Garmin has rolled out Beta Version 25.02 for its popular Forerunner lineup — including the Forerunner 965, 955, 265, 255, and 165.
While this isn’t a flashy feature-packed release, it brings some much-needed fixes that should make your training experience smoother and more reliable.
If you’re part of Garmin’s beta programme, this update is already waiting for you. Not sure whether it’s worth installing?
Let’s break down what’s inside, why it matters, and how to get it on your watch.
What’s New in Garmin Beta 25.02?
Here are the key changes Garmin has introduced with this version:
- Race Glance Fix – Your watch should now correctly display your primary race instead of mixing it up with secondary events.
- Strength Workout Tracking – Strength sessions in Garmin Coach plans should finally register as complete (no more finishing a workout only to see it unmarked).
- Heart Rate Accuracy – No more mystery spikes! Garmin cleaned up wrist-based HR tracking, so your workout data looks way more realistic.
- Power Save Timeout – That annoying bug where multisport modes ignored your timeout setting? Fixed.
- General Fixes – A bunch of behind-the-scenes tweaks to keep everything running smoother.
While it’s not a “headline-grabber” update, these quality-of-life fixes can make daily use much more dependable — especially if you’re training for an event.
Should You Install Beta 25.02?
Beta versions aren’t final, but they’re usually stable enough for everyday use. The main benefit is getting fixes early, rather than waiting for Garmin to push the stable release weeks later.
👉 If you’re preparing for a big race, you may want to stay on stable software for extra peace of mind.
But if you’re curious and don’t mind helping Garmin test things, this beta is a solid update to grab.
How to Manually Update Your Forerunner
If your watch hasn’t automatically picked up the update, you can install it yourself in seconds:
- On your watch, open the Main Menu.
- Go to Settings > System > Software Update.
- Tap Check for Updates.
If version 25.02 is available, it will start downloading right away.
How to Join Garmin’s Beta Programme
Want to be first in line for updates like this? Here’s how to sign up:
- Sign in to Garmin Connect on your computer.
- Click the watch icon in the top-right corner.
- Select your device from the list.
- Tap Join Beta Software Program.
- Accept the terms, and you’re in.
From there, future beta updates will land on your watch automatically.
FAQ: Garmin Beta Updates
Is beta software safe?
Yes, but it’s not 100% guaranteed bug-free. That’s the trade-off for getting fixes early.
Can I roll back to stable if I don’t like it?
Yes — you can always leave the beta programme and wait for the next stable release.
Do beta updates affect my data?
No, your activities, health data, and settings remain intact.
Final Thoughts
The Garmin Forerunner Beta 25.02 update may not bring new features, but it does clean up some frustrating bugs — particularly around race displays, workout tracking, and heart rate reliability.
If you’re already in the beta programme, this update is worth installing. For everyone else, expect these fixes to arrive in the stable channel soon.
👉 Have you installed 25.02 on your Forerunner yet?
Share your experience in the comments — it helps other athletes decide whether to update now or wait.
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