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| Garmin has issued three beta updates for the Tactix 8 and co. in as many weeks. |
Garmin continues its brisk pace of software refinements for its latest flagship wearables, pushing out a new beta update for the Fenix 8, Fenix 8 Pro, and related models like the Tactix 8 (curr. $1,299.99 on Amazon). This move follows closely on the heels of previous beta builds, signaling an active development phase as the company polishes the experience for its high-end sport and adventure watches.
The newest release, Beta Version 21.19, arrives just days after version 21.18 began addressing a heart rate variability (HRV) monitoring issue. While Garmin has kept notable features like Aviation, Dive, and ECG disabled during this beta cycle, the focus remains squarely on squashing bugs and improving core reliability.
According to a detailed forum post from Garmin, Beta Version 21.19 targets two specific user experience hiccups. For owners of models with Memory-in-Pixel (MiP) displays, the update aims to resolve a problem where data fields could appear blank on the map split screen—a fix that will be welcome for navigation-heavy users. Additionally, the build addresses a bug that prevented the Backcountry Ski activity summary from displaying Max Speed and Mileage data post-workout, a key metric for analyzing off-piste sessions.
Garmin announced the update in a post on its community forums, stating the rollout is happening Over-The-Air (OTA) to devices enrolled in the Beta Program. The company noted that 50% of eligible watches have already received the download notification, with the rest expected to get it in the coming days.
You can read the official announcement from Garmin here: Beta Version 21.19 - Available OTA.
This steady stream of beta updates suggests Garmin is in the final stages of testing before a broader, stable release. The volume of changes in recent weeks, from version 21.16's four bug fixes to the latest adjustments, indicates that the company is gathering significant feedback. While the timeline for a final, stable version remains unconfirmed, the active development throughout February points to a likely public release in the near future.
For those looking to get into the Garmin ecosystem or upgrade to these capable tools, the Fenix 8 series and Tactix 8 represent the peak of the brand's multisport and tactical offerings. You can check the latest pricing and availability for the Garmin Tactix 8 on Amazon.
As always, beta software comes with the caveat that some instability may occur. Enthusiasts who have opted into the program are encouraged to report any new issues they encounter to help Garmin deliver a rock-solid final update for all users.