Category: Wearables

  • Google Unveils New Smart Glasses at Google I/O Event

    Google Unveils New Smart Glasses at Google I/O Event

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google has unveiled its new smart glasses at the I/O conference, built on the Android XR platform, marking its second attempt in this space after twelve years.
    2. The glasses feature advanced technology including a camera, microphone, speakers, and a “discrete display” integrated into the lenses.
    3. They can provide real-time information such as player statistics during sports events and support various functions like calls, music, navigation, and translations.
    4. Google is collaborating with Gentle Monster and Warby Parker to create stylish designs that encourage all-day wear.
    5. The glasses aim to blend technology with fashion, making them appealing for everyday use.

    Following the sneak peek of the latest Google Smart Glasses a couple weeks ago, Google has now shown off the model in use at its own I/O conference. Built on the new Android XR platform, these glasses aim to make life easier in multiple ways. After a long gap of twelve years, this marks Google’s second venture into smart glasses. Unlike the previous attempt, it’s not immediately clear that these are smart glasses.

    Showcasing the Technology

    Google presented the new AI glasses during the event. An employee donned them while the visuals she was seeing were displayed on a big screen. These glasses are packed with various sensors and hardware to perform a range of functions. Besides the standard speakers found in the temples, they come equipped with a camera and a microphone on the front, along with a “discrete display” integrated into the lenses, as per Google’s description.

    Real-World Applications

    The demonstration highlighted how the glasses can deliver extra, real-world information. For instance, while enjoying a baseball game, the glasses can show player statistics and allow the user to chat with Gemini about the ongoing match. Naturally, they support making calls, playing music, and showcasing a variety of features on request, like navigation maps, weather updates, text and chat messages, translations, and details about local restaurants and shops, among other things.

    Stylish Partnerships

    For these new smart glasses, Google is teaming up with South Korean brand Gentle Monster and American retailer Warby Parker to create what they call “stylish glasses.” Shahram Izadi, who is the Vice President and General Manager for Android XR at Google, made a fitting statement:

    “We understand that glasses can only be truly beneficial if you want to wear them all day.”

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  • Garmin Forerunner 570 & 970 Now Available with HRM 600 Monitor

    Garmin Forerunner 570 & 970 Now Available with HRM 600 Monitor

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches, along with the HRM 600 heart rate monitor.
    2. The Forerunner 570 is priced at $549.99, making it the most affordable option among the new models.
    3. The Forerunner 970 is only available in a 47 mm size and costs $749.99, which is 50% more than the recently reduced Forerunner 965 priced at $499.99.
    4. The HRM 600 heart rate monitor is available for $169.99 but is not yet sold by third-party sellers like Amazon.
    5. Garmin offers the Forerunner 570 in 42 mm and 47 mm sizes with multiple finish options available.

    Garmin has recently begun offering the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 worldwide, having unveiled both models last week along with the HRM 600. Interestingly, the HRM 600 is also available starting today, but it’s not yet sold by third-party sellers like Amazon. For your information, the HRM 600 is priced at $169.99 for the XS-S and M-XL sizes; you can check out our launch article for more technical specifications.

    Pricing and Availability

    When it comes to Garmin’s new Forerunner smartwatches, the Forerunner 570 stands out as the most affordable option at $549.99. Presently, Garmin has various stocks of all 42 mm and 47 mm sizes, providing three different finishes for each. The full-color names for the Forerunner 570 include:

    – 42 mm
    – 47 mm

    Forerunner 970 Specifications

    On the other hand, the Forerunner 970 is only available in a 47 mm size, similar to the Forerunner 965. However, the Forerunner 970 costs a staggering 50% more than the 965, since Garmin has lowered the price of the Forerunner 965 to $499.99. For complete technical information, please refer to our Forerunner 970 launch article. Currently, the latest smartwatch from Garmin is priced at $749.99 and comes in the following finishes.

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  • Garmin Fenix 7 and 7 Pro Get New Stable Update and Beta Release

    Garmin Fenix 7 and 7 Pro Get New Stable Update and Beta Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released a stable update (System Software 15.31) for Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 smartwatches after extensive beta testing.
    2. The update includes nearly 100 modifications, featuring 20 new functionalities for these high-end devices.
    3. Upcoming updates are expected for the Fenix 7 series and related models, following their last stable update in March (System Software 20.22).
    4. A new beta version (21.19) has been released, introducing ECG functionality and indicating progress towards the finalization of the v21.xx beta cycle.
    5. Garmin aims to distribute System Software 21.19 or a similar version to multiple smartwatch models soon, pending successful testing of recent adjustments.

    Garmin has rolled out a new stable update for its Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 smartwatches, which currently retails for $1,299.99 on Amazon. This update, System Software 15.31, comes after an extensive beta testing phase and brings nearly 100 modifications to these high-end devices, including 20 fresh features.

    Upcoming Updates for Fenix 7 Series

    Interestingly, the Fenix 7 series and its counterparts might be getting updates soon as well. To provide some background, the Enduro 2, Epix 2, Fenix 7, and Tactix 7 received their last stable update at the start of March with System Software 20.22. Following that, numerous beta versions were released to testers, kicking off with Beta Version 21.04 at the month’s end.

    New Beta Version Released

    Recently, Garmin has indicated that a new stable update is forthcoming, following the launch of Beta Version 21.19. This new beta introduces ECG functionality, suggesting that Garmin is nearing the conclusion of its v21.xx beta development cycle.

    If everything goes smoothly, we can anticipate that Garmin will begin to distribute System Software 21.19 or a similar version to the Enduro 2, Epix 2, Fenix 7, and Tactix 7 smartwatches in the coming days. Currently, Garmin has been testing various adjustments between System Software 20.22 and Beta Version 21.19. The comprehensive list of these changes is available below; however, it’s important to note that not every change is certain to be included in a future stable update.

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  • Xreal Launches Project Aura Glasses for Android XR Platform

    Xreal Launches Project Aura Glasses for Android XR Platform

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xreal has launched Project Aura glasses in collaboration with Google, built for the Android XR operating system.
    2. Project Aura glasses feature dual 3D environmental sensors and a camera for AI integration and media capture.
    3. The glasses are expected to have specifications similar to the Xreal Air 2 Ultra, including a 385-inch virtual screen and high-quality displays.
    4. Google is working to establish a presence in the AR/VR/XR market, facing competition from brands like Meta.
    5. More details about Project Aura will be revealed at the Augmented World Expo (AWE) in June, but no specific release date has been announced.

    Xreal has introduced the Project Aura glasses in collaboration with Google, designed for the new Android XR extended reality operating system. These glasses will connect to an external device that runs on a Qualcomm Snapdragon XR chipset.

    Google’s Long Journey in XR

    Google has been trying to make a name for itself in the AR/VR/XR realm for years, starting with Google Cardboard, which turned smartphones into displays and hosts. However, competitors like the Meta Quest 3 series (available on Amazon) have gained more traction among gamers and virtual reality fans. The Android XR represents Google’s newest effort to develop an independent operating system tailored for virtual reality applications.

    Features of Project Aura

    The design of the Project Aura glasses is quite similar to the Xreal Air 2 Ultra, featuring dual 3D environmental sensors located at the top corners of the front frame. Additionally, Aura includes what seems to be a camera positioned above the nose bridge, which can be utilized with Google Gemini AI, as well as for capturing photos and videos.

    Specifications and Release Information

    The Air 2 Ultra has the ability to project a virtual screen as large as 385 inches, employing dual Sony 0.68-inch 1080p micro-OLED displays with a refresh rate of 120 Hz and a brightness level of 500 nits. Therefore, it is expected that the Project Aura glasses will have comparable specifications.

    Xreal is set to share more details during the Augmented World Expo (AWE) in June, although neither Xreal nor Google has provided a specific release date for the Android XR.

    Those who are keen on exploring the newest AR glasses might want to check out similar products available at Xreal, Rokid, and RayNeo stores on Amazon.

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  • Moto Watch Fit Priced at $199: Is It Worth the Cost?

    Moto Watch Fit Priced at $199: Is It Worth the Cost?

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Moto Watch Fit is priced at £89.99 in the UK, $199 in the US, and $249 in Canada, but lacks advanced features like ECG and blood pressure monitoring.
    2. The pricing in North America is considered high compared to competitors, raising concerns about customer attraction.
    3. Competing smartwatches include the Amazfit Active 2 at $99.99 and the Samsung Galaxy Watch FE at $167, which offer more features at lower prices.
    4. The Moto Watch Fit features a 1.9-inch AMOLED display, supports over 100 sports modes, and has a battery life of up to 16 days.
    5. Motorola plans to start selling the Moto Watch Fit on May 22 through its website, with future availability on Amazon and Best Buy.

    Last month, Motorola introduced the Moto Watch Fit as its latest smartwatch. The company announced that it will be priced at £89.99 in the UK, but information about prices in other areas was not provided. However, Motorola has since shared the pricing for the Moto Watch Fit in both the US and Canada.

    Pricing Details

    As reported by 9to5Google, the Moto Watch Fit will retail for $199 in the United States and $249 in Canada. This is quite expensive, especially since the Moto Watch Fit does not operate on WearOS, which would allow for Android apps, nor does it feature advanced health tracking options like ECG and blood pressure monitoring.

    Pricing Concerns

    It remains unclear why Motorola is setting such high prices for the Moto Watch Fit in North America. While the company might point to tariffs as a reason for the US pricing, this shouldn’t apply to Canada. At these price points, the Moto Watch Fit may struggle to attract customers, with many other options available that are much cheaper and offer similar or even superior features.

    Competitors in the Market

    The Moto Watch Fit is up against competitors like the Amazfit Active 2, which is available on Amazon for $99.99. This smartwatch features a 1.32-inch display that can reach up to 2,000 nits of brightness, supports over 160 sports modes, and boasts a battery life of up to 10 days.

    If you’re looking for a more complete smartwatch, you might consider the Samsung Galaxy Watch FE, currently priced at $167 on Amazon. It includes ECG and blood pressure monitoring, along with various health-tracking capabilities. Additionally, since it runs on WearOS, users can access apps from the Play Store. An LTE version is also available.

    Motorola plans to start selling the Moto Watch Fit on May 22 via its website, with future availability on Amazon and Best Buy. The smartwatch features a 1.9-inch AMOLED display, Gorilla Glass 3, support for over 100 sports modes, built-in GNSS, heart rate and SpO2 monitoring, and an impressive battery life of up to 16 days.

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  • Galaxy Watch 8 Battery Capacity Leak: Minor Upgrade from Previous Model

    Galaxy Watch 8 Battery Capacity Leak: Minor Upgrade from Previous Model

    Key Takeaways

    1. Improved Battery Sizes: The Galaxy Watch8 series will feature slightly improved battery sizes compared to the previous generation, with the 40mm model having a 318 mAh battery and the 44mm model a 426 mAh battery.

    2. Two Sizes for Galaxy Watch8: The Galaxy Watch8 will be available in two sizes: 40mm and 44mm, along with a Classic version that includes a rotating bezel.

    3. Model Numbers Revealed: Recent leaks indicate specific model numbers for the Galaxy Watch8 and its Classic version, including SM-L320, SM-L325 for the 40mm, and SM-L500, SM-L505 for the Classic.

    4. Slight Battery Life Improvement: Compared to the Galaxy Watch7 series, the new models show only a minor increase in battery capacity, with the 40mm version going from 300 mAh to 318 mAh.

    5. Official Unveiling Expected: Samsung is expected to unveil the new Galaxy Watch series in July, alongside the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7.

    There has been a lot of buzz and speculation about the new Galaxy Watch series, focusing on various models, their look, and how fast they charge. Recent info indicates that the battery sizes for the three anticipated models are set to improve from the last generation, but not by a significant amount. The Galaxy Watch8 is rumored to come in two sizes: 40mm and 44mm, plus there will be a Galaxy Watch8 Classic featuring a rotating bezel.

    Latest Leak Details

    The newest leak originates from a certification site shared by SammyGuru, revealing the usual model numbers linked to the Galaxy Watch8 and its Classic version. Looking at the Galaxy Watch8, the 40mm model is rumored to have model numbers SM-L320 and SM-L325 for its Bluetooth and LTE versions, respectively. The smaller watch is expected to include a 318 mAh battery (with a typical capacity of 325 mAh). On the other hand, the 44mm model might carry the numbers SM-L330 and SM-L335, along with a battery size of 426 mAh (435 mAh typical).

    Comparison with Previous Models

    For comparison, the Galaxy Watch7’s 40mm Bluetooth version available on Amazon includes a 300 mAh battery, while the 44mm Bluetooth version has a 425 mAh battery. If these leaks are accurate, the new Galaxy Watch8 series will see only a slight improvement in battery life compared to the Watch7 series.

    Insights on the Galaxy Watch8 Classic

    Regarding the Galaxy Watch8 Classic, it is said to have model numbers SM-L500 (Bluetooth) and SM-L505 (LTE) attached to it. This variant is expected to feature a 435 mAh battery (with a typical capacity of 450 mAh). In contrast, the Galaxy Watch6 Classic (43mm model available on Amazon) boasts a 425 mAh battery, while the Galaxy Watch5 Pro (Bluetooth version on Amazon) has a larger 590 mAh cell. While the name isn’t officially confirmed, it is assumed to be the Watch8 Classic due to the presence of both Bluetooth and LTE models, unlike the Galaxy Watch Ultra (available on Amazon), and the battery size is fairly small for a Pro or Ultra watch.

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  • Casio G-Shock Black and Bold Red Watches Launching in Europe

    Casio G-Shock Black and Bold Red Watches Launching in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio Black and Bold Red watch collection includes five models: DW-5600BBR-1, GA-700BBR-1A, GA-B2100BBR-1A, GD-010BBR-1, and GX-56BBR-1, launched in Europe after debuting in Japan.
    2. The watches are available for purchase in select European countries, with prices ranging from €99.90 to €149.00.
    3. Key features of the models include digital displays, world time tracking, Bluetooth connectivity, and Tough Solar power for enhanced battery life.
    4. All watches feature a black resin case and strap with red displays, designed to be shock-resistant and waterproof up to 20 bar.
    5. There is currently no information on the launch of these watches in the US market.

    The Casio Black and Bold Red watch collection is heading to Europe! This series consists of five different models: the DW-5600BBR-1, GA-700BBR-1A, GA-B2100BBR-1A, GD-010BBR-1, and GX-56BBR-1. These watches first came out in Japan in May, after being unveiled in April 2025.

    Availability and Pricing

    You can now purchase the Casio G-Shock Black and Bold Red series watches through the brand’s online store in countries including the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany. The prices for the DW-5600BBR-1, GA-700BBR-1A, and GD-010BBR-1 are set at €99.90 each, while the GA-B2100BBR-1A and GX-56BBR-1 are priced higher at €149.00. Meanwhile, the DW-5600BBR-1 has already hit the UK market for £99.90. It remains unclear if or when the other four models will be introduced in the UK.

    Watch Features

    The DW-5600BBR-1 is a digital watch featuring a rectangular face. It includes a stopwatch that measures up to 1/100th of a second, a countdown timer, and flash alerts. Additionally, it has an LED backlight and is designed to last for five years on a replaceable battery. On the other hand, the GA-700BBR-1A is a robust round hybrid watch that shares many features with the DW-5600BBR-1 but adds the ability to track world time in 48 cities.

    The GA-B2100BBR-1A is another round hybrid timepiece but boasts a more streamlined design. This model supports Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to access various functions and settings through the Casio Watches app on their smartphones. It also has Neobrite elements and utilizes Tough Solar power to enhance battery longevity. The GD-010BBR-1 is a round digital watch that resembles the GA-700BBR-1A in many respects, but it can accommodate multiple world time zones and save up to four favorite cities, with a battery life of 10 years. Lastly, the GX-56BBR-1 features a sturdy rectangular design with a digital display, offering similar features to the GA-700BBR-1A, alongside Tough Solar charging.

    Design and Durability

    All the Casio Black and Bold Red watches have a black resin case and strap, complemented by striking red digital displays. They are designed to be shock-resistant and waterproof up to 20 bar. As of now, there are no updates available regarding a potential launch in the US market.

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    Casio G-Shock Black and Bold Red Watches Launching in Europe

     

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  • Garmin Reveals New Running Features for Forerunner 970

    Garmin Reveals New Running Features for Forerunner 970

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Metrics Introduced: Garmin’s Forerunner 970 smartwatch and HRM 600 chest strap feature new metrics: Step Speed Loss (SSL), Running Economy, and Running Tolerance.

    2. Step Speed Loss (SSL): SSL measures speed decrease at ground contact, aiming for a lower value for better performance, with real-time tracking available on the Garmin Connect app.

    3. Running Economy: This metric assesses efficiency during running, measured in ml/kg/km, with a lower score indicating better energy use and less waste.

    4. Running Tolerance: This tool evaluates how the body handles different workouts, helping to prevent overtraining by ensuring acute impact loads stay below tolerance scores.

    5. Availability and Pricing: The Forerunner 970 will launch on May 21st, priced at $749.99 in the US and €749.99 in Europe, with the new features exclusive to this model.

    Garmin has shared additional details regarding its latest Running Dynamics and Physiological Measurements tools. The new Forerunner 970 smartwatch, along with the HRM 600 chest strap heart rate monitor, introduced metrics like Step Speed Loss (SSL), Running Economy, and Running Tolerance. Detailed descriptions of each of these metrics can now be found on the company’s website.

    Understanding Step Speed Loss

    Step Speed Loss (SSL) measures how much you decrease your speed each time your foot makes contact with the ground. This is monitored through a heart rate device and is shown in cm/s, by calculating the difference between your initial speed at ground contact and your slowest forward speed. Users should aim for a lower value here. Additionally, there’s a related metric called Step Speed Loss Percent (SSL%), which is your SSL divided by your current running pace. Both metrics can be seen in real-time or analyzed in graphs on the Garmin Connect app.

    Efficiency Through Running Economy

    Next, we have the Running Economy metric, which shows how efficiently your body is working. It is measured in milliliters of oxygen used per kilogram of body weight per kilometer (ml/kg/km). This metric considers factors such as heart rate, vertical oscillation, SSL, and others. To get an accurate reading, users must wear a heart rate monitor. A lower score indicates better efficiency, meaning less energy is wasted during your run.

    Monitoring Your Running Tolerance

    Lastly, Garmin has introduced a Running Tolerance metric that assesses how your body responds to different workouts. This tool can help identify harmful patterns, such as insufficient rest after intense sessions, which could affect your performance. Ideally, your acute impact load, determined from your recent workouts, should remain below your tolerance score.

    At present, these three new features related to Running Dynamics and Physiological Measurements appear to be exclusive to the Forerunner 970 smartwatch. This model is set to launch on May 21st, with a recommended retail price of $749.99 in the US and €749.99 in Europe.

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  • Tank S3 Pro: Durable Military Smartwatch with Long Battery Life

    Tank S3 Pro: Durable Military Smartwatch with Long Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Tank S3 Pro is available on Amazon Germany for €79, with a €20 discount for its launch, and will soon be on Amazon US.
    2. It is designed as a rugged military smartwatch, water-resistant up to 5 ATM, and can operate in extreme temperatures from -40 °F to 158 °F.
    3. The smartwatch features a 2.06-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 410 x 502 pixels and a peak brightness of 800 nits.
    4. Key health monitoring features include a step counter, heart rate sensor, blood oxygen level measurement, blood pressure monitor, and sleep tracking.
    5. The Tank S3 Pro has a 710mAh battery lasting around 20 hours, charges in about 2 hours, and allows Bluetooth phone calls with a built-in microphone and speaker.

    The Tank S3 Pro might not be a completely new smartwatch, but it’s now appearing at major retailers like Amazon Germany. It’s expected to hit Amazon US shelves soon. In Europe, this device is priced at €79, and there’s currently a coupon that provides a €20 discount for its launch. It’s uncertain if the price will go up after this discount code runs out in early June.

    Design and Durability

    Now, while the Rogbid Tank S3 Pro may not boast an extensive list of features, its design stands out significantly. It’s promoted as a rugged military smartwatch, capable of withstanding water up to 5 ATM and operating in extreme temperatures ranging from -40 °F to 158 °F.

    Display and Usability

    This smartwatch sports a sizable 2.06-inch AMOLED display, which is not circular but rather has sharp angles, giving the Tank S3 Pro a bulky appearance. The screen resolution clocks in at 410 x 502 pixels, and it shines at a peak brightness of 800 nits, which is somewhat dimmer compared to other smartwatches on the market.

    Features and Battery Life

    Although it lacks a built-in GPS module, you can still monitor activities with its step counter and heart rate sensor. This military-grade watch is also capable of measuring blood oxygen levels, and it features a blood pressure monitor, which may not be entirely accurate. Additionally, the Tank S3 Pro tracks sleep quality, duration, and stress levels. It comes with a rotating crown and a 710mAh battery, which reportedly lasts for 20 hours under normal usage and can be charged within approximately 2 hours. Lastly, it includes a microphone and speaker, allowing you to make Bluetooth phone calls directly from the smartwatch.

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  • Casio MR-G Kurogane-Iro Watches with Prices for Strap and Bracelet

    Casio MR-G Kurogane-Iro Watches with Prices for Strap and Bracelet

    Key Takeaways

    1. Two new Casio MR-G models, MRG-B2000RG-3AJR and MRG-B2000BG-3AJR, are priced at 385,000 yen (approximately $2,470) and set for release in June 2025.

    2. Both models have the same price despite differences in materials, with the RG-3AJR featuring a more expensive recrystallized titanium bezel.

    3. The watches share a rich green and gold color scheme, inspired by the traditional Japanese “kurogane-iro.”

    4. Key features include solar charging, Bluetooth, world time for over 300 cities, and a unique triple subdial design with a kikkō pattern.

    5. Limited availability is expected at G-Shock boutiques and select retailers in Japan, with no official press release from Casio yet.

    Two fresh models from Casio’s “kurogane-iro” MR-G line have made a reappearance, this time with clearer pricing details from Great G-Shock World Japan. The MRG-B2000RG-3AJR and the MRG-B2000BG-3AJR are both tagged at 385,000 yen (around $2,470), with a planned release set for June 2025. You can refer to our earlier articles about these watches here.

    Pricing Parity Explained

    Interestingly, both watches carry the same price tag, even though there are clear differences in how they are made. Usually, models with full bracelets like the BG-3AJR cost more than those with rubber straps. Yet, the RG-3AJR features a pricier recrystallized titanium bezel, which probably accounts for the equal pricing in this case.

    Consistent Color Scheme

    The color palette remains similar for both watches, showcasing a rich green tone highlighted with gold, reminiscent of the classic Japanese “kurogane-iro” color. The MRG-B2000RG-3AJR is equipped with a black fluoro-rubber strap and has a brushed, stone-like bezel with visible hex screws. On the other hand, the MRG-B2000BG-3AJR sports a full titanium bracelet with a softer brushed texture.

    Standard MR-G Features

    Both timepieces are expected to come with the usual MR-G features: solar charging, Bluetooth capabilities, world time for over 300 cities, and a triple subdial design that offers calendar and multi-time zone functions. The dials also showcase a kikkō (turtle shell) pattern surrounding the subdials, along with gold-accented markers that provide a more intricate appearance.

    So far, Casio hasn’t officially released a press statement regarding these new additions. However, looking at previous launches and current listings, both models are likely to be available in limited numbers at G-Shock boutiques and select retailers in Japan starting next month.

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