Garmin has just rolled out an exciting new software update for the Venu 2, Venu 2S, and Venu 2 Plus smartwatches. This release is centered around the integration of the Connect IQ System 7 platform (Software Version 19.05), bringing a wealth of new features and enhancements designed to elevate the smartwatch experience.
CIQ System 7 Platform
The update to CIQ System 7 (v19.05) enhances the performance, compatibility, and customization capacity of the Venu 2 series. Users can now enjoy smoother navigation, richer watch-face variety, and improved compatibility with Connect IQ apps and widgets .
Introducing “Gaming” Health Activity
A standout addition is the Gaming activity profile—tailored for e‑sports and PC gamers. It monitors heart rate and stress while gaming, displaying real-time biometrics to help players optimize their performance and manage stress effectively .
Expanded Sports Profiles
This firmware also reintroduces and extends sports tracking capabilities, with improved support (or restoration) for Tennis, Pickleball, Snowshoeing, Paddle, and Jump Rope activities—either built into the device or available via Connect IQ.
Health & Sleep Monitoring Enhancements
On‑device sleep staging has been refined with new metrics, including combined restlessness scoring and more detailed sleep insights. Resting heart rate, Body Battery, stress tracking, and overall health monitoring have also received upgrades—enhancing accuracy and user insight.
Improved Battery Life
Garmin included under‑the‑hood tweaks aimed at battery preservation, reducing wear over time and sustaining long-term battery health .
Bug Fixes & System Improvements
Key fixes include restoring missing sports profiles (Tennis, Pickleball), correcting golf distance reporting, resolving issues with music playback and voice‑assistant interactions (especially on the Venu 2 Plus), and other minor improvements across safety and incident detection, call handling, and connectivity.
How to Update
The new firmware should install automatically within 24 hours of availability. Users can manually initiate it by going to Settings > System > Software Update on the watch, or via Garmin Connect or Garmin Express.
Why It Matters
This update reaffirms Garmin’s commitment to keeping evolving features available even on previous-generation hardware. The addition of Gaming tracking acknowledges the rise of e-sports and the wider application of biometric monitoring. Meanwhile, CIQ System 7 ensures longevity and future compatibility.
If you own a Venu 2 series watch, this update delivers meaningful health insights, greater activity tracking flexibility, and system improvements—all without needing to upgrade your device.