Garmin Rolls Out Beta Version 23.38 for Fenix 8 and Other Premium Smartwatches
Garmin has released another software update for its high-end smartwatch lineup, bringing Beta Version 23.38 to the Fenix 8 series and several related models. The update is now being distributed globally to members of Garmin’s Beta Program, continuing the company’s steady stream of 23.xx firmware releases.
The Fenix 8 series has already received numerous updates in the 23.xx branch, and this latest beta arrives shortly after Garmin pushed System Software 23.31 to the stable channel. Beta Version 23.38 follows Beta Version 23.34, although Garmin appears to have skipped several version numbers along the way.
According to Garmin, the new beta has already been made available to all eligible Beta Program participants. Users who have not yet received it automatically can check for the update manually through the watch’s over-the-air update system.
At first glance, Beta Version 23.38 looks like a fairly substantial release. Garmin lists close to two dozen changes, including new workout features, bug fixes, activity improvements, Spotify playback fixes, and updates to system behavior. However, many of the items in the changelog appear to have already been included in earlier 23.xx beta builds. Because of that, it remains unclear exactly what has changed between the previous beta release and this newer build.
One of the more notable additions mentioned in the changelog is a suggested quick workout option for running. This should make it easier for runners to jump into guided sessions without spending extra time navigating menus. Garmin has also added more context to volume controls, which may help users better understand and manage audio levels during activities, alerts, and media playback.
The update also brings dive computer settings sharing through the Garmin Share app, expanding the usefulness of Garmin’s ecosystem for users who rely on their watches for diving-related features. Another activity-focused addition is support for XC Ski Indoor, giving winter sports users a new way to track indoor training sessions.
Voice interaction also receives attention in this release. Garmin says the update enables the voice command feature using the “OK Garmin” wake phrase. This could make hands-free control more convenient during workouts, outdoor activities, or moments when touching the watch is impractical.
A large portion of Beta Version 23.38 focuses on fixing bugs. Garmin says it has resolved an issue that could cause music volume to increase after an alarm sounds. Another fix targets a problem that could make the watch reset during a strength training free workout. The company also mentions a fix for a reset issue that could happen when installing audio prompt software and host software at the same time.
Training accuracy and workout planning are also addressed. Garmin says the update fixes an issue that could cause pace or speed dropouts, especially during interval training. It also resolves a mismatch where training days shown on the watch might not match the days displayed in a Garmin Coach plan. Additional fixes cover problems with starting suggested multisport workouts and selecting rest days for daily suggested workouts or Garmin Coach plans.
Music playback gets several important corrections as well. The update includes fixes for potential Spotify issues, including playback problems after skipping tracks with paired Bluetooth headphones and possible shutdowns when switching playlists. These fixes should improve reliability for users who rely on their Garmin watch for music during runs, rides, gym sessions, or outdoor workouts.
Garmin has also targeted problems in HIIT activities. Beta Version 23.38 fixes a potential shutdown when using the HIIT activity profile and restores the onscreen lap shortcut that had stopped appearing during HIIT workouts. For athletes who regularly use structured high-intensity sessions, these changes should make the experience smoother and more dependable.
Other refinements include a fix for volume levels not returning correctly after water ejection and an improved flashlight shortcut. During an activity, the flashlight shortcut can now cycle through on, off, and strobe modes, making it more practical for night workouts, trail running, camping, and emergency visibility.
The update also reduces false unlocks when using the touch lock feature, which should help prevent accidental screen interactions during exercise or wet conditions. Garmin has added support for Xero range and sensor data in the Applied Ballistics app, while translation updates and other minor fixes are included as well.
Despite the long changelog, Garmin has not yet confirmed when these updates will move from beta testing to a new stable release. For now, Beta Version 23.38 is mainly relevant to users enrolled in the Beta Program who want early access to Garmin’s latest smartwatch improvements.
For Fenix 8 owners and users of compatible premium Garmin watches, this release appears to be another maintenance-focused update aimed at improving reliability, workout tracking, music playback, voice control, and activity features. While the exact differences from previous beta versions remain somewhat unclear, the continued rollout suggests Garmin is still actively refining its latest software branch before the next wider stable release.
