
For those new to Garmin’s rugged lineup, the Instinct 3’s built-in LED flashlight (activated via a long-press of the top-left button) is a signature feature, offering adjustable brightness and strobe modes. The glitch had marred an otherwise well-reviewed device.
Interested in trying the beta? Enroll via Garmin Connect IQ. If you’re shopping for an Instinct 3, the latest model is available on Amazon starting at $349.
Garmin stresses that beta software may contain bugs and advises against installing it on primary devices. The stable rollout is expected in late August.
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