Category: Wearables

  • Amazfit T-Rex 3 Review: Exploring New Features and Benefits

    Amazfit T-Rex 3 Review: Exploring New Features and Benefits

    Key Takeaways

    1. Amazfit has released a software update for the T-Rex 3 that fixes bugs and enhances functionality for runners.
    2. The updated T-Rex 3 can now track ground contact time and vertical movement, providing new metrics for running analysis.
    3. The measurements, including vertical ratio and ground contact time, are valuable for assessing running technique but should be interpreted with caution.
    4. During a six-kilometer test run, the T-Rex 3 recorded a 7.3% average vertical drop and a ground contact time of 306 milliseconds.
    5. The app offers detailed insights with data updated every ten seconds, allowing users to visualize measurements and monitor fatigue during longer runs.

    Amazfit has introduced a fresh software update for the T-Rex 3, which not only addresses some bugs but also greatly enhances its functionality, particularly for those who use their T-Rex 3 while running. Note: This article is about describing the features, not judging them. We aim to evaluate the accuracy of running efficiency metrics very soon, not only for the T-Rex 3 but for various other wearable devices as well. The exact measurement errors are still unclear at this moment.

    New Features Added

    With this update, the T-Rex 3 can now track ground contact time and vertical movement. This enables the derivation of values like the vertical ratio, which compares the height of a jump while running to stride length. “Ground contact time” clearly refers to how long a foot stays on the ground before lifting off again. Both vertical movement and ground contact time should ideally be low since the goal of running is typically to cover distance instead of bouncing. However, even with what seem to be accurate measurements, these figures should be interpreted cautiously, as they can offer insights into running technique flaws. One thing the T-Rex 3 still can’t measure, even after the update, is the balance of ground contact time, which could help identify imbalances more quickly.

    Performance During Testing

    On a not-too-slow six-kilometer test run conducted on Sunday at an average pace of 4:58 minutes per kilometer, the Amazfit T-Rex 3 recorded an average vertical drop of 7.3% and an average ground contact time of 306 milliseconds. Since the run wasn’t pushed to the author’s max limit, a slight increase in ground contact time is probably expected.

    Detailed Measurement Insights

    In general, the data is updated every ten seconds, which should suffice for interval training. The app enables users to visualize individual measurements over time; with a simple click, the recorded data is explained and roughly categorized. On the watch, these metrics can be shown both as near-instantaneous and average values. This feature might be particularly helpful during longer runs to monitor any fatigue-related declines in running form.

    Amazfit T-Rex 3 Review: Exploring New Features and Benefits

     

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  • Amazfit Helio Strap Update: Now Supports Tennis Tracking

    Amazfit Helio Strap Update: Now Supports Tennis Tracking

    Key Takeaways

    1. Amazfit’s Helio Strap initially supported only 27 sports, but a firmware update added a Tennis Mode and improved interface features.
    2. The update enhances tracking accuracy for tennis practice by monitoring workout intensity through heart rate metrics.
    3. A new BioCharge algorithm adjusts energy levels based on factors like stress and sleep, aiming to improve performance metrics.
    4. The update fixes bugs related to heart rate readings, calorie counts, and step tracking, ensuring more accurate fitness data.
    5. The Helio Strap has no subscription fee and is available for a one-time purchase of $99 on Amazon.

    Amazfit’s Helio Strap, introduced in June this year, has rapidly attracted the attention of fitness fans around the globe. However, when it first launched, it only catered to 27 sports, which pales in comparison to the impressive 177 sports available on some of Amazfit’s smartwatches, like the T-Rex 3 we evaluated. This limitation led many users to voice their concerns, especially those interested in ball or racket sports. With the latest firmware update 3.3.6.1, the accompanying Zepp Health app now includes a specific Tennis Mode, along with other interface enhancements.

    Improved Tracking Features

    Before this update, tracking tennis practice with the Helio Strap was often inaccurate. Now, users can effectively monitor their training sessions, as the device assesses workout intensity through heart rate metrics. This data is visually represented in the Zepp workout profile, making it easier for users to analyze their performance.

    New BioCharge Algorithm

    The update also introduces an improved BioCharge algorithm. This feature, akin to Garmin’s Body Battery, is designed to adjust to your energy levels based on factors like stress and sleep. Although past attempts haven’t yielded the expected results, the new algorithm aims to resolve issues related to swift overnight energy loss and low Wake BioCharge scores.

    Minor Fixes and Accessibility

    In addition to these enhancements, the update addresses bugs related to heart rate readings at night, inflated calorie counts during exercises, and incorrect step tracking while swimming and cycling. The entire update is a compact 3.4MB, but users must be on version 9.13.0 of Zepp to access it.

    Unlike many fitness wearables, the Helio Strap does not come with a subscription fee. You can purchase the Amazfit Helio Strap fitness tracker for a single payment of $99 on Amazon.

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    Amazfit Helio Strap Update: Now Supports Tennis Tracking

     

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  • Garmin Updates Mid-Range Smartwatches with Stability & Alerts Improvements

    Garmin Updates Mid-Range Smartwatches with Stability & Alerts Improvements

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is reducing development focus on the Forerunner 255, 955, 165, 265, and 965 models.
    2. Beta Version 25.02 introduced five changes, while Beta Version 25.06 offered limited significant improvements.
    3. The main update in Beta Version 25.06 aims to enhance general stability.
    4. A specific issue causing settings to disappear on older models has been resolved in the latest update.
    5. Garmin’s strategy now emphasizes stability and bug fixes over introducing new features for existing models.

    Garmin has shifted its focus away from the Forerunner 255, Forerunner 955, Forerunner 165, Forerunner 265, and Forerunner 965, placing them on a reduced development path. To provide some perspective, the firm released Beta Version 25.02 nearly a month ago, which included five main changes compared to its last stable update for those particular smartwatches. Although Garmin has moved on to Beta Version 25.06, it hasn’t introduced many significant improvements.

    Stability Improvements

    One of the key updates in Beta Version 25.06 is aimed at enhancing ‘general stability’. The company also states that they have resolved a problem that might cause certain settings to disappear on older Forerunner models when a custom alert is first added. Users interested in Beta Version 25.06 can download it by going to the Main menu, then Settings, followed by System, and finally Software Update on their smartwatch registered in the Beta Program. After that, they just need to click ‘Check For Updates’.

    Summary of Updates

    Garmin is taking a more cautious approach with the development of its Forerunner line, focusing less on new features and more on stability and bug fixes. This update process reflects the company’s strategy of ensuring that existing models perform reliably, even if it means less frequent updates.

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  • Casio Pro Trek PRJ-B001B-1 Watch: Rotary Guard Bezel & Tough Solar

    Casio Pro Trek PRJ-B001B-1 Watch: Rotary Guard Bezel & Tough Solar

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio Pro Trek PRJ-B001B-1 is priced at ¥25,300 (around $169) and is made from bio-based plastics.
    2. The watch features a rotary guard bezel for easy mode switching and has a water resistance rating of 10 bar.
    3. It includes Tough Solar technology for timekeeping and Bluetooth connectivity for automatic time updates via the Casio Watches app.
    4. The watch offers various functionalities, such as world time for 38 cities, five alarms, and a battery life of up to 18 months in power-saving mode.
    5. Currently available on Casio Japan’s website, the watch is expected to be listed on Casio’s US website soon.

    The Casio Pro Trek PRJ-B001B-1 is now ready for purchase on Casio’s Japan website. With a price tag of ¥25,300 (around $169), this watch is made from bio-based plastics and has dimensions of 50.3 × 46 × 13.6 mm, weighing in at just 37 grams. It features a cross-band that accommodates wrist sizes ranging from 145 to 215 mm.

    Functional Design

    Similar to other watches in the Hiker collection, the rotary guard bezel is practical, allowing users to switch between the protected and operational button modes with a simple 45-degree twist. The watch has a water resistance rating of 10 bar and can function in temperatures as low as -10°C. Timekeeping is supported by Tough Solar technology, while Bluetooth connectivity allows for automatic time updates through the Casio Watches app.

    Features and Performance

    The PRJ-B001B-1 is equipped with a variety of features such as world time for 38 different cities, five alarms, a stopwatch, countdown timer, dual LED lighting, a full auto calendar, and a battery level indicator. A complete solar charge can power the watch for up to seven months, but when in power-saving mode, this can stretch to 18 months. Even without syncing to a smartphone, the watch maintains quartz accuracy within ±15 seconds per month.

    This model comes with a paracord-style strap that can be easily swapped out within the Pro Trek line, making it a part of Casio’s Hiker series. Sales are currently active. Although this watch isn’t listed on Casio’s US website at the moment, we anticipate that it will be available soon.

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    Casio Pro Trek PRJ-B001B-1 Watch: Rotary Guard Bezel & Tough SolarCasio Pro Trek PRJ-B001B-1 Watch: Rotary Guard Bezel & Tough SolarCasio Pro Trek PRJ-B001B-1 Watch: Rotary Guard Bezel & Tough SolarCasio Pro Trek PRJ-B001B-1 Watch: Rotary Guard Bezel & Tough Solar

     

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  • Evolve’s Fitness Wearable Hits Funding Goal in 4 Minutes

    Evolve’s Fitness Wearable Hits Funding Goal in 4 Minutes

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Evolve MVMT fitness device tracks shock absorption in real-time and helps improve running technique while reducing injury risk.
    2. It achieved its Kickstarter funding goal just four minutes after launch on September 23.
    3. The device is priced at $199 for early supporters, with a retail price of $499, and is set to ship in December 2025.
    4. It features a battery life of up to 12 hours, Bluetooth connectivity, and offline training capabilities.
    5. Evolve MVMT stands out in a competitive market by offering continuous, real-time feedback on shock absorption, unlike other popular fitness devices.

    Evolve has launched its latest fitness device, the MVMT, which can track shock absorption in real-time. Impressively, it hit its Kickstarter funding target just four minutes after it was introduced on September 23.

    Functionality and Benefits

    This innovative gadget is meant to be worn on the ankle and monitors how the body copes with impact forces during running. It offers valuable insights to help users improve their running technique, lower the risk of injury, and assist in recovery. Moreover, during a run, it notifies users if their gait or ability to handle shock declines. After each run, a companion app provides an in-depth analysis of metrics such as shock absorption efficiency, consistency of running form, fatigue levels, step mechanics, and the impact of different terrains.

    Pricing and Availability

    Supporters of the project can still grab it at an early-bird price of about $199, which is a significant discount of $300 from its intended retail price of around $499. The Evolve team plans to start shipping in December 2025, and this will include international shipping. As for the device itself, the company claims it has a battery life of up to 12 hours and uses USB-C for charging. It can connect via Bluetooth with smartphones and tablets, and it also has the capability for offline use during training.

    Competitive Landscape

    Nonetheless, Evolve MVMT is stepping into a market that already has some well-known wearable brands. For instance, Garmin provides advanced running metrics like ground contact time and vertical oscillation with its Forerunner series (the Forerunner 55 is currently priced at $149 on Amazon), while Coros offers similar features with its Apex and Pace lines. Additionally, the Apple Watch competes at the premium level with a vast fitness ecosystem. However, none of these popular devices currently offer continuous, real-time feedback on shock absorption, which gives Evolve MVMT a unique selling point.

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    Evolve's Fitness Wearable Hits Funding Goal in 4 MinutesEvolve's Fitness Wearable Hits Funding Goal in 4 Minutes

     

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  • Robots Walk on Water with New Heat-Powered Technique

    Robots Walk on Water with New Heat-Powered Technique

    Key Takeaways

    1. HydroSpread is a new method developed by scientists at the University of Virginia for creating ultrathin flexible robots directly on water surfaces.
    2. This technique eliminates the challenge of damaging thin robots when transferring them from solid surfaces to water.
    3. The process uses liquid polymer ink, specifically polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), which forms thin films that can be accurately shaped with a laser.
    4. Researchers created two prototypes: HydroFlexor, with fin-like paddles, and HydroBuckler, mimicking the movement of water-strider insects, both powered by infrared heat.
    5. The HydroSpread method may also be applied to produce ultrathin films for wearable medical devices and flexible electronics.

    A group of scientists at the University of Virginia’s School of Engineering and Applied Science has come up with a new method called HydroSpread that lets them create ultrathin flexible robots right on the surface of water. This innovative technique, explained in the journal Science Advances, removes a tricky step in manufacturing and might lead to mass production of tiny robots for uses like environmental monitoring and search and rescue operations.

    Overcoming Challenges

    One of the biggest hurdles in making robots that can walk on water is that their super thin bodies often get damaged when moving them from the hard surface where they are made to the water. HydroSpread tackles this issue by allowing the film to be created directly on water. The process begins by laying down a liquid polymer ink onto the water surface.

    Precision in Production

    For their experiments, the team used polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) on the water, where it spread out into thin, layered films. A laser is then utilized to accurately design the films into the wanted shapes. According to the researchers, this approach provides more accuracy compared to making them on solid surfaces. The reason is that the water quickly draws away heat from the laser, keeping it from overheating, which can cause flaws in the patterns.

    Innovative Prototypes

    Using this new method, the researchers created two prototype devices: HydroFlexor, which moves with fin-like paddles, and HydroBuckler, which imitates the walking motion of water-strider insects. These robots are powered by heat from an external infrared source, leading the two layers of the film to expand at different paces, thus generating movement.

    The team also mentions that this technique could find uses in making ultrathin films for wearable medical gadgets and flexible parts for future electronics.

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    Robots Walk on Water with New Heat-Powered Technique

     

  • Timex Atelier Marine M1A: Swiss Automatic Watch with Ceramic Bezel

    Timex Atelier Marine M1A: Swiss Automatic Watch with Ceramic Bezel

    Key Takeaways

    1. Timex launched the Atelier Marine M1a watch, available in two versions: stainless steel bracelet ($1,050) and NBR synthetic rubber strap ($950).
    2. The watch features a 41mm stainless steel case with a skeletonized design and Swiss automatic movement, offering a 36-hour power reserve.
    3. It has a double-curved sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating, a black enamel dial with Swiss Luminova markers, and a ceramic inlay bezel.
    4. The watch is water-resistant up to 200 meters, suitable for swimming and casual scuba diving, and has customizable clasp options.
    5. The Marine M1a is not a limited edition and is available for purchase online and in select stores, with no promotional deals announced at launch.

    Timex has recently introduced the Atelier Marine M1a, marking its debut in the Atelier series. This watch comes in two versions: one with a stainless steel bracelet priced at $1,050, and another with an NBR synthetic rubber strap available for $950. Both versions feature a 41mm stainless steel case that is 13mm thick, showcasing a skeletonized design along with a reinforced plated steel mid-case. The timepiece is powered by a Swiss automatic movement from CATENA SA, which includes 29 jewels, offers a power reserve of 36 hours, and has a beat rate of 28,800 vibrations per hour.

    Design and Features

    The watch’s crystal is crafted from double-curved sapphire, enhanced with a triple-layer anti-reflective coating that improves clarity and scratch resistance. The dial showcases a black enamel background adorned with silver markers and hands, all filled with Swiss Luminova to ensure visibility in low-light scenarios. The bezel includes a ceramic inlay that allows for unidirectional rotation, complete with an elapsed time index, also highlighted with Swiss Luminova. It’s water-resistant up to 200 meters, making it ideal for activities like swimming, snorkeling, and casual scuba diving. The stainless steel model features a deployant clasp with removable, self-adjustable links, while the NBR rubber strap gives a more technical appearance while maintaining a similar fit.

    Availability and Pricing

    Both models allow visibility of the movement through a caseback window and come with a signed crown. Timex states that the Marine M1a is not a limited edition and will be available for purchase online at the Timex Atelier website, as well as select brick-and-mortar stores. No promotional deals or early-bird discounts have been announced at launch. All technical specifications, materials, and details are the same for both versions, with the only decision for customers being the choice of strap material and price.

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    Timex Atelier Marine M1A: Swiss Automatic Watch with Ceramic BezelTimex Atelier Marine M1A: Swiss Automatic Watch with Ceramic Bezel

     

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  • Garmin Model Design Flaw: Customer Reports and Concerns

    Garmin Model Design Flaw: Customer Reports and Concerns

    Key Takeaways

    1. Design Flaw: Users report that the Vivosmart 5’s watch unit can fall out of the wristband due to a design issue.
    2. Wristband Quality: The wristband material wears down quickly, leading to a loose fit and potential loss of the watch unit.
    3. Customer Service Concerns: Users express dissatisfaction with Garmin’s customer service, citing limited solutions offered for the issue.
    4. Need for Transparency: There is a call for Garmin to be more open about product quality issues and provide better support to customers.
    5. Affordable Replacement Options: Replacement wristbands with improved durability are available at low cost, suggesting a potential solution for affected users.

    Garmin’s Vivosmart 5 has been on the market for a while and remains easy to find at many stores. Recently, a user on Reddit strongly recommended against buying the Vivosmart 5, noting what seems to be a significant design issue. The user highlighted a specific concern about the main watch unit’s housing within the wristband, leading to the watch unit potentially falling out completely. Moreover, they pointed out that this issue seems to affect many users, not just them. Additionally, the user expressed disappointment with Garmin’s customer service, mentioning that the only solution offered was a replacement watch for $129, rather than a refund or an alternative model.

    Issues with Wristband Quality

    In our opinion, Garmin does share some responsibility in this matter, though the reasons might not be clear at first. As described by the Reddit user, the watch unit itself is not flawed. The problem lies with the wristband material, which wears down rather quickly, causing the Vivosmart 5 to become loose. Garmin could have warned customers about this issue. While it’s unusual for such a problem to arise after nine months, replacement wristbands with an improved design and better durability are quite affordable, especially on platforms like Amazon. Given the design (the Vivosmart 5 looks like a small puck), the way the watch unit fits within the wristband makes it more susceptible to falling out, unlike traditional watches that use spring pins to secure the unit in place.

    Conclusion

    The discussion on Reddit raises important questions about product quality and customer support. It seems that while the Vivosmart 5 has a lot of potential, the materials used in the wristband might not meet user expectations. It would be beneficial for Garmin to address these concerns more openly and provide better solutions for their customers.

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  • Casio G-Steel GST-B1000 Full-Metal Watch Pricing Leaked

    Casio G-Steel GST-B1000 Full-Metal Watch Pricing Leaked

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock GST-B1000 will retail for 66,000 yen (around $441), aligning with European prices between €350 and €450.
    2. The new model features a completely analog display with no digital subdials, smooth octagonal bezels, and utilizes Carbon Core Guard technology for shock protection.
    3. The GST-B1000 is thinner and lighter than previous models, measuring 46.9 x 44.2 x 11.6 mm and weighing 118 grams, making it suitable for daily use.
    4. The design of the dial and bezel is influenced by the MR-G series, showcasing a modern aesthetic.
    5. The anticipated release for the GST-B1000 is expected in September or October, with more promotional materials forthcoming.

    The Casio G-Shock G-Steel GST-B1000, highly awaited as a flagship model in the G-Steel series, has had its price and design fully disclosed through recent leaks and verified information. As reported by the well-known Japanese blog Great G-Shock World, the GST-B1000 is set to hit the market with a retail price of 66,000 yen (around $441), aligning with earlier speculations of European pricing ranging from €350 to €450.

    A New Design Approach

    This new model represents a significant shift from earlier G-Steel watches. Previous leaks, including both official images and fan-created designs, reveal a completely analog display devoid of any digital subdials, along with smooth octagonal bezels and sharply designed cases. Casio continues to incorporate its well-known Carbon Core Guard technology for added shock protection. Additionally, the case is matched with a sleeker stainless steel bracelet, made of solid links.

    Influences and Dimensions

    The dial and bezel’s textures seem to draw heavily from the MR-G series. The GST-B1000 is thinner and lighter, measuring 46.9 x 44.2 x 11.6 mm and weighing 118 grams. This makes it a more practical choice for daily use, contrasting the usual bold aesthetic that characterizes this line.

    Casio plans to introduce the GST-B1000 in three different dial options:

    Features and Release Date

    In addition to its modern design, the GST-B1000 will feature:

    The anticipated release for the GST-B1000 is expected later this year, with September and October being the months to watch as more retailer listings and promotional materials start to appear.

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  • Honor Watch 5 Pro Teased with Contactless Blood Pressure Tech

    Honor Watch 5 Pro Teased with Contactless Blood Pressure Tech

    Key Takeaways

    1. Honor is hinting at a new device in its Watch 5 lineup, following the Watch 5 Ultra release.
    2. The Watch 5 Pro comes in two variations: a sporty design with a silicone strap and an upscale version with a leather band.
    3. Both versions of the Watch 5 Pro feature contactless blood pressure monitoring capabilities.
    4. The Watch 5 Pro includes eSIM capabilities and a positioning system named ‘Polaris.’
    5. Pre-orders for the Watch 5 Pro have started in China, with a starting price below CNY 2,000 (around $280).

    Honor is hinting at the launch of a new device as part of its Watch 5 lineup. After the debut of the Watch 5 last year, the company later unveiled the Watch 5 Ultra, which shares a design similar to both the Huawei Watch Ultimate 2 and the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 (currently priced at $649.99 on Amazon).

    Watch 5 Pro Features

    Recently, Honor has presented the Watch 5 Pro, which appears to be a standard smartwatch at first glance. So far, the company has teased two variations of the Watch 5 Pro, both seemingly featuring the same size display. As depicted in the image shown, one variant has a sporty design with a silicone strap, while the other exudes a more upscale look with a leather band.

    Health Monitoring Capabilities

    It seems that both versions come equipped with ‘contactless blood pressure monitoring.’ Although Honor hasn’t provided detailed information yet, the company asserts that the Watch 5 Pro can perform single readings or offer ongoing blood pressure tracking as required, eliminating the need for a separate cuff like the Huawei Watch D2. Furthermore, the Watch 5 Pro will include eSIM capabilities and a positioning system referred to as ‘Polaris.’ While Honor is currently taking pre-orders in China, they’ve only suggested that the starting price for the Watch 5 Pro will be below CNY 2,000 (approximately $280).

    Honor via Fixed Focus Digital.

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    Honor Watch 5 Pro Teased with Contactless Blood Pressure Tech

     

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