Garmin has just published its latest public beta update, version 13.21, to a wide range of watches, including the Fenix 8 AMOLED variants in 43mm, 47mm, and 51mm, Fenix 8 Solar 47mm, Fenix 8 Solar 51mm, Enduro 3, and Fenix E.
This update grants users access to exclusive new capabilities, the most exciting addition being German and Spanish QWERTY keyboard layouts, along with a variety of critical bug fixes and enhancements that further refine overall performance and stability.
If you’re in Garmin’s beta program or hoping to join, there’s much to get into here. Below, we break down the key changes, the full changelog, and how to update your device.
What’s New in Garmin Beta v13.21?
Multilingual QWERTY Keyboard Support
This update finally adds German and Spanish keyboard layouts to the QWERTY keyboard on the smartwatch.
Both layouts are specific to the users of those languages and, therefore, can easily type on them to input text in any messaging app or for navigation or other needs.
German QWERTY Layout Features: This layout supports characters like “ä”, “ö”, “ü”, and all under a layout similar to the standard QWERTZ but adapted for Germans.
Spanish QWERTY Layout Features: more so provides the “ñ,” accented vowels of á, é, Ã, ó, ú, and inverted punctuation marks of ¿ and ¡, which are critical to communicating in Spanish.
Improved Music Interface: Progress Bar Addition
With the new progress bar on the list of selected music, managing playlists and tracks is more intuitive, adding visualization to navigating through the songs.
Change Log for Version 13.21 (Compared to 13.18)
In addition to the multilingual keyboard feature, this update fixes many user-reported bugs with a few useful adjustments:
Fixed Issues
- Empty Sensor Search Results Page.
- Duplicated smart notification images.
- Missing dial pad buttons for certain actions.
- By default, the keyboard configuration is not being pushed to a new device.
- Elevation calibration prompts inappropriately show up in apps.
- Crashes during activities provoked by audio.
UI Enhancements
- Adjusted text padding for better readability on Body Battery hints.
- An updated QWERTY keyboard layout for small-screen devices.
Bug Fixes
- Improved response times for pinned activity buttons during an active session.
- Resolved issues with suppressed emergency tones.
This update is part of Garmin’s ongoing commitment to listen to feedback and iteratively improve features to better user experiences.
How to Update to Garmin Beta v13.21
Garmin is rolling out the update Over The Air (OTA) to 25% of users within the Public Beta program. If you’re in the targeted rollout percentage, your watch will receive the update automatically within 24-48 hours.
Manual Update Request
Want it now? Here’s how to request it manually:
- On your Garmin device, go to Menu > System > Software Update.
- Select Check for Updates.
Using Garmin Express
You can also connect your watch to your computer via Garmin Express to check for updates.
Important Note: The beta 13.21 update will temporarily disable ECG and dive features on your device; keep in mind the balance of testing new features versus these temporary limitations.
Why These Updates Matter
- Enhanced Usability: Redesigned keyboard and progress bars make daily tasks faster and more intuitive.
- Improved Reliability: Bug fixes ensure smoother performance during workouts, notifications, and sensor interactions.
After updating, confirm your software versions via Menu > System > About:
| Device | Software Version | GPS Version | Wireless Version | Sensor Hub Version |
| Fenix 8 AMOLED | 13.21 | 2.11 | 28.85 | 33.13 |
| Fenix 8 Solar | 13.21 | 2.11 | 28.85 | 33.13 |
| Enduro 3 | 13.21 | 2.11 | 28.26 | 33.13 |
Garmin’s Beta Program Registration
If you are the one who is more excited about the opportunity to test pre-release features before they are launched, joining Garmin’s Beta Software Program might just be the perfect thing for you.
Here is how:
- Sign in to your Garmin Connect account via a computer.
- Click on the watch icon in the upper-right corner.
- Choose your device from the list.
- Select Join Beta Software Program.
- Read and accept the terms and conditions.
After joining, your enrolled device will receive the new beta updates directly, thus, allowing you to try new features and give your valuable feedback to Garmin.
Occasionally, Beta updates may cause issues like freezing or crashes. If you experience such problems, check out our detailed article on how to fix frozen or unresponsive devices for step-by-step guidance.
If the issue persists, Garmin encourages Beta users to report bugs through the Beta Bug Reports forum.
Have you tried the Garmin Beta 13.21 update? Share your experience in the comments below.
Don’t forget to share this article with your fellow Garmin enthusiasts and stay tuned for the latest updates in smartwatch technology.
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