Category: Wearables

October 10, 2025

Affordable Casio AE-1700H Watches with 10-Year Battery Coming Soon

Key Takeaways

1. Casio is launching the AE-1700H series of digital watches with a diver-inspired design and useful features at an affordable price.
2. The series will include at least three versions: a standard black model, a black model with gold details, and a blue-red variant.
3. Key features include a dual time display, 24-hour chronograph, countdown timer, alarm, and water resistance up to 100m.
4. The AE-1700H has a battery life of 10 years and a compact size of 47.3mm in width.
5. Sales are expected to start in November or December 2025, with a price around $60 or 50 euros.

A recent piece from Casioblog shares that Casio is gearing up to introduce its latest AE-1700H series of digital watches. These watches sport a diver-inspired design along with several useful features, all available at an affordable price. The AE-1700H models come equipped with an aluminum bezel designed in a unidirectional style and a display that closely resembles more expensive Pro Trek variants. Additionally, they boast a battery life rated for an impressive 10 years.

Different Versions Available

The upcoming series will launch in at least three distinct versions: a standard black model (AE-1700H-1A), a black variant featuring gold details and a negative display (AE-1700H-1B), and a blue-red “Pepsi-like” option (AE-1700H-1A2). This last version is reminiscent of the Seiko SRPD53K1, which currently retails for $239 on Amazon. Measuring 47.3mm in width, the AE-1700H is more compact compared to the previous AE-1500 and AE-1600 models, yet it still maintains a sturdy look.

Features and Specifications

Key features of the AE-1700H include a dual time display, 24-hour chronograph, countdown timer with an auto-repeat function, alarm, hourly chime, full auto calendar, and an amber LED backlight, along with a water resistance of up to 100m. The digital display has a unique animated second counter around its outer edge. The watch features a plastic crystal, and both the strap and case are crafted from resin to ensure durability.

Though the diver-style bezel lends a functional appearance to the watch, it may not allow for true rotation. Sales are anticipated to kick off in November or December 2025, with a projected price of $60 or approximately 50 euros.

Casioblog

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Tags: digital watches
October 10, 2025

Timex SSQ Digital Watch Returns After 50 Years with Retro Design

Key Takeaways

1. The Timex SSQ, first introduced in 1975, featured an always-on LCD display, a significant advancement over earlier LED models.
2. To celebrate its 50th anniversary, Timex is reintroducing the SSQ with design updates, including a brushed stainless steel finish and a new button layout.
3. The watch maintains its original functionality, displaying time, date, and a 60-second timer, though internal components have been updated.
4. The Q Timex 1975 SSQ Digital Reissue is water-resistant up to 50 meters, but buttons should not be pressed while underwater.
5. The reissue is priced at $159 and is available through Timex’s official online store.

The Timex SSQ marked a significant advancement for the company’s digital watches back in 1975. Unlike earlier models with LED displays that required a button press to turn on, the SSQ featured an LCD that was always on, functioning as a constant display even in that era. To commemorate its 50th anniversary, Timex is reintroducing this digital timepiece.

Design Tweaks

The brand has kept the iconic design of the original model, with the blue border around the display ensuring the watch remains easily identifiable. However, there are a couple of modifications. Firstly, the case and bracelet are now finished in brushed stainless steel, which is expected to be more scratch-resistant compared to the shiny finish of the earlier version. Secondly, Timex has swapped the traditional crown for two buttons, one on each side of the watch, which should simplify the process of adjusting the time and date.

Features and Specifications

The key features of the watch stay the same. The Q Timex 1975 SSQ Digital Reissue can display the time, date, and a 60-second timer. Although the internal components have been updated, Timex hasn’t clarified if this leads to a longer lifespan for the CR2016 battery. The watch is designed to be water-resistant to depths of up to 50 meters, but Timex advises against pressing the buttons while it is underwater.

The Q Timex 1975 SSQ Digital Reissue is now offered for $159 through the brand’s official online store.

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Tags: digital watch
October 10, 2025

Garmin Fenix 8 Models Receive Important Software Update

Key Takeaways

1. Garmin is rolling out software version 20.12 for several smartwatches, including the Fenix 8 series, currently in beta phase.
2. Users must request the beta update through the OTA function on their watch, with some features like diving functions and ECG turned off.
3. The update fixes a bug related to the ECG feature, improving Bluetooth headphone connectivity during usage.
4. New features include support for inline skating and the ability for users to set personal activity goals.
5. Navigation improvements include fixes for the Outdoor Maps Plus feature and accurate rep counting for specific workout types.

Garmin is rolling out a new software version for several of its smartwatches, including the Fenix 8 series, which features the Fenix 8 AMOLED, Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Quatix 8. The software version 20.12 is still in the beta phase, meaning it is only available to those who are part of the beta program. Interested users need to explicitly request the update through the OTA function on their watch. Since this is a beta release, diving functions are turned off, and users can’t perform electrocardiograms.

Update Fixes

Despite being in beta, this update aims to resolve a bug related to the ECG feature; Bluetooth headphones are now less likely to lose connection while conducting an electrocardiogram. The brief changelog also mentions improvements for user-defined workouts. Inline skating has been added as a supported activity, and users can now set their own personal activity goals.

Navigation Improvements

The remaining updates focus on bug fixes, particularly concerning navigation. For instance, a bug affecting the paid Outdoor Maps Plus feature has been resolved. Additionally, a specific workout type that previously caused incorrect rep counts has been fixed. This automatic counting is especially important for strength trainers. Tactix smartwatch users will also enjoy a properly functioning link to the weather radar.

Garmin’s commitment to enhancing user experience is evident, even in this beta phase of their software update.

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Tags: Fenix 8, Garmin, software update
October 9, 2025

Seiko Unveils Three New Prospex Alpinist Stainless-Steel Watches

Key Takeaways

1. Three new Seiko Prospex Alpinist models (SPB503, SPB505, SPB507) will be released in November 2023.
2. The watches feature Seiko’s 6R55 automatic movement with a 72-hour power reserve.
3. Dimensions include a 39.5 mm diameter, 12.7 mm thickness, and 46.4 mm lug-to-lug distance.
4. Key features include sapphire crystals, anti-reflective coating, and 20 bar water resistance.
5. The Alpinist series has historical significance, originally designed for Japanese climbers in 1959.

Three new models of the Seiko Prospex Alpinist have been revealed, namely the SPB503, SPB505, and SPB507, set to hit the market this coming November. This series began back in 1959 to serve Japanese climbers. The latest Alpinist models are powered by Seiko’s innovative 6R55 automatic movement, offering an impressive 72-hour power reserve.

Dimensions and Features

The watches measure 39.5 mm in diameter, are 12.7 mm thick, and have a lug-to-lug distance of 46.4 mm, with a lug width of 20 mm. They come equipped with sapphire crystals that have magnifying features, an anti-reflective coating, and are water-resistant up to 20 bar. Each model also has a rotating compass bezel, a screw-down crown, and transparent case backs.

A Legacy of Adventure

Originally designed in 1959 for the Japanese “Yama-otoko,” or mountain men, the Alpinist has become one of Seiko’s oldest sports watch collections. Its standout traits have always included robust construction, compass bezels, and high readability. After numerous iterations, including iconic releases like the 1995 SARB series, it’s encouraging to see Seiko continue to enhance the Alpinist as a contemporary field watch.

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October 9, 2025

Google Pixel Watch 2 & 3: Wear OS 6 Update, Battery and Design Upgrades

Key Takeaways

1. Wear OS 6 rollout for Pixel Watch 2 and Pixel Watch 3 has started and will be completed by the end of October.
2. The first-generation Pixel Watch will receive the update later.
3. To update, watches must have at least a 50% charge and be connected to a charger; users can manually start the update in settings.
4. New features include customizable accent colors, redesigned UI components, and optimizations for improved battery life by up to 10%.
5. Wear OS 6 enhances Google Maps navigation by automatically taking control from the smartphone during walking or biking.

Google has recently announced in a support document that the rollout of Wear OS 6 for the Pixel Watch 2 and Pixel Watch 3 has started. This process will happen in multiple waves, and it is expected that by the end of October, all users of these two models will have the new software. The first-generation Pixel Watch will receive this update at a later time.

How to Update Your Watch

You can manually start the update by tapping on the smartwatch icon multiple times in the settings under System → About. Keep in mind that the update can only be installed if the smartwatch has at least a 50% charge and is connected to a charger. The Pixel Watch 4 already comes with Wear OS 6, making it a little bit ahead of the older models, which are now finally receiving the “Material 3 Expressive” design enhancements.

New Features and Improvements

After the update, users will be able to customize the system’s accent color in a more detailed way. Google has also changed the shapes of many buttons and UI components, resulting in a more contemporary appearance for the user interface. Alongside a more rounded font, the update also adds new scroll bars and tile layouts. Additionally, Wear OS 6 introduces useful enhancements beyond just aesthetic changes, including optimizations that are reported to boost battery life by up to 10%.

Wear OS 6 enables Google Maps to automatically open and take control of navigation from your smartphone when you’re using it for walking or biking. Google also points out various performance enhancements, especially regarding the navigation of the operating system and the display of incoming alerts.

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Tags: Pixel Watch 2, Pixel Watch 3, Wear OS 6
October 9, 2025

Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses Teardown: Innovative AR Display Insights

Key Takeaways

1. Meta Ray-Ban Display features a built-in screen that shows messages, AI responses, and navigation help directly in the user’s sight.
2. Repairing the glasses is extremely difficult due to a glued plastic exterior and complex internal components.
3. Disassembling the glasses can cause damage, making repairs like changing the camera or display nearly impossible without expertise.
4. The glasses utilize a unique projection system with a tiny projector and partially transparent mirrors for clear images visible only to the wearer.
5. The internal components include a Qualcomm Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 chip and 32 GB of flash storage, highlighting their advanced technology.

Meta Ray-Ban Display is likely the most fascinating smart glasses on the market today. Unlike many other brands, Meta has added not just speakers and microphones, but also a display that projects directly into the user’s sight. This screen can show new messages, display answers from an AI chatbot, or help with navigation in real life.

Repair Challenges

iFixit has taken apart the glasses, and they discovered that fixing them is nearly impossible. The plastic exterior is glued together, making it hard to replace the 960 mWh battery without causing damage, although changing the battery isn’t completely out of the question. One side of the arms contains just the battery, a speaker, and a microphone, while the other side holds the motherboard, which includes the Qualcomm Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 ARM chip and 32 GB of flash storage.

Difficult Disassembly

Opening the frame of the glasses is likely to result in damage, and swapping out a broken camera or display is almost impossible without expert knowledge and special tools. The teardown video is intriguing, especially because it shows the AR display up close. A tiny projector with a resolution of 600 x 600 is situated in the right arm of the glasses.

Unique Projection System

Three LEDs act as the light source. The most notable characteristic isn’t just the projector, but the lens that contains a set of partially transparent mirrors, reflecting the projector’s light exactly where it needs to go. This lens enables Meta to create an image that is clear for the user but invisible to anyone looking from the outside.

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Tags: Meta Ray-Ban Display, smart glasses
October 9, 2025

Huawei Watch Ultimate 2 Launches: Underwater Sonar & 11-Day Battery

Key Takeaways

1. Sonar Communication for Divers: The Watch Ultimate 2 features a sonar-based communication system allowing divers to communicate with other watches within a 30-meter range using text or emojis.

2. Durable Design: Made from zirconium alloy, the watch is water-resistant up to 150 meters and includes an SOS function that works up to 60 meters deep.

3. Enhanced Connectivity: The watch utilizes a Gap Antenna system for stronger outdoor signals and the Sunflower positioning system for improved satellite coverage, along with eSIM and Bluetooth 5.4.

4. Health Monitoring Features: It operates on Huawei’s TruSense system, tracking 11 health metrics, including heart rate and SpO₂, and offers sleep analysis through the Health Glance interface.

5. Battery Life and Availability: The 867 mAh battery lasts up to 11 days in power-saving mode, and the Watch Ultimate 2 will be available from October 9, 2025, starting at €899 with promotional offers for early buyers.

Huawei has unveiled the Watch Ultimate 2, a high-end smartwatch designed especially for divers and adventurers. This new device features a sonar-based communication system for underwater use, marking a first for the brand’s smartwatch lineup.

Design and Durability

Crafted from a zirconium alloy, the Watch Ultimate 2 boasts an impressive water resistance rating of up to 150 meters (IP69). Divers can communicate with other watches within a 30-meter range using text or emojis. Additionally, an SOS function works up to 60 meters deep. According to Huawei, this sonar feature enhances safety and teamwork during underwater activities.

Enhanced Connectivity

Improvements have also been made in terms of connectivity and positioning. The watch employs a new Gap Antenna system, which provides stronger signals in outdoor settings. It’s paired with the Sunflower positioning system that supports dual-band and five satellite coverage. The device also features eSIM for voice calls, Bluetooth 5.4, and AI-powered noise cancellation for improved call clarity.

Availability and Pricing

The Watch Ultimate 2 comes in stylish black and blue designs, featuring a two-tone nanoceramic bezel and sapphire glass. It operates on Huawei’s cutting-edge TruSense health monitoring system, integrating X-TAP technology that tracks 11 essential health metrics. These include continuous heart rate and SpO₂ monitoring, sleep analysis, and various wellness statistics available through the Health Glance interface.

Battery Life and Safety Features

With an 867 mAh battery, the watch offers up to 11 days of battery life in power-saving mode and around 4.5 days with regular use. It also includes safety features like fall detection, emergency SOS, and altitude tracking, making it suitable for outdoor adventures.

The Watch Ultimate 2 will be available starting October 9, 2025, through Huawei’s online shop, the Berlin flagship store, and select retail partners. Prices begin at €899 (approximately $1,043), and customers who purchase before November 4 will receive complimentary FreeBuds Pro 4 earbuds and a three-year warranty extension at no additional cost.

Tags: Huawei Watch Ultimate 2, premium smartwatch
October 9, 2025

Rogbid Apex FT Smartwatch: AMOLED, GPS, and MIL-STD-810H for $59.99

Key Takeaways

1. The Rogbid Apex FT GPS smartwatch features a dual-band, six-satellite GNSS chipset for accurate global positioning suitable for outdoor activities.
2. It is built for durability with a MIL-STD-810H certification and a 5ATM waterproof rating, making it resistant to shock, heat, cold, and water up to 50 meters.
3. The smartwatch offers extended battery life with a 670mAh battery, providing up to 65 days of standby time and 24 hours of continuous GPS operation.
4. Health and fitness tracking is enhanced by syncing with Apple Health, Google Fit, and Strava, while also providing a 1.43-inch AMOLED touchscreen and Bluetooth calling notifications.
5. The Rogbid Apex FT is priced at $59.99 and is available in Black and Orange, appealing to users seeking a sturdy smartwatch with adventure-ready features.

Rogbid, known for its range of budget-friendly wearables, has now introduced the Apex FT GPS smartwatch. This new device is equipped with a sophisticated dual-band, six-satellite GNSS chipset, promising fast and precise global positioning. Ideal for activities like trekking, trail running, or cycling in various conditions, users can expect accurate route tracking, a digital compass, barometric pressure information, and altitude monitoring. Additionally, it comes with a built-in flashlight that has adjustable brightness, making it handy for nighttime adventures or emergencies.

Enhanced Durability Features

The focus on durability is prominent in this smartwatch: it holds a MIL-STD-810H certification, meaning it’s resistant to shock, heat, cold, and water. Moreover, it boasts a 5ATM waterproof rating, allowing it to withstand depths of up to 50 meters. The device is powered by a 670mAh battery, which offers up to 65 days of standby time, 25 days of typical use, and 24 hours of continuous GPS operation—helping to minimize the need for frequent recharges during longer outings.

Health and Training Capabilities

On the health and fitness side, the Apex FT can sync with Apple Health, Google Fit, and Strava. This allows users to have a single platform for tracking heart rate, calorie burn, and other performance metrics. The smartwatch features a 1.43-inch AMOLED touchscreen with a peak brightness of 1000 nits, along with three physical buttons for easy navigation in any environment. For everyday convenience, it includes Bluetooth calling and instant messaging notifications.

The Rogbid Apex FT is available in Black and Orange and is currently priced at $59.99 through the brand’s official store. It presents an appealing yet well-equipped choice for those looking for a sturdy smartwatch for training, hiking, or daily wear, featuring more adventure-oriented capabilities than just marketing buzzwords, although the sensor accuracy of the Apex FT hasn’t been confirmed at the time of this writing.

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Tags: affordable wearables, GPS smartwatch
October 9, 2025

Tag Heuer Calibre Connected E5: OLED Display & Customization Features

Key Takeaways

1. The Tag Heuer Connected Calibre E5 is available in 40mm and 45mm sizes, with options for stainless steel or titanium cases.
2. The starting price for the stainless steel model is €1,550, with an additional €100 for the 45mm version; the Golf special edition costs €2,400.
3. Key features include heart rate and blood oxygen tracking, sleep tracking (coming soon), an altimeter, GNSS module, microphone, and speaker.
4. The 45mm model features a 1.39-inch OLED display with a resolution of 454 x 454.
5. The smartwatch combines luxury and technology, targeting both watch lovers and tech enthusiasts with its various models and functionalities.

Following the official teaser from Tag Heuer, the Tag Heuer Connected Calibre E5 has finally been revealed. This smartwatch is now available in several model options, including 40mm and 45mm sizes, as well as a variety of colors and materials. Buyers can choose between a stainless steel or titanium case. Additionally, there are limited editions and a special News Balance version. The starting price for the stainless steel model is €1,550. If you opt for the 45mm version instead of the 40mm, you’ll need to pay an extra €100. The Golf special edition is priced at €2,400.

Smartwatch Features

At its essence, this watch is a typical smartwatch, featuring optical sensors to track heart rate and blood oxygen levels, among other capabilities. Sleep tracking, which is common in today’s wearables, will be added in the future. Other functionalities include an altimeter, a GNSS module, a microphone, and a speaker. The 45mm version showcases a 1.39-inch display with a resolution of 454 x 454, utilizing OLED technology for self-lighting pixels. Tag Heuer has included the Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 5100+ SoC, which is somewhat outdated now. You can find more information here.

Final Thoughts

Tag Heuer continues to blend luxury with technology, offering a smartwatch that appeals to both watch lovers and tech enthusiasts. With its various options and features, the Connected Calibre E5 aims to meet the needs of a broad audience. Whether you’re a golf fan or just looking for a stylish wearable, this smartwatch has something to offer.

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Tags: Smartwatch
October 9, 2025

Garmin Releases Stable Update for Latest High-End Smartwatch

Key Takeaways

1. Garmin released a new stable update for the Fenix 8 Pro, moving from System Software 18.41 to 18.68.
2. The update addresses bugs and enhances features like the microLED display and LTE capabilities.
3. The Fenix 8 Pro is not part of Garmin’s Beta Program, unlike the newer Venu 4.
4. System Software 18.68 includes five bug fixes and three enhancements, focusing on improving LTE functionality.
5. Notable fixes include resolving issues with Auto LTE mode and Livetrack over LTE during activities.

Garmin has rolled out a new stable update for the Fenix 8 Pro, marking the third update since its debut at the beginning of September. The smartwatch has transitioned from System Software 18.41 to System Software 18.51 last month, mainly addressing bugs and making enhancements related to new features like Garmin’s microLED display and LTE capabilities.

Major Update Released

The company has now upgraded its premium smartwatch to System Software 18.68, bypassing all the intermediate versions. Interestingly, the Fenix 8 Pro has not yet been included in Garmin’s Beta Program (currently priced at $1,199.99 on Amazon). In contrast, the newer Venu 4 has just received its initial beta update.

Improvements and Fixes

As per a post on a forum, System Software 18.68 includes five bug fixes along with three distinct enhancements. Similar to previous versions, many modifications in System Software 18.68 are aimed at improving LTE functionality. For example, Garmin reports that it has fixed a problem where the Auto LTE mode would turn off right after an activity ended. Additionally, System Software 18.68 is expected to correct an issue that caused Livetrack over LTE to stop functioning unexpectedly during an activity. The complete changelog for System Software 18.68 is listed below:

Garmin

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Tags: Fenix 8 Pro, Garmin