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[Garmin Firmware ChangeLog]: What does 18.12 Beta changed | Forerunner 970

garminchangelogfirmware-updateforerunner-970beta

Overview

Garmin has released Public Beta Version 18.12 for the Forerunner 970. The official forum post is marked as Pre-Rollout, and enrolled Public Beta users can manually check for the update from the watch.

This is a large beta update for Garmin's flagship running and multisport watch. Version 18.12 adds voice command support with the "OK, Garmin" wake word, a suggested quick running workout, XC Ski Indoor, map and course improvements, workout banner controls, and a long list of stability fixes.

Update Details

  • Device: Garmin Forerunner 970
  • Software Version: 18.12 Beta
  • Announcement Date: July 1, 2026
  • Channel: Public Beta Program
  • Rollout Status: Pre-rollout / manual check
  • Install Path: Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates
  • Official Announcement: Garmin Forums

Garmin Forerunner 970 18.12 Beta Changelog

New Features and Activity Additions

  • Enables the voice command feature with the "OK, Garmin" wake word.
  • Adds a suggested quick workout for running.
  • Adds the XC Ski Indoor activity.
  • Adds volume context to volume control.
  • Allows a tap or swipe to dismiss workout step preview and workout step complete banners.
  • Increases the maximum size of course point names.
  • Allows toggling between North Up and Track Up via touch.
  • Allows the user to disable the sleep suggestion in the evening report.
  • Updates weather location more often.
  • Attempts to download stored heart rate data after a swim only if a heart rate monitor was connected.

Stability and Workout Fixes

  • Fixes resets when installing audio prompt software and host software at the same time.
  • Fixes resets during a strength activity free workout.
  • Fixes resets when powering down.
  • Fixes resets during a golf activity.
  • Fixes resets when using the Saved app.
  • Fixes treadmill calibration failing to result in more accurate treadmill distance.
  • Fixes tone and vibration settings not always being honored in Do Not Disturb mode.
  • Fixes not being able to start a suggested multisport workout.
  • Fixes not being able to edit structured repeat intervals when starting from the morning report.
  • Fixes the onscreen lap shortcut no longer showing in HIIT workouts.
  • Fixes volume level not returning to the correct setting after water ejection.
  • Fixes the Do Not Disturb icon being cropped on certain watch face designs.
  • Fixes jagged border lines on certain watch face designs.
  • Fixes map scale being cut off in map split screen.
  • Fixes other minor issues.

Why This Update Matters

Voice Commands Arrive on the 18.xx Beta Branch

The headline addition is voice command support with the "OK, Garmin" wake word. For a watch like the Forerunner 970, this can reduce friction when starting actions or controlling features without digging through menus.

Better Workout Flow

The new quick running workout, improved workout banner dismissal, structured repeat interval fix, and suggested multisport workout fix all target training flow. These are useful for runners and multisport athletes who rely on Garmin's workout guidance.

Navigation and Map Polish

Forerunner 970 gets both course point name improvements and touch toggling between North Up and Track Up. The map split-screen scale fix should also help users who rely on the watch for route context during outdoor training.

How to Get the Update

Only devices enrolled in the Garmin Public Beta program will receive this beta update. To check manually:

  1. Open the Main menu
  2. Go to Settings
  3. Select System
  4. Choose Software Update
  5. Tap Check For Updates

Conclusion

Garmin Forerunner 970 Beta 18.12 is a major beta update, not a small maintenance release. The voice command feature, quick running workout, XC Ski Indoor activity, map improvements, and reset fixes make it one of the most important Forerunner 970 beta releases in the 18.xx cycle.