Garmin 12.38 software update: What’s new?
Garmin has officially released its Stable Software Update 12.38 for select smartwatches, including the Fenix 8 AMOLED (43mm, 47mm, and 51mm), Fenix 8 Solar (47mm and 51mm), Enduro 3, and Fenix E.
This mid-cycle update focuses primarily on bug fixes and does not introduce any new features from the latest beta updates.
If you own one of these models, updating to the latest firmware will provide improved GPS tracking and system stability.
Let us take a look at the changelog and update process and see why you should install this update today.
Which devices will receive the Garmin 12.38 update?
The stable firmware update 12.38 is available for the following Garmin watches:
- Garmin Fenix 8 AMOLED (43mm, 47mm, and 51mm)
- Garmin Fenix 8 Solar (47mm and 51mm)
- Garmin Enduro 3
- Garmin Fenix E
Changelog for Garmin software update 12.38
Garmin has released a relatively small but important update. Here you can see what has changed in version 12.38:
✅ Fixed GPS acquisition issues – Improved GPS performance for better location tracking.
✅ Various bug fixes – General system optimizations and stability improvements.
This update does not introduce any new features but fixes important performance issues reported by users.
How to update your Garmin watch to the stable version 12.38
You can manually install the Garmin 12.38 update on your device by following the steps below:
⚠️ Tip: Make sure that the battery of your watch is at least 50% charged before performing the update to avoid interruptions.
1️⃣ On Your Watch:
- Open the main menu of your Garmin watch.
- Navigate to Settings > System > Software update.
- Select Check for updates.
- If the 12.38 update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install it.
2️⃣ Using Garmin Express (Computer Method):
- Connect your watch to a computer via USB
- Open Garmin Express (download from Garmin’s official site if not installed)
- Sync your device and install the latest update
3️⃣ Over-the-Air (Wi-Fi Method):
- Ensure your watch is connected to Wi-Fi
- The update will automatically download and install in the background
🔹 Pro Tip: Restart your watch after installing the update to ensure smooth performance.
Why should you install the Garmin 12.38 update?
If you are wondering whether software version 12.38 is worth updating, here are some reasons why you should install it:
✔️ Improved GPS accuracy – Faster and more reliable satellite acquisition.
✔️ Bug fixes & stability improvements – A smoother, more responsive user experience.
✔️ Security updates – Even minor updates often contain security patches that protect your device.
While this update does not add any new features, it ensures that your Garmin works optimally.
🤔 Should You Update to Version 12.38?
Yes! If you’ve experienced GPS delays or software glitches, this update is highly recommended. While it doesn’t introduce new features, it improves GPS accuracy and overall stability.
🆚 Comparison: Garmin 12.38 vs. Previous Updates
| Update Version | Key Changes |
|---|---|
| 12.38 (Current) | GPS fixes, bug improvements |
| 12.30 (Previous) | Battery optimization, heart rate tracking fix |
| 12.20 (Earlier) | New UI tweaks, sleep tracking enhancements |
FAQs about the Garmin software update 12.38
Is the Garmin 12.38 update available for all Garmin watches?
No, this update is only available for the Fenix 8 AMOLED, Fenix 8 Solar, Enduro 3, and Fenix E models.
Does the 12.38 update improve battery life?
There are no official indications of battery optimizations, but bug fixes may contribute to better battery performance.
Will new features from the beta versions be added with this update?
No, 12.38 is a stable bug fix update and does not include any features that were introduced in the beta versions.
How long does it take to install the Garmin 12.38 update?
The update process usually takes 5-10 minutes, depending on your internet connection.
Can I revert to a previous Garmin firmware version?
Garmin does not officially support firmware downgrades. It is therefore best to back up your data before performing the update.
Final considerations: Should you install Garmin 12.38?
While the Garmin 12.38 software update does not offer any new features, it plays a critical role in improving GPS performance and overall system stability.
If you own a Garmin Fenix 8, Enduro 3, or Fenix E, updating your watch is highly recommended for optimal performance.
🔄 Have you installed the 12.38 update? Let us know your experience in the comments!
