Garmin has just dropped a substantial update, version 26.16, for its popular Edge cycling computers – the 1040, 840, and 540. This isn’t just a minor tweak; it’s a feature-packed release designed to refine the user experience and add some genuinely useful functionalities. While the rollout is currently at 20%, it’s expected to reach all users soon. So, what’s new? Let’s dive in.
Enhanced Training Features
One of the most interesting additions is the ability to view future weather conditions directly within scheduled Garmin Coach workouts. This is a huge plus for riders who like to plan their training in advance. No more surprises mid-ride! You can now check if that long ride is going to be a scorcher or if you should pack a rain jacket. This integration with Garmin Coach is a testament to Garmin’s commitment to providing a holistic training ecosystem.
Improved Control and Connectivity
For those who use electronic shifting systems like Shimano Di2, the update brings enhanced camera control options through the Edge Remote and Di2 Remote. Imagine being able to trigger your camera to capture those epic moments without taking your hands off the bars. This is a great feature for content creators and anyone who wants to document their rides.
Another quality-of-life improvement is the ability to schedule software installations for after your ride. We’ve all been there: you’re ready to head out, and your device decides it’s time for an update. Now, you can schedule the update for a more convenient time, ensuring you’re always running the latest firmware without interrupting your rides.
Deeper Integration and Data Accuracy
Garmin is also deepening the integration between its devices and its training platform. You can now view Garmin Coach running and strength workouts directly within the Edge calendars (assuming you have a compatible wearable). This makes it much easier to see your entire training schedule at a glance, whether you’re on the bike or off. Furthermore, the Edge calendars now support viewing multiple workouts scheduled for the same day. This is perfect for triathletes or anyone who incorporates multiple training modalities into their routine.
The update also addresses a few nagging issues. The altimeter calibration menu night mode problems have been resolved, ensuring accurate altitude readings regardless of the time of day. GroupRide users will appreciate the centered rider list, which should make navigation and communication during group rides much smoother. eBike riders will be happy to know that the issues with invalid gear details and incorrect data population in gear data fields have been fixed. This means more accurate data for eBike specific metrics.
Connectivity has also been improved. The update adds connection type information for paired sensors, which can be invaluable when troubleshooting connection issues. Garmin has also tackled the problem of nutrition/hydration tracking being disrupted when the unit is power cycled mid-activity. This is a crucial fix for endurance athletes who rely on accurate data to fuel their performance. The pause during the update process before the unit reboots has also been addressed, making the update process more seamless.
Enhanced Compatibility and Performance
For those using older heart rate monitors, the update adds support for HRM 200 pairing and data. Power meter users will appreciate the ability to update Garmin power pedal scale factors with an accuracy of four decimal places, allowing for even more precise power measurement. Garmin has also worked on improving compatibility with third-party platforms, fixing issues with third-party workouts not syncing to the device.
Visual and Functional Improvements
Visual improvements include a fix for ClimbPro lines being too thick when zoomed out on the map, enhancing map readability. The intensity minutes glance now displays correct values, and the algorithm for calculating the workout execution score has been refined for greater accuracy. Several bugs and crashes have been squashed, including a fix for a crash when canceling a Garmin Share transfer.
Finally, the update tackles some display and sensor issues. Problems with the backlight affecting the device’s temperature readings have been resolved. A language issue in Garmin Connect Mobile has been fixed. A map data field has been added for quick access to map information. The brightness setting should now behave correctly, and a graphical compass data field has been added. Overlapping values on some graphical data fields have also been fixed.
Conclusion
In short, version 26.16 is a comprehensive update that addresses many user requests and improves the overall functionality and stability of the Garmin Edge 1040, 840, and 540. It’s a testament to Garmin’s commitment to refining its products and providing cyclists with the best possible tools for their rides.
