Category: Wearables

August 20, 2025

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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Tags: Forerunner 570, Garmin, Venu X1
August 19, 2025

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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Tags: Amazfit, Rucking, Zepp app
August 19, 2025

Casio G-Shock GA2100AB25-5A Watch with Bull Bars Launching Soon

Key Takeaways

1. Launch Details: The G-Shock x Baklava GA2100AB25-5A watch will be available for purchase starting August 21st at 10 AM EST on specializinginlife.com.

2. Pricing: The retail price for the GA2100AB25-5A is set at $200.

3. Design: The watch features a black face with a white pattern and a semi-translucent brown resin bezel, complemented by a black cloth strap.

4. Specifications: It measures 48.5 x 45.4 x 13.2 mm, uses Carbon Core Guard construction, and is water-resistant up to 200 meters.

5. Features: The watch includes world time, a 24-hour countdown timer, multiple alarms, a stopwatch, and a small red LCD display with backlight.

Casio is getting ready to launch its latest G-Shock x Baklava GA2100AB25-5A watch. Earlier in the year, the GA2100 “Desert King” was revealed, designed in partnership with Action Bronson, who is not just a rapper but also the person behind Baklava.

Pricing and Availability

The Casio G-Shock GA2100AB25-5A is available on the Casio online store in the US for a retail price of $200. Recently, Baklava shared on Instagram that this timepiece will be on sale starting August 21st at 10 AM EST at specializinginlife.com. It’s still not known if this watch will also be released on the Casio website at the same time.

Design and Specifications

The G-Shock GA2100AB25-5A showcases a black watch face adorned with a white pattern, encased in a semi-translucent brown resin bezel. It features black bull bars and comes with a matching black cloth strap. The dimensions of the watch are 48.5 x 45.4 x 13.2 mm (approximately 1.9 x 1.8 x 0.5 inches). This innovative timepiece uses a Carbon Core Guard construction, boasts a water resistance of 200 meters, and is expected to last around three years with the included battery.

Features

The GA2100AB25-5A is packed with features, including world time support, a countdown timer that can be set for 24 hours, multiple alarms, and a stopwatch with 1/100th second precision. It has two analog hands, a dial that indicates the day of the week, and a small red LCD display that includes a backlight. As of now, Casio hasn’t announced any plans to make the G-Shock x Baklava Desert King GA2100AB25-5A available outside of the US.

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Tags: Baklava, G-SHOCK
August 19, 2025

Garmin Pay Rebrand Hints at Exciting New Features

Key Takeaways

1. Garmin Pay will soon be renamed Garmin Wallet, but core functions will remain the same.
2. Users will still be able to manage cards and reset passcodes under the new Wallet section.
3. The name change may hint at future improvements, possibly including access to tickets or loyalty cards.
4. Garmin has not officially confirmed the name change or upcoming features.
5. Garmin Pay is currently available on several smartwatches, including the Fenix 8, Instinct 3, and vivoactive 5.

It seems like Garmin’s contactless payment system is getting a new name. This feature lets users of the company’s smartwatches make payments while they’re out and about, without needing their phone or wallet.

New Name for the Feature

A recent article by Garmin Rumors mentioned that Garmin Pay will soon be called Garmin Wallet. However, the core functions are not likely to change anytime soon. Users will still be able to setup and manage their cards, as well as reset their passcodes, all under the new Wallet section. Unfortunately, the official Garmin blog did not specify where this information about the name change came from.

Possible Upgrades Ahead

Garmin Rumors also suggests that changing the name to Garmin Wallet might hint at an improvement for this feature. It’s possible that Garmin is planning to let users access other items from their smartwatches, such as tickets or loyalty cards. So far, Garmin has not officially confirmed the change from Garmin Pay to Garmin Wallet, nor have they talked about adding new features in the future. Just a reminder, Garmin Pay is available on several of the brand’s smartwatches, like the Fenix 8, Instinct 3, and vivoactive 5 (currently priced at $217.08 on Amazon).

Final Thoughts

Overall, the potential rebranding could be a sign of exciting things to come for Garmin smartwatch users. As more information is revealed, it will be interesting to see how Garmin Wallet evolves and what new capabilities it might offer. For now, users can continue to enjoy the convenience of contactless payments with their devices.

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Tags: Fenix 8
August 19, 2025

Amazfit Balance 2 XT: Affordable Smartwatch Now Available

Key Takeaways

1. The Amazfit Balance 2 XT smartwatch is now available for purchase in the US, priced at $199.99.
2. Customers initially had doubts about timely delivery from Best Buy, but many have successfully received their orders.
3. Key features of the Balance 2 XT include a 1.5-inch AMOLED display, 21-day battery life, and over 170 sports modes.
4. The XT model has slightly lower water resistance (5 ATM) and lacks the Golf app compared to the original Balance 2.
5. Best Buy is currently the only retailer selling the Balance 2 XT, with no confirmed launch date for other regions or sales channels.

The Amazfit Balance 2 XT smartwatch has finally made its way to customers in the US. After being rumored since June 2025, it showed up on the Best Buy website later that same month. By mid-August 2025, shoppers could actually buy the product from this popular US retailer.

Customer Reactions

Many fans had doubts about whether Best Buy would deliver the Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch on time. However, several users have now shared on Reddit that they have successfully received their orders. Just to remind you, the Balance 2 XT is priced at $199.99, which makes it a more affordable option compared to the original Balance 2 smartwatch, currently priced at $299.99 on Amazon.

Key Features

The Balance 2 XT smartwatch comes equipped with a 1.5-inch AMOLED display, boasts an impressive battery life of up to 21 days, and offers more than 170 sports modes along with various health tracking capabilities. When compared to the standard Balance 2, it has a slightly lower water resistance rating of 5 ATM and its display is shielded by mineral glass instead of sapphire glass. Moreover, the XT model lacks the Golf app, and it is believed to be lighter, though its exact weight has not been confirmed yet.

Best Buy is currently the sole retailer offering the Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch, as it is not available on the brand’s official online store. An Amazfit representative recently addressed a customer’s query on Best Buy about the release timeline. They mentioned that the launch has been postponed until “the next month,” implying August 2025. However, the specific date for the official launch of the Balance 2 XT smartwatch still remains uncertain. Additionally, it’s unclear when it will be available in other regions like Europe and at what price point.

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Tags: Amazfit Balance 2 XT, Best Buy, Smartwatch
August 18, 2025

Rollme Launches $79.99 Smart Camera Glasses with Translation Features

Key Takeaways

1. Smart Features: AirView smart glasses have an 8MP anti-shake camera, dual microphones for clearer voice capture, and Bluetooth call capabilities.

2. Voice-First Design: The glasses emphasize voice functionality with a built-in assistant for hands-free tasks, real-time speech translation, and object recognition.

3. Lens Variations and Pricing: Available in clear and tinted lenses, AirView starts at $79.99, making it more affordable than other smart glasses like Ray-Ban Meta.

4. Connectivity: Users can sync photos, videos, and data via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for easy transfer to paired devices.

5. Considerations for Buyers: Important factors to consider before purchasing include battery life, privacy settings, and the effectiveness of the assistant and microphone in various environments.

Rollme has recently unveiled AirView, a new pair of smart glasses that feature built-in cameras and voice functionality, as well as wireless connectivity. These glasses are equipped with an 8MP “anti-shake” camera that can take pictures and record HD videos. They also include a dual-microphone setup designed to reduce noise, ensuring clearer voice capture during calls and recordings. Users can make or receive Bluetooth calls when the glasses are connected to a smartphone.

A Focus on Voice Features

AirView is primarily designed as a voice-first device. It includes a built-in assistant capable of performing hands-free tasks, like making calls, setting reminders, checking the weather, and controlling music just by speaking. Additionally, these glasses provide real-time speech translation and can recognize objects in the environment around the wearer. Rollme mentions that photos, videos, and other data can be synced via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing for instant transfer to paired devices.

Lens Options and Pricing

At launch, the company offers two lens variations: clear and tinted. The starting price on Rollme’s official site is $79.99. However, details regarding battery capacity, estimated runtime, storage specifications, and water resistance ratings were not shared in the initial announcement. Rollme also hasn’t revealed information about the processor or specific AI features of the device.

In terms of pricing, AirView is more affordable compared to camera-focused smart glasses from bigger brands, like the Ray-Ban Meta glasses, which currently retail for $329 on Amazon. However, the long-term value will depend heavily on factors such as image quality, microphone effectiveness in noisy settings, accuracy of translations, and the assistant’s dependability in offline situations or with unreliable connections. Potential buyers should consider key questions before purchasing, such as battery life, privacy settings for the camera and microphones, and the necessary companion apps for transferring and updating data. AirView is currently available through Rollme’s online store with the two lens options previously mentioned at the launch price.

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Tags: Rollme, smart glasses
August 18, 2025

Suunto Race 2 Leaks on Amazon: Slim Titanium Case for €599

Key Takeaways

1. The Suunto Race 2 features a similar design to its predecessor, with updates to the bezel texture and digital crown.
2. The case is slimmer at 12.5 mm and lighter options are available, weighing 65 grams for the composite version and 76 grams for the steel case.
3. The smartwatch maintains a round AMOLED display and offers improved multi-band GPS for accurate distance tracking, with battery life of 50 hours in GPS mode and 12 days in regular mode.
4. It supports 115 sport modes and provides voice feedback when paired with Suunto Wing headphones.
5. The Suunto Race 2 is set to launch in early September, with the titanium model priced at €599.

The Suunto Race 2 was recently seen at a certification event and accidentally appeared on Amazon Spain a few days ago. The online retailer quickly took down the product listing, but Gadgets & Wearables managed to snag some important information from it. At first look, the design seems to have hardly changed; Suunto has mainly updated the texture of the bezel and the digital crown.

Design Changes and Specifications

The case diameter stays the same at 49 millimeters, but the case itself is a bit slimmer, now measuring 12.5 millimeters instead of 13.3. The composite version will also be a tad lighter, weighing in at 65 grams, while the smartwatch will come with a 76-gram steel case or a titanium option. Reports suggest that Suunto has revamped the sensor array on the back and introduced a new charging solution.

Display and Performance

Suunto keeps the round AMOLED display. The multi-band GPS is designed to track the distance during runs with great accuracy. The smartwatch reportedly can achieve a battery life of 50 hours with constant GPS use. In regular smartwatch mode, Suunto claims a battery life of twelve days, which is four days shorter than the earlier version. This reduced battery life might be due to the more powerful Ambiq Apollo 510 processor.

Sport Modes and Release Date

The smartwatch offers support for 115 sport modes, including swimming, cycling, and skiing. When paired with Suunto Wing headphones, users can get voice feedback while working out. The Suunto Race 2 is set to launch in early September, with the premium model featuring a titanium case listed on Amazon for €599.

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Tags: AMOLED display, Smartwatch, Suunto Race 2
August 18, 2025

New Casio GBM-2100A Slim Watches with Bold Metal Bezel Launching Globally

Key Takeaways

1. Casio is launching three new G-Shock GM-2100 Series watches in more European countries, priced at €249 each.
2. The models include GBM-2100A-2B (blue dial), GBM-2100A-4B (burgundy dial), and GBM-2100A-8B (light yellow gold-tone dial).
3. The watches feature a slim and stylish design with a stainless steel bezel and patterned face.
4. Key functionalities include analog hands, date display, stopwatch, countdown timer, alarms, world time tracking, Tough Solar charging, and Bluetooth connectivity.
5. The release date for North America is uncertain, but older variants are available online for around $212.99.

Casio is set to introduce three new G-Shock GM-2100 Series watches in more European nations. The GBM-2100A-2B, GBM-2100A-4B, and GBM-2100A-8B, which are analog-digital models, first appeared in July and are already on sale in the UK and Japan.

Availability in Europe

In places such as the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany, the watches are available on the brand’s website for €249. The GBM-2100A-2B features a blue dial with a positive LCD display, the GBM-2100A-4B has a burgundy dial with an inverted LCD display, and the GBM-2100A-8B showcases a light yellow gold-tone dial with an inverted LCD display. Interested buyers can join the mailing list to receive updates about their launch through email.

Design and Features

The G-Shock G-Steel GBM-2100A timepieces are known for being “slim and stylish,” with a sleek look. Each watch comes with a patterned face that has a vapor-deposition finish, encased in a stainless steel bezel. The overall measurements are 9.3 x 44.4 x 11.9 mm (about 1.9 x 1.7 x 0.5 inches), and they have a weight of 72 g (around 2.5 oz), featuring a resin strap and casing.

These GM-2100 Series watches include two analog hands, a date display, and a small indicator dial that connects to multiple functionalities. Some of these features are a 1/100th second stopwatch, a countdown timer, and five daily alarms. Additionally, the watches can track world time, utilize Tough Solar charging, and connect to smartphones via Bluetooth.

Future Release in North America

It is still uncertain when or if these Casio G-Shock G-Steel GBM-2100A watches will be officially available in North America. Meanwhile, older variants like the GBM2100A-1A2 with a blue patterned dial can be found on Amazon for $212.99.

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Tags: Casio G-SHOCK
August 18, 2025

New Casio G-Shock and Nigo Collaboration Launching Soon

Key Takeaways

1. Casio G-Shock is collaborating again with fashion designer Nigo, known for A Bathing Ape.
2. The collaboration is hinted at through social media posts, including a claymation-style video.
3. Previous collaboration in 2018 included limited edition watches with only 35 pieces each.
4. The new project may involve watches, apparel, digital content, or something else entirely.
5. More details about the collaboration will be revealed on August 22nd, 2025.

A new collaboration between Casio G-Shock and Nigo has been hinted at on social media. Nigo, the fashion designer behind the A Bathing Ape brand, has previously worked with the Japanese watch company. Notably, in 2018, they launched the Nigo x K.IBE 35th Anniversary special editions, the DW-5635-9 and DW-6935-4, with only 35 pieces of each being made available.

Exciting New Tease

Recently, G-Shock Japan shared posts on Instagram confirming yet another partnership. A claymation-style video, which you can see below, showcases the ‘Casio Lab’. Towards the video’s conclusion, a table appears featuring a beaker and what seems to be some kind of controller. In the middle, there is a colorful mass consisting of peach, purple, green, and blue sections. Shadowy figures with heads resembling watch faces are seen behind the table.

What to Expect Next?

It’s still not clear what fans can look forward to from this new G-Shock x Nigo collaboration—whether it will be a watch, apparel, digital content, or something entirely different. Nonetheless, it appears that more information is on the way. A related post from G-Shock Singapore on Instagram mentions that further details will be unveiled on August 22nd, 2025.

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Tags: G-SHOCK
August 18, 2025

Garmin Fenix 8 Pro: New LTE Feature in Connect App Revealed

Key Takeaways

1. Garmin is developing smartwatches with 4G LTE capabilities, potentially including the Fenix 8 Pro.
2. The LTE features may allow for location sharing, voice calls, and SOS messages.
3. Recent updates in the Garmin Connect app show code related to LTE functionalities, including two-way messaging.
4. Garmin Rumors suggest that other LTE-compatible wearables may be introduced alongside the Fenix 8 Pro.
5. The release date for these LTE-enabled smartwatches is still unknown.

More signs have emerged showing that certain Garmin smartwatches may have LTE capabilities, potentially including the anticipated Fenix 8 Pro. Discussions about this enhanced version of the Fenix 8 began back in May 2025, when the LTE feature was first brought to light.

New Developments in LTE Features

A recent disclosure from the5krunner, referencing their usual informant JohnW, reveals that Garmin is working on a “new plan” that incorporates 4G LTE along with satellite capabilities. The expected functionalities are said to have features like LiveTrack for location sharing, the ability to make voice calls, and send SOS messages.

Insights from Garmin Rumors

According to a report from Garmin Rumors, more details have surfaced regarding these capabilities. Through AppSensa software, the blog has found several references to the LTE function in a recent update of the Garmin Connect mobile application. One specific line found in the code, which seems to be related to a screen that appears after activating LTE, says “Stay connected and leave your phone behind with a satellite and LTE plan.” The code in the Garmin Connect app also hints at features such as two-way messaging and making voice calls via LTE.

Other LTE Wearables on the Horizon?

Additionally, The5krunner hypothesizes that Garmin might introduce other LTE-compatible wearables beyond the speculated Fenix 8 Pro. It is still unclear when Garmin will unveil any smartwatches featuring LTE capabilities, whether it’s a model from the Fenix 8 series, which is currently priced at $1,099.99 on Amazon, or another device.

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Tags: Fenix 8 Pro, Garmin