Garmin has released stable software version 17.05 for the Venu 3 series and vivoactive 5 on January 23-24, 2026.
Supported Devices
This update applies to:
- Venu 3 - Premium fitness smartwatch with AMOLED display
- Venu 3S - Smaller form factor variant
- vivoactive 5 - Versatile fitness smartwatch
What's New in 17.05
Building on the fixes introduced in version 17.01, this release includes:
Bug Fixes
- Stability improvements
- Performance optimizations
- General bug fixes
Inherited from 17.01
Version 17.01 (November 2025) addressed:
- Garmin Messenger Fix: Resolved persistent pairing issues with the Messenger application
- EasyCard Icon Fix: Corrected display issues with the EasyCard icon
Also Released: Beta Updates
For beta testers, Garmin also released version 16.16 Beta on January 24:
Venu 4 - 16.16 Beta
The upcoming Venu 4 continues beta testing with new features.
vivoactive 6 - 16.16 Beta
The next generation vivoactive is in beta development.
Venu X1 - 16.16 Beta
New Venu variant undergoing beta testing.
How to Update
Automatic Update
Your watch will automatically download and prompt for installation when connected to:
- Bluetooth (via Garmin Connect app)
- Wi-Fi (if configured)
Manual Update
- Open Garmin Connect app on your phone
- Sync your watch
- Accept the update prompt
Or on the watch:
- Settings > System > Software Update
- Check for updates
Version History
| Version | Date | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 17.05 | Jan 23-24, 2026 | Stable | Current release |
| 17.01 | Nov 2025 | Stable | Messenger & EasyCard fixes |
| 16.16 | Jan 24, 2026 | Beta | Venu 4/vivoactive 6/Venu X1 |
Health & Fitness Features
The Venu 3 and vivoactive 5 continue to offer:
- Advanced sleep tracking with sleep coach
- Body Battery energy monitoring
- Stress tracking
- Fitness age calculation
- Wheelchair mode support
- Voice assistant integration