[Garmin Firmware ChangeLog]: What does 17.25 Beta changed | Forerunner 970

Overview

Garmin has released Beta Version 17.25 for the flagship Forerunner 970 smartwatch. The update is currently at 50% rollout in the Public Beta program.

This is a stability-focused update addressing multiple issues across strength training, multisport activities, navigation, weather, and system reliability.

Update Details

Device: Garmin Forerunner 970
Software Version: 17.25 Beta
Release Date: May 12, 2026
Channel: Public Beta Program (50% rollout)
Install Path: Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates
Source: Garmin Forums

Garmin Forerunner 970 17.25 Beta Changelog

According to Garmin's official announcement, version 17.25 includes the following changes:

Activity & Training Fixes

Fixes an issue that could result in counting reps incorrectly during strength training activities
Fixes an issue that could result in the post-activity summary map being centered incorrectly for multisport activities
Fixes battery estimates when switching power modes for activities
Fixes an issue where the duration could be missing from the workout card in the morning report

Navigation & Map Fixes

Fixes a possible crash when routing back to start
Fixes an issue that could cause the device to exit the map page during a route recalculation
Fixes crash when using the map after using a Z10 or Z30

System Stability Fixes

Fixes an issue that could cause the device to reset when viewing the evening report
Fixes an issue that could cause the device to reset when adding apps via Garmin Connect Mobile
Fixes various other issues that could cause the device to reset
Fixes an issue that could cause the device to enter recovery mode during a software update

App & Minor Fixes

Fixes weather app not updating when you enter the app
Fixes other minor bugs
Updates translations

Why This Update Matters

Strength Training Accuracy

The rep counting fix addresses one of the most commonly reported issues in strength training. Incorrect rep counts can affect training logs and progressive overload tracking, so this fix improves the reliability of gym workouts on the Forerunner 970.

Navigation Reliability

The routing crash fix and map page exit fix are critical for the Forerunner 970, which is designed for multisport and outdoor navigation. A crash while routing back to start could leave athletes without guidance during races or training in unfamiliar areas. The Z10/Z30 map crash fix addresses a specific scenario affecting dive computer integration.

System Stability

Multiple reset fixes indicate Garmin is addressing crash scenarios that affected daily use — including resets during evening report viewing, app installation via Garmin Connect Mobile, and software updates. The recovery mode fix prevents an alarming scenario where the device could enter recovery mode mid-update.

Weather App Fix

The weather app update fix ensures that weather data refreshes properly when opened, keeping athletes informed about current conditions for outdoor training and racing.

How to Get the Update

To download this update manually:

Open the Main menu
Navigate to Settings
Select System
Choose Software Update
Tap Check For Updates

Note that this update is at 50% rollout, so it may not be available to all beta testers immediately. Check back within 24-48 hours if the update is not yet showing for your device.

Conclusion

Garmin Forerunner 970 Beta 17.25 is a comprehensive stability update that addresses issues across training, navigation, weather, and system reliability. The fixes for rep counting, routing crashes, map page exits, and multiple reset scenarios make this a recommended update for beta testers who want a more stable experience during training and racing.