You Can Finally Set a Password to Lock Your Garmin Watch

Garmin is introducing a feature to many of its watches that Apple Watch users have been able to enjoy for a long time. This is a device passcode so you can lock your data when the watch is not on your wrist. This feature will be available to Fenix, Forerunner, Venu and Vivoactive users, or you can get it now as part of the beta program.

How Garmin Device Password Works

In the old setup (which is what you have now if you ‘re not in the beta program), devices with the “wallet” feature will ask you to set a password to use the wallet. Then, when you tap your watch to use Garmin Pay at the store checkout, you’ll need to enter a four-digit code.

The new update adds the ability to lock your entire watch, not just your wallet. Here’s how to enable it:

1. Sign up for the beta program (more on this below)

2. Go to the settings menu

3. Select system

4. In the “Password ” section, you will have the “On” option. or “Wallet only.” Select On if you want the passcode to be entered every time you put on your watch.

Do’s and Don’ts of Garmin Password

If a password is enabled, you’ll have to enter it when you put on your watch, but otherwise everything will work as usual—for you.

Someone who doesn’t know the code can pick up the watch and look at it, but most things outside the watch face will be locked by the password. For the stranger who doesn’t know the code, here’s what else is available:

• The dial is visible as usual

• The light button works to turn the watch face or backlight on and off.

• If an activity was in progress when you removed the watch, it will continue.

• You can still answer the phone

• The flashlight and emergency shortcuts still work.

Here’s what’s missing:

• Views (the data you get by scrolling down on your watch face) are locked.

• Settings menu is locked

• The action menu is locked so you can’t start a new action.

• The shortcuts menu (hold the top left button on the Forerunner) contains only five options: power off, device lock, touch screen on or off, flashlight, and emergency assistance.

• Everything else that might be in this menu, such as your wallet, timers, find my phone, etc., is all missing.

Which Garmin watches support the device passcode feature?

Garmin says the following watches are getting device passcode functionality if you’re enrolled in the beta, have the latest beta software installed, and have the latest version of the Garmin Connect app:

• Enduro 3

• Fenix ​​8 (AMOLED or Solar) and Fenix ​​E

• Forerunner 165, 255, 265, 955 and 965 and their variants (including S and Music)

• Venus 3 and 3S

• Vivoactive 5

How to enable beta to get password feature

If you like the new features of Garmin, I would recommend signing up for the beta version. I didn’t find any bugs, although that’s always a risk with any beta program.

Garmin’s instructions for enrolling in the beta program are here . Essentially, you’ll use the Garmin Connect app to select your device, then click “Join Beta Program” and agree to the terms.

Within an hour you will be able to install the latest version of the software. To check for updates at any time, go to the Settings menu on your device, then System , Software Updates , and Check for Updates.

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