Category: Wearables

  • Garmin Komoot Update 2025: Improved Navigation & Route Transfer

    Garmin Komoot Update 2025: Improved Navigation & Route Transfer

    Key Takeaways

    1. Komoot enhances features for Garmin devices, improving compatibility for outdoor enthusiasts since 2017.
    2. Users can share routes designed by others easily with Garmin devices through Live Sync.
    3. The updated features provide detailed insights like elevation profiles and surface types for better navigation.
    4. Routes can be adjusted on-the-fly without interrupting activities, simplifying the analysis of rides or hikes.
    5. Komoot is not entirely free; access to some features requires purchasing map packages.


    People who enjoy outdoor activities and often go hiking may know about both Garmin and Komoot. Komoot is compatible with Garmin smartwatches, and the company has recently announced a major enhancement of its features for Garmin devices. Garmin and Komoot have been working together since 2017. However, there is an important limitation to note; Komoot is not completely free or ad-supported, meaning that the features available to users who haven’t bought map packages may be restricted.

    Improved Compatibility for Cyclists

    Moving on, a blog entry from Komoot states that support for bike computers is set to see significant upgrades. In particular, routes designed mainly by other users can now be easily shared with a compatible Garmin device through Live Sync. This allows users to begin navigation in just seconds without needing a lengthy syncing process. Users should find the detailed insights from these Komoot routes, like elevation profiles and surface types, very beneficial.

    Easy Route Adjustments

    Routes can be modified quite simply without interrupting ongoing activities, which will make it easier to analyze individual rides or hikes without having them split into several recordings. In images shared by Komoot, compatibility with bike computers such as the Garmin Edge 540 (starting at $349 on Amazon) is highlighted.

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  • Apple Vision Pro Upgrade: M5 Chip, 120Hz Micro-OLED, More Comfort

    Apple Vision Pro Upgrade: M5 Chip, 120Hz Micro-OLED, More Comfort

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple introduced an updated Vision Pro headset alongside the new 14-inch MacBook Pro and iPad Pro with the M5 chip.
    2. The new Vision Pro features improved performance and efficiency, including a 2.5-hour battery life and 10% sharper dual micro-OLED displays.
    3. The updated headset supports a refresh rate of 120Hz, up from the previous 100Hz.
    4. Users can navigate the Vision Pro with hand gestures, thanks to the R1 chip processing input from various sensors and cameras.
    5. The new Vision Pro is available for preorder, starting at €3,699 for the 256GB model and €3,899 for the 1TB version, with a comfortable knitted fabric headband included.


    Alongside the freshly unveiled 14-inch MacBook Pro and the iPad Pro powered by the innovative Apple M5 chip, the tech giant from Cupertino has revealed an updated version of the Vision Pro headset. The mixed-reality device encountered challenges in the market, primarily due to its steep price of $3,499. However, the new iteration is expected to enhance several important aspects compared to the original model.

    Improved Performance and Efficiency

    The Apple M5 offers a notable boost in performance and efficiency, which extends the battery life to 2.5 hours. With this upgrade, Apple can operate the headset’s dual micro-OLED displays at a resolution that is 10% sharper than what was offered before. Additionally, the latest version features displays boasting a refresh rate of 120Hz, a step up from the 100Hz seen in the first-generation Apple Vision Pro.

    Enhanced User Experience

    Continuing to use the specialized R1 chip, Apple processes input from twelve cameras, five sensors, and six microphones, enabling users to navigate the Vision Pro using hand gestures. This time, Apple includes a knitted fabric headband in the packaging, designed for improved comfort. Customers can also buy this new headband separately for use with the original Vision Pro. Other than that, the set of features remains the same.

    The newly designed Apple Vision Pro, now equipped with the Apple M5 chip, is available for preorder on the official Apple Store website. The entry-level model, which comes with 256GB of storage, is priced at €3,699, while the higher-end version with 1TB storage costs €3,899. Alongside the mixed-reality headset and the new headband, the Vision Pro package also includes a battery, a 30W USB-C charger, and a polishing cloth.

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  • Oppo Watch S Launching Soon: EKG & 3000 Nits AMOLED Display

    Oppo Watch S Launching Soon: EKG & 3000 Nits AMOLED Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Oppo Watch S is 8.9 mm thick, water-resistant up to 5 ATM, and has a battery life of 10 days in energy-saving mode or 4 days with regular use.
    2. It features a 45 mm circular design with a 1.46-inch AMOLED screen, a resolution of 464 x 464, and maximum brightness of 3,000 nits (limited to certain sports modes).
    3. The watch is powered by the BES2800BP processor with 4 GB eMMC storage, running ColorOS Watch 7.1, and supports contactless payments via NFC.
    4. Key sensors include heart rate, SpO2, ECG, and skin temperature, plus over 1,000 watch faces and more than 100 sports modes.
    5. Pricing and availability will be announced on October 16, with initial release planned for China, but international availability is unconfirmed.


    The Oppo Watch S is poised to surpass competing smartwatches with its impressively slim profile, measuring just 8.9 millimeters in thickness while maintaining water resistance up to 5 ATM. The company claims that the battery can last for ten days when in energy-saving mode. Under regular usage, including the always-on display, the battery life is estimated to last about four days.

    Design and Display

    This circular watch features a diameter of 45 millimeters, which allows it to hold a 1.46-inch AMOLED screen. The display boasts a resolution of 464 x 464 and can reach a maximum brightness of 3,000 nits, ensuring visibility even in bright sunlight. However, the downside is that the maximum brightness is only accessible in select sports modes, with Oppo typically capping the brightness at 1,500 nits to help save battery.

    Internal Specs and Features

    Inside the Oppo Watch S, you’ll find a power-efficient BES2800BP processor paired with 4 GB of eMMC flash storage, offering ample room for the efficient ColorOS Watch 7.1 system. It supports contactless payments via an integrated NFC chip and includes a GPS module. Besides a heart rate and SpO2 sensor, there’s also an electrocardiogram (ECG) function and a skin temperature sensor. The smartwatch offers over 1,000 different watch faces and more than 100 sports modes to choose from.

    Pricing and Launch

    Details on pricing and availability for the Oppo Watch S are anticipated to be officially revealed on Thursday, October 16. The smartwatch will first be available in China, but Oppo has not confirmed if it will be released internationally.

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  • Honor Watch 5 Pro: ECG, Blood Pressure, 3000 Nits Display at $224

    Honor Watch 5 Pro: ECG, Blood Pressure, 3000 Nits Display at $224

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Honor Watch 5 Pro is a budget-friendly smartwatch compared to the Honor Watch 5 Ultra, featuring a stainless steel bezel and water resistance rated at 5 ATM.
    2. It has a 1.5-inch round AMOLED display with a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels and a brightness of 3,000 nits, ensuring clear visibility in bright sunlight.
    3. The watch includes speakers and microphones for AI voice assistant access and phone calls, an NFC chip for contactless payments, and GPS for route tracking.
    4. Health features include a blood pressure monitor, ECG function, and sensors for heart rate and SpO2 monitoring, though blood pressure readings are not medical-grade.
    5. The Honor Watch 5 Pro is available in China with a Bluetooth model priced at 1,599 yuan (around $224) and an LTE model for 1,699 yuan (roughly $238), with no current details on international release.


    The new Honor Watch 5 Pro is marketed as a budget-friendly option compared to the Honor Watch 5 Ultra, while still aiming to provide a high-quality experience. It features a stainless steel bezel and a water-resistant case rated at 5 ATM. The dimensions of the watch are 46 millimeters in diameter and 11.6 millimeters in height, with a weight of about 50 grams.

    Display and Functionality

    This smartwatch comes with a 1.5-inch round AMOLED display boasting a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels, plus an impressive brightness of 3,000 nits to ensure clear visibility even in bright sunlight. It includes speakers and microphones for accessing an AI voice assistant and making phone calls directly from the watch. An NFC chip is built in for easy contactless payments, and it has a GPS system that helps track your routes while jogging or biking. The battery life is reported to last for 15 days, or only three days if the LTE modem is continuously in use.

    Health and Fitness Features

    The Honor Watch 5 Pro offers several health and fitness features, beginning with a blood pressure monitor that gives specific readings. As it uses a PPG sensor similar to that in the Samsung Galaxy Watch8, these readings should be seen merely as a rough estimate and are not a substitute for medical-grade blood pressure monitors. Additionally, the watch includes an electrocardiogram (ECG) function, along with sensors for heart rate and SpO2 monitoring.

    Pricing and Availability

    In China, the Honor Watch 5 Pro is sold in two versions: the Bluetooth model priced at 1,599 yuan (around $224) and the LTE model with eSIM for 1,699 yuan (roughly $238). However, Honor has not yet released any details regarding a potential international release.

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  • Samsung’s Android XR Headset Launching October 21 – Reserve Now

    Samsung’s Android XR Headset Launching October 21 – Reserve Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung will unveil its first Android XR headset, Project Moohan, at a global online event on October 21, streamed live on YouTube.
    2. Early reservations are available for free, offering a $100 Samsung Credit for future purchases, but no pricing details have been confirmed.
    3. The headset is expected to be priced over $1800, aligning it with high-end devices like Apple’s Vision Pro.
    4. Leaks suggest the headset may feature dual 4K micro OLED displays, Snapdragon XR2 Plus Gen 2 chipset, and advanced tracking capabilities.
    5. The device operates on a new platform called Android XR, optimized for spatial computing, with preorders likely starting after the event.


    Samsung has announced an upcoming global online event set for October 21, where they will unveil their first Android XR headset, currently referred to as Project Moohan. Early reservations are now available, complete with a $100 Samsung Credit bonus. The event, named Worlds Wide Open, will be streamed live on Samsung’s YouTube channel. It will showcase what Samsung describes as a significant step in their mobile AI strategy, developed in partnership with Google and Qualcomm. The headset is designed to deliver “immersive, everyday experiences” utilizing Android XR, a new platform specifically optimized for spatial computing from its inception.

    Reservation Details

    While Samsung hasn’t disclosed the final name or pricing for the product, they have begun to gather reservations on their website. The reservation process is free and does not require an upfront payment. It grants users a $100 Samsung Credit, which can only be used after making a purchase. This credit applies to accessories and other Samsung products, not the headset itself. Such an approach suggests that the headset might come with a high price tag, which could hinder early adoption unless there are compelling incentives. Reports from various industry sources, particularly in South Korea, indicate that the launch price may exceed $1800, positioning Project Moohan alongside Apple’s Vision Pro rather than Meta’s more budget-friendly Quest series.

    Expected Specifications

    Although Samsung has yet to release the specifications, various leaks hint that the headset might be equipped with dual 4K micro OLED displays that have a resolution of 4032 pixels per inch. It is expected to feature the Snapdragon XR2 Plus Gen 2 chipset, along with capabilities for hand, eye, and voice tracking through several onboard cameras. The headset is anticipated to weigh about 545 grams and offer around two hours of battery life for mixed usage, with an option for an external USB-C battery pack to extend its operational time.

    The device is rumored to operate on Android XR, which is a new variant of Android designed specifically for extended reality, developed in collaboration with Samsung as the primary hardware partner. Samsung will unveil the headset on October 21 at 10 PM Eastern Time, with preorders likely to launch right after the livestream concludes. As previously mentioned, reservations can be made now on Samsung’s website and do not require any commitment, making it easy for anyone interested in Android XR to secure one.

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  • 2025 Casio G-Shock GA-B2100DF: New Vibrant Watches Announced

    2025 Casio G-Shock GA-B2100DF: New Vibrant Watches Announced

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio has launched two new G-Shock models, GA-B2100DF-4A and GA-B2100DF-1A, inspired by the Sally Lightfoot crab and the Galápagos albatross.
    2. Both watches are made entirely from bioplastic, emphasizing sustainability, and feature unique engravings and conservation-themed packaging.
    3. The watches include popular functionalities like Bluetooth connectivity, solar charging, water resistance up to 200 meters, and shock protection.
    4. Casio’s collaboration with the Charles Darwin Foundation highlights wildlife from the Galápagos and supports conservation efforts through eco-friendly designs.
    5. The new models are expected to launch globally between November and December 2025, with an estimated retail price of around $170.


    Casio is keeping its collaboration with the Charles Darwin Foundation alive through two new G-Shock models that honor wildlife from the Galápagos. The watches, known as GA-B2100DF-4A and GA-B2100DF-1A, draw inspiration from the Sally Lightfoot crab and the Galápagos albatross, respectively. The crab-themed watch showcases a vibrant red bioplastic case and features details shaped like crabs, while the albatross version presents a striking black-and-yellow color palette, complete with bird-inspired markers and graphics.

    Focus on Sustainability

    As anticipated, both timepieces prioritize sustainability: they are crafted entirely from bioplastic for both the cases and straps. Each watch also boasts unique engravings and comes in special packaging adorned with conservation-themed artwork. Additionally, Casio has included the usual functionalities that the series is known for, such as Bluetooth connectivity, solar charging, world time, double LED backlighting, water resistance up to 200 meters, robust shock protection, and the Carbon Core Guard structure.

    A Legacy of Conservation

    Casio’s ongoing partnership with the Charles Darwin Foundation has led to the creation of numerous exciting G-Shock models over the years, each one highlighting the Galápagos Islands’ unique wildlife while supporting the Foundation’s conservation work. Previous models include designs inspired by the Galápagos giant tortoise, hammerhead shark, Darwin’s finch, marine iguanas, and Galápagos penguins. Like the recently released models, these earlier versions also utilized eco-friendly materials, featured designs specific to the wildlife, and included specially designed packaging.

    Release Details

    For the new GA-B2100DF-4A and GA-B2100DF-1A, they are set for a global launch expected to take place from November to December 2025. The retail price is likely to align with previous collaborative models, typically around $170, although this can vary by market.

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  • Seiko Launches 1984 Tissé Watch in Power Design Project Collection

    Seiko Launches 1984 Tissé Watch in Power Design Project Collection

    Key Takeaways

    1. Seiko launched the Power Design Project Collection 1, inspired by the 1984 Tisse watch, known for its bead-like bracelet and relaxed fit.
    2. The collection includes three models: SSEH021 (silver), SSEH023 (black), and SSEH024 (gold), featuring modern materials and designs.
    3. The watches are designed to be unisex, allowing personal choice in styling as either a bracelet or a watch.
    4. Pricing is expected to range from $400-$500, with availability starting in December 2025 at Seiko boutiques and select retailers.
    5. Key features include splash resistance, magnetic resistance, a quartz movement, and a loose-fitting design that blurs the line between a watch and an accessory.


    Seiko has just launched a unique collection that stands apart from the many similar releases: the new Power Design Project Collection 1. This collection pays homage to the 1984 Tisse, a distinctive design from Japan known for its bead-like bracelet and relaxed fit. At that time, the Tisse was considered unconventional as it was a watch that could be worn loosely, resembling jewelry rather than being confined as merely a “ladies’” model.

    Modern Reinvention

    Fast forward to 2025, Seiko has brought this idea back for everyone. The lineup consists of three new models: SSEH021 in silver, SSEH023 in black, and SSEH024 in gold. Each watch features that playful bead bracelet style but incorporates contemporary elements: stainless-steel cases with durable coatings, a sleek 20.2mm diameter, splash resistance, magnetic resistance up to 4,800 A/m, and the quartz Caliber 4N30 movement. You can expect about three years of battery life along with clear Hardlex glass. The design is loose-fitting, meant to blur the lines between a timepiece and an accessory, allowing you to wear it however you prefer.

    A Choice for Everyone

    Seiko doesn’t seem to mind categorizing these watches as “men’s” or “women’s.” The main idea appears to be that it’s all about personal choice. You can style it as a bracelet, an accessory, or simply as a stylish watch that matches your personality. This collection is limited, somewhat unconventional, and intentionally avoids blending in with traditional designs.

    Pricing and Availability

    Currently, there is no official pricing in the US for the Seiko Power Design Project Collection 1. However, considering the AUD prices (575 and 650 AUD) and typical pricing strategies for Seiko, the expected retail prices in the US are likely to be around $400-$450 for the silver model and about $450-$500 for the black and gold models when they are available in late 2025. These watches are expected to be sold at Seiko boutiques and select authorized retailers worldwide starting in December 2025.

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  • Withings BPM Vision: Smart Blood Pressure Monitor & ECG Arrhythmia Detection

    Withings BPM Vision: Smart Blood Pressure Monitor & ECG Arrhythmia Detection

    Key Takeaways

    1. Kombination von Blutdruck- und EKG-Messungen: Das Withings BPM Vision ermöglicht eine umfassende Überwachung der Herz-Kreislauf-Gesundheit durch die Kombination beider Messungen.

    2. Benutzerfreundliche Bedienung: Das Gerät bietet ein Farbdisplay mit einer Schritt-für-Schritt-Anleitung zur einfachen Durchführung der Blutdruckmessung.

    3. Farbcodierte Ergebnisse: Nach der Messung werden die Ergebnisse in leicht verständlicher Form mit farbcodierter Rückmeldung gemäß europäischen Richtlinien angezeigt.

    4. Integrierte EKG-Funktion: Das Gerät kann in 30 Sekunden Anzeichen von Vorhofflimmern erkennen, indem der Benutzer die Finger auf Sensoren legt.

    5. Withings-App und Cardio Check-Up Service: Ergebnisse werden mit der Withings-App synchronisiert und können optional von Kardiologen im Rahmen eines kostenpflichtigen Services ausgewertet werden.


    Withings hat ein neues Gerät zur Blutdruckmessung herausgebracht, das sowohl Blutdruck- als auch EKG-Messungen kombiniert, um eine umfassende Überwachung der Herz-Kreislauf-Gesundheit im eigenen Zuhause zu ermöglichen. Zwar bieten auch viele Smartwatches ähnliche Funktionen an, jedoch können diese oft nicht die Genauigkeit eines CE-zertifizierten Medizinprodukts wie diesem erreichen.

    Benutzerfreundliche Bedienung

    Das Withings BPM Vision zielt darauf ab, die Blutdruckmessung so einfach wie möglich zu gestalten. Der Hersteller hebt hervor, dass das Gerät über ein Farbdisplay verfügt, das eine benutzerfreundliche Schritt-für-Schritt-Anleitung bietet. Diese führt den Nutzer durch den gesamten Messprozess und hilft unter anderem dabei, die Manschette korrekt anzulegen. Nach der Messung werden die Ergebnisse in einer leicht verständlichen Form dargestellt, wobei eine farbcodierte Rückmeldung gemäß den europäischen Richtlinien für Bluthochdruck gegeben wird.

    Integrierte EKG-Funktion

    Zusätzlich ist im BPM Vision ein Einkanal-EKG integriert, das innerhalb von 30 Sekunden potenzielle Anzeichen von Vorhofflimmern erkennen kann, indem man einfach die Finger auf die Sensoren an der Vorderseite legt. Alle Messergebnisse werden dann mit der Withings-App synchronisiert, die sowohl für iOS als auch für Android verfügbar ist. So lassen sich die eigenen Werte über einen längeren Zeitraum verfolgen und können bei Bedarf mit Fachleuten geteilt werden.

    Für diejenigen, die noch einen Schritt weiter gehen möchten, gibt es die Möglichkeit, den kostenpflichtigen Cardio Check-Up Service von Withings+ zu nutzen. Hierbei werden die gesammelten EKG-Messungen bis zu viermal im Jahr innerhalb von 24 Stunden von einem zertifizierten Kardiologen ausgewertet. Das neue Withings BPM Vision ist für eine unverbindliche Preisempfehlung von 179,95 Euro erhältlich und beinhaltet eine einmonatige Testphase für Withings+. Danach kostet das Abonnement etwa 10 Euro pro Monat oder 100 Euro jährlich.

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  • Casio G-Shock Daft Punk Pleasures DW5600 Watch Release on Oct 16

    Casio G-Shock Daft Punk Pleasures DW5600 Watch Release on Oct 16

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio launched a Daft Punk-themed G-Shock watch, model DW5600PDP251, in collaboration with the streetwear brand Pleasures.
    2. The watch features unique design elements inspired by Daft Punk, including helmet patterns and themed visuals on the strap and backlight.
    3. It will be available exclusively on the Casio USA Online Store and Pleasures store, with no official release in Japan.
    4. The DW5600PDP251 includes key features like 200-meter water resistance, shock resistance, and a multifunctional digital display.
    5. The retail price is set at $180, and due to its limited availability, it is expected to sell out quickly.


    As mentioned earlier, Casio has introduced a fresh G-Shock watch that features a Daft Punk theme, created in partnership with the Los Angeles streetwear label, Pleasures. The watch, known as model number DW5600PDP251, was first revealed on October 9 and is set to officially launch in North America on October 16.

    Unique Design Elements

    This special collaboration showcases the classic DW-5600 “square” case, adorned with imagery and branding influenced by the legendary electronic music duo, Daft Punk. The design includes helmet and text patterns on the band and strap, while the backlight showcases visuals inspired by Daft Punk. Sales will be exclusive to the Casio USA Online Store and the official Pleasures store. Although there won’t be an official release in Japan, according to Great G-Shock World, parallel imports are likely. Nonetheless, due to its limited availability, prices are expected to be higher than usual.

    Features and Durability

    The DW-5600 series, including the DW5600PDP251 collaboration, is renowned for G-Shock’s robust square case design. It boasts essential features like water resistance up to 200 meters, shock resistance, a multifunctional digital display, stopwatch, countdown timer, daily alarm, auto-calendar, and an electroluminescent backlight. The watch is made from a lightweight resin case and band.

    The packaging also carries co-branding, featuring the logos of Daft Punk and Pleasures along with G-Shock branding. The retail price in the US is $180. This collaboration is sure to be a hot item for collectors and Daft Punk enthusiasts alike, and it is anticipated to sell out rapidly after its launch.

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  • Casio CA-500WEBF Watch Celebrates Back to the Future 40th Anniversary

    Casio CA-500WEBF Watch Celebrates Back to the Future 40th Anniversary

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio has launched a special digital watch inspired by Back to the Future for the movie’s 40th anniversary, priced at £115.00 ($153).
    2. The design features elements from the film, including a watch face that resembles the DeLorean’s taillights and colorful calculator buttons inspired by the time circuits.
    3. Unique engravings on the case back and buckle include the flux capacitor and Back to the Future logo, respectively, with the watch presented in a videotape-style box.
    4. The CA-500WEBF retains the core functions of the original CA-500, including an eight-digit calculator, stopwatch, alarm, daily calendar, water resistance, and long-lasting battery.
    5. Casio has previously collaborated on other popular special edition calculator watches, enhancing interest in their calculator watch collection.


    Casio has unveiled a unique digital watch that takes inspiration from Back to the Future, marking the 40th anniversary of the beloved 1985 movie. The Casio CA-500WEBF combines the nostalgic appeal of Casio’s classic calculator watch with the film’s famous time-travel elements. This special edition is set to be released on October 21, 2025, with a price tag of £115.00 (around $153).

    A Nostalgic Collaboration

    The partnership between Casio and Universal Products & Experiences (UP&E) brings a fresh twist to the CA-500, a model that has been popular since the 1980s, through the character of Marty McFly. The watch face cleverly resembles the taillights and the iconic “OUTATIME” license plate from Doc Brown’s DeLorean Time Machine. Moreover, the vibrant calculator buttons draw inspiration from the movie’s time circuits, showcasing both the current and destination times.

    Unique Design Features

    There are also some intriguing elements on the back and the strap of the watch. The case back features an engraving of the flux capacitor, the device that enables the DeLorean to travel through time, while the buckle showcases the Back to the Future logo. Each watch comes in a special box that mimics a videotape. Casio claims the CA-500WEBF captures the essence of Back to the Future in a fashionable way.

    Core Functions Remain Intact

    As anticipated, the CA-500WEBF retains the main features of the original CA-500, which include an eight-digit calculator, a stopwatch, an alarm, and daily calendar functions. This watch is also water-resistant and operates on a long-lasting battery. It will be available for purchase through Casio UK’s official website (the link is not yet active).

    Casio’s calculator watches have recently seen several prominent collaborations, with partnerships that include PAC-MAN, Transformers, and Stranger Things. These special editions have gained significant popularity, sparking renewed interest in the calculator watch collection over the years.