Garmin releases update to wearable with a dozen changes and new features

Earlier this week, Garmin released the Descent X10. A budget-oriented dive computer, the Descent X10 combines a MiP display with up to 50 hours of battery life when diving. As we discussed at the time, the Descent X10's launch price of $349.99 positions it as a cheaper alternative to both the Descent X30i and Descent X50i.

Now, the company has issued a new update to the latter via its stable software distribution channel. Rolling out globally, Software Version 8.02 replaces System Software 7.05 from approximately three months ago. As such, the new update brings numerous changes to the Descent X50i (curr. $1,499 on Amazon), which Garmin launched almost two years ago.

By our count, System Software 8.02 introduces a dozen changes to the Descent X50i, including multiple in-dive changes. Reportedly, the new update has already reached all Descent X50i wearables. If that is not the case, then System Software 8.02 can be requested manually via Garmin Connect Mobile and Garmin Connect. The full list of changes from System Software 7.05 is as follows:

• Added a page that helps explain the importance of drying the device thoroughly before putting it away.
• Added a page that helps explain what can be transferred using Setup Sharing.
• Added an extra popup if the device is turned off and then immediately turns back on due to water detection. This popup can be snoozed.
• Fixed a potential issue that could cause random entry/exit coordinates (typically near Africa).
• Fixed a potential rounding error when using statute depth.
• Fixed an issue where, if X50i is booted face-down, the compass would be inverted until rebooted.
• Fixed potentially showing bad data for manually-created dive logs that were synced down to the device.
• Fixed the safety stop clear tone so it begins to play at the correct time during the countdown.
• Improved battery life when charging pins are wet.
• Improved how the device handles poor connections to the Descent S1 Buoy.
• Improved the ascent rate alarm logic to reduce nuisance alerts. The alarm now activates when the ascent rate exceeds 30 ft/min (10 m/min) for 10 seconds, or exceeds 60 ft/min (20 m/min) for 5 seconds. [In Dive Change]
• In CCR dives, upcoming automatic setpoint switches are no longer accounted for in TTS. This is to align more closely with other industry devices. [In Dive Change]