Garmin is rolling out a fresh beta software update for two of its newer running-focused smartwatches, the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970. The new Beta Version 16.14 arrives as part of the ongoing 16.xx test cycle and concentrates on practical refinements, small quality-of-life upgrades, and a batch of bug fixes designed to make everyday use smoother.
This update follows the earlier Beta 16.11 release, which introduced additions like a battery-related glance and the Ripple watch face, along with other tweaks. With Beta 16.14, Garmin shifts attention to polishing what’s already there, while also adding a couple of features many users will notice quickly.
One of the more visible changes is a new visual indicator for sports fans: your favorite sports teams are now marked with a star icon, making them easier to spot at a glance. Garmin has also added a new setting that allows users to display seconds on certain always-on display watch faces, a welcome option for anyone who prefers more precise time visibility without needing to wake the screen.
The update also improves the Morning Report experience for divers. Specifically, Garmin adjusted how the Training Readiness section appears when there isn’t a recent dive score available, helping the report look cleaner and more consistent in those situations.
Golfers get an upgrade too. Beta 16.14 enables the ability to save custom targets on golf courses, which should be useful for players who like to plan shots around specific landmarks or preferred distances.
Not every change is an addition, though. Garmin removed the haptic feedback that previously triggered when opening the volume menu. The company hasn’t shared the reasoning behind the removal, but it’s something users will immediately feel (or not feel) when adjusting audio settings.
On the bug-fix side, Garmin addressed a couple of issues serious enough to cause device resets, including problems tied to swim activities and switching music providers. The update also resolves several other pain points: issues connected to Garmin Coach, a countdown timer problem during strength activities, and a volume-related bug that could prevent the volume from being increased after it had been muted.
Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 owners who are enrolled in the Garmin Beta Program can download Beta Version 16.14 manually by going to Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates.
