Garmin Smartwatches Get Fresh Update With Better Sleep Mode and Smoother Shutdowns

Garmin has started rolling out Beta Version 28.07 for several of its premium smartwatches, bringing important fixes for users of the Fenix 7 series, Fenix 7 Pro series, Enduro 2, Epix, and Quatix 7 models. The latest beta update focuses on improving device stability, fixing sleep mode behavior, and resolving an issue that could cause some watches to unexpectedly shut down.

The update follows Garmin’s earlier Beta Version 28.02 release, which arrived after several months without a major beta build for the Fenix 7 lineup. With Beta Version 28.07, Garmin is continuing to refine the software before a wider stable release becomes available.

Unlike automatic software rollouts, this update must be installed manually. Garmin has marked Beta Version 28.07 as a “Check for Updates” release, meaning compatible smartwatch owners need to request it directly from the device settings. To install it, open the main menu on the watch, go to Settings, then System, then Software Update, and select Check for Updates.

One of the key fixes in Beta Version 28.07 addresses a problem where certain Garmin smartwatches could shut down when connected to a bike shifter. This issue affected models including the Enduro 2, Epix, Fenix 7, and Quatix 7 series. For cyclists who rely on Garmin wearables during training or long rides, this should make activity tracking more reliable.

The second major fix targets sleep mode. Some watches were entering sleep mode even after users had manually disabled the feature. With the new beta firmware, Garmin says this behavior has been corrected, giving users better control over their watch settings and daily usage experience.

Garmin also notes that ECG functionality remains disabled in Beta Version 28.07. This suggests the company may release additional beta updates in the version 28.xx cycle before moving the software to a stable public build.

The full list of changes from System Software 27.18 through Beta Version 28.07 includes fixes for map downloads, golf activity tracking, navigation calculations, rangefinder data, calendar widget loading, Garmin Coach data, GPS settings, sleep mode behavior, and overall map manager stability.

Garmin Beta Version 28.07 change log:

Fixed a device validation issue that could appear when downloading TopoActive maps.

Fixed an issue where HRM 200 and HRM 600 heart rate monitors would not work during Golf activities.

Fixed a problem where navigation calculations could sometimes fail.

Fixed an issue where new clubs added in the Garmin Golf app were not visible in the device club list.

Fixed an issue where rangefinders could sometimes show outdated data.

Fixed a problem where the calendar widget could be slow to load.

Fixed an issue where the watch could shut down when paired with a bike shifter.

Fixed an issue where the Garmin Coach widget could sometimes fail to display data.

Fixed a problem where the GPS setting for an outdoor activity could be disabled after selecting the indoor version of that activity.

Fixed an issue where the watch could enter sleep mode even after sleep mode had been manually turned off.

Fixed stability issues when downloading maps through the map manager app.

For Garmin Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, Enduro 2, Epix, and Quatix 7 owners, Beta Version 28.07 is a useful update focused on reliability rather than new features. The fixes should be especially welcome for cyclists, golfers, and users who depend on accurate sleep and activity tracking every day.