If you’re a dedicated runner with a Garmin Forerunner on your wrist, there’s a fresh software update making the rounds. Garmin has begun seeding a new beta update, version 26.07, to a selection of its popular Forerunner smartwatches, just a few weeks after the same models received their inaugural v26.xx builds.
This latest update appears to be a focused refinement release, primarily addressing a known issue with the popular Garmin Coach adaptive training plans. For owners of the Forerunner 255, Forerunner 955, Forerunner 165, Forerunner 265, and Forerunner 965, this is a welcome step towards a more stable and reliable user experience.
What’s New in Beta Version 26.07?
As with many beta updates, the official changelog provided by Garmin is succinct. The company bundles a number of under-the-hood tweaks under the umbrella of "various bug fixes and improvements." While it's always nice to have a detailed list of every single code change, this general description is common for beta cycles that focus on stability and squashing minor bugs that slipped through previous updates.
However, Garmin does highlight one very specific and frustrating fix that will be a relief to many:
- Resolved Garmin Coach Workout Display Issue: The update "addresses an issue that could cause some Garmin Coach workouts to appear blank."
This particular bug could disrupt a runner’s training flow, forcing them to guess their workout for the day or manually create a session. By fixing this, Garmin ensures that the personalized coaching feature—a major selling point for these watches—remains seamless and user-friendly.
A Closer Look at the Affected Forerunner Models
This update continues to refine the experience on some of Garmin's most successful running watches. The lineup includes the feature-packed Forerunner 965 with its brilliant AMOLED display, the also-AMOLED Forerunner 265, and the versatile Forerunner 255. It also encompasses the higher-end Forerunner 955 and the more accessible, yet highly capable, Forerunner 165.
For those interested in the entry-point to the Garmin ecosystem, the Forerunner 165 (currently available on Amazon for $249) represents a fantastic value, and receiving these consistent updates proves Garmin's commitment to its entire user base.
The Beta Process: What to Expect Next
For those not familiar with Garmin's software rollout process, a "beta" update is a pre-release version of the software. It's made available to users who have opted into the Beta Program to help Garmin identify any unforeseen issues before the update is pushed to the entire stable of watch owners.
The current release is Beta Version 26.07. If you are part of the beta program, you can expect the update to arrive on your device over the coming days. You can manually check for it by navigating to Settings > System > Software Update on your watch.
Garmin has not announced an official timeline for when this version will transition from the beta channel to the stable, public release. However, looking at recent update cycles, some industry watchers speculate that 26.07 could potentially be the final beta iteration before a stable rollout. This means that if no major bugs are reported by beta testers, all owners of these Forerunner models could receive this polished update in the relatively near future.
Direct Source Links for Beta Testers
If you are a beta tester and want to read the official announcements and release notes straight from the source, you can find them on the Garmin forums:
- Forerunner 255 Series: Public Beta Version 26.07
- Forerunner 955 Series: Public Beta Version 26.07
- Forerunner 165 Series: Public Beta Version 26.07
- Forerunner 265 Series: Public Beta Version 26.07
- Forerunner 965: Public Beta Version 26.07
As always, if you rely on your watch for critical, uninterrupted training, you may want to wait for the stable release. But for enthusiasts who enjoy being on the cutting edge and contributing to the product's refinement, this update is now available for testing.
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