Garmin is a multinational software company founded more than 30 years ago. Since then, they have specialized in GPS technology used for automotive, marine and aviation maps, sports and outdoor activities, and today are best known for their watches.
There are several ways to update Garmin software, so if you have an outdated version or are interested in learning how to check your current version, be sure to read this guide.
How to update your Garmin software
Making sure you have the latest version of software is important for a few different reasons. First of all, by having the latest version, you can be sure that your device works without problems. Plus, by keeping your device updated, you’ll know that you’re getting all the new tools that come with different updates.
When it comes to Garmin watches, unlike other operating systems like iOS and Android, Garmin software updates are unique to each and every model. That means you will receive different updates depending on the model of your Garmin.
How to check your current version of Internet software
Checking your software version on Garmin is easy:
- Go to “Settings” on your Garmin device.
- Tap “About.” Here you will see your unit ID (serial number) and the current version of your Garmin software.
If you want to make sure you have the latest version, you can perform a web search by typing the device name and model (updates and downloads) and check the results on the official Garmin website. Once you have found it, you can compare these results with the version of the software you have installed on your device to establish if you have the latest or need to download it.
Setting up automatic software updates
The first thing you should do, if you haven’t already, is create a Garmin account, download the Garmin Connect app, and pair the device with your smartphone. Once you’ve connected your device with the Garmin Connect app, your software should update automatically by default. This means that every time there is a new update, it will automatically be sent to your Garmin device.
However, if you are not sure this is enabled, or if you disabled it by accident, follow the steps below to configure it:
- Go to settings.”
- Tap “Start/Stop.”
- Tap “System.”
- Tap “Software Update”; will be completely at the bottom.
- Switch it on.
You have now set up automatic software updates. From now on, whenever a new update appears for your device, it will be automatically downloaded and pushed to your device. Most likely, your device will reboot after each update. This is completely normal and you don’t have to worry about it.
Manually updating your software
If you want to manually update your software, you should first make sure you have disabled automatic software updates as it is set by default.
Once you’ve done that, you can follow these steps to manually update the software on your Garmin device:
- Go to settings.”
- Tap “Start/Stop.”
- Tap “System.”
- Tap “Software Update.”
- If a new update is available, you will see it here. You will have the option “Install now” and the estimated time the update will take.
- Tap “Select.”
You have now manually updated your Garmin software. If there are no updates currently available, you won’t see anything under “Software Update.” Since Garmin releases software updates periodically, you should check for updates every 3 to 4 months to ensure you have the latest version on your device.
Update using Garmin Express
Using Garmin Connect, you can wirelessly update the software on your Garmin device. However, this is not the only option available. You can also use Garmin Express to update your Garmin device.
How does it work? Garmin Express is an application that you can download and install on your Mac or Windows computer. You can connect your device to your computer via a USB cable and update it via the cable.
These are the steps you can follow:
- If you don’t already have the Garmin Express app on your computer, be sure to download it on https://www.garmin.com/en-US/software/express/windows/.
- Connect your device with your computer using its charging cable.
- Follow the instructions to pair your device. Note: You will need to create your Garmin account if you don’t already have one.
- Since automatic software updates are set by default, Garmin Express will send them directly to your device, if any are available.
- If you have decided to manually update the software on your Garmin device, all available updates will be displayed on the screen.
If updating your software through Garmin Express doesn’t work, make sure your activity history is uploaded to your Garmin Connect app and then deleted from your device.
Advice: Make sure your Garmin device does not disconnect during the update process.
Additional FAQs
Are Garmin Nuvi updates free?
Garmin Nüvi represents GPS mapping devices for the automotive industry. It was first released in 2005 and is now one of the most popular navigation systems in the world. They may come with preloaded maps for different countries and regions. Some of the current features include real-time traffic updates, potential road hazard updates, dash cam, etc.
Garmin Nüvi offers updates periodically, and while some of them are free, most map updates must be purchased.
For example, if you recently purchased your Garmin device, you may qualify for a free map update. This option is called nüMaps Guarantee™. Because Garmin wants you to be a satisfied customer, if a new map update appears within the first 90 days of your purchase, you can get it for free. The 90-day period begins once the device acquires satellites for the first time.
It is important to note that this does not happen automatically. You’ll still need to check for updates, even if you’re currently in the 90-day period.
You can also choose one of the following options: nüMaps Onetime™ or nüMaps for life™.
nüMaps once™ offers a one-time map update purchase for your device. You can decide what time you want to update your device and simply purchase the update.
nüMaps Lifespan™ offers up to four map updates per year. If you decide to purchase it, you can be sure that your device will always receive new map updates and you won’t have to worry about not receiving them or having to pay extra money. If you live in a rapidly developing urban area, this option might be best for you.
If you want to update your Garmin Nüvi, you can follow these simple steps:
1. Connect your Garmin Nüvi to your computer using a charging cable.
2. If this is your first time connecting, you will need to log in to your Garmin account.
3. Make sure you have the Garmin Express app installed on your computer. If you don’t, you can download it here: https://www.garmin.com/en-US/software/express/windows/.
4. Once installed and configured, Garmin Express will check for updates for your device.
5. You can decide to buy nüMaps Onetime™ or nüMaps for life™ within the application.
6. Once updated, you can safely disconnect your device from the computer and place it back in your vehicle.
Advice: Since some Garmin devices already have US maps installed, if you are traveling outside the US, be sure to download the corresponding maps.
Can I update my Garmin without a USB cable?
Some Garmin devices can be updated using Wi-Fi. If your device has this option and you want to update it, be sure to follow the following steps:
1. Connect your device to a Wi-Fi network.
2. Tap “Settings.”
3. Tap “Updates.” The device will now check for software or map updates available.
4. You can choose what you would like to update. If you want to install all available updates, tap “Install all.” If you want to install only software updates, tap “Software” and then tap “Install all.” If you want to install only map updates, tap “Map” and then tap “Install all.”
You can also decide to update your Garmin GPS device via satellite:
1. Go to https://www.garmin.com/en-US/.
2. Find your device.
3. Select the update you want to install.
4. You will see an option that allows you to update it using satellite, select it.
5. Enter the serial number of your device.
6. Wait until the update is complete.
One of the options to update your Garmin device without using a USB cable is through the Garmin Connect mobile app. The first thing you need to do is create your Garmin account and then download the Garmin Connect mobile app. Once you open it, make sure to pair the device with your smartphone.
Once your smartphone is connected to your device via Garmin Connect, whenever a new update is available, it will push it to your device by default.
Updating your Garmin software has never been easier!
Now you have learned how to update Garmin software. Garmin offers different ways to update your software, so you can choose the one that best suits you. You can decide to use the Garmin Express app, Wi-Fi, or the Garmin Connect mobile app. You can also choose to download your updates automatically or manually.
If you’re still not sure how to download updates for your Garmin device, check out this guide.
Have you ever used Garmin devices and what option do you use to update? Tell us in the comments section below.
