Garmin software updates bring tons of new features—these are the devices that benefit

Garmin has rolled out free software updates for many of its watches, including the Garmin Fenix ​​7 and Epix 2.

The main new feature is automatic transitions during multisport activities such as triathlons and duathlons. When you use these modes, a compatible Garmin will sense the transition between swimming, cycling and running and automatically record the transition and switch your data display to the correct sport mode.

This is a feature already available on Wahoo and Apple sports watches, and it means you won’t have to remember to press any buttons during the transition. If you’re worried that the watch might cross over incorrectly, there are methods to override this, like long-pressing the wing button, and you can also turn the feature off and cross over manually.

Another feature in the update is a new database of over 10,000 running tracks added to watches, which will be used when you select a track mode for your run. The database means you won’t have to calibrate your watch by running a few laps to get accurate distance data during your run—the watch will already know you’re on the trail.

I use the tracking mode on my Garmin regularly and the very accurate distance data makes it easy to pace long repeats. Unnecessary calibration of the new track will be a small but useful improvement in the quality of life.

As well as another new feature—Lap Undo. If you accidentally press the circle button during an activity, you have eight seconds to undo it by pressing the down button (bottom left). This only works for manual laps for now, you can’t override automatic laps or use the feature when following a structured workout on the watch.

Other new features included in the update are a rope skipping mode and Garmin’s sleep coach, which recommends the amount of sleep you need that day based on your sleep history and activity levels. The watch will only recommend between seven and nine hours of sleep, so it won’t suggest wild changes to your routine, but it might be a useful prompt to sleep more when you’re training hard.

Which Garmin devices are getting this update?