Garmin is back with an exciting beta 12.11 update, for its Venu 3, Venu 3S, and Vivoactive 5 smartwatches. This update addresses a couple of pesky issues affecting the Golf activity feature and another that could cause Connect IQ watch faces to crash.
But there’s more: Garmin also notifies users that some features may be temporarily unavailable on certain models. This update is an upgraded version of 12.10, which rolled out in November and introduced the popular Strength Coach feature.
Yet, like any beta update, this comes with some trade-offs you’ll want to consider before diving in. Here’s everything you need to know about Garmin Beta 12.11 Update: what it fixes, how to install it, and why it’s important.
Note: The beta update for the Venu 3,Venu 3S, and Vivoactive 5 will no longer support the ECG feature. However, the ECG App will remain available with live software updates on compatible watches.
Key Fixes in Garmin Beta 12.11 Update
The most significant advantages of this update are the fixes it brings to common issues affecting daily use. Let’s take a look at the two major problems Garmin has addressed:
1. Fix for Golf Activity Distance Tracking
This one is for golfers: those who try to improve their game through Garmin smartwatches may know that distance tracking does not always work correctly.
A bug like that would then go on to return wrong readings for your activity, making it rather untrustworthy to operate such a feature.
Thankfully, with this update, Garmin has fixed this, so now you can rely on your watch to track accurate distances while playing.
To avid golfers, this is a significant enhancement that allows you to focus on performance rather than troubleshooting your watch.
2. Connect IQ Watch Faces No Longer Crash
Scattered between so many strong points on Garmin is how it has Connect IQ platform for downloading watch faces, widgets, and apps for the watches.
Certain users said third-party watch faces can sometimes crash unpredictably; it might be very frustrating should you love setting up smartwatches.
Beta version 12.11 resolves this issue. The update aims to make these third-party watch faces more stable and reliable, so users can enjoy the full benefits of the Connect IQ ecosystem without any unexpected glitches.
A Temporary Sacrifice: ECG App Unavailable
While the update resolves two major issues, it also presents a temporary drawback for the Venu 3 and Venu 3S users: the installation of this beta update will remove the ECG app, a popular health monitoring feature of Garmin devices.
Garmin says the ECG app will return with the Stable version of the update, or later in the beta cycle. For now, though, this is a tradeoff you’ll want to weigh deeply.
If you are most reliant on the ECG feature for monitoring heart health, then it might actually be worth waiting for the stable version instead of jumping into the beta.
How to Install Garmin Beta 12.11 Update
If you are part of Garmin’s Beta Program, here is how you can install the 12.11 beta update using some pretty easy steps:
- Open the main menu on your smartwatch.
- Go to Settings.
- Go to System > Update Software.
- When asked, confirm that you want to install the beta version.
Remember that beta updates are experimental. While they offer early access to fixes and improvements, they may also contain bugs or limitations that are not yet fixed.
Why Are Beta Updates Important?
Beta updates, like version 12.11, form part of Garmin’s plans to keep its devices running smoothly. Here is why they matter:
1. Early Problem Fixes: Beta updates often fix bugs and performance issues long before the stable version is ready. By testing these updates, users help ensure these fixes are reliable and effective.
2. Community Feedback: Valuable feedback from beta testers helps Garmin improve the user experience. If you’re part of the Beta Program, then your feedback goes to the shaping of future software updates for all users.
3. Getting a Head Start: Beta updates provide a chance for users to try and enjoy the early benefits brought about by enhancements, hence making smartwatches more functional and reliable. This is an outstanding way to experience Garmin’s latest improvements before they are released for everyone.
The Smartwatches in Focus: Garmin Venu 3 and Vivoactive 5
The devices receiving this beta update—Venu 3, Venu 3S, and Vivoactive 5—are among Garmin’s best offerings, featuring advanced health tracking, activity monitoring, and customizable options via Connect IQ. Here’s a quick look at the highlights of these watches:
- Venu 3 and Venu 3S: Known for their bright AMOLED displays, robust health features like sleep tracking, and now, ECG functionality. These watches blend style with top-notch performance.
- Vivoactive 5: A slightly more affordable option with similar health-tracking capabilities, fitness insights, and smart notifications.
If you’re considering an upgrade, the Garmin Venu 3 (45mm, Black) is currently available for $447.99 on Amazon, a premium price for premium features.
Should You Install Garmin Beta 12.11 Update
Here’s how to decide:
- Install it if…You’re comfortable using a beta version 12.11 and want to experience the benefits of the latest fixes, especially if you rely heavily on the Golf activity or use custom watch faces through Connect IQ.
- Hold off if…
You use the ECG App regularly and can’t do without it. Waiting for the stable version might be a better choice to avoid interruptions in functionality.
Final Thoughts
Beta updates, much like the Garmin beta Version 12.11, aren’t just about issue fixes; they’re much more about user satisfaction with the services and providing fluent and more enjoyable experiences. It was now or never when Garmin truly showcased its motto of continuous improvement by being able to resolve the Golf activity bug along with Connect IQ watch face stabilization.
This update brings great benefits to those who can try the beta, whereas some of the features are put on hold for some time. If you would rather wait, a stable and polished version will likely follow shortly thereafter, bearing all the improvements without any of the trade-offs.
Garmin remains the leading innovator of smartwatches to date by keeping performance, innovation, and user comments at the forefront of their mind. Be it golfers, fitness freaks, or tinkerers, problem-solving as it arises is a virtue for which this company deserves applause.
You May Also Like:-
