Garmin just released Beta 13.12 for the Fenix 8 series, the high-end GPS smartwatch that comes with added features to impress both outdoor and fit-minded people.
The next new beta version continues to grow the list of enhancements and features by improving critical areas that make using the smartwatches even more enjoyable.
In this quick guide, we will explain the Fenix 8 Beta 13.12 Update and key changes in detail for seasoned and new users of Whether an avid user already or trying the Beta Program for the first time.
What Is Beta 13.12 for the Fenix 8 Series?
The Beta 13.12 update is an early release of software for the Fenix 8 series. It allows you to experience new features and bug fixes before they reach a stable release.
It takes the 12.32 stable release baseline and adds a host of other improvements to fix bugs, extend features, and add even more functionality for a whole range of activities.
Highlights of the Fenix 8 Beta 13.12 Update
1. Added New Features and Tools
Beta 13.12 includes numerous feature additions that make Garmin devices more versatile for users with diverse interests:
- Connect IQ System 8 Support
- Now, users are able to add newly released Connect IQ applications, advanced watch faces, and data fields for deeper personalization.
- Expanded Activities
- Sail Race Activity: This activity is designed for competitive sailing and provides metrics specific to that, such as wind direction, speed, and tack angle.
- Jumpmaster Activity: Designed for both military and recreational parachutists, featuring enhanced metrics for jumpers.
- Trolling Motor App: This would be a very niche feature addition for anglers in their fishing expeditions who make use of trolling motors.
- Enhanced Fitness Tracking
- Insight Hints now include personalized suggestions across health and fitness apps.
- New summaries also include a Respiration Graph, which comes up after meditation activities, while gaming sessions offer a Stress Card.
- Equipment Support in Workouts
- Shows the equipment one may need for strength exercises and, therefore, prepares well in advance.
- Nautical Units Added
- For maritime users, nautical units are now supported in the activity metrics, making the Fenix 8 even more useful for sailors.
2. Improvements for Better Usability
The update brings enhancements to make Garmin devices more intuitive and user-friendly:
- Touchscreen Improvements
- Added touch support for dismissing pop-up notifications, reducing interruptions.
- Fixed a common issue where touchscreen inputs could not be disabled during activities.
- Missing Map Option in Mountaineering Activity
- Enables a more detailed and complete map view for mountaineering adventures.
- GPS Progress Bar Presentation
- Improved visual indicators for GPS searches, providing clearer progress tracking when starting an activity.
3. Critical Bug Fixes
Beta 13.12 addresses a wide range of issues that users reported in previous versions. Here’s a breakdown of the most significant fixes:
- Device Stability
- Resolved potential crashes during various scenarios, including:
- Deleting activities.
- Setting up meditation routines.
- Viewing body battery glance or fitness age metrics.
- Dismissing notifications or enabling broadcast HR.
- Resolved potential crashes during various scenarios, including:
- Activity-Specific Fixes
- Corrected issues in Auto Climb data screen selection during hikes.
- Fixed interval details for pool swim activities.
- Resolved Power Guide preview blank maps and inconsistent round-trip routing calculations.
- User Interface Fixes
- Improved clarity for the countdown glance folder and Sunrise/Sunset alert ranges.
- Addressed layout problems in the InReach Contacts List and PIN code display.
- Fixed stale HRV data appearing in the Morning Report.
- Weather and Sleep Apps
- Corrected a glitch where the Weather app returned to the watch face unexpectedly.
- Fixed Sleep History graph inconsistencies after traveling across time zones.
Why Should You Install Fenix 8 Beta 13.12 Update?
By upgrading to Beta 13.12, you’ll get exciting new features, critical fixes, and better usability. This update is critical for the following users:
- Access to New Features: The new tools and activities, such as Sail Race, Jumpmaster, and Trolling Motor App, open up new possibilities for tracking niche interests.
- Improved Device Performance: The fixes ensure smoother operation and fewer interruptions caused by crashes or glitches.
- Enhanced User Experience: With usability tweaks like better GPS visuals and touch support, your Garmin experience becomes more seamless.
How to Update Fenix 8 Beta 13.12 Update?
Step-by-Step Update Process
- Navigate to your watch’s main menu.
- Go to Settings > System > Software Update and select Check for Updates.
- Follow the prompts to install the update.
Important Notes Before Updating
- Updating to Beta 13.12 temporarily disables ECG and dive features.
- Ensure your device is charged to at least 50% before beginning the update process.
Enrolling in Garmin’s Beta Program
For users eager to try new features early, Garmin’s Beta Program offers exclusive access to updates before they are publicly released. Here’s how to join:
- Log in to your Garmin Connect account on a computer.
- Click the watch icon in the upper-right corner.
- Select your device and click Join Beta Software Program.
- Agree to the terms and conditions.
By joining the program, you’ll gain early access to the latest developments but should also be prepared for occasional bugs, as these versions are not final.
FAQs About Fenix 8 Beta 13.12
What devices are compatible with Beta 13.12?
This update is available for Fenix 8 AMOLED (43mm, 47mm, 51mm), Fenix 8 Solar (47mm, 51mm), Enduro 3, and Fenix E models.
Can I revert to a previous version after updating?
Yes, Garmin allows users to roll back to a stable release if issues arise.
Will this update affect the battery life of my device?
The beta is optimized for performance, but new features might slightly alter battery usage depending on your settings.
How often does Garmin release beta updates?
Beta updates are released periodically as Garmin develops new features and addresses bugs.
Is Fenix 8 Beta 13.12 Update stable enough for daily use?
While beta versions are tested, they may contain minor bugs. Use them at your discretion if reliability is critical.
Final Thoughts on Fenix 8 Beta 13.12 Update
The Fenix 8 Beta 13.12 update is most important for Garmin users. First, it introduces new and meaningful features, fixes bugs critical to users, and improves the user experience of the watch.
Are you a competitive athlete or a technology enthusiast, in outdoor activities? This update has kept your Fenix 8 device at the cutting edge of wearable technology.
Update your device today and prepare for the latest in cutting-edge Garmin innovation!
If you have any questions about this post or encounter any problems with the update, leave a comment below. I’ll be happy to assist you!
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