Tech-savvy Garmin users, rejoice! The company has begun rolling out a significant new Beta update (version 17.18) for its premium Fenix 7 series (including 7 Pro/Solar), Epix 2 series (including Pro/Solar), and the Quatix 7 smartwatches. While packed with various tweaks and fixes, the standout enhancement centers on making Focus Mode a more practical and powerful tool for daily life.
Focus Mode, designed to minimize distractions by silencing notifications and limiting watch face interactions, is receiving substantial usability improvements in this Beta release. Users have long appreciated its intent but sometimes found its activation slightly cumbersome. This update directly addresses that feedback.
Key Focus Mode Improvements:
- Simpler Activation: Accessing Focus Mode is now significantly quicker. Users can assign it directly to a hot key or add it as a dedicated widget, bypassing multiple menu layers.
- Smarter Profiles: Setting up tailored Focus profiles (e.g., "Work," "Sleep," "Meeting") is reportedly more intuitive, allowing users to fine-tune exactly which notifications, if any, are allowed to break through.
- Contextual Awareness (Beta): Early testing suggests Garmin is experimenting with making Focus Mode slightly more context-aware, potentially linking it more seamlessly with calendar events or sleep schedules, though this requires further user feedback to solidify.
Beyond Focus: Other Notable Changes in Beta 17.18:
This update isn't just about focus. Garmin has included a range of other refinements based on community feedback:
- Activity & Training: Fixes related to golf course updates, potential improvements to workout metric accuracy during specific activities, and resolution for an issue where the watch could display "0" for ascent/descent during a saved course.
- Connect IQ: Enhanced stability and compatibility for Connect IQ apps and watch faces, aiming to reduce crashes or unexpected behavior.
- System & Sensors: General system stability improvements, potential tweaks to optical heart rate sensor algorithms for specific scenarios, and fixes for minor bugs like incorrect text display in certain menus or map drawing issues.
- Morning Report: Improved reliability of the popular Morning Report summary screen.
Important Notes for Potential Testers:
- Beta Status: This is Beta software. While Garmin's beta programs are generally stable, testers should expect occasional bugs, glitches, or battery drain. It's not recommended for mission-critical use or if you rely on absolute stability.
- Rollout Method: The update uses a "Check for Updates Only" mechanism. Eligible users need to manually check for updates via Garmin Express (computer) or directly on the watch via Settings > System > Software Update > Check for Updates.
- Eligible Devices: Confirmed for Fenix 7 series (Base, S, X, Solar, Sapphire Solar, Pro models), Epix 2 series (Gen 2, including Pro/Sapphire), and Quatix 7.
- Details & Installation: For the complete, official changelog and detailed installation instructions, refer to the official Garmin forum announcement:
- https://forums.garmin.com/beta-program/fenix-8-series/f/announcements/417390/beta-version-17-18--check-for-updates-only
The Verdict:
Garmin's commitment to refining its flagship wearables continues with Beta 17.18. The substantial improvements to Focus Mode directly tackle user requests, potentially transforming it from a niche feature into a genuinely useful daily tool for managing digital distractions. Combined with numerous under-the-hood fixes and stability improvements, this update represents another positive step forward for Fenix and Epix owners willing to test the cutting edge.
Ready to try the latest Beta? Check for updates now! And if you're looking to join the Garmin flagship family, you can explore the latest Fenix and Epix models here: https://amzn.to/4o2DXIb.
*(Affiliate link disclaimer: The Amazon link above is an affiliate link. If you purchase through this link, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.)
Post a Comment