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| Several Garmin smartwatches are receiving a new software update |
Garmin has begun rolling out a significant beta firmware update for its premium Fenix 8 smartwatch lineup, but the new software comes with a notable catch that might make some users think twice before hitting "install."
The new beta version 23.11 is now available for a select group of Garmin's flagship wearables, including the Fenix 8 AMOLED (available on Amazon), the Fenix 8 Solar, the Tactix 8 AMOLED, the Enduro 3, and the Quatix 8. While the update brings a handful of welcome quality-of-life improvements, it also temporarily disables some core health and adventure features.
The Catch: Diving and ECG Disabled
Because this is a beta release, Garmin has implemented some significant limitations. Diving features are completely disabled in version 23.11, and perhaps more concerning for health-conscious users, ECG recording and analysis are no longer available.
If you're a beta program member, don't expect the update to arrive automatically. Instead, you'll need to manually request it through the Garmin forums—a process that requires you to be aware of the trade-offs before making the leap.
A Warning for Indoor Climbers
Indoor climbers should exercise particular caution before installing this beta. Garmin has issued a specific warning that the watch may crash during indoor climbing activities after updating to version 23.11. The company has acknowledged the issue and says it plans to fix it in a future software release, but for now, avid climbers might want to sit this one out.
What's New in Version 23.11
Despite the limitations, Garmin has packed several new features into this beta update that address user feedback and enhance the overall experience:
- Share Dive Settings: Dive computer settings can now be shared via Garmin Share, making it easier to transfer configurations between devices or share them with dive buddies.
- Spontaneous Running Workouts: Users can now get a quick suggestion for an impromptu running workout, perfect for those days when you need a little motivation but don't want to spend time planning a session.
- Expanded Volume Controls: Garmin has expanded the volume controls, giving users more granular control over audio output during activities or media playback.
- Improved Navigation: During navigation, it is now possible to switch between north-up and route-oriented map views with a simple tap on the touchscreen—a small but meaningful improvement for hikers and explorers.
Bug Fixes and Stability
Beyond the new features, Garmin says the update fixes numerous bugs, including several potential causes of unexpected restarts or shutdowns. For users who have been experiencing stability issues with previous versions, this beta might offer relief—provided they're willing to accept the temporary loss of ECG and diving capabilities.
How to Get the Beta
Beta program members can find the update by visiting the official Garmin forums. However, because this version requires manual intervention, you won't see it in the standard Garmin Connect app update flow.
For more details on the installation process and the full list of changes, you can visit the official announcement thread on the Garmin forums.
Should You Install It?
The answer depends on how you use your Garmin watch. If you're a diver, rely on ECG monitoring for heart health, or are an avid indoor climber, this beta is probably best avoided until Garmin releases a more stable version.
However, if you're a runner or hiker who wants to test out the new navigation and workout suggestion features—and you can live without diving and ECG for a while—this beta offers a glimpse into the future of Garmin's software ecosystem. Just remember: beta software comes with risks, and you're essentially trading stability for early access to new features.
Looking Ahead
Garmin has a strong track record of refining its beta releases based on user feedback before pushing them to the general public. The company has already acknowledged the indoor climbing crash issue and plans to address it in a future software release. Once the bugs are ironed out and the diving and ECG features are restored, version 23.11 promises to be a substantial upgrade for the Fenix 8 series.
What do you think of the new beta features? Will you be installing it, or are you waiting for the final release? Let us know in the comments below.