Garmin unleashes critical updates for forerunner 570 and 970 – navigation, battery, and whatsapp fixes
Garmin is delivering a substantial software refresh to its flagship Forerunner 570 and 970 series smartwatches, aiming to address user feedback and bolster the devices’ core functionality. This isn’t a simple incremental update; over two dozen changes are bundled into version 17.16, representing a significant investment in refining the user experience.
Key improvements detailed
The bulk of this update focuses on bug fixes, a surprisingly welcome development considering the relative stability of Garmin’s ecosystem. However, there’s more than just patching – several new features are joining the fray. Users can now leverage the 970’s navigation capabilities to recall the last recorded point, effectively eliminating frustrating route deviations. Downloading Outdoor Maps is also receiving a critical fix, ensuring interrupted downloads successfully resume.
But the enhancements extend beyond navigation. The 570 and 970 now incorporate a ‘Silent Mode’ accessible directly from the button, a long-requested feature for runners and cyclists. Furthermore, Garmin has implemented improved battery management, streamlining the application access via a swipe-up gesture, and crucially, preventing unexpected restarts when using WhatsApp on an iPhone – a persistent issue for many owners. Battery life tracking will now encompass all activities, providing a more holistic view of energy consumption. Finally, the notoriously finicky siesta alarm now responds to a simple palm-swipe, offering a discreet way to silence the device.
Specific changes include: 28 alterations for the Forerunner 570, with five additions for the 970. These range from fundamental stability improvements to the inclusion of QR codes on map layer descriptions for deeper contextual information. It’s a detailed and, frankly, appreciated level of commitment to its user base.
It’s important to note that this update arrives in beta form – version 17.16 – and Garmin will continue to monitor its performance before releasing it to the general public. Expect a few weeks’ delay before this comprehensive upgrade becomes widely available. Keep those Garmin Connect notifications active to be among the first to experience the improvements.