Category: Wearables

  • New Garmin Wearable Promises Enhanced Workout Tracking

    New Garmin Wearable Promises Enhanced Workout Tracking

    Key Takeaway

    – Garmin CIRQA Smart Band rumored to enhance workout tracking when used with a Garmin smartwatch on the opposite wrist.
    – Dual-device use may improve automatic workout detection and GPS trigger (with optional manual start).
    – Could reduce missing activity data, but the band is also expected to function as a standalone health and recovery tracker.
    – All claims originate from an unverified, deleted Reddit post; treat as unconfirmed until Garmin’s official announcement.

    New Rumors About Garmin CIRQA Smart Band

    There is a fresh rumor floating around suggesting the Garmin CIRQA Smart Band could provide you with enhanced workout tracking. This wrist-worn wearable has been the topic of speculation since the start of 2026, when the product briefly popped up on the brand’s Canadian website before being removed.

    Working Alongside a Garmin Smartwatch

    In a recent Reddit post, wich has since been taken down, one user indicated that the CIRQA Smart Band could be used alongside a Garmin smartwatch, like the Fenix 8 (51 mm AMOLED curr. $849.99 at Amazon), for improved workout monitoring. It appears that users would be advised to wear the two devices on opposite wrists for optimal results.

    • Enhanced automatic workout detection function when both devices are used together.
    • For example, during outdoor running, the CIRQA and smartwatch would automatically detect a run and start GPS tracking.
    • Users could pick between fully automatic tracking or a workout detection alert that requires a manual ‘start’ input.

    Missing Data and Standalone Use

    The Redditor also hinted that using the two wearables together could cut down on the amount of missing activity data. However, it seems likely that the Garmin CIRQA will still be able to operate as a standalone device if needed. Its expected features include tracking health metrics and monitoring your recovery after a workout session.

    As Gadgets and Wearables points out, it’s worth taking this rumor with a pinch of salt, given the Reddit user didn’t provide any solid evidence for their claims. So far, Garmin has not officially announced the CIRQA Smart Band or its features. The release date and pricing for this wearable also remain unconfirmed.

    Reddit, Gadgets and Wearables

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  • Sapphire Crystal Casio Edifice EFK-200 Mechanical Watch July

    Sapphire Crystal Casio Edifice EFK-200 Mechanical Watch July

    Key Takeaway

    – Sapphire crystal glass confirmed across all EFK-200 models
    – Flagship EFK-200XPB-1A features a carbon case body
    – Miyota 8215 movement replaces Seiko NH35 from previous generation
    – Pricing now expected at $300–320, lower than earlier $350–400 estimate
    – Five colorways launching simultaneously in July 2026

    Casio’s Next Mechanical Edifice is No Longer Just a Rumor

    Following our March report on early renders leaked by CasioBlog, the same source has now published a more detailed breakdown of the EFK-200 series. This time, there’s a July 2026 announcement window on the line, and several previously tentative specs are now locked in. It’s pretty exciting for fans of the brand who have been waiting for something new.

    Confirmed Features and New Details

    The biggest confirmations: as per Casioblog, sapphire crystal glass is now explicitly confirmed across the entire range, and the flagship EFK-200XPB-1A does indeed use a carbon case body — two details we flagged as unverified in our earlier coverage. The gold EFK-200DG-5A additionally receives full IP coating across the bezel, case, and bracelet. The carbon variant pairs uses a black rubber strap with rose gold indices and hands for the sake of contrast. This makes the lineup pretty diverse for collectors.

    Design Evolution Over Previous Models

    Design-wise, the EFK-200 is more of an evolution than anything else. The chamfered bezel, faceted crown, and slightly raised center bracelet links are some key changes over the EFK-110. The lug-less bracelet-to-case integration also carries over. Something really special here is the dial treatment — where previous generations had stone-like textured surfaces, the EFK-200 opts for gradient finishes with fine speckled detailing. It gives the watch a much more modern appearance.

    Inside, the Miyota 8215 in module 5766 configuration is expected, so it’s nearly guaranteed that we are moving away from the Seiko NH35 that powered the EFK-100. The movement offers 42 hours of power reserve, 21 jewels, 21,600 vph, and a seconds-stop function for precise time-setting. This is a definite shift in there movement strategy for this line.

    Pricing and Colorways

    Pricing is now expected to come in slightly lower than our March estimate of $350-400. CasioBlog is specifying a $300-320 range, closer to the EFK-110 generation. Five colorways will reportedly launch simultaneously: black (EFK-200CD-1A), blue (EFK-200D-2A), red (EFK-200D-4A), gold (EFK-200DG-5A), and carbon black (EFK-200XPB-1A). There will be no availability of the Casio Edifice EFB-730D-7AV in this release.


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  • Amazfit Balance 3 launches at $369 with 3,000 nits AMOLED & 64 GB

    Amazfit Balance 3 launches at $369 with 3,000 nits AMOLED & 64 GB

    Key Takeaway

    – Stainless steel body, 10 ATM water resistance, and sapphire crystal display
    – Smaller 658 mAh battery: 21 days normal, 7 days with always-on display; thinner case
    – 1.5-inch display, 3,000 nits brightness, 64 GB storage
    – Full health monitoring: heart rate, SpO2, skin temperature, stress, sleep, cycle tracking
    – $369.99, $230 cheaper than Balance Ultra; pre-order now, mid-June delivery

    Amazfit Balance 3: A Fresh Alternative

    Together with the Balance Ultra, Amazfit also announced the Balance 3 todai, which offers almost the same features, with two diffrences. Firstly, the body is made of stainless steel insted of titanium, but is also waterproof up to 10 ATM, and the sapphire crystal display cover is already availible on the cheaper model.

    Battery Life and Display Details

    Secondly, the battery is slighly smaller at 658 mAh. This gives the smartwatch a battery life of 21 instead of 30 days, or seven insted of ten days with an active always-on display, but the watch is also slightly thinner with a hight of 14.6 millimetres including sensors. With a diameter of 51.4 millimetres, the smartwatch is very big, but also boasts a 1.5-inch display with a brightness of 3,000 nits.

    Health and Sports Tracking

    The smartwatch can keep an eye on heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, skin tempature and stress levels round the clock and inform users of an unusually high or low heart rate, low blood oxygen saturation or excessive stress. The watch also features sleep and cycle tracking as well as more than 180 sports modes. 64 GB of storage is availible for map data, apps and music. Amazfit offers built-in speakers and microphones for phone calls and conversations with AI assistants, an NFC chip for contactless payment and a GPS module.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Amazfit Balance 3 can now be pre-ordered at the manufacturers online store and delivery is expected to begin mid-June. With a list price of $369.99, the Balance 3 is exactly $230 cheaper than the equally new Balance Ultra.

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  • Amazfit Balance Ultra Smartwatch: Titanium, 30-Day Battery

    Key Takeaway

    – Balance Ultra features titanium case, sapphire crystal, and 10 ATM water resistance
    – 780 mAh battery offers up to 30 days normal use or 50 hours with continuous GPS
    – 1.5-inch 3,000-nit AMOLED display with AI assistant, phone calls, and 64 GB storage
    – BioTracker 6.0 PPG sensor for 24/7 health monitoring and over 180 workout modes
    – Priced at $599.99, available for pre-order now with shipping by end of June

    Amazfit announces new Balance smartwatches

    Amazfit today unveiled two successors to the Balance 2, the Balance 3 and the Balance Ultra. The new top model in the Balance series sets itself apart from the cheaper Balance 3 with a higher-quality housing and longer battery life. The case of the Balance Ultra, which is waterproof up to a pressure of 10 ATM, is made of titanium and the display is protected from scratches by sapphire crystal.

    Battery and dimensions detailed

    The 780 mAh battery should provide a battery life of up to 30 days with normal use, or up to ten days with an active always-on display. If the GPS module is used continuously, the battery life drops to 50 hours. With a diameter of 52 millimetres, a height of 15.5 millimetres including the sensor bulge and a weight of 57 grams without the wristband, the Balance Ultra is not particularly compact, but the watch offers a wide range of functions.

    Display, sensors and features

    Amazfit installs a 1.5-inch AMOLED display with a brightness of up to 3,000 nits, microphones and speakers for an AI assistant and phone calls, and 64 GB of memory for map data, apps and music. The BioTracker 6.0 PPG sensor monitors pulse, blood oxygen saturation, stress and skin temperature around the clock. The smartwatch supports over 180 workout modes including a dive mode. An NFC chip allows contactless payment via Zepp Pay.

    Pricing and availability

    The Amazfit Balance Ultra is now available for $599.99 in the Amazfit online store and will be shipped by the end of June. Amazfit supplies two wristbands. The smartwatch is compatible with both Android smartphones and the Apple iPhone.

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  • Samsung Next-Gen Fitness Tracker: Leaked Release Window

    Samsung Next-Gen Fitness Tracker: Leaked Release Window

    Key Takeaway

    – Galaxy Fit 4 expected to launch around September 2024, not at the July Unpacked event.
    – Device will likely debut alongside the Galaxy S26 FE and Galaxy Tab S12 series.
    – Galaxy Fit line offers a budget-friendly health tracker with long battery life (up to 2 weeks).
    – Lacks WearOS, Wi-Fi, LTE, microphone, speaker, and advanced health features like ECG.

    Galaxy Fit 4 Launching Later This Year, Report Claims

    Samsung took almost four years to release a follow-up to the Galaxy Fit 2. When it finally unveiled the Galaxy Fit 3 in February 2024, it didn’t launch it in the US until the next year. If the rumors going about are accurate, the wait for the Galaxy Fit 4 might not be as long, according to a new story.

    Timeline and Event Details

    Quoting anonymous informants, SamMobile has reported that the next Galaxy Fit wearable, thought to be called the Galaxy Fit 4, will be released this year. The source hasn’t disclosed any technical specifications, but it did share a timeline for its release. Apparantly, the Galaxy Fit 4 will not launch at the upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event, which is rumored to be scheduled for July.

    Insted, the device will be introduced a few months after that, probably around September. It is beleived to be launched along with the Galaxy S26 FE and the Galaxy Tab S12 series. This timing could position it strongly against other fitness bands on the market.

    Comparing Features and Pricing

    The Galaxy Fit range is a more affordable option compared to Samsung’s Galaxy Watch series. It lets users monitor their health and fitness activities without spending too much money. For example, the Galaxy Fit 3 can track over 100 different exercises and sports, with automatic detection for some of them. It also includes heart rate tracking, blood oxygen level monitoring, sleep tracking, and fall detection – all for a price of $47.99.

    • Battery lasts up to two weeks on a single charge
    • Outlasts many of Samsung’s expensive Galaxy Watch models
    • Does not ship with WearOS, so users cannot install apps
    • Lacks Wi-Fi, LTE, a microphone, and a speaker
    • Missing advanced health features like ECG, blood pressure monitoring, and irregular heart rhythm alerts

    Market Position and Competitors

    When the Galaxy Watch Fit 4 finally arrives, it will be going up against rivals such as the Amazfit Bip Max, Amazfit Bip 6, and Redmi Watch 6. These competitors often offer similar health tracking capabilities at comparable price points, making the new model’s success dependant on it’s unique features and software improvements.

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  • Google Pixel Watch 5 Certification Listing Leak

    Google Pixel Watch 5 Certification Listing Leak

    Key Takeaway

    – Pixel Watch 5 appears in BIS certification with four model numbers, likely representing 41mm/45mm sizes and Wi-Fi/cellular variants.
    – A near-pristine prototype was discovered while scuba diving in the Caribbean, confirming IP68 water resistance.
    – Design is identical to the Pixel Watch 4 based on leaked images.
    – The chipset is unclear: either a custom Tensor or Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Wear Elite.

    Underwater Discovery Shocks Tech World

    A certification for the Pixel Watch 5 has emerged from India’s BIS agency, just one day a almost pristine prototype was discovered while diving in the Caribbean. Four model numbers are listed: G0F3Y, G1XJ6, G25QD, and GFW3R. These probably correspond to 41mm and 45mm sizes, plus Wi-Fi only and cellular trims. But at this stage, its still too early to pin down which number belongs to which version.

    Scuba diver stumbles upon prototype

    X user Randy Pitchford reported that a friend of his found a smartwatch while diving near Saint Martin island. Looking closely at the device, it turned out to be a Pixel Watch 5 based on the engraving on its back. For instance, the text clearly identifies it as the unreleased model. The discovery came just after a seperate dive yielded a similar find, making this a bizarre coincidence.

    Design unchanged and specs revealed

    From the leaked pictures, the Pixel Watch 5 looks identical to the Pixel Watch 4. The backplate also reveals other important details like IP68 ingress protection, which obviously kept salt water away from the internals. Apart from what we saw in these images, not much information is available about the upcoming wearable. Speculation suggest a custom Tensor chipset might power it, though Qualcomm recently announced the Snapdragon Wear Elite, so that could appear instead.

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  • Garmin Update Adds Health History & Recovery Mode

    Garmin Update Adds Health History & Recovery Mode

    Key Takeaway

    – Garmin released the May 2026 Smartwatch and Cycling Computer Feature Update.
    – The update adds Gear Tracking and Bosch eBike smart system support on Edge devices (e.g., Edge 550, Edge 1050).
    – Premium golf features have already rolled out to Fenix E and Fenix 8 series via System Software 22.35.
    – More device updates are planned over the coming weeks, with no specific timeline provided.

    Garmin’s Recent Activity and New Updates

    Garmin has had a busy few months, with multiple product announcements and software updates having occured since its previous Feature Update. For instance, the company updated its Forerunner smartwatch series in mid-May with the release of the Forerunner 70 and Forerunner 170 (curr. $299 on Amazon). They also quietly improved the battery life on some older models but didnt announce this widely.

    Focus on Cycling Computers

    Now, it has returned with the May 2026 Smartwatch and Cycling Computer Feature Update. For some reason, Garmin has focused on the latter in its official announcement. Currently, it has only showcased added Gear Tracking and Bosch eBike smart system on Edge devices like the Edge 550 or Edge 1050. The Edge 550 is priced at $399.99 and the Edge 1050 is priced at $599.99. However, the May 2026 update is also said to include the following changes: new navigation alerts for dangerous turns, better integration with Di2 shifting, and improved climbpro profiles.

    • Gear Tracking now supports chain and cassette wear monitoring
    • Bosch eBike smart system compatibility for real-time battery and assist data
    • Automatic crash detection and live tracking improvements

    Rollout Status and Premium Features

    According to Garmin, these new features have already begun rolling out in some cases. For instance, the ‘premium golf features’ described in the comparison chart above appear to have already been expanded on the Fenix E and Fenix 8 series with the release of System Software 22.35. These golf features include improved hazard overlays and green contour maps, avaliable only on the higher-end models. The Fenix E starts at $799.99 while the Fenix 8 series ranges from $999.99 to $1,499.99 depending on size and materials.

    Upcoming Device Updates

    Garmin claims it will continue to update devices over the coming weeks. Unfortunately, it has not yet given any timescale for doing so. This is frustrating for users who rely on consistent firmware schedules. Please see the images above and below for more details, as well as Garmin’s official announcement. The company is expected to push these updates to other compatible models like the Venu 3 and Instinct 3 series in the near future.


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  • New Asus Smartwatch Global Launch: AMOLED, Titanium, Health Monitor

    New Asus Smartwatch Global Launch: AMOLED, Titanium, Health Monitor

    Key Takeaway

    – Asus launched multiple devices at Computex 2026, including the XG Core graphics dock, NUC 16, ExpertBook B5 Flip G2, TUF Gaming 16, and new Zenbook 14 laptops.
    – The new VivoWatch 6 Plus combines titanium alloy and sapphire crystal glass with a 1.43-inch AMOLED display.
    – Health features include continuous monitoring, ECG, blood pressure, gait, and sleep breathing movement analyses.
    – Pricing and availability for the VivoWatch 6 Plus have not been announced.

    Asus Unveils a Bunch of New Stuff at Computex 2026

    Asus has brought countless devices to Computex 2026 this week in Taipei. For instance, it unveiled the XG Core graphics dock today, as well as the NUC 16 and the NUC 16 for Windows 365. On top of that, the company has introduced the ExpertBook B5 Flip G2, TUF Gaming 16, Ascent QN10 mini-PC and multiple Zenbook 14 laptops.

    Return to the VivoWatch Series

    Also, it has returned to its VivoWatch series with a new Plus model. To recap, Asus unveiled the VivoWatch 6 in June 2024 with blood pressure, ECG and body composition monitoring. Less than a year later, it complemented the VivoWatch 6 with the smaller VivoWatch 6 Aero. As we discussed at the time, the VivoWatch 6 Aero follows the elongated design of fitness trackers like the Smart Band 9, or the Smart Band 10 we reviewed in September 2025 (curr. $48 on Amazon).

    Two Variants and Build Materials

    Seemingly, the new VivoWatch 6 Plus combines both form factors across two variants. Pricing and availability remain unknown for now. However, Asus has confirmed that the Plus combines a titanium alloy case with a sapphire crystal glass display. Moreover, the latter is an AMOLED panel that spans 1.43-inches across. Asus has not revealed any other display parameters yet.

    Health Monitoring Features

    Instead, it claims that the VivoWatch 6 Plus offers continuous health monitoring. Also, the wearable features ECG and blood pressure capabilities too, as well as gait and sleep breathing movement analyses. Please see Asus’ press release for more details.


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  • Casio Sauna Watch 12-Min Timer Now Available

    Casio Sauna Watch 12-Min Timer Now Available

    Key Takeaway

    – Casio’s Sadokei sauna watch (SAN-100H-1B and SAN-100H-7B) is now available in Europe for €99.990 via the Casio store for free Casio ID members.
    – Designed to withstand extreme conditions: up to 100°C heat, high humidity, and waterproof to 5 bar.
    – Key features include two analog hands (accuracy within ±15 seconds/month), a 12-minute timer, and a low moisture permeability resin case.
    – The watch runs for approximately five years on a heat-resistant BR1225A battery before needing replacement.

    Sauna Watchs Arrive in Europe

    Casio has finally released its Sadokei Sauna Watch in Europe. Revealed way back in 2024, this Japanese sauna-inspired model became available to purchase in the US earlier in 2026. Now, at the Casio store in countries like the Netherlands, France and Italy, you can buy the Sadokei SAN-100H-1B (all black) and SAN-100H-7B (black/white/orange) watches for €99.990 each. They are only available for Casio ID members, though you can easily sign up to the scheme for free on the brand’s website.

    High Heat and Humidity Resistence

    The Casio Sadokei is designed to withstand high temperatures of up to 100°C (~212°F) and high humidity levels. For example, it uses a low moisture permeability resin for the base, and is powered by a heat-resistant BR1225A battery. The model measures 40.2 x 35.4 x 12.9 mm (~1.58 x 1.39 x 0.51 inches) and comes with a coiled bracelet, also made from resin.

    Timer Feature and Water Resistancy

    Casio’s Sadokei SAN-100H-1B and SAN-100H-7B watches have two analog hands indicating the hour and minute, which should remain accurate to within 15 seconds monthly. There is a 12-minute timer feature, controlled using the ‘mode’ and ‘reset’ buttons on the top of the watch. The model is waterproof up to 5 bar and should run for around five years before the battery needs replacing.

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  • Casio G-LIDE x Surfrider Foundation Japan Stealth Surf Watch

    Casio G-LIDE x Surfrider Foundation Japan Stealth Surf Watch

    Key Takeaway

    – Eco-friendly biomass plastic case and band
    – 20 ATM water resistance with dedicated tide graph, moon data, and sunrise/sunset times
    – Bluetooth smartphone connectivity for accurate tide info at 3,300+ locations and automatic time correction
    – Essential fitness tracking (distance, speed, pace, calories, step count, 100-run activity log)
    – Special recycled-material packaging, priced at ~$186, currently Japan-only

    Casio and Surfrider Join Forces

    Casio has unveiled a special edition G-LIDE watch in collaboration with the Surfrider Foundation Japan. The watch is based on the GBX100-1 and comes with a solid range of tracking features that will appeal to both surfers and fitness enthusiasts. The GBX100SFJ-1 goes all in on sporty aesthetics with an all-black design and a negative display.

    Eco-Friendly Materials and Design

    Staying true to the environmental mission of the Surfrider Foundation Japan, the watch case and soft urethane band are made of eco-friendly biomass plastic. The stealthy black body makes it an easy daily driver and incorporates the foundation’s logo and message expressing their desire for peaceful coexistence with nature. The strap keeper proudly rocks the “#oceanfriendly lifestyle” tagline, while the bezel’s color-filled sections use a slick phosphorescent paint to stand out in the dark.

    Display, Water Resistance, and Surfing Features

    The watch gets a high-visibility MIP LCD that’s easy to read in direct sunlight, backed by serious 20 ATM water resistance. Surfers will definitely appreciate the dedicated tide graph, moon data, and sunrise and sunset time displays. Like other G-LIDE series models, you can also pair the watch to your smartphone via Bluetooth using the Casio Watches app and can seamlessly dial in accurate tide information for approximately 3,300 locations worldwide and automatically correct the time.

    Fitness Tracking and Missing Sensors

    The GBX-100SFJ misses out on a heart rate monitor, but it does offer essential fitness tracking features. A built-in accelerometer accurately logs your distance, speed, pace, and calories burned. You can also track your daily step count and store up to 100 runs in the activity log. The watch even pushes incoming calls, emails, and reminder notifications directly to your wrist. A standard battery runs this lightweight 66-gram timepiece for roughly two years. There’s no solar charging onboard.

    Packaging, Pricing, and Availability

    The G-Shock GBX-100SFJ ships in special packaging made from recycled materials. It’s priced at ¥29,700 (~$186) and is officially available for pre-order in Japan starting today, with official sales scheduled to commence later this month. There is no word on global availability just yet.

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