Garmin Beta Version 23.08 Delivers Sensor Connectivity Fixes and ANT/BLE+ Support

Garmin has begun rolling out Beta Version 23.08 to a selection of its premium smartwatches, offering substantive connectivity enhancements and pairing improvements ahead of a future stable software release.

Vertical Summary Table

1. Eligible Devices and Update Coverage

Garmin’s public beta program now includes:

• Epix 2 (42 mm, 47 mm, and 51 mm, standard and Pro)

• Fenix 7 Series (7, 7S, 7X; standard and Pro)

• Enduro 2

• Quatix 7

• MARQ Gen 2

Excluded from this beta release are the MARQ Aviator Gen 2 and Tactix 7, which remain absent from this round of firmware updates.

2. Rollout Method and Timing

The update is distributed via Over‑The‑Air (OTA) via Bluetooth or Wi‑Fi. Garmin notes that rollout is gradual, typically taking 24-48 hours to reach all enrolled devices. Users outside the current rollout window may initiate the update manually by navigating to Menu → System → Software Update → Check for Updates on their watch.

3. Key Improvements and Fixes

Connectivity Enhancements:

• Added support for pairing certain external sensors via Advanced and Adaptive Network Technology (ANT) and Bluetooth Low‑Energy Plus (BLE+), although Garmin does not specify which exact third‑party sensors are supported.
  

Kestrel Device Issue Resolved:

• Bluetooth/ANT connectivity problems specifically with Kestrel environmental monitoring sensors experienced in prior beta builds-are corrected.
  

ECG Feature Status:

• ECG remains disabled in this beta build. Garmin clarifies that ECG will be re‑enabled in later beta versions closer to being promoted as stable (Live) software. Users wishing to retain ECG capability should avoid enrolling in the beta program or revert to Live software.

4. How to Get the Update

• The firmware is being pushed to beta‑enrolled users automatically.

• If the update hasn’t arrived within the expected window, users can manually request it via the watch: go to Menu → System → Software Update → Check for Updates.

• Alternatively, Garmin Express on desktop may deliver the update though only to devices within the target rollout group.
  

5. What Happens Next

Garmin describes Version 23.08 as a preparatory release. It signals that further beta versions (e.g. 23.10, 23.12, etc.) are likely before Garmin designates any build as the official stable release. When that broader stable 23.xx series launches, features currently disabled in beta (such as ECG) are expected to be restored.

Garmin’s official public beta program announcement for Version 23.08 can be found on the Garmin Forums (Public Beta Program → Fenix 7 / Epix 2 Categories).

FAQ

Q1. Which Garmin watches are currently getting Beta Version 23.08?

A1. Eligible models include Epix 2 (all sizes, standard and Pro), Fenix 7 series (7, 7S, 7X, standard and Pro), Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and MARQ Gen 2. Excluded are MARQ Aviator Gen 2 and Tactix 7.

Q2. Can I force the update if it hasn’t arrived automatically?

A2. Yes. Go to Menu → System → Software Update → Check for Updates on your watch. This will request the beta 23.08 immediately if you’re enrolled.

Q3. What functionality improvements does this build include?

A3. The update improves sensor connectivity-zadding pairing for unspecified sensors over ANT and Bluetooth Low Energy+, and resolves prior connectivity issues with Kestrel devices.

Q4. What happened to ECG functionality?

A4. ECG is disabled in this beta. Garmin will re-enable ECG in later beta versions or when moving to stable (Live) release. To retain ECG, remain on current live firmware or revert from beta.

Q5. Is Version 23.08 the final release?

A5. No. Garmin plans additional beta builds (e.g. 23.10 etc.) before promoting one to the official live software channel. ECG and other features will return in those later builds.

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