Garmin is rolling out a fresh beta firmware update for two of its newer mid-range running watches, the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970. Available globally, this release focuses on practical quality-of-life improvements designed to make workouts smoother, tracking more reliable, and everyday smartwatch features less frustrating.
The update, Beta Version 17.19, follows an earlier beta that delivered a much larger list of changes. Even so, this new build still brings 11 notable tweaks and fixes that target real-world annoyances Forerunner users can run into during training or daily use.
One of the most useful upgrades is an improvement to LiveTrack. With this update, LiveTrack can be enabled automatically based on activity type rather than being controlled as a single on/off setting for the whole device. That means you can set it up to share your location during specific workouts—like long runs or cycling—without needing to remember to toggle it each time.
Garmin is also improving responsiveness when starting a timer, which can make a surprising difference when you’re beginning intervals or timing sets at the gym. On top of that, this beta aims to reduce stability problems by fixing multiple issues that could cause the watch to reset, especially on older firmware.
Golf and multisport users get something new as well: the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 now support Approach CT1 club sensors, expanding compatibility for those who want more detailed club tracking.
Beyond those headline changes, the update includes a collection of targeted bug fixes:
– A fix for cases where the back and down buttons might not work properly during indoor climb and bouldering activities
– A fix for a missing turn arrow when navigating a course
– A fix addressing situations where users couldn’t accept an incoming call on the watch
– A correction for “send off time” not vibrating during swim workouts
– A change that prevents automatic track detection during trail run activities, which should help avoid incorrect assumptions when you’re off the track
– An adjustment so the mute setting only applies to the current phone call, rather than sticking around longer than intended
– Additional minor bug fixes aimed at improving overall reliability
Overall, Garmin’s Beta Version 17.19 is a focused update for Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 owners who care about cleaner workouts, fewer glitches, and smarter LiveTrack behavior. If you use navigation, indoor climbing modes, swim workouts, or smartwatch calling features, this is the kind of release that can noticeably improve day-to-day experience.
