Category: Wearables

  • Garmin Smartwatch Update Adds Rucking and Auto-Rest Features

    Garmin Smartwatch Update Adds Rucking and Auto-Rest Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Garmin vivoactive 6 smartwatch has received a stable update to software version 12.70, three months after version 10.14.
    2. New features include the Evening Report, a new Rucking activity, and an automatic rest timer for Strength activities.
    3. Users can now access new Calculator and Tips apps, with Tips designed to enhance smartwatch usage.
    4. The update allows for personalized focus modes and includes smaller updates for GCM Translations and Tips Videos.
    5. The update is rolling out to 50% of users and can be manually downloaded through the smartwatch settings.


    The Garmin vivoactive 6 smartwatch is getting a fresh stable update: software version 12.70. This update comes about three months after the last one, version 10.14, which introduced new activities such as Gaming and Table Tennis, along with the Breathing Variations tool.

    New Features Added

    With the release of version 12.70, the vivoactive 6 smartwatch is now equipped with additional features. The update includes the Evening Report, which is similar to the well-received Morning Report, providing a nightly summary of your day. There’s also a new activity called Rucking, and the Strength activity now includes an automatic rest timer—this feature was previously available only for swimming activities.

    Useful Apps and Customization

    Moreover, users can now access new Calculator and Tips apps, with the Tips app designed to help users maximize the features of their smartwatch. Another exciting addition is the ability to create personalized focus modes. Alongside these major updates, there are smaller updates for GCM Translations (2.80) and Tips Videos (1.00).

    As per a post on the Garmin forum, software version 12.70 has already been rolled out to 50% of vivoactive 6 smartwatch users (currently priced at $299.99 on Amazon). While the update is being automatically pushed to eligible devices, you can also manually download it by going to the menu and selecting Settings > System > Software Update.

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  • Limited Edition Casio G-Shock Watch with Hand-Hammered Bezel

    Limited Edition Casio G-Shock Watch with Hand-Hammered Bezel

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock MRG-B5000HT-1 is a high-end digital watch priced at €7,300 and limited to 500 pieces.
    2. It features Bluetooth connectivity and tools like a phone finder, radio control, five daily alarms, and Tough Solar charging.
    3. The watch has a unique design with a hand-hammered titanium bracelet and bezel, making each piece one-of-a-kind.
    4. It is currently available in select European countries, with a tentative launch date in September 2025.
    5. Exact availability details in the EU and the US market remain unclear.


    The Casio G-Shock MRG-B5000HT-1 is a special digital watch that will soon be available in more European nations. This high-end watch was first introduced in July and can already be found in places like the UK and Japan.

    Pricing and Availability

    Currently, the Casio G-Shock MRG-B5000HT-1 is featured on the brand’s website in countries such as the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany. The retail price is set at €7,300, making it the priciest model on these online platforms. It’s important to mention that only 500 pieces have been produced, but it’s still unclear how many will be sold in EU regions. The precise launch date is not confirmed yet, although the Casio website suggests that this MRG-B5000 Series watch will be available sometime in September 2025.

    Features and Specifications

    This G-Shock MRG-B5000HT-1 is a Bluetooth-enabled watch, offering numerous functions and tools, like a phone finder accessible via the Casio Watches app. It also features radio control (Multiband 6) and includes five daily alarms, a countdown timer, and a stopwatch that measures up to 1/100th of a second. Users can easily switch between five world time zones at the touch of a button, and it includes Tough Solar charging for extended use.

    Unique Design

    The MRG-B5000HT-1 stands out as a luxury watch, featuring a hand-hammered titanium bracelet and bezel, crafted by Kazuya Watanabe, a master of tsuiki. This means that each watch is one-of-a-kind. The dimensions of these watches are 49.4 x 43.2 x 12.9 mm (about 1.9 x 1.7 x 0.5 inches), and they weigh approximately 112 g (or 4.0 oz). It is still uncertain when the Casio G-Shock MRG-B5000HT-1 will hit the market in the US.

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  • Garmin Unveils Major Update for High-End Smartwatches with New Features

    Garmin Unveils Major Update for High-End Smartwatches with New Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin launched a major update (System Software 17.28) for the Fenix E, Fenix 8, Enduro 3, Quatix 8, and Tactix 8 models.
    2. The update includes 42 new features, such as Evening Report, Custom Focus Modes, Garmin Triathlon Coach, and Smart Wake Alarm.
    3. A total of 114 improvements were made compared to the previous version (System Software 15.33).
    4. The update features 65 bug fixes and six minor adjustments, including changes to the Find My Device service.
    5. Currently, only about 20% of compatible smartwatches have received notifications to download System Software 17.28.


    Garmin has just launched a major update for the Fenix E and Fenix 8 models, along with other smartwatches like the Enduro 3, Quatix 8, and Tactix 8, which is currently priced at $1,399.99 on Amazon. To give some background, the company unveiled its August 2025 Feature Update for various models just yesterday. A few days earlier, they rolled out Beta Version 17.25 for the Fenix 8 and its counterparts, marking it as the eleventh version in the v17.xx beta series.

    New Features and Improvements

    This update consolidates all the modifications from the beta testing phase into a stable version. Known as System Software 17.28, it seemingly includes the same enhancements for the Enduro 3, Quatix 8, and Tactix 8 as those seen in the Fenix E and Fenix 8. According to our tally, this latest update brings 114 improvements compared to System Software 15.33.

    Details of the Update

    In particular, System Software 17.28 introduces 42 fresh features, which include the Evening Report, Custom Focus Modes, the Garmin Triathlon Coach, and a Smart Wake Alarm. Additionally, it implements around six minor adjustments, such as modifying the Find My Device service to produce sounds at the highest volume. Garmin classifies most of the upgrades as bug fixes, with System Software 17.28 containing 65 of these. At present, Garmin indicates that only about 20% of compatible smartwatches have received alerts to download System Software 17.28. For context, the update features the following changelog applicable to all eligible smartwatches:

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Update: Evening Report and New Features Released

    Garmin Smartwatch Update: Evening Report and New Features Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Features: Introduces tools from Forerunner 570 and 970 models, including Evening Report and Running Economy glance.
    2. Triathlete Enhancements: Supports adaptive training plans, multisport workouts, and automatic lap recording for GPS timing gates.
    3. Step Speed Monitoring: Users can track step speed loss data with an HRM accessory.
    4. Update Rollout: Software version 12.70 is currently available to 20% of users and will install automatically via Garmin Connect Mobile or Garmin Express.
    5. Manual Update Option: Users can manually download the update through the smartwatch settings menu.


    Garmin has rolled out software update 12.70 for the Venu X1 smartwatch. This significant upgrade comes to the smartwatch that debuted in June 2025. It brings a range of new features and fixes various issues.

    New Features Added

    As detailed in the changelog for the Garmin Venu X1 software version 12.70, the smartwatch now includes tools that were previously seen in the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 models. Notable additions are the Evening Report, which offers a summary of your day to review before sleep, and a weekly estimate of Running Tolerance. The Running Economy glance provides insights into the energy expenditure of aerobic running, and users can also monitor step speed loss data with an HRM accessory.

    Enhancements for Triathletes

    For those who participate in triathlons, the Venu X1 has incorporated support for adaptive training plans and various multisport workouts. Additionally, Track Run has been included in the Daily Suggested Workouts, and users can now have laps automatically recorded for timing gates at GPS locations. Furthermore, there is the functionality to create custom focus modes and a number of unspecified bug fixes have been implemented.

    Update Availability

    As of now, the software version 12.70 has been delivered to 20% of Garmin Venu X1 smartwatch users (currently priced at $799.99 on Amazon). The update will automatically install on your device when it’s connected to Garmin Connect Mobile or Garmin Express. Alternatively, you can manually download it by navigating to Menu > Settings > System > Software Update.

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  • Farer Integra Sports Watch: Stainless Steel Case & Bracelet

    Farer Integra Sports Watch: Stainless Steel Case & Bracelet

    Key Takeaways

    1. Farer’s new sports watch collection, Integra, features four dial options: Viridis, Perlarum, Tenebris, and Cuprum.
    2. The watch has an integrated bracelet design that narrows from 24 mm to 16 mm at the clasp, which includes a unique microadjustment feature.
    3. It has a 38.5 mm stainless steel case with satin-brushed and high-polished finishes, a date window, and uses X2 Super-LumiNova for visibility in low light.
    4. Powered by a Swiss-made Sellita SW300-1 movement, the Integra offers a 56-hour power reserve and is water-resistant up to 100 meters.
    5. Pricing for the models ranges from $1,650 to $1,765, and each watch includes a rubber strap in addition to the steel bracelet.


    Farer has unveiled its new sports watch collection called the Integra. This lineup includes four different dial options: Viridis (inspired by malachite), Perlarum (made of mother of pearl), Tenebris (a deep blue), and Cuprum (a salmon hue). A unique feature of the Integra is its integrated bracelet style, which narrows from 24 mm at the lugs down to 16 mm at the butterfly clasp.

    Unique Clasp Design

    What makes this clasp particularly interesting is its microadjustment capability, which is quite rare for a butterfly clasp. This allows users to adjust by 3 mm on either side. The Integra features a 38.5 mm case crafted from stainless steel, combining satin-brushed and high-polished finishes. On the dial, there’s a date window at the 3 o’clock mark, along with hour markers, numerals, and hands for the hours, minutes, and seconds. Additionally, Farer has used top-grade X2 Super-LumiNova on the hands and hour markers, ensuring readability even in low light.

    Movement and Durability

    The watch is driven by a Swiss-made Sellita SW300-1 movement, which has a power reserve of 56 hours. It also features a curved sapphire crystal with a multi-layer anti-reflective coating on the underside, plus a sapphire exhibition case back. The watch holds a water resistance of up to 100 meters (10 bar), making it suitable for a variety of conditions.

    In terms of pricing, the Integra Tenebris and Cuprum models are set at $1,650, while the Viridis and Perlarum versions are priced at $1,765. You can pre-order the Integra sports watch directly from Farer’s official website. Each watch also comes with a rubber strap alongside the steel bracelet, adding versatility to its design.

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  • Apple Watch Series 12 Code Leak: Discover Two Major Upgrades

    Apple Watch Series 12 Code Leak: Discover Two Major Upgrades

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Apple Watch Series 11 is expected to be revealed in September, with minimal new features and a design similar to Series 10.
    2. A potential new feature for high blood pressure warnings may be introduced in Series 11, but significant updates are likely reserved for Series 12 next year.
    3. Possible design changes may include a redesigned exterior and additional sensors for improved measurements and battery life.
    4. There are indications of Touch ID being integrated into the smartwatch, possibly in the side button or beneath the display, enhancing security for Apple Pay.
    5. The upcoming Series 12 will feature a new processor (T8320), while Series 9, 10, and 11 share the same processor (T8310).


    The Apple Watch Series 11 is expected to be revealed in September, with only a few new features anticipated. Reports indicate that Apple plans to keep the design and processor from the Series 10, but there may be an introduction of a warning feature for high blood pressure. A more significant update is likely not until the Apple Watch Series 12 next year.

    Potential Design Changes

    According to a recent report, the upcoming smartwatch might showcase a redesigned exterior and added sensors, aiming to provide more accurate and efficient measurements. This could lead to a slight improvement in battery life. Macworld has uncovered hints in Apple’s internal coding that refer to an Apple Watch featuring “AppleMesa,” which suggests the possibility of Touch ID being included.

    Touch ID Integration

    At least, this implies that Apple is actively working on a prototype smartwatch with a built-in fingerprint sensor. However, it’s still uncertain if this feature will be ready for release next year. Touch ID might be incorporated into the side button or could be hidden beneath the display. This fingerprint technology could enhance the security for Apple Pay transactions and replace the four-digit PIN that users must enter every time they take off their Apple Watch.

    New Processor Insights

    The internal code also indicates a new processor. While the Apple Watch Series 9, 10, and 11 are categorized under the codename “Watch7” and use the same processor, the upcoming Series 12 is referred to as “Watch8.” The processor for the new model is designated as “T8320,” which is different from the “T8310” used in the previous three generations.

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  • Coros Nomad Smartwatch: ECG Feature & 22-Day Battery Life Available

    Coros Nomad Smartwatch: ECG Feature & 22-Day Battery Life Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Versatile Outdoor Companion: The Coros Nomad is designed for outdoor activities, fitness, and health tracking, with features that integrate with its smartphone app.

    2. Enhanced Experience Sharing: Users can share their adventures with photos, videos, voice notes, and fitness stats, in addition to tracking routes with colorful maps.

    3. Comprehensive Health Tracking: The watch includes ECG, 3D compass, altimeter, skin temperature sensor, and monitors sleep, stress, training loads, and recovery.

    4. Storage and Battery Life: It offers 32 GB of internal storage for music, 5 ATM water-resistant casing, and a battery life of 22 days under normal use or up to 34 hours with dual-band GPS.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The Coros Nomad is priced at $349 and available in three colors, with a USB-C adapter included for convenient charging.


    The new Coros Nomad is designed as a versatile companion for outdoor activities, fitness, and health. It comes with some unique features that work alongside its smartphone app. Users can not only track their adventures with numbers and routes on a map, but also capture photos and videos through the app, which are then shown on the map with voice notes and fitness stats.

    Enhanced Experience Sharing

    This feature enables users to share their whole adventure, instead of just a numerical route. With the fastest processor ever seen in a Coros watch, the Nomad can display colorful maps that allow for smooth navigation and zooming. The “Back to Start” option shows the path taken and helps users navigate back to where they began. In addition, the watch includes an app for weather updates, moon phases, and even a fishing app that indicates the best times to fish and lets you document where you’ve caught fish.

    Comprehensive Health Tracking

    Beyond the heart rate and SpO2 sensors, the Coros Nomad is equipped with an electrocardiogram (ECG), a 3D compass, an altimeter, and a skin temperature sensor. It can control certain GoPro and Insta360 cameras remotely, monitor sleep and stress levels, and show training loads and recovery times post-exercise.

    The smartwatch offers 32 GB of internal storage, allowing users to save music directly on the device. It has a 5 ATM water-resistant polymer casing with an aluminum bezel and boasts a battery life of 22 days under normal use, or up to 34 hours with dual-band GPS. The round display measures 1.3 inches and uses a MiP panel with a resolution of 260 x 260.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Coros Nomad Smartwatch is currently priced at $349 and can be purchased directly from the manufacturer’s website. It comes in three colors: green, brown, or dark gray. Coros also provides a handy USB-C adapter for charging on the move, making it easy to keep the smartwatch powered up wherever you go.

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  • Garmin Unveils Smartwatch Beta Update with inReach Bug Fix

    Garmin Unveils Smartwatch Beta Update with inReach Bug Fix

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Garmin Instinct 3 beta version 10.30 update is now available for download over the air for Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct E smartwatches.
    2. This update includes a single bug fix addressing connection issues with inReach Messenger Plus devices.
    3. The update builds on improvements from the previous beta version 10.26, which resolved connection display issues with inReach devices.
    4. Beta testers can access the update through the Garmin Connect app when connected to their smartphone via Bluetooth.
    5. There is no timeline yet for the stable release of the 10.xx software version for all Instinct 3 series users.


    The Garmin Instinct 3 beta version 10.30 update is now out for users. Owners of the Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct E smartwatches will be able to download this update over the air (OTA). This release comes just about a week after the previous beta version 10.26, which mainly dealt with bug fixes related to the Messenger app and inReach devices.

    Update Details

    The change log for the beta version 10.30 indicates there is only one bug fix included. This fix aims to address a connection issue that some users faced with their inReach Messenger Plus devices. It appears to build upon the improvements made in the 10.26 update, which corrected a problem where inReach devices were not displaying as connected in the right widget. However, no additional details have been shared as of this moment.

    Availability

    According to a post on a Garmin forum, this update is accessible for all beta testers who have the Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct E smartwatches (currently priced at $289 on Amazon). Users should see the update appear on their watch through the Garmin Connect app when they are connected to their smartphone via Bluetooth. It’s still unclear when a stable version of software 10.xx will be rolled out to all users of the Instinct 3 series devices.

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  • Garmin’s August 2025 Update: Over 12 New Features for Smartwatches

    Garmin’s August 2025 Update: Over 12 New Features for Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has announced major software updates for its supported smartwatches and cycling computers, with the last update in May.
    2. New devices released include the Forerunner 570, Forerunner 970, and Venu X1, all included in the August 2025 Feature Update.
    3. The August update focuses on six major improvements, with a total of eighteen new enhancements and features available.
    4. The Venu X1 and related smartwatches will receive new features like Running Tolerance, Triathlon Coach, and Daily Suggested Track Workouts.
    5. The Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 have fewer modifications, and updates for older cycling models like Edge 840 and Edge 1040 are still uncertain.


    Garmin has quietly revealed its upcoming major software updates for the smartwatches it currently supports, along with its newest cycling computer. To summarize, the last time the company announced a similar update package was in May, when it introduced the Rucking activity and various enhancements for sleep.

    New Devices Released

    Since that time, Garmin has launched the Forerunner 570, Forerunner 970, and Venu X1 (currently priced at $799.99 on Amazon), all of which are included in this month’s Feature Update. The Feature Update for August 2025 applies to the following devices:

    As illustrated in the screenshots below, Garmin is concentrating on six major improvements for its August 2025 Feature Update. However, the company’s comparison table showcases eighteen new enhancements and features. According to this, additions such as Running Tolerance, Triathlon Coach, Daily Suggested Track Workouts, Running Economy, Step Speed Loss, and Evening Report are all new for the Venu X1, along with the Fenix E, Fenix 8, and related smartwatches like the Quatix 8.

    Updates for Forerunner Series

    In contrast, the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 have experienced fewer modifications this time. The Edge 1050 is also set to receive a collection of improvements tailored specifically for cycling computers. However, it is yet to be determined if older models like the Edge 840 and Edge 1040 will benefit from any of these updates. At the moment, Garmin estimates that these new features and adjustments will be available “over the coming weeks.” Regrettably, Garmin has not provided any specific details regarding this, though. For more information, please refer to the screenshots above and below.

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  • Amazfit Smartwatches May Introduce New Rucking Workout Mode

    Amazfit Smartwatches May Introduce New Rucking Workout Mode

    Key Takeaways

    1. Rucking is a low-impact exercise involving walking with a weighted backpack, gaining popularity among fitness enthusiasts.
    2. Amazfit users have been requesting a Rucking mode for their smartwatches for some time.
    3. The Rucking feature was found in the code of the Zepp App, but it is not currently available to users.
    4. Zepp Health offers over 170 workout modes on its devices, including the Balance 2 smartwatch.
    5. The release date and compatible Amazfit smartwatches for the Rucking mode remain uncertain.


    A new activity called Rucking seems to be coming for some Amazfit smartwatch users. Rucking is a low-impact exercise that has become more popular lately, involving walking while carrying a weighted backpack or rucksack. This feature is already available on rival smartwatches, such as the Garmin Fenix 8.

    Demand for Rucking Mode

    Amazfit customers have been asking for a Rucking mode for quite a while. Zepp Health, the company behind the Amazfit brand, already has over 170 workout modes available on devices like the Balance 2, which currently costs $299.99 on Amazon. Recently, Gadgets & Wearables found the new Rucking activity in the code of the Zepp App (version 9.10.3). In the code, Rucking is mentioned alongside other activities like Running, Hiking, and Mountain Hiking. However, this mode is not yet visible to users within the app.

    Future Release Uncertain

    An Amazfit representative mentioned on Reddit that the company might be developing a Rucking workout mode. But there is no information yet on when this new Amazfit Rucking feature could become available. It’s also unknown which smartwatches from the brand will support this mode.

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