Category: Wearables

March 19, 2025
Casio MRW230H Diver-Style Watches Now Available in the US
Key Takeaways
1. Casio has launched the MRW230H series of affordable diver-inspired analog watches in the US, priced at $35.95.
2. The series includes three models: MRW230H-1E1V (black dial), MRW230H-1E2V (red and blue bezel), and MRW230H-1E3V (green bezel), all featuring easy-to-read dials.
3. Each watch has a water resistance rating of 100 meters, suitable for everyday water activities, but not for diving.
4. The watches have a lightweight design (34 grams) with a 47.9mm resin and aluminum case, quartz movement, and a battery life of three years.
5. The MRW230H series offers a practical and uncomplicated watch option that resembles a dive watch, now available through Casio’s website and various retailers.
Casio has just released the MRW230H series in the United States. Initially announced in February, this fresh range of affordable, diver-inspired analog timepieces includes three distinct models, all equipped with a rotating bezel and a straightforward, easy-to-read dial. Priced at $35.95, these watches offer a budget-friendly option for anyone seeking a stylish and functional design without spending too much money.
Model Features
The MRW230H-1E1V showcases a timeless black dial complemented by white details, while the MRW230H-1E2V boasts a vibrant red and blue bezel that adds a striking contrast. The final model, MRW230H-1E3V, features a green bezel but maintains the same overall design. Although they mimic a diver’s watch style, these timepieces have a water resistance rating of 100 meters, making them suitable for everyday water activities but not for actual diving.
Build and Specifications
Each model comes with a 47.9mm case made of resin and aluminum, accompanied by a resin strap and a resin glass cover. Weighing only 34 grams, they are ideal for extended wear. Inside, the series runs on a quartz movement with a battery life of three years (SR626SW), and they also include a day and date display. The bezel can rotate but is designed for timing rather than being unidirectional, making it more of a general timing tool rather than a precise diving accessory.
At a price below $40, the MRW230H series addresses an important niche in Casio’s offerings—a practical, uncomplicated analog watch that resembles a dive watch yet retains the ease of use for daily wear. These models can now be found for sale in the US through Casio’s official website as well as various retailers.
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Tags: analog dive-inspired design, budget-friendly watches, Casio MRW230H
March 18, 2025
Zepp Health Updates Amazfit Balance to Fix Sleep Issues
Key Takeaways
1. Zepp Health has released version 3.25.12.3 of the Amazfit Balance smartwatch, addressing issues from the previous update (3.25.11.1).
2. The new update fixes missing sleep data reported by users after upgrading to version 3.25.11.1.
3. Users are encouraged to skip version 3.25.11.1 and directly update to version 3.25.12.3 for improved features.
4. The smartwatch now supports the DJI Osmo Action Bluetooth remote control for recording videos with workout data.
5. Users can check for the update through the Zepp Health app, but some are still waiting for the rollout to complete.
Zepp Health has launched a new update for the Amazfit Balance smartwatch, now at version 3.25.12.3. This update comes just a few weeks after the previous version, 3.25.11.1, also known as the Balance OTA 8.1 update, which started being delivered to users. The earlier version aimed to enhance algorithms for sleep detection, waking detection, and step counting, along with improvements to the Morning Update feature.
Fixes for Sleep Data
Some users reported missing sleep data following the installation of version 3.25.11.1. The change log for version 3.25.12.3 indicates that this new release addresses the missing sleep data issue that affected those who upgraded to version 3.25.11.1. Users still on older software are advised to skip version 3.25.11.1 and directly update to this latest version to benefit from all the new features. In addition to improvements in sleep tracking and step counting, the Balance smartwatch, currently priced at $149.99 on Amazon, now also supports the DJI Osmo Action Bluetooth remote control, which can be downloaded from the App Store. This feature enables users to record videos while showing workout data, like speed or route.
User Reports and Availability
Many users around the world have shared on Reddit that they have successfully received this latest update, although numerous others mentioned that they are still waiting for version 3.25.12.3. Zepp Health has not yet provided details on when this staged rollout will be completed. To download the update, Balance smartwatch users should navigate to Profile > My Devices > Amazfit Balance > System Update within the Zepp Health app.
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Tags: Amazfit Balance, Smartwatch Update, Zepp Health
March 18, 2025
Garmin Fenix 6 Beta Update Fixes Map Issues
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin has released beta version 28.02 for Fenix 6 Pro smartwatches, now reaching 50% of eligible users.
2. The update includes a minor bug fix related to the popularity heatmap feature for running and cycling routes.
3. Version 28.01, the previous beta update, fixed a music controls widget issue across several Garmin smartwatch models.
4. Users can download the beta update by connecting to Wi-Fi and navigating through the watch’s system menu.
5. The term “release candidate” indicates that a public version of the software may be available soon for all Garmin Fenix 6 users.
A new public beta update is being rolled out for the Garmin Fenix 6 Pro smartwatches. Beta version 28.02 has already reached 50% of eligible users, as noted in a recent update on the Garmin forum. This update is quite minor and includes just one bug fix.
Bug Fixes Included
The changelog mentions that Garmin has addressed a “possible issue” related to the popularity heatmap, a feature that displays users’ preferred running and cycling routes in their area. The release notes indicate that users faced difficulties with this feature while routing and drawing maps.
Previous Update Details
Version 28.02 comes shortly after the last beta release, version 28.01, which fixed a problem that caused the music controls widget to unexpectedly close. That update was applicable to a wider range of watches, such as the Fenix 6, Marq, Enduro (currently priced at $349.99 on Amazon), Quatix 6, and Tactix Delta smartwatches.
How to Download the Update
To download the beta version 28.02 update on your Garmin Fenix 6 Pro smartwatch, connect via Wi-Fi and navigate to Menu > System > Software Update > Check For Updates. The company refers to this as a “release candidate,” suggesting that a public version of the software could soon be available for everyone using the Garmin Fenix 6 and similar smartwatches.
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Tags: beta update 28.02, Fenix 6 Pro, Garmin
March 18, 2025
Core Time 2: $225 Spiritual Successor to Pebble Time 2
Key Takeaways
1. The Core Time 2 is a premium smartwatch running on PebbleOS, continuing the legacy of the Pebble Time 2 from 2016.
2. It features a 1.5-inch 64-color e-paper screen with a flat glass lens and is compatible with existing PebbleOS apps and watchfaces.
3. The watch supports touch input and includes four metal buttons for control, with a design that allows for interactive watch complications.
4. It offers health tracking features like a heart rate monitor, sleep tracking, and a pedometer, and boasts a battery life of up to 30 days.
5. The Core Time 2 is priced at $225, available in black and white, with limited quantities and expected shipping in December 2025.
The Core Time 2 has been unveiled as the premium smartwatch running on PebbleOS by Core Devices, a company started by Eric Migicovsky. The Core 2 Duo is another model released alongside it. This new device can be seen as a continuation of the Pebble Time 2 from 2016.
Display Features
With a 1.5-inch (200 x 228) 64-color e-paper screen, the Core Time 2 features a flat glass lens to minimize glare, contrasting with the curved glass used in the Pebble Time series. It will be compatible with the multitude of apps and watchfaces created for PebbleOS; however, these will show a border due to the larger screen size of the Core Time 2. Developers are expected to address this issue through updates to their apps and watchfaces.
User Interaction
The display is encased in a metal frame and supports touch input, which is different from the Core 2 Duo model. A press release states that the touch capability will enable watch complications that can be tapped to access related apps, similar to what is offered on the Apple Watch Series 10 (currently priced at $329 on Amazon).
Design and Specifications
There are four metal buttons for controlling the watch, and it comes with 22mm straps, much like the Core 2 Duo. The smartwatch will also be water-resistant upon release, with specifications aiming for an IPX8 rating.
The Core Time 2 is equipped with a heart rate monitor, sleep tracking, and a pedometer. Additionally, it includes a microphone, speaker, and a linear resonance actuator. Interestingly, the spec sheet does not mention a barometer or compass, both of which are features of the Core 2 Duo. The battery life is expected to last up to 30 days and can be charged using a standard Pebble charger.
Pricing and Availability
The Core Time 2 will retail for $225 and will be available in black and white, with a potential third color option. A companion app will be available for both Android and iOS devices. This smartwatch will be exclusively sold through the rePebble store and will be produced in limited quantities, with shipping expected to start in December 2025.
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Link
Tags: Core Time 2, Eric Migicovsky, PebbleOS
March 18, 2025
Core 2 Duo: $149 PebbleOS Smartwatch with 30-Day Battery Life
Key Takeaways
1. Core Devices has launched two new smartwatches, the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2, following the public release of PebbleOS.
2. The new watches do not carry the Pebble brand name, as Google likely owns that trademark.
3. The Core 2 Duo is inspired by the Pebble 2 and features a 1.26-inch monochrome ePaper display, step and sleep tracking, and supports thousands of Pebble apps and watchfaces.
4. Key improvements in the Core 2 Duo include a speaker, upgraded Bluetooth chip, and additional sensors like a barometer and electronic compass.
5. The Core 2 Duo is priced at $149, available for pre-order, and will ship in July, but will not be sold in retail stores.
After almost two months since Google opened up PebbleOS to the public, the first smartwatches powered by this operating system have finally been unveiled. These new devices, called the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2, come from a new company named Core Devices, which was started by Eric Migicovsky, the original creator of Pebble before it was acquired by Fitbit.
Not Pebble-branded Watches
It’s crucial to understand that these watches don’t carry the Pebble name, as that brand is likely still owned by Google. However, many people may still call them Pebble watches, which could contribute to their popularity in the market.
Core 2 Duo Specifications
The Core 2 Duo is the more affordable option between the two (for details on the Core Time 2, you can look elsewhere), and it is inspired by the Pebble 2 that launched in 2016. It features a 1.26-inch (144 x 168) monochrome ePaper display encased in a polycarbonate body, complete with plastic buttons on the side. The watch comes with a 22mm strap, though it doesn’t specify what material that strap is made of.
In addition to step and sleep tracking, which were available on the Pebble 2, the Core 2 Duo supports thousands of apps and watchfaces that were created for the Pebble ecosystem. Improvements over the Pebble 2 include a speaker, a Nordic nRF52840 Bluetooth LE chip, a stronger but quieter linear resonance actuator instead of a traditional vibrating motor, a barometer, and an electronic compass.
Pricing and Availability
You can get the Core 2 Duo in Black and White for $149. Pre-orders are already open, and the watches are set to ship in July. Unfortunately, they will be sold in limited amounts and won’t be available in retail stores, which means pre-ordering is the only way to secure one of these devices.
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Link
Tags: Core 2 Duo, Eric Migicovsky, PebbleOS
March 18, 2025
Garmin Enhances Voice Assistant in Latest Smartwatch Update
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin has released a stable software update version 13.19 for Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches.
2. The update improves the user experience for Android users with better Voice Assistant integration, allowing interaction with Bixby and Google Assistant.
3. A fix for a timer issue that prevented dismissing messages has been included in the update.
4. GCM Translations have been updated from version 2.25 to 2.26, although benefits are not specified.
5. This update follows version 13.17, which added a passcode security feature and improved energy level tracking.
The Garmin Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches are now getting a new stable software update: version 13.19. Last week, two beta versions (13.18 and 13.19) were made available for eligible users.
Improvements for Android Users
According to the release notes for the live software version 13.19, Garmin has made improvements to the user experience for Android users when using a Voice Assistant. This allows users to interact with Bixby or Google Assistant through their smartwatch for tasks such as making calls or sending messages. Moreover, an issue with the timer’s repeat option that prevented messages from being dismissed has been fixed.
GCM Translations Update
Additionally, there is an update for GCM Translations for Venu 3 and 3s users, which goes from version 2.25 to 2.26. Sadly, Garmin does not specify how this change will benefit users. The update is currently available for at least 50% of users with the Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches (prices start at $225.66 on Amazon). To manually install version 13.19, go to Main Menu > Settings > System > Software Update.
Previous Updates
This minor update comes after the release of software version 13.17 in February, which introduced a new passcode security feature, Body Battery TrueUp for better energy level tracking, and support for the HRM 200 chest strap heart rate monitor.
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Link
Tags: Garmin Venu 3, software update 13.19, Venu 3s
March 18, 2025
Casio Bright Metallic Dial Watches Coming Soon to the UK
Key Takeaways
1. The Casio GA-2100BM Bright Metallic Dial Series includes three models: sky blue (GA-2100BM-7A2), rose gold (GA-2100BM-7A5), and silver (GA-2100BM-7A8).
2. Each watch features an octagonal bezel, a translucent band, and shiny metallic details; they also have a small digital display and dual LED backlight.
3. The watches offer functionalities like world time zones, a Hand Shift feature, a 24-hour countdown timer, five daily alarms, and a stopwatch with 1/100th of a second accuracy.
4. The models are priced at £109 in the UK and are marked as “Coming Soon” on the G-Shock UK online store; they will debut in Japan in April for ¥19,800 (about $132).
5. Availability in other regions, including the US or EU, is currently uncertain.
The Casio GA-2100BM Bright Metallic Dial Series watches are headed to the UK soon. This collection features three models: the GA-2100BM-7A2 (in sky blue), the GA-2100BM-7A5 (rose gold), and the GA-2100BM-7A8 (silver). Every model showcases an octagonal bezel, complemented by a translucent band and shiny metallic details.
Features and Functionality
Casio’s GA-2100BM watches are hybrids that come with a small digital display for showing details like the date. They are equipped with a dual LED backlight, which helps in easily reading the watch face when the light is dim. Users have the option to select from various world time zones, available in both 12-hour and 24-hour formats. Moreover, there is a Hand Shift feature that can be activated by a button to prevent the hands from covering the display. Additional functionalities include a countdown timer that spans 24 hours, five daily alarms, and a stopwatch accurate to 1/100th of a second. These watches also boast a water resistance of 200m and an estimated battery life of three years.
Pricing and Availability
The GA-2100BM-7A2, GA-2100BM-7A5, and GA-2100BM-7A8 models are marked as “Coming Soon” on the G-Shock UK online store, with a price tag of £109. This matches the cost of other Skeleton CasiOaks, such as the GA-2100SKE-7A. These timepieces are also anticipated to debut in Japan this April, where they will be priced at ¥19,800 (about $132). It remains uncertain if or when these watches will be available in other regions, including the US or EU.
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Link
Tags: Casio, G-SHOCK, GA-2100BM
March 18, 2025
boAt Storm Infinity Launch in India: 1.82″ Display & 15-Day Battery
Key Takeaways
1. Launch Date: The boAt Storm Infinity smartwatch will be launched in India on March 25, 2025.
2. Battery Life: It features a large 550mAh battery, providing up to 15 days of battery life with ASAP fast charging.
3. Display and Design: The smartwatch has a tall 1.82-inch display and comes in eight different strap colors.
4. Bluetooth Calling: It supports Bluetooth calling and includes various health tracking features.
5. Additional Launches: boAt is also releasing the boAt Nivana Crystl TWS earbuds on March 21, 2025, along with other recent smartwatch launches.
boAt has revealed the launch date for its new smartwatch in India. The boAt Storm Infinity will be officially introduced next week, with a teaser that highlights some important features of this smart device. Here are the details you need to know.
Launch Date of boAt Storm Infinity in India
The teaser for the upcoming smartwatch was posted on Amazon India, marking March 25, 2025, as its launch date. It also gives some key specifications. The Amazon page for boAt Storm Infinity currently has a “Notify Me” button, but it does confirm the smartwatch will have an impressive battery life of up to 15 days, thanks to its large 550mAh battery. This model comes with ASAP fast charging, which claims to provide 15 days of use after just one hour of charging.
Features of boAt Storm Infinity Smartwatch
But that’s not the end of it; the boAt Storm Infinity features a tall 1.82-inch display and offers eight different strap colors. Customers will enjoy Bluetooth calling, a sleek design, and a variety of health tracking features. Unfortunately, that’s all the information available so far. Nonetheless, it’s confirmed that the launch will take place on March 25, accessible through the brand’s official website and Amazon India. Stay tuned for more updates as we cover the launch of Storm Infinity.
Additional Product Launches
In other news, this teaser comes just as boAt is set to launch the boAt Nivana Crystl TWS earbuds in India on March 21. Earlier in February, the company also introduced the boAt Ultima Prime and Ember, which are two budget-friendly smartwatches that come with AMOLED displays, along with the boAt Nirvana x Dhruv Kapoor ‘Flaming Hearts’ Audio line.
Tags: Amazon India, boAt Storm Infinity, Smartwatch Launch
March 18, 2025
Redmi Unveils Kids’ Smartwatch with 1.68-Inch Display & Safety Features
Key Takeaways
1. Product Launch: Xiaomi’s Redmi is releasing its first smartwatch for kids, the Redmi Kids Smartwatch, priced at 499 yuan ($69) and available for reservation on JD.com, with an official release on March 24.
2. Display and Camera: The smartwatch features a 1.68-inch display with a resolution of 360 x 390 and a 5MP front camera for high-quality images and video calls.
3. Connectivity and Safety: It supports full-network 4G connectivity and has a nine-layer location tracking system, allowing parents to monitor their child’s location and set safety zones with alerts.
4. Battery Life and Durability: The smartwatch has a 950mAh battery lasting up to three days and is water-resistant up to 20 meters, suitable for everyday activities but not for swimming.
5. Educational and Reliability Features: With over 170 reliability tests, it includes 4GB of storage for educational apps, customizable watch faces, and privacy protection through AES256 encryption.
Xiaomi’s Redmi is making its debut in the realm of children’s wearables with its inaugural smartwatch designed specifically for kids — and it’s packed with features. The Redmi Kids Smartwatch is available for reservation on JD.com and will be officially released on March 24, with a price tag of 499 yuan ($69).
Specifications of the Redmi Kids Smartwatch
The Redmi Kids Smartwatch boasts a sizable 1.68-inch display that offers a crisp resolution of 360 x 390, resulting in a pixel density of 315 PPI. This ensures that texts, notifications, and educational material are bright and clear, delivering a comfortable viewing experience for youngsters. It is fitted with a 5MP front camera, allowing for both high-quality images and smooth video calls, enabling parents to stay connected with their kids and get a real-time glimpse of their surroundings.
Connectivity and Safety Features
To maintain seamless communication, the smartwatch supports full-network 4G connectivity across major carriers in China. It incorporates a nine-layer location tracking system that merges GPS, Beidou, Wi-Fi, A-GPS, and AI positioning, keeping children safe while offering parents peace of mind. The device can retain 90 days’ worth of location history and features safety zone settings that send instant alerts.
Battery Life and Durability
The smartwatch comes with a powerful 950mAh lithium battery, providing up to three days of usage on a single charge, ensuring long-lasting functionality. It also features a water-resistant design rated at 20 meters, employing professional-grade waterproof components and unique sealing techniques. This allows children to wear it while washing their hands or playing outside in the rain, although it’s not advisable for showering or swimming.
The device supports children’s WeChat for safe and simple social interactions and includes payment management features that allow parents to limit or disable usage. It also has classroom modes and anti-addiction settings to keep children focused on their studies.
Reliability and Educational Features
Boasting over 170 reliability tests, the smartwatch guarantees durability and safety for long-term use. It has a spacious 4GB storage capacity and supports various educational applications covering topics like stories, music, math, English, and logical thinking. Additionally, it offers customizable watch faces, a K12 exercise system with multiple sports modes, and a strong privacy protection system secured with AES256 encryption to safeguard user data.
Interestingly, the smartwatch industry is experiencing a tough year, with global shipments decreasing by 7% in 2024 as Apple faced challenges and China emerged as a leader. However, the demand for kids’ smartwatches is rising, driving growth in a generally slow market.
Tags: kids’ wearables, Redmi Kids Smartwatch, Xiaomi
March 18, 2025
New Pebble Watch Release Date: Closer Than You Think
Key Takeaways
1. Eric Migicovsky is leading the development of a new smartwatch inspired by the classic Pebble Watch, following Google’s decision to open source PebbleOS.
2. A countdown timer on the RePebble website indicates an announcement for the new smartwatch is expected soon, specifically tomorrow at 4 PM CET.
3. The new smartwatch will keep the original Pebble’s specifications and features, including physical buttons for navigation, and will be compatible with existing Pebble apps.
4. The device will work with both Android and iOS and has a battery life of up to a week, with color options in black or white.
5. Pricing details are not confirmed, but it is expected to be competitive in the smartwatch market, potentially around $135, given the original Pebble’s historical price.
Back in January, news broke that a fresh smartwatch inspired by the classic Pebble Watch was being worked on. This project is led by Eric Migicovsky, the man behind Pebble, after Google decided to open source PebbleOS. Now, almost two months later, it looks like the new smartwatch is getting closer to being unveiled.
Countdown to Announcement
The RePebble website, set up by Migicovsky, features a countdown timer that hints at the upcoming announcement of the PebbleOS-driven smartwatch. According to the timer, the reveal is expected to take place tomorrow at 4 PM CET, 3 PM GMT, or 10 AM PT.
Specs and Features
Eric Migicovsky has shared insights about the smartwatch, stating it will maintain the same specifications and features as the original Pebble while also introducing some new elements. Notably, it will not support touch input, relying instead on physical buttons for navigation. The new device will be compatible with current Pebble apps and watch faces, work with both Android and iOS, and boast a battery life of up to a week. Customers will have the option to choose between black or white colors.
Pricing Expectations
Details about the price remain unclear, but with the smartwatch market becoming increasingly competitive since the last Pebble was launched, it’s likely that the price will reflect its features. The original Pebble was priced at $99 at its debut in 2013, which is roughly $135 today when adjusted for inflation. Competing smartwatches like the Amazfit Active 2 (selling on Amazon for $99.99) mean the new PebbleOS watch will have to stand out when it arrives on the market.
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Link
Tags: Eric Migicovsky, PebbleOS, RePebble