Garmin's Beta Update 16.28 Brings Notification Delay Feature to Venu X1, Venu 4, and vivoactive 6

Garmin has rolled out beta version 16.28 to users of its Venu X1, Venu 4, and vivoactive 6 smartwatches, introducing several new features and bug fixes. This update follows the beta version 16.16 release from January 2026, which brought the Garmin Connect+ nutrition logging feature to compatible devices.

The most notable addition in this beta update is the ability to delay notifications until after an activity. This feature has been integrated into the stage menu, allowing users to temporarily silence alerts during workouts or other activities. This is particularly useful for those who find constant notifications distracting during exercise or focused tasks.

Alongside the notification delay feature, the update includes more alarm sounds for users to choose from, enhancing the customization options for wake-up calls and reminders. Garmin Connect Mobile Translations has also been upgraded to version 3.50, potentially improving the app's multilingual support and user experience for non-English speakers.

For Venu X1 users specifically, the update brings additional functionality. They can now save changes to structured repeats for their next interval workout, a feature that could be particularly beneficial for those following specific training regimens. Additionally, the pace tracking on the Venu X1 is said to be more responsive, potentially providing more accurate real-time feedback during runs and other activities.

The update also addresses several bugs that have been affecting these smartwatch models. A significant fix prevents the devices from rebooting unexpectedly when starting an activity or at other times. This should improve the overall stability and reliability of the watches. Other bug fixes include resolving issues with device resets when loading an indoor cycling course and fixing a blank screen problem that occurred when users tried to launch the music player mid-activity.

To access this beta update, users need to be members of Garmin's Beta Program and have one of the compatible devices (Venu X1, Venu 4, or vivoactive 6). The update can be downloaded by navigating to the Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates on the smartwatch.

While the changelog lists many changes, it's worth noting that some of these were included in older releases. This is not uncommon in software development, where features and fixes may be rolled out in stages or to specific device models.

This beta update demonstrates Garmin's ongoing commitment to improving its smartwatch lineup through regular software updates. By addressing bugs and introducing new features, Garmin continues to enhance the user experience and functionality of its devices. The notification delay feature, in particular, shows a thoughtful approach to user needs, recognizing that there are times when users may want to focus on their activity without interruption.

As with all beta software, users should be aware that while these updates often bring exciting new features, they may also introduce new bugs or instabilities. Beta testers play a crucial role in helping companies like Garmin identify and resolve issues before a wider release.

For those interested in trying out these new features, joining Garmin's Beta Program could be an excellent way to get early access to upcoming improvements and contribute to the development process of these popular smartwatches.