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| The Forerunner 170 has now reached its third stable software update. |
Garmin has quietly begun rolling out Software Version 9.21 for its budget-friendly Forerunner 70 and Forerunner 170 smartwatches, addressing a key display gesture issue that has been plaguing users since the devices launched earlier this year.
The update arrives as a welcome surprise for owners of these affordable GPS running watches, which first hit the market in May with surprisingly competitive price points of $249 and $299 respectively. For those wanting the added convenience of Wi-Fi connectivity, the Forerunner 170 with that feature comes in at $349.
What Makes the Forerunner 70 and 170 Special?
Positioned as Garmin's entry-level offerings in their renowned Forerunner lineup, these smartwatches have been turning heads with their impressive feature sets at accessible price points. The Forerunner 170 with Wi-Fi connectivity has been particularly popular among runners who want seamless syncing without needing to keep their phone nearby constantly.
Both devices pack Garmin's trusted GPS technology, heart rate monitoring, and comprehensive fitness tracking capabilities that the brand is famous for, but at a fraction of the cost of premium models. This has made them attractive options for amateur runners and fitness enthusiasts who don't need all the bells and whistles of the high-end Fenix or Epix series.
The 9.21 Update – What's Fixed?
According to Garmin's official release notes, Software Version 9.21 addresses one specific but significant issue that has been affecting user experience. The update "improves display gesture responses by eliminating unexpected but unspecified behaviors" – essentially making the screen more responsive and predictable when you raise your wrist or interact with the watch face.
This fix is particularly important for runners who rely on quick glances at their watch during workouts. An unresponsive or erratic display can be frustrating when you're trying to check your pace, distance, or heart rate mid-run.
The Rollout Process
Garmin is taking a measured approach to this release, with the update currently reaching approximately 50% of eligible devices automatically. This staged rollout is typical for the company, allowing them to catch any unforeseen issues before the update reaches everyone.
For those eager to get the fix immediately, manual installation is available through the watch's settings menu. Simply navigate through the Menu to System and Software Update, then select "Check For Updates" to see if the 9.21 version is available for your device.
For detailed instructions and to stay updated on the rollout progress, Garmin users can check the official forum posts:
- Forerunner 70 Software Version 9.21 Discussion Thread
- Forerunner 170 Series Software Version 9.21 Discussion Thread
Previous Updates and Recent Development
This release is interesting because it doesn't follow the typical beta-to-stable path. Earlier in July, Garmin had pushed Software Versions 9.17 and 9.19 to devices, and just last month, they issued Public Beta 18.19 for both smartwatches to test various fixes for outstanding issues on the v9.xx stable firmware.
However, instead of building on that beta development, Garmin has taken a different approach with 9.21, directly replacing the v9.xx software with this new stable release. This suggests the company may have identified this particular display gesture fix as critical enough to bypass the usual beta testing cycle.
Why This Update Matters
For owners of the Forerunner 70 and 170, this update represents Garmin's commitment to refining the user experience on their more affordable devices. While premium models often get the most attention in software updates, it's encouraging to see the company addressing issues on their budget-friendly options too.
The display gesture improvements could significantly enhance daily usability, making the watches feel more polished and reliable. Given that gesture-based interactions are fundamental to how users engage with these devices, even minor improvements can make a noticeable difference in the overall experience.
How to Install the Update
If you haven't received the update automatically yet and don't want to wait, here's how to check manually:
- Press and hold the Menu button on your watch
- Navigate to System
- Select Software Update
- Choose "Check For Updates"
- Follow the on-screen instructions if the update is available
It's always recommended to keep your device charged above 50% before initiating a software update and to stay within Bluetooth range of your paired smartphone throughout the process.
What Users Are Saying
Early reports from users who've already received the update indicate that the gesture response improvements are noticeable, with the screen waking more consistently when raising the wrist. Some users on the Garmin forums have also reported smoother scrolling through menus and quicker response times when navigating through workout screens.
Final Thoughts
While Software Version 9.21 might seem like a minor update on paper, it addresses one of the fundamental aspects of smartwatch usability. For runners and fitness enthusiasts who rely on their Forerunner 70 or 170 daily, this fix could make a significant difference in their experience.
As Garmin continues to support these devices beyond their initial launch, it's clear they see value in maintaining and improving the software experience across their entire product range. Whether you're a casual jogger or a dedicated marathon trainer, these updates help ensure your Forerunner keeps performing at its best mile after mile.
Have you received the 9.21 update on your Forerunner 70 or 170? Share your experience in the comments below!
Stay tuned to our coverage for more Garmin news, reviews, and updates. If you're considering picking up a Forerunner 170 with Wi-Fi connectivity, check current pricing and availability through our recommended link here.