Beta Version 12.12 will be the first of several v12.xx updates for the Instinct 3 and co. (Image source: Garmin)Beta Version 12.12 will be the first of several v12.xx updates for the Instinct 3 and co. (Image source: Garmin)

Garmin has moved many of its recent mid-range smartwatches on to a major new software update. Flighted on its Beta Program, v12.12 introduces various changes from System Software 10.36 with various new features, bug fixes and other associated changes.

Now, the company has moved all Instinct 3 series smartwatches onto a major new software revision. Starting on its Beta Program, v12.xx builds are unlikely to reach stable status for a few weeks yet. In the meantime, Beta Version 12.12 offers a taste of what is to come with several new features for all smartwatches.

For instance, Garmin has decided to add the option of updating sensor software via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). On top of that, all compatible smartwatches will be capable of editing custom and proximity alerts in Garmin Connect Mobile once updated to Beta Version 12.12. Meanwhile, Garmin has also introduced HRM Pace and Distance support via BLE, but only for AMOLED and Solar smartwatches.

As always, Garmin has packed its new beta update with fresh bug fixes too. The full list of fixes that Beta Version 12.12 contains, as well as any new features, can be found below. Please see Garmin’s forum post for more details.

All Instinct 3 & Instinct E:

  • Added support for editing custom and proximity alerts in GCM.
  • Added support for updating sensor software over BLE.
  • Improved Area Calc app UI.
  • Fixed issues with interval alerts for quick timer.
  • Fixed issue where Messenger glance could be added twice.
  • Fixed incorrect or missing units in Messenger message details.
  • Fixed potential issue where course elevation plot would be flat.
  • Fixed issue where OHR could not be enabled by a power mode if the system setting was off.

Instinct 3 Solar & Instinct E only:

  • Added Steps data field.
  • Added Recovery Time watch face data field option. 
  • Fixed issue where software update would not immediately appear after ‘Check for Updates’. 
  • Fixed issues with Weather app when accessed from the app list.
  • Fixed DogTrack distance when using Metric units.
  • Fixed issue where watch face charts could show old data.
  • Fixed calendar watch face data field showing events from future dates. 
  • Fixed potential graphical glitch on Morning Report watch face.

Instinct 3 AMOLED & Instinct 3 Solar only:

  • Added support for HRM Pace & Distance over BLE.

Instinct 3 AMOLED only:

  • Added UTC data field option to more watch faces.
  • Added barometer data field option to default watch face.
  • Fixed Morning Report and Workout animations (45 mm only).

Instinct 3 Solar only:

  • Fixed crash when viewing daily suggested workouts.
  • Fixed load ratio graph indicator.

Instinct Crossover AMOLED Only:

  • Added additional watch face design.
  • Various UI fixes and improvements.
  • Fixed issue where hands could become stuck after completing an activity.
  • Fixed various sensor menu issues.
  • Fixed golf club sensor info page.
  • Fixed missed call animation.
  • Fixed barometer chart scale. 
  • Fixed Kill Switch countdown (Tactical only).

Alex AldersonAlex Alderson – Senior Tech Writer – 13506 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2018

Prior to writing and translating for Notebookcheck, I worked for various companies including Apple and Neowin. I have a BA in International History and Politics from the University of Leeds, which I have since converted to a Law Degree. Happy to chat on Twitter or Notebookchat.