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[Garmin Firmware ChangeLog]: What does 18.12 Beta changed | Venu X1

garminchangelogfirmware-updatevenu-x1beta

Overview

Garmin has released Beta Version 18.12 for the Venu X1. Public Beta members can download the update manually from the watch software update menu.

This is a broad feature and stability update. Venu X1 Beta 18.12 adds "OK, Garmin" voice commands, a quick running workout suggestion, XC Ski Indoor, map interaction improvements, and fixes for resets, golf, workout behavior, Do Not Disturb, and watch face rendering.

Update Details

  • Device: Garmin Venu X1
  • Software Version: 18.12 Beta
  • Announcement Date: July 1, 2026
  • Channel: Public Beta Program
  • Install Path: Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates
  • Official Announcement: Garmin Forums

Garmin Venu X1 18.12 Beta Changelog

New Features and Improvements

  • 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.

Fixes in 18.12 Beta

  • 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 scrolling through the hazard list for a golf course.
  • 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

A Major Smartwatch Interaction Update

Voice commands with "OK, Garmin" make Venu X1 feel more capable as a smartwatch, especially when paired with quick access to workouts and controls.

Navigation and Golf Polish

Venu X1 gets touch-based North Up / Track Up map toggling, larger course point names, a map split-screen scale fix, and a golf hazard list fix. Those changes are useful for users who treat the Venu X1 as more than a wellness watch.

Better Stability Across Activities

The reset fixes touch strength workouts, golf, power-down behavior, Saved app usage, and simultaneous software installation. That is a wide reliability pass across daily and sport use.

How to Get the Update

To download Venu X1 Beta 18.12:

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

Only watches enrolled in the Garmin Public Beta program will receive this beta.

Conclusion

Garmin Venu X1 Beta 18.12 is a large beta update with voice commands, workout additions, map improvements, golf fixes, and stability work. It is one of the more substantial Venu X1 beta releases so far in the 18.xx cycle.