Garmin ActiveCaptain for iPhone and iPad now lists version 45.1 in Apple’s App Store. Sonar Shield verified the listing on October 28, 2026. The developer’s published note is brief: “Bug fixing and optimization.”
What is confirmed
The official App Store listing shows 45.1 above the earlier 45.0 entry dated September 28. At our check, the new entry used a relative time rather than an absolute calendar date. We therefore identify October 28 as our verification date rather than asserting a precise release date.
Garmin does not identify individual bugs, affected display models or new sonar controls in this note. We cannot responsibly turn that short description into a claim that a particular connection problem, map issue or sonar behavior has been fixed.
How to update ActiveCaptain on iPhone or iPad
- Open the App Store on the device where you use ActiveCaptain.
- Find Garmin ActiveCaptain and confirm that the listing is the Garmin app linked above.
- If Update appears, select it and allow the download and installation to finish. If Open appears, check the installed version and available updates before assuming there is an installation problem.
- Open ActiveCaptain after installation and confirm the app starts normally. Check your familiar account and supported device workflow before relying on it during a trip.
Apple may present updates at different times for individual accounts or devices. Follow the App Store prompts for your device and operating system. The listing currently requires iOS or iPadOS 18.5 or later.
This is the mobile app, not chartplotter firmware
Updating ActiveCaptain does not by itself establish that your Garmin fish finder, LiveScope module or trolling motor has received new firmware. Those products have separate version histories and installation instructions. Do not use the app’s 45.1 number as the software version for your display or sonar module.
If ActiveCaptain offers a separate equipment update, read the instructions and release notes for that exact product before starting. Keep the equipment update and the phone-app update as two distinct tasks in your notes.
After the update
Our suggested check is simple: launch the app, confirm the functions you normally use are available, and make a note of any repeatable problem before changing unrelated equipment settings. Record the phone or tablet model, operating system and app version when contacting support. That is more useful than guessing which unnamed bug the release addresses.
We will continue watching for more detailed official notes. This notice does not imply that earlier versions caused a known safety problem or that 45.1 adds an undocumented sonar feature.
Keep the rest of your setup practical
Browse Sonar Shield covers, visors and accessories for your equipment. These accessories have physical protection and convenience roles; they do not change software compatibility or install updates.
Source: Garmin’s developer-provided Apple App Store listing, verified October 28, 2026. Photograph: Sonar Shield; it shows Garmin-equipped hardware, not the ActiveCaptain app or a 45.1 device-firmware screen.
Created with AI assistance using Sonar Shield's topic direction and research from the sources cited in this article.