Garmin is packing plenty into its latest Venu X1 smartwatch update. While Beta 16.11 isn’t stable just yet, it already brings 18 notable changes including feature upgrades, glance improvements, and broader workout support.
Battery monitoring leads the new glance updates

One of the highlights of Beta 16.11 is a new glance that tracks battery life in more detail. Instead of just showing how much charge is left, the updated glance breaks down usage trends, giving users better insight into how their habits affect battery performance.
It’s part of a bigger push to refine glances across the board. Garmin has added several new ones to this update, including tools to monitor weight and behavioral impact on health data. These quick-view screens aim to make the smartwatch experience faster and more useful at a glance no pun intended.
Venu X1 update boosts training and activity tracking
Beta 16.11 isn’t just cosmetic. It adds a new multi-sport activity mode that lets you record consecutive sports without stopping your session. This feature is especially useful for triathletes or those mixing running and cycling workouts.
Training plans also get an upgrade. The new options now include time-based workouts, dedicated cardio sessions, and optional strength blocks. For those using Garmin to stay in shape, this creates a more flexible system for scheduling training.
Here’s a quick look at what Beta 16.11 includes:
- Battery tracking glance with usage trends
- Sports team tracking glance
- Weight and behavior-health link tracking
- Multi-sport activity support
- Fish Forecast and Tides apps
- Sleep glance insights with bedtime suggestions
- Colour filter accessibility settings
- Training plans: timed, cardio, and strength
- Voice alerts and audio prompts
- WhatsApp message app support
Voice alerts and app support expand Venu X1’s feature set
Garmin is also leaning further into smart features. The Venu X1 now offers voice alerts, including compatibility with radar devices. Audio prompts have also been updated, and a separate app enables the display of recent WhatsApp messages on the watch.
Bug fixes are included too, though Garmin has kept the details vague. Expect more beta builds before version 16.x becomes official. Still, the current slate of features already shows Garmin tightening its grip on fitness-focused smartwatches with lifestyle perks.

