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[Garmin Firmware ChangeLog]: What's New in 16.17 Beta | Forerunner 970

garminchangelogfirmware-updateforerunner-970beta

Overview

Garmin has released Beta Version 16.17 for the Forerunner 970 flagship multisport smartwatch. This comprehensive beta update addresses multiple device reset issues and adds new features for sports scores and audio prompts.

Update Details

  • Device: Garmin Forerunner 970
  • Software Version: 16.17 Beta
  • Rollout Status: 100%
  • Channel: Public Beta Program

What's New in Version 16.17 Beta?

Bug Fixes

  1. Sports Scores Glance - Team Addition: Fixed an issue that could cause the device to reset when adding a team to the sports scores glance
  2. Sports Scores Glance - Favorite Team: Fixed an issue that could cause the device to reset when setting a favorite team in the sports scores glance
  3. HRV Chart: Fixed an issue that could cause the device to reset when viewing the HRV chart
  4. Indoor Cycling Course: Fixed an issue that could cause the device to reset when loading a course for indoor cycling
  5. Navigation Data Screen: Fixed an issue that could cause an activity to be canceled when adding a navigation data screen to the page loop
  6. Course Rest Points: Fixed an issue that could cause the stay time to be displayed incorrectly when following a course with a rest point
  7. Course Point Names: Fixed an issue with displaying long course point names
  8. Golf Course Green: Fixed an issue with the golf course green not displaying correctly

Improvements

  • Course Details Page: Improved the layout of the course details page
  • Distance Interval Audio: Improved the audio prompt for distance intervals to report the time for that interval

New Features

  • Spoken Watch Face Complications: Added support for additional spoken watch face complications
  • Sports Scores Stoppage Time: Added support for showing stoppage time on sports scores

ECG Note

ECG functionality is disabled in ongoing beta versions but will be re-enabled in beta builds anticipated to become live updates, typically near the end of quarterly cycles.

Installation Instructions

For users enrolled in the Garmin Beta Program:

  1. Ensure your watch is connected to Wi-Fi or paired smartphone
  2. Navigate to System > Software Update
  3. The beta update should appear if you're enrolled
  4. Follow on-screen prompts to install

Important Notes

  • Beta Software: This is pre-release software and may contain bugs
  • ECG: Temporarily disabled in this beta version
  • Feedback: Report issues through the Garmin Beta Forum

About the Forerunner 970

The Forerunner 970 (May 2025) is Garmin's flagship multisport smartwatch:

  • 1.4-inch AMOLED display (454x454 resolution)
  • Sapphire crystal lens
  • Built-in LED flashlight
  • ECG capability (when enabled)
  • Titanium bezel
  • Multi-band GNSS with SatIQ
  • Built-in speaker and microphone
  • 10 ATM water resistance

Conclusion

Beta 16.17 addresses critical stability issues, particularly the multiple device reset scenarios. The new spoken complications and stoppage time features enhance daily usability. Beta testers should update and report any findings.