Category: Wearables

  • Pixy Tag: Extended Battery Life for Apple Watch & Smartwatches

    Pixy Tag: Extended Battery Life for Apple Watch & Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixy Tag is a lightweight power bank specifically designed for charging smartwatches, primarily the Apple Watch.
    2. It uses wireless charging for the smartwatch but requires a cable for its own charging.
    3. The power bank has a capacity of 500 mAh, sufficient for most Apple Watch models but only partially charges larger models like the Apple Watch Ultra.
    4. The Pixy Tag includes a tracking feature that works with Apple Find My for locating the device.
    5. There are financial risks involved in crowdfunding, such as the possibility of the product not being delivered or functioning as promised.

    The Pixy Tag is a small power bank made especially for smartwatches and is now being crowdfunded. It is mainly marketed for the Apple Watch, which often has a short battery life. One of the promotional images shows that you can charge the Apple Watch while wearing it; however, this makes it hard to monitor your heart rate and makes the watch feel bulky. The charging method is wireless, so you don’t need a cable to charge the smartwatch, but the power bank itself uses a cable for its own charging.

    Limitations of the Power Bank

    This lightweight power bank weighs only 30 grams, but it has a limitation in its capacity, which is just 500 mAh. This amount is usually sufficient to fully charge most Apple Watch models. However, models like the Apple Watch Ultra, which have a bigger battery, will only receive about 70 to 80% of a full charge from the Pixy Tag. Additionally, this compact power bank has a tracking feature. It can be located using Apple Find My, as long as there are enough Apple devices in the area. This could be handy for tracking items like bags, for instance. Backers on Kickstarter can grab one for $29 as part of a “Super Early Bird” offer, with expected delivery in November.

    Financial Risks Involved

    As with all crowdfunding projects, there are financial risks involved, including the chance that the product might not reach the market or function as promised.

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    Pixy Tag: Extended Battery Life for Apple Watch & SmartwatchesPixy Tag: Extended Battery Life for Apple Watch & Smartwatches

     

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  • Coros Apex 4 Leaks: 30x Performance Boost & 62% Longer Battery Life

    Coros Apex 4 Leaks: 30x Performance Boost & 62% Longer Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Coros Apex 4 features a new design with broad bezels and is available in 42mm and 46mm sizes.
    2. Improved battery life: Up to 65 hours with continuous GPS usage, surpassing the Apex 2’s 40 hours.
    3. Enhanced performance with 30 times better map rendering and detailed graphics.
    4. Upgraded “dual-range barometer” for accurate altitude measurement and improved GPS precision.
    5. Built-in speakers and microphones enable phone calls; the MiP display is designed for visibility in bright sunlight.

    Following the first hands-on shots of the Coros Apex 4 that popped up a few days ago, additional pictures of the smartwatch have now also surfaced on Reddit just before its official reveal on October 15, a date that Coros has already verified on a related teaser site.

    Design Changes and Battery Life

    When you compare it to the Apex 2 (starting from $349 on Amazon), the design is quite different, yet Coros still chooses to have a display with relatively broad bezels and a prominent “Coros” logo on the front. A promotional image has shown that the smartwatch will come in both 42mm and 46mm sizes. Depending on the size, the watch provides a battery life of either 65 or 41 hours with continuous GPS usage, which is an improvement over the 40 hours offered by the Apex 2. The previous model boasts a runtime of 13 days with standard use.

    Enhanced Performance

    As per one of the marketing visuals, the Coros Apex 4 boasts 30 times better performance when it comes to using maps and rendering graphics, with the maps themselves expected to offer more detailed information than in the past. Coros is said to be using an upgraded “dual-range barometer” to more accurately measure altitude, and when paired with the GPS module, it can find the user’s location with greater precision.

    Communication Features

    The smartwatch includes built-in speakers and microphones, allowing users to make phone calls as long as their connected smartphone is within a certain distance. Finally, the Coros Apex 4 features a MiP display that is made to be clearly visible even in bright sunlight, along with a backlight for use at night.

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    Coros Apex 4 Leaks: 30x Performance Boost & 62% Longer Battery LifeCoros Apex 4 Leaks: 30x Performance Boost & 62% Longer Battery LifeCoros Apex 4 Leaks: 30x Performance Boost & 62% Longer Battery LifeCoros Apex 4 Leaks: 30x Performance Boost & 62% Longer Battery Life

     

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  • Garmin Update: High-End Model Gets Bug Fixes and Improvements

    Garmin Update: High-End Model Gets Bug Fixes and Improvements

    Key Takeaways

    1. Beta software update version 26.05 is available for Forerunner 165, 265, 955, and 965 users who join the beta program.
    2. The “Find My Device” alert now sounds even when the watch is locked with a Passcode, improving security.
    3. Resolved the issue with pan/zoom mode on the map not working when activity is paused.
    4. Enhancements for golf sensors include fixing missing averages for clubs and suggestions while connected to CT10 sensors.
    5. Users can now switch sports during multisport activities by pressing and holding the lap key, and playback time issues with fast-forwarding music tracks have been fixed.

    Garmin is now releasing a new beta software update, version 26.05, for the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965. Since this is a beta update, users must join the beta program, and there may be some bugs present. However, this update aims to address several issues.

    Important Fixes and Improvements

    This update brings several key fixes to enhance the stability and overall user experience of the watches. A significant bug that has been addressed is the “Find My Device” alert, which will now sound even if the watch is locked with the Passcode feature, fixing a possible security flaw. There’s also been a resolution to a problem where users were unable to use the pan/zoom mode on the map when their activity was paused. Additionally, a bug that sometimes kept the Red Shift display mode from turning off automatically after the user’s designated sleep time has been corrected.

    Enhancements for Golf Sensors

    The changelog includes enhancements for golf sensors, specifically fixing missing averages for clubs and suggestions when the watches are connected to CT10 sensors. Users can now press and hold the lap key to switch sports during multisport activities, allowing for a lap press to be used for tracking laps, breaks, or sets in the current sport. Lastly, the update resolves an issue where the wrong playback time appeared when fast-forwarding through music tracks.

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  • Casio Launches Monochrome Full Metal G-Shock Watches

    Casio Launches Monochrome Full Metal G-Shock Watches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio has launched three new Full Metal G-Shock watch models in Japan: GMW-B5000BT-1JF, GM-B2100BT-1AJF, and GMC-B2100BT-1AJF.
    2. The watches feature sleek stainless steel designs with black octagonal bezels and white-on-black dials, and they sync with Android and Apple smartphones.
    3. The GMW-B5000BT-1JF model includes a 6-band radio receiver for automatic atomic time synchronization across multiple regions.
    4. All models offer features like log tracking for location and time, stopwatches, and timers measuring down to 1/100th of a second.
    5. The watches utilize Tough Solar charging technology for unlimited runtimes and are water-resistant up to 20 ATM, with added resin impact guards for durability.

    Casio has introduced three new Full Metal G-Shock watch variants in Japan, which include the GMW-B5000BT-1JF, GM-B2100BT-1AJF, and GMC-B2100BT-1AJF. These watches draw inspiration from existing models.

    Design Features

    These sleek, monochromatic stainless steel designs feature unique black octagonal bezels that encircle modules with striking white-on-black dials. Users can link the modules to both Android and Apple smartphones, allowing them to sync time across 300 global cities and set alarms for as many as five events. Pre-orders are available at a price of 88,000 yen (approximately $600) for both the GMW-B5000BT-1JF and GM-B2100BT-1AJF. The GMC-B2100BT-1AJF is priced at 107,800 yen (around $740), with deliveries set to commence in October 2025.

    Advanced Features

    The GMW-B5000BT-1JF model includes a 6-band radio receiver, enabling automatic atomic time synchronization across Japan, North America, Europe, and China. For those who like a similar style but prefer a resin wristband, the GMW-B5000-1JF is also available on Amazon.

    Users can effortlessly log their location along with the current date and time at the touch of a button, making it easy to track daily activities. All models are equipped with stopwatches and timers that measure down to 1/100th of a second.

    Durability and Power

    The Full Metal G-Shock watches boast unlimited runtimes, thanks to the Tough Solar charging technology located beneath the watch faces, which recharges the batteries when exposed to various indoor and outdoor light sources. The modules are shielded by resin impact guards within the stainless steel casing, ensuring they are water-resistant up to 20 ATM.

    Casio G-Shock Japan

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  • Garmin Faces Setbacks from Suunto and Strava After Fenix 8 Pro Launch

    Garmin Faces Setbacks from Suunto and Strava After Fenix 8 Pro Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Suunto is requesting Garmin to stop selling its smartwatch models due to patent violations.
    2. Strava claims Garmin is misusing specific patents related to ‘user preference activity maps.’
    3. The legal actions may impact Garmin’s software and hardware, but the extent is currently uncertain.
    4. Strava’s Chief Product Officer hints that issues between Strava and Garmin extend beyond patent disputes.
    5. For further details, refer to the explanation by DC Rainmaker.

    Citing patent violations in both cases, the two companies are requesting that Garmin halt the sales of its smartwatch models, including the Approach, Epix, and Fenix series. For example, Suunto points out specific patents that Garmin is said to be infringing upon:

    Strava’s Claims

    On the other hand, Strava argues that Garmin is misusing patents 9297651 and 9778053, which they assert pertain to the creation of ‘user preference activity maps’. At this moment, it’s uncertain what impact, if any, this legal action will have on Garmin’s products, both software and hardware. Nonetheless, a recent comment on Reddit from Strava’s Chief Product Officer suggests that the problems between Strava and Garmin go beyond just patent issues. In the event that the post is taken down later, refer to the detailed explanation by DC Rainmaker below for more information.

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    Garmin Faces Setbacks from Suunto and Strava After Fenix 8 Pro Launch

     

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  • Casio Launches New Special Edition Watches in the US

    Casio Launches New Special Edition Watches in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio launched limited-edition G-Shock DW5600KHG25-1 and DW5600KHK25-1 watches in the US, inspired by Edo-period artist Katsushika Hokusai.
    2. Each watch is priced at $135 and includes free shipping, but they have frequently sold out in various regions.
    3. The DW5600KHG25-1 features a design based on “Fine Wind, Clear Morning,” while the DW5600KHK25-1 is inspired by “The Great Wave off Kanagawa.”
    4. Both models include a countdown timer, daily alarm, stopwatch, and a 200-meter water resistance rating.
    5. The watches are powered by a CR2016 battery with an expected lifespan of about five years and can display time in both 12 and 24-hour formats.

    Casio has introduced the G-Shock DW5600KHG25-1 and DW5600KHK25-1 timepieces in the United States. These limited-edition watches pay tribute to the works of the Edo-period artist Katsushika Hokusai. They first appeared in Japan at the beginning of 2025 and have been made available in several European markets since then.

    Pricing and Availability

    Currently, you can find the G-Shock DW5600KHG25-1 and DW5600KHK25-1 for a price of $135 each on Casio’s online shop. Customers can enjoy free shipping that arrives within three to five business days. It’s important to mention that these models have sold out numerous times in different regions, and at this moment, Casio has not disclosed the exact number of units that are in stock in the US.

    Design Inspiration

    The Casio G-Shock DW5600KHG25-1 draws inspiration from the woodblock print titled “Fine Wind, Clear Morning,” showcasing a vibrant orange and blue depiction of Mount Fuji. On the other hand, the Casio DW5600KHK25-1 is inspired by “The Great Wave off Kanagawa,” featuring a striking yellow and blue image of crashing waves. Both models feature a black resin case and strap, along with a display that has a positive (light background).

    Features and Specifications

    These watches are based on the DW5600 design and come equipped with a countdown timer, a daily alarm, and a stopwatch that measures to 1/100th of a second. The central display shows time in both 12 and 24-hour formats, as well as the date, and it can be lit up using an LED. The watch is powered by a CR2016 battery, which is expected to last about five years, and it is also water-resistant up to 200 meters.

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    Casio Launches New Special Edition Watches in the US

     

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  • Apple Removes Carbon-Neutral Labels Amid EU Regulations

    Apple Removes Carbon-Neutral Labels Amid EU Regulations

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple removed “carbon-neutral” labels from products globally, including Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and M4 Mac mini, following a German court ruling.
    2. The change was prompted by accusations of “greenwashing” from the environmental group Deutsche Umwelthilfe and new EU regulations effective in September 2026.
    3. Apple originally claimed carbon neutrality by reducing emissions by 75% and offsetting the remaining 25% with carbon credits, including projects like tree planting in Paraguay.
    4. Ecologists raised concerns about the sustainability of Apple’s eucalyptus monoculture approach and its impact on biodiversity and water resources.
    5. Despite label removal, Apple maintains that its products meet environmental standards and aims for carbon neutrality across its global supply chain by 2030.

    Apple has recently taken down its “carbon-neutral” labels from product pages and packaging all over the globe. This change impacts the Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and M4 Mac mini. The updates came into effect last month, right after Apple’s iPhone event in September 2025. Notably, the Apple Watch was the initial product line to sport this label back in 2023, which was later adopted by Mac mini versions.

    Legal Issues Prompt Changes

    The shift was prompted by a German court’s decision in August 2025, which ruled that Apple could no longer market the Apple Watch as “carbon-neutral.” The environmental group Deutsche Umwelthilfe accused Apple of allegedly “greenwashing” its products, thus misleading buyers. New regulations from the EU, effective in September 2026, will prohibit companies from using “carbon-neutral” labels if they depend on carbon credits or offset projects. Initially, Apple removed these labels in Germany and then extended the action globally to prevent any confusion among consumers.

    Apple’s Claims and Partnerships

    Reportedly, Apple claimed it reached its carbon-neutral status by cutting emissions by 75 percent, while the remaining 25 percent was offset through carbon credits. At that time, Apple stated that its products fulfilled rigorous environmental standards: utilizing 100 percent clean energy for manufacturing and product use, incorporating at least 30 percent recycled or renewable materials by weight, and ensuring that at least half of its shipments were made by land instead of air. The rest of the emissions were offset using “high-quality carbon credits” from initiatives like the Paraguay tree planting project. The company is believed to have teamed up with Forestal Apepu to create fast-growing eucalyptus forests on previously deforested land.

    Environmental Concerns

    However, ecologists have raised concerns regarding Apple’s eucalyptus monoculture approach, arguing that it poses a risk to biodiversity. Additionally, it’s important to highlight that these carbon offset plantations require significant water resources. The German court pointed out that Apple had not secured 75 percent of the land lease for the Paraguay project by 2029, leaving the contract renewal in question and bringing up concerns about the project’s long-term sustainability.

    Internally, Apple may still regard the affected products as carbon-neutral, even though the public labels have been removed. A spokesperson for the company stated that this choice was made to adhere to upcoming regulations, not as a reflection of any changes in their environmental efforts. Apple has reaffirmed its aim to achieve carbon neutrality throughout its entire global supply chain by 2030, claiming that all its products are designed with environmental factors in mind, no matter the new EU marketing limitations.

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  • Garmin Update: New Features for High-End Smartwatches Released

    Garmin Update: New Features for High-End Smartwatches Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released Beta Version 20.10 for several smartwatches, including Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8.
    2. Users can switch to Beta Version 20.11 by manually installing it through the smartwatch menus.
    3. The update fixes the month and date display on stock watch faces.
    4. It resolves an issue with missing vibration and tone settings on devices without a speaker.
    5. The update introduces Hot Key Support for the Garmin Calculator application.

    Garmin has recently released a beta update for several of its smartwatches, including the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8, which is currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon. This update, known as Beta Version 20.10, came out just two days ago, following the previous system software version 17.30 that was made available nearly a month ago.

    Update Details

    As mentioned earlier, past beta releases suggested Garmin would continue to roll out additional builds to beta testers before completing the development of version 20.xx for users of stable software. Keeping this in mind, the company is now guiding Beta Program participants to switch to Beta Version 20.11. To do this, users will need to manually install the new beta on their eligible smartwatch by going through these menus:

    Menu -> System -> Software Update -> Check For Updates.

    Fixes and New Features

    After installing Beta Version 20.11, users of the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 should notice that the month and date are now correctly displayed on the stock watch faces. Moreover, this new beta is also reported to fix an issue where vibration and tone settings were absent on devices lacking a speaker. Additionally, it introduces Hot Key Support for Garmin’s Calculator application.

    Garmin’s commitment to continuous improvements is evident as they work through these beta updates, striving to enhance the user experience for their smartwatch owners.

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  • Citizen Launches Limited Edition Mechanical Model with Stunning Design

    Citizen Launches Limited Edition Mechanical Model with Stunning Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Citizen NC0201-54A is a limited edition watch launched to celebrate The Citizen sub-brand.
    2. It features a Caliber 0200 mechanical movement with high accuracy of -3 to +5 seconds and a 60-hour power reserve.
    3. The watch has an elegant design with an ivory patterned matte dial and a lugless stainless steel case.
    4. It will be released on December 11th, priced at $7,000, with only 300 pieces available globally.
    5. The watch is water-resistant up to 5 bar and includes a sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating.

    The Citizen NC0201-54A is a newly introduced limited edition watch. This timepiece, along with the recently launched AQ4100-57C, has been unveiled to commemorate The Citizen sub-brand.

    Precision and Craftsmanship

    Equipped with a Caliber 0200 mechanical movement, the NC0201-54A is designed for high accuracy, boasting an average daily precision of -3 to +5 seconds. To maintain long-term accuracy, it features a free-sprung balance wheel and includes a transparent case back. When fully wound, it can last around 60 hours and is also resistant to water up to 5 bar.

    Elegant Design Features

    The NC0201-54A showcases an ivory colored, patterned matte dial, which the brand calls “striking.” It has two analog hands to display the hour and minute, while the seconds are shown on a lower sub-dial. The watch comes in a lugless stainless steel case with a brushed finish, measuring 40 x 10.9 mm (~1.6 x 0.4 inches), paired with a matching strap. Additionally, the dial features The Citizen’s eagle mark and is safeguarded by sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating.

    Release Information

    Set to launch on December 11th, the Citizen NC0201-54A will be available globally, including in the US, where it will be priced at $7,000. There will only be 300 pieces available, making this a notably exclusive watch for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

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    Citizen Launches Limited Edition Mechanical Model with Stunning Design

     

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  • New Citizen Watch: Exceptional Accuracy Coming Soon

    New Citizen Watch: Exceptional Accuracy Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Citizen AQ4100-57C is a limited edition watch celebrating the 30th anniversary of The Citizen sub-brand, set to launch in late 2025.
    2. It features a Cal A060 Eco-Drive movement, maintaining accuracy within five seconds annually and operating for 18 months on a full charge in power-saving mode.
    3. The design includes an ivory-colored dial with an abstract pattern, dual sphere glass, and a Super Titanium case finished with Duratect Platinum.
    4. The watch dimensions are 38.3 x 12.2 mm (~1.5 x 0.5 inches) and comes with a matching bracelet that has both brushed and mirror-polished finishes.
    5. Priced at $3,100 in the U.S. and ¥440,000 in Japan, only 500 pieces will be produced, with global availability starting on November 13th.

    Citizen has revealed a new limited watch model to mark the 30th anniversary of its sub-brand, The Citizen. The AQ4100-57C is a solar-powered watch that promises a high degree of accuracy every year, and it is set to launch in late 2025.

    Specifications and Features

    The AQ4100-57C is driven by a Cal A060 Eco-Drive movement, which can operate for 18 months on a full charge while in power-saving mode. The company states that it will maintain accuracy within five seconds annually. It comes with a perpetual calendar that adjusts itself at the end of each month, continuing until February 2100. Additional features include automatic hand alignment, a separately adjustable hour hand, and a simple date display.

    Design Elements

    The watch showcases an ivory-colored dial adorned with an abstract design and a metallic sheen. This is protected by dual sphere glass, encased in Super Titanium, and comes with a matching bracelet. The silver case dimensions are 38.3 x 12.2 mm (~1.5 x 0.5 inches) and has been finished with Duratect Platinum. The strap displays a combination of brushed and mirror-polished finishes.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Citizen AQ4100-57C Eco-Drive model is priced at $3,100 in the United States and ¥440,000 in Japan. It is anticipated to be available in various global markets starting on November 13th, with just 500 pieces being produced worldwide. In addition, the company has also introduced the NC0201-54A, another model that celebrates the brand’s 30-year milestone.

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    New Citizen Watch: Exceptional Accuracy Coming Soon

     

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