Garmin has unleashed a substantial software update, version 20.16, for its top-tier smartwatch models, encompassing the Fenix 7 series, Epix series, Tactix 7, Enduro 2, and Marq Gen 2. This update, currently being deployed to 20% of users, will progressively expand its reach to all eligible devices. Version 20.16 is packed with new functionalities, performance enhancements, and crucial bug fixes, promising a more seamless and enriched user experience.
Enhanced Notifications and Streamlined Information Access
One of the standout additions is the implementation of a marquee feature within the smart notification widget. This enhancement allows users to effortlessly scroll through extended messages directly on their smartwatch screen, eliminating the need to constantly open the full notification for longer texts or emails. This streamlined approach to message viewing significantly improves convenience and on-the-go readability.
Expanding Capabilities with CIQ System 8 Support
Garmin has also integrated support for CIQ System 8, the latest iteration of the Connect IQ platform. This compatibility unlocks a world of possibilities for users, granting them access to a broader spectrum of apps, watch faces, data fields, and widgets. This expanded ecosystem empowers users to personalize their devices and tailor them to their specific needs and preferences, further enhancing the versatility of these premium smartwatches.
Advanced Fitness Tracking and Sensor Connectivity
For fitness enthusiasts and athletes, version 20.16 introduces valuable insights into sensor connectivity. Users can now readily view detailed information about the connection type for their paired sensors, such as heart rate monitors, cycling sensors, or running dynamics pods. This feature provides a deeper understanding of the communication link between devices, aiding in troubleshooting and ensuring reliable data transmission during workouts.
Refined Heart Rate Monitoring and Data Control
Further enhancing the heart rate tracking capabilities, Garmin has incorporated an open connection notification within the heart rate broadcast app. This notification alerts users when their heart rate is being actively broadcast to other devices, providing transparency and control over data sharing. This is particularly useful for those who utilize their smartwatch to transmit heart rate data to gym equipment or other compatible devices.
Performance Enhancements and Bug Fixes
Beyond these feature additions, the 20.16 update addresses a range of bugs and performance issues, contributing to a more stable and reliable user experience. Garmin has tackled issues related to headphone connectivity, ensuring a smoother pairing process and uninterrupted audio during workouts. The update also resolves an abnormal cadence issue that some users experienced when utilizing the metronome feature, ensuring accurate and consistent cadence tracking for cyclists and runners.
Improved Mapping and Navigation
The development team has also focused on refining the mapping and navigation aspects of the smartwatches. Fixes have been implemented to address crashes that occurred after panning or zooming on the map, ensuring a more seamless and responsive navigation experience. Furthermore, the update resolves issues related to devices not entering MTP mode when gaming sensors are enabled, ensuring compatibility with various gaming and fitness platforms.
Enhanced User Interface and Data Presentation
Garmin has also made improvements to specific features and functionalities. The swim workout rest screen has been enhanced, providing clearer and more relevant information during rest intervals. The running track database has been updated, ensuring accurate distance and pace tracking on various running tracks. And the training readiness factors page has been refined, providing users with more insightful data and personalized recommendations for optimizing their training.
Localization and General Improvements
Finally, version 20.16 includes updated translations, ensuring a consistent and localized experience for users across different regions. The update also encompasses various other bug fixes and performance improvements, contributing to a more polished and refined user experience. Garmin encourages all eligible users to update their devices to version 20.16 to take full advantage of these new features, enhancements, and bug fixes. The rollout will continue progressively, reaching more users in the coming days and weeks.
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I would like to see the ECG function on my Epix 2pro, because the hardware is ready for it.
ECG is already working now in Epix 2 Pro and Fenix 7 Pro
20.16, now watches crashes during activities
this issue has been solved via the latest beta update 20.19 https://www.garminnews.com/garmin-releases-new-beta-update-20-19-for-fenix-7-epix-2-enduro-2-quatix-7-and-marq-gen-2/