Garmin just dropped a fresh Beta update — version 17.18 — and if you’re into testing the latest features before they go public, this one’s worth checking out.
I installed it earlier today on my Fenix 8, and while it’s not a major overhaul, there are some solid quality-of-life improvements here. This update is currently available for:
- Fenix 8 AMOLED (43mm, 47mm, 51mm)
- Fenix 8 Solar (47mm, 51mm)
- Enduro 3
- Fenix E
- Tactix 8
If your watch is on that list and you’re enrolled in Garmin’s Public Beta Program, you can grab the update right now by checking manually from your watch.
What’s New in Beta 17.18?
Garmin didn’t just tweak things in the background — we’re getting a couple of user-facing changes that make everyday use a bit smoother.
New Feature: Theater Custom Focus Mode
I’ve already tested this one out, and it’s perfect for those moments when I want my watch to stay quiet — like during a movie or while winding down at night. Less distraction, more peace.
Fixes I Noticed
- Fixed that odd bug where climbing activities were showing distance instead of floors climbed.
- Patched a security issue that let the watch pair without a passcode after a reset. (Yikes — glad that’s gone!)
- Custom Focus Modes now actually activate like they’re supposed to.
- No more low battery alerts popping up during Sleep Mode. That was annoying.
- Phone volume control is finally working again when connected. Thank you, Garmin.
These might sound minor, but honestly, it’s little things like this that make the watch feel smoother and more reliable every day.
A Quick Note on ECG & Dive Features
If you rely on ECG or Dive features, just know they’re temporarily disabled in this Beta version. Garmin typically re-enables them toward the end of the Beta cycle — right before things go public.
So if you need those features daily, you might want to skip this round or just wait for the stable version to roll out.
If you already updated and want to go back, you can backdate to the Live software.
Just remember: once you downgrade, you won’t be able to reinstall 17.18 until the next Beta arrives.
Here’s How To Updated Garmin Fenix 8 Beta v17.18
If you’re curious about how to install it, it’s super simple:
- On your Garmin, go to Main Menu
- Tap Settings > System
- Select Software Update
- Then hit Check For Updates
No file transfers or cables — it installs right over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Just make sure you’re part of Garmin’s Public Beta Program.
Final Thoughts
This latest Garmin Fenix 8 firmware Version 17.18 isn’t a flashy update, but it’s exactly the kind of thoughtful refinement I like to see.
Theater Mode is genuinely useful, and those bug fixes have made my daily tracking just a little less frustrating.
If you’re someone who uses your Garmin daily for workouts, sleep, and smart features like I do, this update is a solid one — as long as you’re okay with ECG and Dive being temporarily off.
So, What’s Your Experience?
Have you tried Beta 17.18 yet? Noticed anything I haven’t? Feel free to share your experience in the comments — I’d love to hear what you think!
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