Category: Wearables

May 9, 2025
Garmin Updates Forerunner Smartwatches Ahead of Forerunner 970 Launch
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin is set to release new Forerunner smartwatches, likely the Forerunner 970 and 975, along with a budget model, the Forerunner 270.
2. The exact release date for the new Forerunner models is currently unknown.
3. Garmin is actively testing software updates for existing watches through its Beta Program, with v23.xx testing initiated in March.
4. The latest beta update, v23.18, includes five bug fixes for multiple Forerunner models and has been released to 50% of compatible devices.
5. Specific bug fixes in the beta update apply to the Forerunner 165, 255, 955, and 965 models.
Garmin is likely to release new Forerunner smartwatches this season, acting as successors to the Forerunner 265 and Forerunner 965 (currently priced at $499.99 on Amazon). Current indications point towards the Forerunner 970 being launched before the Forerunner 975, and there may also be an economical Forerunner 270 introduced alongside them. Although the exact release date for these new models remains uncertain, Garmin is actively working on software upgrades for their current watches through its Beta Program.
Software Testing Updates
To summarize, the company initiated v23.xx testing at the end of March, following the rollout of Stable Version 22.22 in February. Sadly, Garmin hasn’t hinted at when a new stable update might come out. Instead, it has replaced Beta Version 23.15 with v23.18, claiming that this new version has been distributed to 50% of compatible smartwatches in most situations.
Bug Fixes and Changes
From what we understand, Garmin’s newest beta update introduces five main bug fixes for the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965. Additionally, the changelogs for Beta Version 23.18 include specific bug fixes for the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965. The complete list of changes between Beta Versions 23.15 and 23.18 is outlined as follows:
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Tags: Forerunner 965, Forerunner 970, Garmin
May 9, 2025
New Casio x Undefeated Watch Launches in US, European Release Confirmed
Key Takeaways
1. The Casio G-Shock x Undefeated DWE5600UD-1 watch is now available in the US for $230.
2. The watch features a green LCD display, durable black carbon and resin case, and Undefeated branding.
3. It includes three interchangeable resin straps: semi-transparent black, Storm Camo, and opaque Tiger Camo.
4. Key features include a stopwatch, countdown timer, hourly time signals, multifunctional alarm, and water resistance up to 20 ATM.
5. A European launch is planned, with prices set at £209 in the UK and €269 in France, but the release date is still uncertain.
The Casio G-Shock x Undefeated DWE5600UD-1 watch has just been released in the United States. This particular model was revealed earlier in May, showcasing a design that embodies the style of the Los Angeles-based clothing brand.
Availability and Pricing in the US
In the US, the Casio G-Shock DWE5600UD-1 watch is now available for purchase at undefeated.com and in all Undefeated Chapter Stores. It is priced at $230, matching the retail price of the previous G-Shock x J Balvin DWE5600JB-1A9 watch. The watch will be offered through the Casio online store and at the G-Shock Soho store starting May 16th.
European Launch Details
Casio has also announced that the Undefeated x G-Shock collaboration watch will be launched in Europe, where it is referred to as the DWE-5600UD-1. In the UK, the price will be £209, while in European countries like France, it is set at €269. The exact date for the release in this region remains uncertain, but interested buyers can sign up for email notifications regarding the launch.
Features of the G-Shock DWE5600UD-1
The G-Shock DWE5600UD-1 is a digital timepiece featuring a green LCD display and a durable black carbon and resin case. The Undefeated logo is prominently featured throughout the design, including on the vibrant red and white LED backlight. This model offers customization options with three interchangeable resin straps: semi-transparent black, Storm Camo, and an opaque Tiger Camo variant. Its features include a stopwatch accurate to 1/100th of a second, a countdown timer with a 24-hour range, hourly time signals, and a multifunctional alarm. Additionally, it is water-resistant up to 20 ATM, and the battery life is estimated to last for five years.
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Tags: digital watch, G-Shock DWE5600UD-1, Undefeated collaboration
May 9, 2025
Garmin Smartwatch Adds Passcode Feature in Latest Beta Update
Key Takeaways
1. The Garmin Lily 2 smartwatch received a beta update (version 8.01) in 2025, following version 8.00.
2. New watch faces have been introduced in the beta update, but it’s unclear if they are the same as those for the Lily 2 Active.
3. The update includes a new Device Passcode feature, allowing users to set a 4-digit pin for added security.
4. Additional updates in this release include Sensor Hub version 34.10 and new translations for GCM and Text.
5. The update will be automatically available to users through Garmin Connect Mobile, but the stable version release date is still unknown.
The Garmin Lily 2 smartwatch is getting a new beta update: version 8.01. This marks the second update for this device in 2025, following the earlier beta version 8.00, which reportedly offered stability enhancements and Sensor Hub version 34.09.
New Features in Beta 8.01
As noted in the release notes, beta version 8.01 introduces fresh watch faces for the Garmin Lily 2 smartwatch. It’s not yet known if these designs are the same ones that have recently been made available for the Lily 2 Active smartwatch. In addition to this, the device now includes the Device Passcode feature. This function has been gradually introduced across the Garmin lineup since early 2025. It allows users to set a 4-digit pin to keep their watch secure even when it’s not being worn. Even when locked, users can still access ongoing activities or answer phone calls.
Additional Updates
This release also contains three more updates. These include Sensor Hub version 34.10, GCM Translations version 8.01, and Text Translations version 8.01. As is common practice, this update should automatically reach Garmin Lily 2 smartwatch users (currently priced at $199.99 on Amazon) when they connect to Garmin Connect Mobile. However, it’s still uncertain when the company will roll out a stable version of this update, which will make the new watch faces and passcode feature available to all users.
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Tags: Device Passcode feature, Garmin Lily 2, Smartwatch Update
May 9, 2025
Farer Launches Lissom Featuring Swiss Mechanical Movement
Key Takeaways
– The Farer Lissom watch collection features five models, each named after famous botanists, with vibrant colored dials and unique numeral designs.
– The collection includes models with different dial colors: Arber (raspberry-red), Balfour (white), Forrest (teal-green), Lindley (dark purple), and Solander (black).
– Each watch has a 38 mm 316L stainless steel case, a textured dial, and a slim profile of just 7.95 mm thick, without complications for date or day.
– The Lissom watches are powered by the Swiss-made La Joux-Perret D100 manual-winding movement, offering a 50-hour power reserve and 50 meters of water resistance.
– The starting price for the Lissom collection is $1,295/£1,150/€1,350, with pre-orders available on Farer’s official website.
The British brand Farer has just launched its Lissom watch collection worldwide. Similar to previous Farer timepieces, this new collection showcases vibrant colored dials and unique numeral designs. This time, Farer has introduced five color choices, each named after renowned botanists. To be specific, the first color is Arber, featuring a raspberry-red dial with a purple seconds display and purple minute track. Next is the Balfour, which has a white dial along with a warm gray seconds sub-dial.
Unique Models
The third model, the Forrest, presents a teal-green dial paired with a black minute track that has peach-colored numerals. The fourth model, named Lindley, offers a striking dark purple dial with a blue sub-dial and minute track. Finally, the last model is the Solander, which has a black dial with white hands and numerals, creating a monochrome look.
Design Details
Each watch in the Lissom collection is designed with a 38 mm 316L stainless steel case, measuring just 7.95 mm (0.31 inches) thick. Regarding the dials, every model in the Lissom collection features a subtly grained textured dial, which includes a slightly sunken seconds sub-dial and a recessed outer minute track. However, there are no complications for date or day. Farer also provides dial-matching suede straps for three of the models, while the Balfour and Forrest come with blue and sand-colored suede straps that align with their numeral styles.
Movement and Water Resistance
On the backside of the Lissom, you will find the Swiss-made La Joux-Perret D100 manual-winding caliber, covered by a sapphire crystal with two layers of antireflective coating. This Swiss-made La Joux-Perret D100 movement operates at a frequency of 3 Hz, contains 18 jewels, and has an impressive power reserve of up to 50 hours. Additionally, the watch offers water resistance of 50 meters (5 ATM).
The Farer Lissom collection begins at a price of $1,295/ £1,150/ €1,350 and is currently available for pre-order on Farer’s official website, with shipping expected to commence on June 12th.
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Tags: Farer, Lissom Collection, Swiss-made Movement
May 8, 2025
Affordable Bionic Hand Breakthrough: No Brain Implant Needed
Key Takeaways
1. BrainCo’s bionic limb allows amputees to perform precise movements without invasive surgeries, unlike Neuralink implants.
2. The bionic hand uses myoelectric technology to detect nerve signals and can perform movements with sub-millimeter precision.
3. The latest model features a USB-C port for quick and convenient charging.
4. BrainCo’s research focuses on AI algorithms to optimize electrode use, making their bionic hand more affordable than competitors.
5. In addition to bionic hands, BrainCo also produces bionic legs and a bionic hand kit for STEM education and research.
The BrainCo company, known for its brain-computer interface (BCI) technology, recently showcased its latest version of a bionic limb. This advanced device enables amputees to perform precise movements without needing to undergo surgeries associated with Elon Musk’s Neuralink brain implants.
During a visit to Hangzhou, the leader of Hong Kong observed the second version of BrainCo’s commercial bionic hand. He was impressed to see amputees easily shaking hands, playing the piano, and even practicing calligraphy.
Myoelectric Technology
The bionic hand utilizes myoelectric technology, which detects signals from nerves under the skin and responds accordingly. The latest model of this bionic limb can perform movements with incredible precision, within a sub-millimeter range, and amputees only need about 30 seconds to wear it.
Additionally, the prosthetic hand now comes with a USB-C port, enabling quicker and more convenient charging while on the move.
Research and Development
BrainCo, which was founded at Harvard and is based in Massachusetts, operates a research and production facility in Hangzhou. This site is part of the Six Little Dragons startup cluster, which includes the notable DeepSeek AI.
Researchers at BrainCo have developed AI-driven algorithms to find the best number of electrodes needed to achieve sufficient movement precision for everyday tasks with their bionic hand.
This innovation has made their device significantly more affordable to manufacture compared to other myoelectric devices, such as the i-Limb series from the well-known prosthetic company Össur, which also creates popular recovery items like the Formfit Wrist Brace for conditions like tendonitis and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Expanding Product Range
In addition to their non-invasive BCI solutions, BrainCo produces bionic legs that enable amputees not only to walk again but also to participate in fitness and surfing events. They have also created a bionic hand kit called the NeuroMaker, designed for use in STEM education and research activities.
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Tags: bionic hand, BrainCo, myoelectric prosthetics
May 8, 2025
Garmin Resolves GPS Problem in New Smartwatch Beta Update
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin beta version 21.15 is now available for Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, Epix 2, Epix 2 Pro, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and MARQ Gen 2 smartwatches.
2. The update includes bug fixes for GPS connection issues and potential crashes when adjusting golf pin positions.
3. There is an enhancement to the club sensor menu for golfing users.
4. A new bug was reported by a user related to the Hunt Activity after the update on the Fenix 7X Solar Sapphire.
5. Users can update manually by navigating to Menu > System > Software Update > Check for updates.
The latest update, Garmin beta version 21.15, is now available. This new version is being released to users of the Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, Epix 2, Epix 2 Pro, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and MARQ Gen 2 smartwatches. It follows a series of updates that previously addressed issues related to running dynamics and body battery glance history.
Bug Fixes Introduced
With beta version 21.15, two additional bug fixes have been added for the Fenix 7 and similar smartwatches. The first fix resolves an issue where the GPS connection would fail to work properly when users resumed their activities. The second fix aims to prevent a potential crash that could happen when the golf pin position is adjusted. Additionally, for those who enjoy golfing, there’s an enhancement to the club sensor menu which is reported to be better.
User Reports and Issues
Despite the improvements, one user on the Garmin forum mentioned a new bug that has emerged on their Fenix 7X Solar Sapphire smartwatch (currently priced at $619.99 on Amazon). They noted that after upgrading to beta version 21.15, an unexpected update appeared related to the Hunt Activity when the Outdoor Map+ QR Code was displayed.
How to Update Manually
The beta version 21.15 update for the Fenix 7 and similar devices should already be available to all users via over-the-air (OTA) updates. If you wish to manually check for this update, navigate through Menu > System > Software Update > Check for updates.
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Tags: beta version 21.15, Fenix 7, Garmin
May 8, 2025
Garmin Beta Update Adds Voice Command to Fenix 8 and Tactix 8
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin has released a new beta update for Fenix 8 and Tactix 8 smartwatches to enhance features and fix bugs.
2. The update improves the Voice Command tool, allowing users to issue various commands directly from their watches.
3. Voice Command Files v1.12 includes support for multiple languages, though specific benefits for users are unclear.
4. Some users have reported a decrease in body battery levels after installing the recent beta updates, with no response from Garmin yet.
5. Fenix 8 users can access the Voice Command Files v1.12 and join the Garmin Beta Program via Garmin Connect.
Garmin has rolled out a fresh beta update for the Fenix 8 AMOLED, Fenix 8 Solar, Tactix 8 AMOLED, and Tactix 8 Solar smartwatches. This update comes shortly after the release of beta version 15.26 in late April 2025, which introduced support for Voice Commands for Applied Ballistics and Flying Apps specifically for the Tactix models, in addition to some bug fixes.
Improvement to Voice Command Tool
The new beta update offers users the chance to try out enhancements to the Voice Command feature. With the built-in speaker and microphone, Fenix 8 and Tactix 8 users can utilize the voice assistant directly on their smartwatches. It can handle various commands like “find my phone,” “turn on airplane mode,” and “increase brightness.”
Language Support and User Concerns
The Voice Command Files v1.12 release includes 17 files that are designed to support multiple languages. Nevertheless, Garmin hasn’t clarified how this update will specifically benefit users. It’s important to note that some users have reported a surprising drop in their body battery levels after installing either beta version 15.26 or Voice Command Files v1.12. As of now, Garmin has not addressed these concerns or provided any solutions.
Voice Command Files v1.12 is now accessible for all Fenix 8 users (47mm AMOLED currently priced at $984.95 on Amazon) and related smartwatches. If you’re interested in becoming part of the Garmin Beta Program, you can register through Garmin Connect; additional information regarding the testing program can be found on the company’s support website.
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Tags: Fenix 8, Garmin, Tactix 8
May 8, 2025
Samsung Galaxy Watch8 to Feature Beta Carotene Tracking
Key Takeaways
1. One UI 8 Watch will introduce the ability to measure beta-carotene levels and calculate an antioxidant score.
2. Users will need to place their thumb on the back sensors for these measurements, rather than wearing the watch on the wrist.
3. More details about the Galaxy Watch8 features are expected to emerge before the Galaxy Unpacked event.
4. The tech community is excited and speculating about the new features and innovations.
5. The anticipation for Samsung’s announcements is growing as the launch date approaches.
Meanwhile, Android Authority has obtained a leaked version of One UI 8 Watch, and we’ve included screenshots of it below. These images seem to provide some clues about the new features Samsung plans to bring with the Galaxy Watch8 this summer.
New Features on the Horizon
One interesting feature is that the upcoming smartwatch might be able to measure beta-carotene levels and calculate an antioxidant score ranging from 0 to 100. According to one of the screenshots, the Galaxy Watch8 won’t be able to take these readings just by wearing it on the wrist. Instead, users will have to place their thumb on the back sensors of the smartwatch. While many details are still unclear at this point, we believe more information will surface prior to Samsung’s next Galaxy Unpacked event.
Anticipation Builds
The excitement is building as we await further announcements. The leaked information gives a glimpse into potential innovations, and it’s likely that Samsung will reveal more features as the launch date nears. The tech community is buzzing with speculation, and it’s clear that there’s a lot to look forward to.
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Tags: Galaxy Watch8, One UI 8 Watch, Samsung
May 8, 2025
New Casio MRG-B2000RG-3A: Premium Watch with Titanium Bezel
Key Takeaways
1. The new Casio MR-G model, MRG-B2000RG-3A, features luxurious finishes and cultural design elements, priced at approximately $2,780.
2. The watch’s design is inspired by “kurogane-iro,” a dark greenish hue, with gold accents and a unique brushed titanium bezel.
3. The dial includes intricate details like a kikkō pattern and sharply cut markers, reflecting influences from other B2000-series models.
4. The MRG-B2000RG-3A is designed for comfort with a lightweight fluoro-rubber strap and titanium construction.
5. Its availability is uncertain, but a limited launch in Asia is expected, similar to previous MR-G releases.
Casio is expanding its premium MR-G collection with a new model. The MRG-B2000RG-3A has been showcased by the well-known blog Great G-Shock World, featuring a blend of luxurious finishes and design elements inspired by culture. Although there is no set date for when it will be available, the price is anticipated to be about 400,000 yen in Japan, which is approximately $2,780.
Design Inspiration
The theme for this MR-G watch is drawn from “kurogane-iro,” a dark greenish hue reminiscent of traditional Japanese craftsmanship. The watch combines this color with elegant gold accents and a detailed layered case finish, making the MRG-B2000RG-3A a standout piece without being excessively flashy. The bezel is crafted from recrystallized titanium, a technique that Casio has applied to other luxury MR-G models like the MRG-B2000BS-3A. However, this model takes it a step further with a brushed texture that resembles stone around the edges, showcasing visible hex screws.
Dial Details
When viewed closely, the dial reveals intricate details. A delicate kikkō (turtle shell) pattern encircles the subdials, complemented by sharply cut markers and a multi-layered depth across the watch face. The design of the dial seems to be influenced by other B2000-series models, which usually feature Bluetooth connectivity for smartphones, Tough Solar technology, world time for over 300 cities, and triple subdials for tracking multiple time zones and calendars.
Comfort and Build
Photos also show a lightweight fluoro-rubber strap. Thanks to its titanium construction and multi-piece case design, the MRG-B2000RG-3A is expected to be lightweight, even with its impressive size.
It’s still too soon to determine if this model will only be available in Japan or if it will be launched globally. However, based on past MR-G releases, one can expect a limited introduction in Asia, followed by a broader release through G-Shock stores.
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Tags: Casio, G-SHOCK, MRG-B2000RG-3A
May 7, 2025
Casio G-Shock GM-B2100SD-1C: Release Date and Design Details
Key Takeaways
1. The GM-B2100SD-1C is a new metal G-Shock model inspired by the original DW-5000C, set to launch in Japan in June 2025.
2. The watch features a black dial and silver-tone steel case, combining classic and modern retro design elements.
3. It includes advanced features like Tough Solar charging and Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone syncing.
4. The model maintains the octagonal design of the 2100 series with a polished finish and a positive LCD display.
5. A global release is anticipated soon after its debut in Japan, following Casio’s typical launch patterns.
Casio’s G-Shock collection is set to grow once more, this time introducing a model made entirely of metal. Just two months after its initial reveal, the GM-B2100SD-1C has now shown up in listings from Japanese retailers, affirming prior rumors about its launch in Japan scheduled for June 2025.
Design Inspired by the Classic
The GM-B2100SD-1C features a design that echoes the very first G-Shock, the DW-5000C. It showcases a black dial paired with a silver-tone steel case, blending the classic GM-B2100 look with a modern retro vibe. According to the blog Great G-Shock World, the price of this model is expected to be approximately ¥84,700 (~$590). It might also be one of the first G-Shock models to be available worldwide, following the typical trend seen with full-metal releases.
Impressive Features
In terms of features, this watch does not disappoint. It includes Casio’s Tough Solar charging feature and Bluetooth functionality for syncing with smartphones. The watch retains the sharp octagonal design characteristic of the 2100 series but showcases a polished finish and more detailed elements on the dial. Although it doesn’t drastically diverge from previous GM-B2100 models, the introduction of a positive LCD display and its unique color scheme will likely attract collectors’ attention.
Additional Information
Earlier, we reported on this watch on March 5, as part of a leaked trio that includes the MTG-B4000 and a GM-5600 collaboration model with Rui Hachimura. Currently, there are no updates regarding its global release or an exact launch date, but based on Casio’s historical patterns, a wider release could happen shortly after the model debuts in Japan.
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Tags: Casio G-SHOCK, GM-B2100SD-1C, Tough Solar