Garmin Fenix 8 and Fenix E Receive Major System Software 23.31 Update With New Features and Fixes
Garmin has begun rolling out a significant new stable software update for several of its premium smartwatches, including the Garmin Fenix 8 and the more affordable Fenix E. The update, labeled System Software 23.31, marks the first major stable release for these models in nearly four months and brings a useful mix of new features, performance improvements, and bug fixes.
The update follows a series of smaller maintenance releases that were issued after earlier firmware introduced some software issues. With System Software 23.31, Garmin appears to be focusing on improving everyday reliability while also adding new tools for athletes, divers, and outdoor users.
At the moment, the rollout is being released in stages. Garmin says the update has reached around 20% of eligible devices so far, which means not every Fenix 8 or Fenix E owner will see it immediately. As usual, the wider rollout is expected to continue over the next few days.
Users who do not want to wait can manually check for the update directly from their watch. To do this, open the main menu, go to Settings, select System, choose Software Update, and then tap Check for Updates.
System Software 23.31 introduces 18 notable changes for the Garmin Fenix 8 series. Among the biggest additions is a suggested quick workout option for running, giving users a faster way to jump into guided training. Garmin has also added more context to volume controls, which should make audio adjustments clearer and more convenient during daily use.
Divers also get a helpful upgrade. The update adds the ability to share Dive Computer settings through the Garmin Share app, making it easier to transfer preferred configurations between compatible devices.
Another new addition is XC Ski Indoor activity support, expanding the range of sports and training profiles available on compatible Garmin watches. This should be especially useful for users who train indoors during the off-season or in controlled environments.
Garmin has also addressed several issues that affected workouts and training plans. One fix resolves a problem where the watch’s training days might not match the schedule shown in a Garmin Coach plan. Another correction fixes issues with selecting rest days for daily suggested workouts or Garmin Coach workouts.
The update also improves suggested multisport workouts by fixing a bug that could prevent users from starting them. For those who rely heavily on structured training, these fixes should make the coaching and workout experience more consistent.
Several stability issues have been corrected as well. Garmin says System Software 23.31 fixes a bug that could cause the watch to reset during a strength activity free workout. Another fix addresses a reset issue that could occur when installing audio prompt software and host software at the same time.
Audio behavior has also been improved. The update fixes a problem where music volume could increase after an alarm sounds. It also resolves an issue where the volume level might not return to the correct setting after water ejection.
For athletes who use pace and speed data during demanding sessions, Garmin has included a fix for dropouts that could occur, especially during interval training. This should help make performance tracking more dependable during fast-paced workouts.
HIIT users should also notice an improvement, as the update restores the on-screen lap shortcut that had stopped appearing during HIIT workouts.
Garmin has refined the flashlight shortcut too. During an activity, the shortcut can now cycle through on, off, and strobe modes, making it more practical for outdoor use in low-light conditions.
The touch lock feature has been improved to reduce false unlocks, which should help prevent accidental input during workouts, wet conditions, or everyday wear.
The Applied Ballistics app also receives expanded functionality with support for Xero range and sensor data. In addition, Garmin has updated translations and included other minor fixes to polish the overall user experience.
For now, System Software 23.31 is available for eligible Fenix 8 and Fenix E smartwatches. Garmin has not yet made this update available for certain related models, including the Enduro 3 and some Pro-branded variants.
Overall, Garmin System Software 23.31 is a meaningful update for Fenix 8 and Fenix E owners. With new sports features, better workout handling, improved audio behavior, enhanced stability, and multiple training-related fixes, this release should make Garmin’s high-end smartwatches feel more reliable and capable for everyday fitness, outdoor adventures, and performance-focused training.
