Garmin Rolls Out Beta Version 15.18 for Instinct 3 Smartwatches With Expedition Mode Fix
Garmin has started releasing a new beta update for its Instinct smartwatch lineup, bringing Beta Version 15.18 to eligible devices worldwide. The latest software arrives shortly after Beta Version 15.17, which focused on fixing an issue related to interval training activities.
With this release, Garmin continues its active v15.xx beta testing cycle for the Instinct 3 series. Beta Version 15.18 is now the eighth update in the current beta branch, following the rollout that began with Beta Version 15.08 more than a month ago.
According to Garmin, the new update is a focused release designed to fix one specific problem. Beta Version 15.18 addresses inaccurate battery life estimates when using Expedition mode on supported models. This fix applies to the Instinct 3, Instinct E, and Instinct Crossover AMOLED.
Expedition mode is one of the key features for users who rely on Garmin smartwatches during long outdoor adventures, hiking trips, and extended travel. Because this mode is designed to maximize battery life, accurate battery predictions are especially important. Incorrect estimates could make it harder for users to plan charging needs during multi-day activities, so this update should be a useful improvement for outdoor-focused users.
Garmin says the update should now be available globally for Beta Program participants. If the software has not appeared automatically on your watch, you can check for it manually through the device settings.
To install the update manually, open:
Menu > System > Software Update > Check For Updates
Once available, the watch should detect Beta Version 15.18 and begin the update process.
At the moment, Garmin has not confirmed when the v15.xx beta cycle will move to the stable software channel. For now, the update remains limited to users enrolled in the Garmin Beta Program.
While Beta Version 15.18 is not a major feature-packed release, it delivers an important reliability fix for battery reporting in Expedition mode. For Instinct 3 users who depend on their smartwatch for outdoor tracking, endurance activities, and long-distance adventures, this update could make the overall experience more dependable.
