While Forerunner users enjoy new stable builds, Garmin is hard at work refining the next major update for its rugged Instinct 3, Instinct E, and Instinct Crossover smartwatches through its Beta Program.
In a familiar rhythm of software updates, Garmin has split its focus this month, finalizing stable firmware for a host of its popular Forerunner models while pushing forward with beta testing for its durable Instinct line. The company has just released Beta Version 12.18 for the Instinct 3, Instinct E, and Instinct Crossover, marking the third beta iteration as it works toward a future stable release.
This latest beta build zeroes in on critical connectivity and resolves a suite of minor software gremlins, suggesting Garmin is in the final stages of polishing the v12.xx software before a widespread public rollout.
A Tale of Two Update Channels: Stable for Forerunner, Beta for Instinct
The current software landscape at Garmin is a study in contrast. Watches like the Forerunner 255, 570, and 970 are now receiving polished, stable updates, meaning the vast majority of users can download them with confidence directly from their Garmin Connect app.
For the Instinct series, however, the journey isn't over. Since the foundation of System Software 10.36 was laid in mid-September, Garmin has been diligently testing subsequent v12.xx builds with its Beta Program participants. This multi-build process is standard for Garmin, which thoroughly stress-tests new features and fixes with a smaller group before deeming the software ready for everyone.
Given the current pace, it's unlikely we'll see a new stable update for the Instinct 3 and its siblings until the holiday season. For eager users, enrolling in the public Beta Program is the only way to access these latest improvements early.
What’s New in Beta Version 12.18? InReach Connectivity Takes Center Stage
The headline improvement in this release addresses a key feature for adventurers: seamless connectivity with Garmin's inReach satellite communicators. Beta Version 12.18 specifically targets and resolves potential connectivity issues when using an inReach Remote, such as the popular inReach Messenger Satellite Communicator.
This fix is crucial for hikers, climbers, and backcountry explorers who rely on the robust communication link between their watch and satellite device for safety and coordination. For those looking to pair their Instinct with a communicator, the inReach Messenger is a prime choice.
Check the current price and availability of the inReach Messenger Satellite Communicator on Amazon.
This beta update is distributed Over-The-Air (OTA) and will automatically reach enrolled devices via Garmin Connect Mobile or Garmin Express.
A Deep Dive into the Changelog: From Health Status to Stuck Watch Hands
While the inReach fix is the marquee change, Beta Version 12.18 is a substantial update that builds upon the features introduced in previous beta and stable builds. The comprehensive changelog, which consolidates recent improvements, includes:
For All Instinct 3, E, and Crossover Models:
- Health Status Support: This significant addition provides insights into health data changes and overall wellbeing, displayed prominently in the Garmin Connect app.
- Proximity Alert Editing: Users can now edit custom and proximity alerts directly from the Garmin Connect Mobile (GCM) app.
- BLE Sensor Updates: Added support for updating sensor software seamlessly over Bluetooth Low Energy.
- UI and Bug Fixes: Improvements to the Area Calc app UI, fixes for interval alerts, messenger glance duplicates, incorrect units, flat course elevation plots, and optical heart rate (OHR) enabling issues.
Model-Specific Refinements:
The update also brings a host of targeted fixes:
- For Solar & Instinct E Models: Added new data fields for Steps, Pulse Ox, and Recovery Time to watch faces. Fixed battery drain issues with Connect IQ watch faces, software update visibility, and glitches in the Weather and DogTrack apps.
- For AMOLED Models (like the Instinct E): Added support for HRM Pace & Distance over BLE, and added UTC and barometer data fields to more watch faces. Fixed animations on the Morning Report and Workout screens for the 45 mm model.
- For Solar-Only Models: Fixed crashes when viewing Daily Suggested Workouts and corrected the load ratio graph indicator.
- For the Instinct Crossover (Hybrid Analog): Added an additional watch face design and fixed a range of unique issues, including watch hands becoming stuck after an activity, sensor menu problems, and the barometer chart scale.
For a complete list of changes and to join the discussion with other beta testers, you can visit the official announcement on the Garmin forums.
Read the full official announcement for Beta Version 12.18 on the Garmin Forums.
The Bottom Line
Garmin's commitment to ongoing software support continues to impress, ensuring that even watches released months ago continue to gain new features and refinements. The latest beta for the Instinct series is a clear sign that Garmin is listening to user feedback, squashing bugs, and enhancing the core experience—especially for those who rely on their gear in the most demanding environments. While the wait for a stable update continues, Beta Version 12.18 is a promising step forward, making these rugged watches even more reliable and feature-packed.