Garmin has released a new global software update for several of its mid-range Forerunner smartwatches, bringing system refinements and new features aimed at improving multisport tracking. The rollout of Software Version 26.08 follows a short beta testing phase and is now available for the Forerunner 165, 255, 265, 955 and 965 models.
The company said the update focuses primarily on improving system stability and resolving outstanding software issues in older Forerunner devices. “Software Version 26.08 brings plenty of improvements to the table, including one that refines multisport activities with new lap key functionality,” Garmin stated in its release notes.
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Among the key changes, the update introduces a long-press lap key option for all models except the Forerunner 165. The feature allows users to switch sports during multisport activities without disrupting lap tracking, giving athletes greater flexibility during triathlons or combined training sessions.
The update also addresses several bugs reported by users. Fixes include resolving an issue that caused Garmin Coach workouts to appear blank, correcting playback time errors during fast-forwarding of music tracks, and ensuring the Find My Device alert sounds correctly when a passcode is active. Additionally, the Forerunner 165, 265, and 965 receive a correction for a glitch where the Red Shift display mode did not disengage at the end of a sleep window, while the Forerunner 955 and 965 gain fixes for missing club averages and CT10 sensor data.
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Garmin recently issued similar stable updates for its newer Forerunner 570 and 970 models, which included more extensive feature additions. The company’s latest firmware for older models continues its ongoing effort to refine software performance and extend support across its mid-range smartwatch lineup.