[Firmware ChangeLog]: What's New in 26.09 | MARQ Gen 2

Overview

Garmin has started rolling out stable Software Version 26.09 for the MARQ Gen 2 collection on April 21, 2026. Garmin says the release is currently at 20% rollout, so users may need to wait for later phases before it appears on their watch.

For the MARQ line, software polish matters as much as feature depth. These are premium watches that combine luxury materials with serious sports and outdoor capability, so a stable release that improves sensor support, settings reliability, crash behavior, and text consistency is more important than it might look at first glance.

Update Details

Devices: MARQ Athlete Gen 2, MARQ Adventurer Gen 2, MARQ Golfer Gen 2, MARQ Captain Gen 2, MARQ Aviator Gen 2
Software Version: 26.09
Release Date: April 21, 2026
Rollout Status: 20% phased rollout
Channel: Stable release
Product Type: Luxury multisport smartwatch collection
Source: Garmin Forums

Official Change Log

Garmin lists the following changes for version 26.09:

Added support for Rally 110/210
Fixed a bug that could stop custom GPS settings from saving in some activity profiles
Corrected a missing translation in the Solar Intensity widget
Fixed cases where the compass calibration tutorial video failed to appear
Resolved invalid Daily Suggested Workout target-type data
Improved pairing reliability for some Stages Power Meter setups
Fixed layout overflow for estimated Training Effect text when the watch is set to German
Resolved a bug that could switch the watch face into Battery Saver mode by mistake
Fixed shutdowns that could happen inside the Garmin Coach app
Fixed shutdowns that could happen while skipping music tracks
Cleaned up text mismatches between the watch and Garmin Connect inside Power Manager
Updated the Upload RAM option so it only appears when the watch is connected to Garmin Connect

Why This Update Matters

Better compatibility for high-end multisport use

Support for Rally 110/210, better Stages Power Meter pairing, and the fix for custom GPS settings not saving are all relevant for MARQ owners who actually use the collection as Garmin intended: not just as luxury watches, but as premium training and adventure tools.

Garmin fixed two bugs that affect real usage

The shutdown issues in Garmin Coach and while skipping music are not cosmetic. They interrupt actual watch use, which is exactly the kind of bug that feels out of place on a flagship luxury line.

Small text and localization fixes help preserve the premium feel

The German Training Effect layout fix, the Solar Intensity translation fix, the Power Manager wording cleanup, and the Upload RAM visibility change are all small on their own. Together, they help the software feel more polished and consistent.

How to Install Version 26.09

Make sure the watch has enough battery before updating.
On the watch, open System > Software Update > Check For Updates.
You can also use Garmin Connect Mobile or Garmin Express.
If the update is not available yet, Garmin may still be working through the phased rollout.

Is This Update Worth Installing?

Yes for most MARQ Gen 2 users. 26.09 looks like a practical stable release that improves reliability without changing the platform in a disruptive way. If you are about to travel or enter an event and do not have time to test the watch afterward, waiting briefly can still be reasonable.

Conclusion

Software Version 26.09 is a solid maintenance release for the MARQ Gen 2 collection. Garmin is improving accessory compatibility, fixing saved-profile behavior, removing shutdown bugs, and cleaning up text inconsistencies that affect the day-to-day experience.

For most MARQ Gen 2 owners, this stable update looks worth installing once it reaches the watch.