Garmin Rolls Out Major Mid-Range Watch Update With Enhanced Heart Rate Accuracy

Garmin Rolls Out Software Version 29.05 for Popular Forerunner Smartwatches

Garmin has started rolling out a new stable software update for several Forerunner smartwatches, bringing useful fixes and refinements to some of its most popular running and fitness-focused wearables.

The latest release, Software Version 29.05, is now being delivered to the Garmin Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965. The update was previously available in beta testing and now arrives as the first major stable firmware release for these models since Software Version 28.05, which launched in June.

While this is not a feature-packed update, it focuses on improving the overall user experience by addressing a few specific issues that affected Garmin Connect syncing and data field configuration. One of the key fixes resolves a problem where strength training personal records did not sync properly with Garmin Connect. For users who track gym sessions, weight training, or strength progress through their watch, this should make workout history and personal milestones more reliable.

Garmin has also fixed a separate issue that caused difficulties when configuring heart rate and power fields through the Garmin Connect Mobile app. This improvement should be especially helpful for runners, cyclists, and multisport athletes who rely on customized data screens during workouts.

In addition to these targeted fixes, Garmin notes that Software Version 29.05 includes general bug fixes and improvements. The company has not provided a detailed breakdown of every change, but the update is expected to improve stability across the supported Forerunner lineup.

The firmware is being released as an over-the-air update, meaning compatible watches should receive it automatically once it becomes available. Users can also check for the update manually through their watch settings or the Garmin Connect Mobile app.

Software Version 29.05 may be a relatively modest release, but it continues Garmin’s pattern of supporting older Forerunner models with ongoing maintenance updates. For owners of the Forerunner 165, 255, 265, 955, and 965, the update should help improve syncing reliability, workout data accuracy, and day-to-day performance.