What was anticipated as a seamless enhancement for the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro has instead turned into a source of considerable frustration for many users. The recent software update, version 20.16, has unfortunately introduced a troublesome bug. This particular glitch disrupts the automatic pairing of external heart rate monitors, compelling users to manually establish a connection prior to each workout session. This unexpected inconvenience has cast a shadow over what was intended to be a positive software rollout.
ECG Expansion Overshadowed by Connectivity Woes
This update, marking the first major stable release in several months, did bring some positive news: the expansion of ECG support for Epix 2 Pro and Fenix 7 Pro users within the UK and Europe. However, this advancement has been largely eclipsed by the persistent heart rate monitor (HRM) connectivity issue. This problem is not limited to a single device; it affects a broad spectrum of Garmin accessories, including the HRM Pro Plus, HRM Dual, power meters, cadence sensors, and even select eBike sensors.
The Tedium of Manual Pairing
The issue itself is straightforward, yet profoundly irritating. Under normal circumstances, initiating an activity would trigger an automatic connection with the user’s external HRM. However, with this problematic update, users are now forced to navigate to the watch’s sensor menu and manually select their device. While this may seem like a minor inconvenience, it quickly becomes a repetitive and tiresome task for those who maintain a regular training regimen. Some users have even reported prolonged waiting periods, hoping for an automatic connection that never materializes, ultimately leading them to resort to manual pairing.
Garmin’s Response and User Discontent
Garmin has acknowledged the issue and released a beta update, version 20.19, in an attempt to rectify the problem. Unfortunately, this beta version has not provided a comprehensive solution. The company has stated that they are actively investigating the matter, but this has not quelled the growing dissatisfaction among users. Many are expressing concerns about the overall quality of Garmin’s software updates, with frequent releases introducing significant bugs. This has led some to speculate whether Garmin has outsourced its software development, resulting in a decline in quality control.
Additional Connectivity Issues and Workarounds
Beyond the HRM connectivity problem, certain users are also reporting intermittent connection drops between their Fenix 7 devices and iPhones. While some have found temporary solutions, such as switching their HRM from ANT+ to BLE, these workarounds are not ideal. Others have opted to revert to the previous firmware version, 19.41, to avoid the ongoing issues.
Data Collection and the Search for a Solution
Garmin has begun gathering device data from affected users in an effort to pinpoint the root cause of the problem. They are requesting XML files, sports activity logs, and information about potentially conflicting apps or data fields. While this data collection is a step towards resolution, users are understandably more interested in a swift and effective fix.
The Current State and User Frustration
Currently, the available solutions are limited to switching to BLE, manually connecting sensors, or downgrading to an earlier software version. None of these options are ideal, and until Garmin provides a definitive solution, Fenix 7 and 7 Pro users will have to endure the inconvenience. This is not the first instance of a Garmin update causing issues, and based on past experiences, it is unlikely to be the last.
and not only that issue…