Category: Wearables

August 22, 2025

CycleClick Bicycle Power Meter Raises 20x Funding in 24 Hours

Key Takeaways

1. CycleClick raised over $107,000 on Kickstarter within 24 hours, surpassing its $5,000 goal.
2. The device provides detailed performance metrics, including power output, torque, cadence, calorie burn, and leg balance.
3. CycleClick is compatible with various bike types, except for SRAM flat-top chains.
4. Installation takes about 30 seconds, making it easy to set up and transfer between bikes.
5. Early backers can purchase the device at a lower price, but should be aware of crowdfunding risks and potential price increases post-campaign.

At the start of August, we highlighted CycleClick, a gadget designed to monitor cycling performance, which is currently raising funds on Kickstarter. After the campaign kicked off on the evening of August 20, 2025, the funding target of $5,000 was not only met, but significantly surpassed within just 24 hours. As of August 21, 2025, at 7:13 pm (BST), contributions have already exceeded $107,000.

Detailed Performance Metrics

CycleClick offers an in-depth analysis of five distinct data sets, aiming to enhance training insights while aiding in intensity management. The data sets encompass power output, torque, cadence (the rhythm measured in revolutions per minute), calorie burn, and the balance between the left and right legs.

Compatibility with Various Bikes

The maker of CycleClick emphasizes its compatibility with all bicycle types, including mountain, road, gravel, touring, and standard bikes. Provided the bike has a chain that transmits leg power to the wheels, it should work. This assurance stands true no matter the kind of chain involved, except for SRAM flat-top chains, which CycleClick does not support.

Easy Installation Process

Moreover, the installation process is claimed to be quite straightforward, taking only about 30 seconds. This ease not only benefits first-time setups but also allows for the device to be easily moved between different bicycles.

On Kickstarter, the pricing for the device starts at $184; for those interested in additional speed and balance sensors, the cost rises to about $225. While many other bicycle power meters tend to be pricier, they typically utilize entirely different systems. However, the true value for money will likely only become apparent once user reviews are published and the sensor accuracy is properly evaluated.

Keep in Mind the Risks

It is also worth mentioning that, post-Kickstarter, the device will likely be offered at a higher price in standard retail sales. Those who choose to order now should be aware of the risks associated with crowdfunding, which includes the possibility that the project might not succeed or could be executed in a way that differs from the initial promises.

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Tags: Kickstarter
August 21, 2025

Fitbit App for WearOS Updates with New Icons and Tiles

Key Takeaways

1. Google has redesigned the Fitbit app for Wear OS with a new Material Design 3 style.
2. Updated icons for Fitbit features include new designs with white backgrounds and rounded, gradient-colored illustrations.
3. New Tiles such as Body responses, Exercise quick launch, and Daily heart rate have been introduced in the Pixel Watch app.
4. The updated Tiles feature a lighter gray background with larger action buttons and a revised color theme.
5. Some users with Pixel Watch models have already received these updates.

Google has made some changes to the Fitbit app for Wear OS. Users of the brand’s Pixel watches can now see the new Material Design 3 style in various parts of the app. This full redesign is anticipated to be launched with the September Pixel Feature Drop.

Icons Get a Refresh

As reported by Android Police, the shortcuts for Fitbit Exercise (running figure), Fitbit Relax (heart with breathing icon), and Fitbit Today (Fitbit emblem) have been updated to fit the new design. The icons now feature a white background and include rounded, gradient-colored illustrations. These updates can be seen in both the list and grid view with the Fitbit app (Wear OS) version 3.40.

New Tiles and Features

Additionally, new Tiles like Body responses, Exercise quick launch, and Daily heart rate have been spotted in the Pixel Watch app. The latest versions typically showcase a lighter gray bubble in the middle of the background, featuring bigger action buttons and the revised color theme. These updated tiles were found in the Pixel Watch app version 3.5.0. Reports from users on Reddit suggest that these changes have already been rolled out to some customers using the Pixel Watch, Pixel Watch 2, and Pixel Watch 3 (currently $299.99 on Amazon).

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Tags: Fitbit, Pixel Watch, Wear OS
August 21, 2025

Timex Summer 2025: Peanuts Marlin Automatic & Vintage Quartz Reissues

Key Takeaways

1. Timex launched four new watches for its Summer 2025 collection, including a Peanuts-themed Marlin Automatic to celebrate the comic strip’s 75th anniversary.
2. The Peanuts-themed Marlin Automatic features a 40mm stainless steel case, a Snoopy illustration, and is priced at $359.
3. The Q Timex 1975 Enigma reissue has a unique visual illusion of “floating hands,” a gold-tone case, and is available for $239.
4. Two variations of the Q Timex 1972 Time Machine reissue are available, priced at $279 for the gold-tone model and $249 for the silver-tone model.
5. All new watches offer water resistance up to 50 meters and include both quartz and mechanical options to cater to various preferences.

Timex has launched four fresh watches as a part of its Summer 2025 collection. This new lineup includes a Peanuts-themed Marlin Automatic to celebrate the comic strip’s 75th birthday, as well as two reissues from the 1970s: the 1975 “Enigma” and the 1972 “Time Machine” in dual versions.

Peanuts-Themed Marlin Automatic

The Timex x Peanuts Marlin Automatic sports a 40mm polished stainless steel casing and a silver-tone dial featuring a Snoopy illustration encircling an open-heart window that reveals the mechanical movement. This timepiece operates on a self-winding automatic system and comes with a quick-release stainless steel bracelet along with an exhibition case back that displays the anniversary branding. The price tag stands at $359. This design takes inspiration from Timex’s Marlin line but incorporates unique features to mark the Peanuts 75th anniversary.

Q Timex 1975 Enigma Reissue

The Q Timex 1975 Enigma reissue brings back the original’s visual illusion of “floating hands.” A black dot painted beneath the crystal conceals the central hub, giving the hands the appearance of hovering over a black dial. It features a gold-tone cushion-shaped stainless steel case, a day-date display at three o’clock, and operates on a quartz movement. The adjustable stainless steel bracelet includes a fold-over clasp, and this watch is available for $239.

Q Timex 1972 Time Machine Reissues

There are also two variations of the Q Timex 1972 Time Machine reissue on the market now. Both watches have a 39mm size and cushion-shaped stainless steel cases with large hour markers. One version is gold-tone with a brown dial, while the other is silver-tone with a blue dial. Each model includes quick-release bracelets, acrylic crystals, quartz movements, and a date window. The gold-tone watch is priced at $279, and the silver-tone is at $249.

Both watches feature acrylic crystals and offer water resistance rated up to 50 meters, making them suitable for light swimming but not for snorkeling or diving. Overall, this release seems to cater to a wide range of preferences, offering both quartz and mechanical options. These four new timepieces come on the heels of Timex’s recently unveiled Intrepid watch collection – find out more about them here.

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August 21, 2025

Limited Edition Casio Edifice Nismo Watch Launching Soon

Key Takeaways

1. The Casio Edifice x Nismo ECB-S10NIS-7A watch is a limited edition collaboration between Casio and Nissan’s Nismo division, debuting in July 2023 and expected to launch in Europe by September 2025.

2. The watch features a silver dial with red, blue, and yellow highlights, a stainless steel case, and a leather strap that honors NISMO champions from 1984 to 1997.

3. It has a slim design (48 x 43 x 9.6 mm) and a lightweight build (69 g), with a sapphire crystal glass for durability.

4. Key functionalities include a 1/100th second stopwatch, countdown timer, alarms, Bluetooth connectivity for time adjustments, and water resistance up to 10 bar.

5. The anticipated price is around €299, higher than previous models, with availability confirmed in the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany, but no details for the US or UK markets yet.

The Casio Edifice x Nismo ECB-S10NIS-7A timepiece is heading towards Europe. This watch, a result of a partnership between the renowned Japanese watchmaker and Nissan’s motorsport division (Nismo), made its debut at the end of July.

Availability in Europe

Currently, countries such as the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany have listed the Casio Edifice x Nismo ECB-S10NIS-7A on the brand’s online platform. While the exact price of this digital-analog watch hasn’t been confirmed yet, there are speculations that it might be around €299. For comparison, previous models like the ECB-S10D have a suggested retail price of €179. This new model is anticipated to roll out in September 2025, although the specific launch date remains uncertain. Additionally, Casio has labeled this watch as a limited edition.

Design and Specifications

Details from the product listing showcase the features of the Casio ECB-S10NIS-7A. It sports a silver dial embellished with red, blue, and yellow highlights, encased in a stainless steel bezel and casing, all shielded by sapphire crystal glass. The watch is equipped with a leather strap that displays the names of NISMO champions from 1984 to 1997. Casio emphasizes that this watch is both slim and lightweight, with dimensions of 48 x 43 x 9.6 mm (about 1.9 x 1.7 x 0.4 inches) and a weight of 69 g (approximately 2.4 oz).

Features and Functionality

The Casio ECB-S10NIS-7A features two analog hands, a glow-in-the-dark Nismo logo positioned at the top of the dial, and a positive LCD display showing the date. The screen, along with an indicator dial, is utilized for various functions, including a 1/100th second stopwatch, countdown timer, and alarms. Furthermore, this model is equipped with Bluetooth, allowing for automatic time adjustments and settings via the Casio Watches mobile application. It’s also water resistant up to 10 bar, accommodates 38 world time zones, and is expected to operate for about two years on its replaceable battery.

There is no information yet on whether or when the Casio Edifice x Nismo ECB-S10NIS-7A will be available in markets such as the US or the UK.

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Tags: Casio Edifice x Nismo, ECB-S10NIS-7A, limited edition watch
August 21, 2025

AI-Enhanced Fitbit Health Coach Coming Soon in Redesigned App

Key Takeaways

1. Personalized Training Plans: Users can create custom workout plans based on fitness goals and preferences, which will evolve with data from their devices.

2. Enhanced Sleep Insights: New algorithms will provide more accurate sleep tracking and coaching, helping users improve their sleep habits.

3. Integration with Health Connect and HealthKit: The health coach can utilize data from smart scales and glucose monitors for a comprehensive health overview.

4. User-Friendly App Improvements: The revamped Fitbit app features intuitive data visualization, enhanced syncing, and a dark mode option.

5. Availability and Compatibility: The health coach launches in October 2025 for U.S. Fitbit Premium subscribers and is compatible with the latest Fitbit devices and Pixel Watches.

The Fitbit app is introducing a new health coach feature, powered by Google’s Gemini. Google, the owner of the Fitbit brand, claims that this AI assistant can assist users in training, enhance sleep, and provide overall advice for health and wellbeing.

Personalised Training Plans

In a recent blog entry, Google mentioned that Fitbit users will have the ability to converse with the assistant about their fitness objectives and exercise likes, leading to a custom workout plan. This plan will evolve over time using data from the wearable device. Additionally, the new sleep algorithms promise more precise insights into sleep duration and stages. The sleep coach will highlight weekly patterns, helping users refine their sleep habits and even recommend an earlier bedtime if they notice changes in activity levels.

Enhanced Connectivity Features

Furthermore, the health coach will integrate with Health Connect and HealthKit, enabling it to make use of information from smart scales and glucose monitors. In brief, the Fitbit health coach will play a key role in the revamped Fitbit app, which is designed to be user-friendly with “more intuitive data visualization.” Other improvements include better syncing capabilities and a dark mode feature.

Availability and Compatibility

The rollout for the Fitbit health coach is set to begin in October 2025, specifically for Fitbit Premium subscribers in the U.S. It is compatible with “the latest” Fitbit fitness trackers, Fitbit smartwatches, and Pixel Watches, including the upcoming Pixel Watch 4 (available for pre-order at $499.99 on Amazon). It remains uncertain when this feature will reach users in additional countries or if it will eventually be available to non-subscribers.

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Tags: Fitbit, Pixel Watch 4
August 21, 2025

Vivo Launches First Mixed-Reality Headset with 8K Micro-OLED Lenses

Key Takeaways

1. Vivo has launched its first mixed-reality headset called the Vivo Vision Discovery Edition, resembling Apple’s Vision Pro in design.
2. The headset features Micro-OLED lenses with 8K resolution at a 90 Hz refresh rate, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chipset.
3. Vivo Vision offers a projection equivalent to a 120-inch display with a wide 180° field of view, all while being lightweight at 398 grams.
4. The availability of the Vivo Vision in China has not been announced, but it will be showcased in twelve authorized experience stores.
5. Vivo plans to introduce the headset to more stores in China in the future, but specific purchase details are not yet provided.

Vivo has officially revealed its first mixed-reality headset after teasing the launch event last week. True to expectations, the Vivo Vision Discovery Edition, which is simply called the Vivo Vision, closely resembles Apple’s Vision Pro in its design. Nevertheless, the Vivo Vision diverges from its Apple rival in multiple aspects, as well as from the more budget-friendly Meta Quest 3 and Meta Quest 3S, which is currently priced at $299 on Amazon.

Specifications and Features

The Vivo Vision boasts Micro-OLED lenses that deliver an impressive 8K resolution at a refresh rate of 90 Hz. It’s assumed that the 8K resolution is combined rather than per eye. These lenses are powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 chipset, which made its debut late last year. This combination is said to allow the Vivo Vision to create projections equivalent to a 120-inch display, featuring a notably expansive field of view that Vivo describes as ‘180°…up and down, left and right’, all while being lightweight at just 398 grams.

Availability and Future Plans

Currently, Vivo has not announced when the headset will be available in China. Instead, the company has mentioned that it will showcase the Vivo Vision in one of its twelve authorized experience stores within the country. While Vivo aims to introduce the Vivo Vision to additional stores in China down the line, it has not specified when or if the mixed-reality headset will become available for purchase.

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Tags: mixed reality headset, Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2, Vivo Vision
August 21, 2025

Garmin Unveils Major Update for Multiple Smartwatches

Key Takeaways

1. Garmin released a software update for the Instinct series smartwatches, focusing on premium models like Fenix 8, Forerunner 570, and Venu X1.
2. The Instinct 3 Solar and Instinct 3 will receive over a dozen enhancements with System Software 10.30.
3. The Instinct E will receive only eight improvements, mostly bug fixes, with one new feature: Interval Alerts for Timers.
4. Some new features for Instinct 3 Solar and Instinct 3 are exclusive to the Solar variant.
5. System Software 10.30 has been rolled out to about half of the owners of the Instinct E, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct 3.

Garmin has released a new software update for its latest Instinct series smartwatches. It’s important to note that the company has chosen not to include the Instinct E, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct 3, which is currently priced at $449.99 on Amazon. Instead, the focus of Garmin’s August 2025 Feature Update is on more premium models such as the Fenix 8 and newer devices like the Forerunner 570 and Venu X1.

Improvements for Instinct Models

Despite this, the Instinct 3 Solar and Instinct 3 are set to receive more than a dozen enhancements with System Software 10.30. On the other hand, the Instinct E will only see eight improvements, with seven of them being bug fixes. According to Garmin’s changelog, the only new feature added for the Instinct E is the Interval Alerts for Timers, which only applies to the non-Tactical versions.

Ongoing Updates and Features

The Instinct 3 Solar and Instinct 3, meanwhile, are getting additional bug fixes and new functionalities. It should be noted that some of these features are exclusive to Garmin’s Solar variant. As it stands, Garmin has rolled out System Software 10.30 to approximately half of the owners of the Instinct E, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct 3. For further information, you can check out the company’s Beta Program forum and the changelogs listed below.

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Tags: Garmin Instinct 3, Garmin Instinct E
August 21, 2025

Huawei Launches Watch GT 6 Series with Early-Bird Discount Date

Key Takeaways

1. The Huawei Watch GT 6 Series will launch on September 19, 2025, with limited details available.
2. Customers can receive a £50 early-bird discount by signing up for the Huawei newsletter before the launch.
3. The new series is expected to retain the octagonal shape and include a rotating crown and button, similar to the GT 5.
4. Rumored features include running on Harmony OS 5.1, a “Star Flash” function, and the ability to function as a digital car key.
5. The smartwatch will offer advancements in endurance and features for outdoor and indoor workouts, including enhanced GPS accuracy with the Sunflower Positioning System.

Huawei has recently revealed that the Huawei Watch GT 6 Series is set to launch on September 19, 2025. Although specific details are still scarce, customers can take advantage of an early-bird discount by signing up ahead of time.

Early-Bird Discount

Individuals who subscribe to the Huawei newsletter before the launch date will receive a special £50 discount on the new Huawei Watch GT 6 Series. On the day of the launch, a coupon code will be sent to them. It’s important to note that this early-bird promotion varies by location; for instance, in France, buyers will get a 10% discount coupon instead.

Anticipated Features

As mentioned earlier, the exact features of the Huawei Watch GT 6 Series remain a mystery. The teaser image released by the company presents a close view of two models, which are successors to last year’s Huawei Watch GT 5 (Pro). This indicates that the new series will likely retain the octagonal shape seen in the fifth generation. Additionally, a rotating crown and a button can be spotted on the right side of the watch case.

Regardless, it’s expected that Huawei will introduce several new functionalities with the Watch GT 6 Series. A leak from a few weeks back suggested that the smartwatch will run on Harmony OS 5.1 and will be available in two sizes. Among the rumored features are a “Star Flash” function and the capability to serve as a digital car key. As more detailed information becomes available, we will provide updates regarding the new Huawei Watch GT 6 Series.

Additional Details

Update 9:04 a.m.: Huawei has released more information about the Watch GT 6 Series in a recent press statement. The company assures “groundbreaking advancements in endurance and professional features, suitable for both extensive outdoor activities and diverse indoor workouts.” Alongside standard fitness metrics like heart rate, calorie expenditure, and training intensity, the smartwatch will also include the Sunflower Positioning System for enhanced GPS accuracy.

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Tags: Huawei, Smartwatch
August 20, 2025

Google Pixel Watch 4: Satellite Connectivity & Replaceable Battery

Key Takeaways

1. Larger, Enhanced Display: The Pixel Watch 4 features a 10% larger display with 16% smaller bezels, improved brightness of 3,000 nits, and adjustable refresh rates from 1 Hz to 60 Hz.

2. Improved Durability: The watch is protected by Gorilla Glass 5, has a repairable housing, and maintains water resistance up to 5 ATM.

3. Better Performance and Battery Life: Powered by the Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 chipset, it offers a 25% battery life increase, reaching 30 hours for the 41mm and 40 hours for the 45mm version.

4. Fast Charging and Enhanced Features: The upgraded fast charging can reach 50% in 15 minutes, with improved vibration and speaker features, plus compatibility with Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 6.0, and UWB.

5. Pricing and Availability: The Pixel Watch 4 is available for pre-order at $349 for the 41mm model and $399 for the 45mm model, with LTE options for an additional $100, and deliveries starting on October 9.

Google has recently introduced the next version of the Pixel Watch 3. Although it might seem like the design hasn’t changed much at first look, the housing of the watch has been completely reworked, which should bring several notable benefits. To start, the glass is now curved and the OLED panel itself has also been curved. This has allowed Google to make a display that is 10% larger with bezels that are 16% smaller.

Enhanced Display Features

The new brightness level has been boosted by 50%, reaching 3,000 nits, and the refresh rate can be adjusted from 1 Hz up to 60 Hz. The screen is shielded by Gorilla Glass 5, making it resistant to scratches. Additionally, on the side opposite the digital crown, there are now two new pins that facilitate charging the Pixel Watch 4. This allows the watch to be charged while standing upright, keeping the display visible. Another important update is that the new housing is officially repairable, meaning that at least the display and battery can be replaced if needed, and it maintains its water resistance up to 5 ATM.

Performance and Battery Life

The Pixel Watch 4 is powered by the new Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 chipset, which matches the performance of the previous W5 Gen 1 but introduces the ability for satellite emergency calls; however, this feature is only available on the pricier LTE model of the Pixel Watch 4. Google has paired this chip with a new co-processor that is claimed to be 25% stronger while using only half the energy. This contributes, among other things, to a battery life increase of 25%, reaching 30 hours for the 41mm version and 40 hours for the 45mm version.

The upgraded fast charging feature can take the Pixel Watch 4 from 0 to 50% in just 15 minutes. The vibration motor is now 15% stronger, and the speaker has also seen improvements to enhance interactions with Google Gemini. Google promotes a more precise GPS module, and the smartwatch is compatible with Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 6.0, NFC, and ultrawideband (UWB). Beyond the ECG feature, the Pixel Watch 4 also includes a cEDA sensor for tracking stress levels and a sensor for measuring skin temperature.

Availability and Pricing

The Google Pixel Watch 4 is currently available for pre-order through the Google Store, but deliveries won’t start until October 9. The 41-mm model is priced at $349, while the 45-mm version costs $399. An integrated LTE modem can be added for an additional $100. Both models come in silver and black, with the smaller model offering gold and the larger model available in blue.

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Tags: google, Pixel Watch 4, Snapdragon W5+ Gen 2
August 20, 2025

Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 & W5+ Gen 2: New Smartwatch Chips Unveiled

Key Takeaways

1. Qualcomm has launched two new SoCs for smartwatches: Snapdragon W5+ Gen 2 and W5 Gen 2, replacing the W5 Gen 1.
2. Key specifications remain similar, featuring four Arm Cortex-A53 CPU cores and an Adreno 702 GPU, with the W5+ model including a low-power co-processor.
3. Both SoCs introduce satellite connectivity via Skylo’s NB-NTN, allowing text sending at 2 kbps but lacking GPS support.
4. Additional connectivity features include Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi, and a new U55 AI chip for improved GPS accuracy.
5. The Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 will debut with Google’s Pixel Watch 4, offering two years of free satellite services to users.

Qualcomm has introduced two new SoCs designed for smartwatches: the Snapdragon W5+ Gen 2 and the W5 Gen 2. These new chips take over from the Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 that was released in 2023. Sadly, there isn’t much of an upgrade in specs, except for the addition of satellite connectivity, which is a first for smartwatches powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear.

Specifications Overview

To start with, both the Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 and the W5+ Gen 2 are still equipped with four Arm Cortex-A53 CPU cores, an Adreno 702 GPU, and LPDDR4-2133 memory. However, the W5+ model includes a Qualcomm QCC5100 co-processor (which has 1 Cortex M5 core and a 2.5D iGPU) that helps the smartwatch operate in a low-power mode.

Connectivity Features

The Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 and the W5+ Gen 2 support Skylo’s NB-NTN (Narrowband Non-Terrestrial Network) satellite connectivity. This feature allows users to send texts at a speed of 2 kbps, but strangely, it doesn’t support GPS coordinates. Other features consist of Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi, and a newly introduced U55 AI chip that enhances GPS accuracy.

Launch Details

The Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 is set to launch with Google’s Pixel Watch 4. A closer look at the details shows that owners of the Pixel Watch 4 will enjoy free satellite services for two years, after which they might need to subscribe to continue using the feature.

Tags: Pixel Watch 4, Snapdragon W5+ Gen 2