Garmin has announced several new software and feature updates for select smartwatches and compatible Edge cycling computers. The updates apply to devices including the fēnix 8 series, Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970, Venu 4, and vívoactive 6.
The new features include fall detection on Venu 4 smartwatches. Here, if a hard fall is detected, the watch will send a message with the user’s live location to preset assistance contacts when paired with a smartphone. Users can activate the feature for all-day monitoring or enable detection for specific activities.
Smartwatch updates also introduce hands-free voice control. Users can start a timer, start an activity, turn on a compatible watch’s flashlight and more by saying “Okay, Garmin.” Accessing a virtual assistant on a paired smartphone is enabled by saying “phone assistant.”
Runners can access quick workouts, which offer suggested running workouts tailored to fitness levels by inputting a desired time and intensity level.
Updated Garmin Run Coach plans allow users to train for events or improve fitness with plans including run–walk workouts and lower volume training. These plans adapt daily based on health and recovery metrics.
An Indoor XC Ski profile allows users to track indoor ski sessions with compatible indoor ski trainers.
For cycling computers, enhancements to the Enduro ride profile automatically detect and switch between climbing and descent modes.
These free software updates started to roll out to compatible devices on September 22, 2026. Customers can update their smartwatch or cycling computer by enabling automatic updates on their device and syncing with Garmin Connect or using Garmin Express.
