Garmin's latest beta update (version 16.14) for Forerunner 570 and 970 smartwatches improves Morning Report visibility, adds sports team tagging, and fixes critical system bugs.
Garmin has released beta version 16.14 for its flagship Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches, delivering targeted improvements to core functionality just weeks after the previous 16.11 update. This release focuses on refining existing features rather than introducing major new capabilities, addressing specific pain points reported by users of these premium multisport watches (current pricing starts at $649.99 on Amazon).
Key Enhancements
- Morning Report Optimization: Divers will notice improved visual presentation of the Training Readiness metric when no recent dive data exists, resolving previous display inconsistencies.
- Sports Team Tagging: Favorite teams in sports apps now display with star icons for quick identification.
- Always-On Display Upgrade: New toggle enables seconds display on compatible watch faces during always-on mode.
- Golf Customization: Golfers can now save custom targets directly on course maps.
Critical Bug Fixes
The update eliminates several stability issues:
- Removed unexpected haptic feedback when accessing volume controls
- Fixed system resets triggered during swim tracking or music provider switching
- Resolved Garmin Coach synchronization errors
- Corrected strength activity countdown timer malfunctions
- Fixed audio muting bug that prevented volume restoration
Comparative Analysis
Unlike the previous 16.11 update that introduced the battery glance and Ripple watch face, version 16.14 prioritizes system refinement. This continues Garmin's pattern of alternating between feature expansion and optimization cycles for its Forerunner series. The removal of haptic feedback in volume menus suggests interface streamlining, though Garmin hasn't provided official rationale.
Installation and Availability
This beta remains exclusive to Forerunner 570/970 owners enrolled in Garmin's Beta Program. To install:
- Navigate to Main menu > Settings > System
- Select Software Update
- Choose Check For Updates
The complete change log for beta version 16.14 (Image: Garmin Forum)
The update demonstrates Garmin's continued post-launch support for its 2025 flagship watches, particularly valuable for multisport athletes who rely on reliable dive metrics and golf features. With critical crash fixes and quality-of-life improvements, beta testers gain measurable stability ahead of the public release.
Comments
Please log in or register to join the discussion