Garmin has started updating several of its popular rugged smartwatches. Rolling out globally as a free update, System Software 10.30 brings new features and plenty of bug fixes to the table for not just the Instinct 3 and Instinct 3 Solar but also to the cheaper Instinct E.
Garmin has brought its latest Instinct series smartwatches onto a fresh stable software update. For context, the company decided against including the Instinct E, Instinct 3 Solar and Instinct 3 (curr. $449.99 on Amazon). Instead, Garmin’s August 2025 Feature Update focuses on higher-end models like the Fenix 8 and newer releases like the Forerunner 570, Forerunner 570 and Venu X1.
Nonetheless, the Instinct 3 Solar and Instinct 3 are in line to receive over a dozen improvements with System Software 10.30. Meanwhile, the Instinct E has only gained eight improvements, seven of which are bug fixes. Based on Garmin’s changelog, the only new feature for the Instinct E is the addition of Interval Alerts to Timers. However, this change only applies to non-Tactical variants.
Meanwhile, the Instinct 3 Solar and Instinct 3 have received more bug fixes and new features. Please note that some of these are restricted to Garmin’s Solar variant. Currently, Garmin claims to have issued System Software 10.30 to around 50% of Instinct E, Instinct 3 Solar and Instinct 3 owners. Please see the company’s Beta Program forum and the changelogs below for more details.
Alex Alderson – Senior Tech Writer – 13040 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2018
Prior to writing and translating for Notebookcheck, I worked for various companies including Apple and Neowin. I have a BA in International History and Politics from the University of Leeds, which I have since converted to a Law Degree. Happy to chat on Twitter or Notebookchat.
Alex Alderson, 2025-08-21 (Update: 2025-08-21)