Category: Wearables

  • New Study Shows Smartwatch Tech Fails to Measure Stress Accurately

    New Study Shows Smartwatch Tech Fails to Measure Stress Accurately

    Key Takeaways

    1. Smart wearables claim to monitor sleep and stress, which can help users make lifestyle changes for better health.
    2. A study at Leiden University found that the accuracy of these devices may be questionable, especially for stress measurements.
    3. The study involved 781 students using the Vivosmart 4 device over three months, with EMA surveys assessing sleep, fatigue, and stress.
    4. While wearables accurately tracked sleep and fatigue, their stress readings did not align with EMA data.
    5. The findings suggest that wearable devices may not be reliable for monitoring stress, raising concerns for users who depend on them for health insights.

    An increasing number of smart wearables are claiming to monitor how well users are sleeping and how much stress they are experiencing. This information is important as it may help people make lifestyle changes to tackle significant health issues that could arise.

    New Study Findings

    However, a recent study suggests that the accuracy of these devices may not be as reliable as they claim. Conducted at Leiden University in the Netherlands, the research involved 781 students who wore the same device for three months. During this period, they were also asked to fill out ecological momentary assessment (EMA) surveys, which focused on their own experiences of sleep, fatigue, and stress.

    Diverging Results

    The findings showed that while the EMA data matched well with the wearables’ readings for fatigue and sleep, they did not align when it came to measuring stress levels. It’s worth mentioning that the study only examined one specific device: the Vivosmart 4, which was released around 2018 and later discontinued by Garmin in favor of the updated Vivosmart 5, available for $149.99 on Amazon since 2022.

    This raises questions as it seems Garmin’s method for evaluating stress might be different from the EMA approach, which could have influenced the study’s results.

    Implications of the Study

    Overall, the research is now being seen as an indication that most wearable devices designed to track stress may not be very accurate. The implications could be significant for users who rely on these gadgets to monitor their health and wellbeing, as stated in the Journal of Psychopathology and Clinical Science.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags:
  • Omega Introduces Turquoise Dial in Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M

    Omega Introduces Turquoise Dial in Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M

    Key Takeaways

    1. Omega has added a new turquoise dial option to the Aqua Terra 150M series, available in 41 mm and 38 mm sizes with various strap styles.
    2. The design features a stainless steel case, lacquered turquoise dial with a black gradient, faceted hands, and hour markers treated with grey PVD and white Super-LumiNova.
    3. Both models are water-resistant up to 150 metres and utilize scratch-resistant domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating.
    4. The watches are powered by Co-Axial Master Chronometer movements (Calibre 8900 for 41 mm and Calibre 8800 for 38 mm), certified for magnetic resistance and offering chronometer accuracy.
    5. Additional features include anti-magnetic construction, a transparent caseback, a screw-in crown, and a date function, expanding the Aqua Terra 150M collection to 12 variants.

    Omega has introduced a new turquoise dial choice to its Aqua Terra 150M series. This option comes in various case sizes and strap styles. The latest models are available in 41 mm and 38 mm sizes, which can be paired with either a steel bracelet or a matching black rubber strap that features turquoise stitching.

    Design Elements

    The overall design remains true to the Aqua Terra’s nautical theme. The symmetrical case is made of stainless steel and is complemented by a lacquered turquoise dial that sports a black gradient effect. It features faceted hands and hour markers that are treated with grey PVD and white Super-LumiNova. The date window and the Omega logo also align with the grey PVD accents, while the minute track shows a turquoise hue.

    Specifications and Durability

    Both sizes of the case utilize Omega’s domed sapphire crystal, which is scratch-resistant and has an anti-reflective coating on both sides. They are also water-resistant up to 150 metres. The 41 mm model in steel weighs around 150g, while the rubber strap version weighs 106g and comes with a stainless steel foldover clasp.

    Inside the watches, you’ll find the Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 8900 (for the 41 mm) and Calibre 8800 (for the 38 mm). Both movements are tested and certified by METAS to withstand magnetic fields of up to 15,000 gauss. This ensures chronometer accuracy and reliable performance in everyday situations. The 8900 movement also offers a 60-hour power reserve and includes a time zone feature for quickly adjusting the hour hand.

    Additional Features

    Notable features include anti-magnetic construction, a transparent caseback, a screw-in crown, and a date function. With these latest additions, the Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M collection now consists of 12 different variants.

    Source:
    Link

    Omega Introduces Turquoise Dial in Seamaster Aqua Terra 150MOmega Introduces Turquoise Dial in Seamaster Aqua Terra 150MOmega Introduces Turquoise Dial in Seamaster Aqua Terra 150MOmega Introduces Turquoise Dial in Seamaster Aqua Terra 150MOmega Introduces Turquoise Dial in Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M

     

  • New Casio MTP-B146G Retro Metal Watches Now Available in the UK

    New Casio MTP-B146G Retro Metal Watches Now Available in the UK

    Key Takeaways

    1. Two new Casio Standard watches, MTP-B146G-3AVEF (green face) and MTP-B146G-9AVEF (gold face), are set to launch in the UK.
    2. The watches are currently listed as “Coming Soon” on Casio’s UK online shop, but pricing and release dates are not yet available.
    3. In South Korea, the watches retail for approximately ￦ 155,000 (~$112/£82), and the all-gold version is available in the US for $109 on Amazon Marketplace.
    4. The watches feature a retro 1980s design with a gold ion plated stainless steel case, colorful dial, and water resistance of up to 50 meters.
    5. Each watch measures 40.8 x 35 x 8 mm and weighs about 85 grams, with an accuracy of within 20 seconds per month.

    Two new Casio Standard watches are set to be launched in the UK: the MTP-B146G-3AVEF and the MTP-B146G-9AVEF. These analog watches were first shown off earlier this year and have already been made available in places like the Republic of Korea.

    Availability in the UK

    Currently, the Casio MTP-B146G-3AV (with a green face) and MTP-B146G-9AV (featuring a gold face) are now listed on the “Coming Soon” page of the brand’s online shop in the UK. As of now, the pricing and release date for these models have not been revealed. In South Korea, they sell for ￦ 155,000 (~$112/£82). Additionally, the all-gold version can be purchased in the US through Amazon Marketplace for $109.

    Design Features

    These Casio MTP watches are noted for their retro design that draws inspiration from the 1980s. They come with a gold ion plated stainless steel case and band. The colorful dial includes three hands for indicating the hour, minute, and second, along with a day display located at the 12 o’clock mark. Casio claims that these analog timepieces should maintain accuracy within 20 seconds each month and have a water resistance of up to 50 meters.

    Specifications

    Each watch measures 40.8 x 35 x 8 mm (~1.6 x 1.4 x 0.3 inches) and weighs about 85 grams (~3.0 oz). It is still unknown when the Casio MTP-B146G-3AVEF and MTP-B146G-9AV watches will officially launch in the UK, or if they will also become available in other European nations.

    Source:
    Link

    New Casio MTP-B146G Retro Metal Watches Now Available in the UK

     

    Tags:
  • Casio Launches New MTP-B185 Stainless Steel Watch in the UK

    Casio Launches New MTP-B185 Stainless Steel Watch in the UK

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio MTP-B185D-1AVEF watch will launch soon in the UK, but the exact release date and price are not yet known.
    2. The watch features a square face within an octagonal stainless steel bezel and is designed to be slim (40.0 x 32.5 x 7.3 mm).
    3. The MTP-B185D-1AVEF includes three hands for timekeeping and has a date display.
    4. It maintains accuracy within 20 seconds per month and is water-resistant up to 50 meters.
    5. The watch is expected to run for approximately three years on a SR920SW battery, with no confirmation on distribution in other European countries.

    Casio is set to launch the Standard MTP-B185D-1AVEF watch in the UK soon. This is one of the four new watches from the MTP-B185D collection that were noticed on the brand’s global website earlier in the year 2025.

    Availability and Pricing

    Recently, the Casio MTP-B185D-1AV was spotted in a listing on the brand’s UK online store. While the analog timepiece is featured on the site’s ‘Coming Soon’ section, an exact date for its release remains undisclosed. Additionally, the price is still unknown. For reference, in Singapore, this model has a suggested retail price of S$121 (~$94/£70).

    Design and Specifications

    The Casio MTP-B185D-1AVED boasts a square face with smooth corners, encased within an octagonal bezel. Both the casing and the bezel are crafted from stainless steel, as is the band which comes with an adjustable clasp. Casio describes this watch as being slim, with dimensions of 40.0 x 32.5 x 7.3 mm (~1.6 x 1.3 x 0.3 inches) and a weight of 80 g (~2.8 oz).

    Features and Performance

    This MTP-B185D series watch has three hands for the second, minute, and hour. It is said to maintain accuracy within 20 seconds per month. The dial includes a straightforward date display, and the water-resistant (50 m) watch is expected to operate for roughly three years on a SR920SW battery. It is still uncertain if Casio plans to distribute the MTP-B185D-1AV watch in other European nations.

    Source:
    Link

    Casio Launches New MTP-B185 Stainless Steel Watch in the UK

     

    Tags:
  • Blood Oxygen Monitoring for Apple Watch Series 9, 10, and Ultra 2

    Blood Oxygen Monitoring for Apple Watch Series 9, 10, and Ultra 2

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple temporarily halted sales of the Apple Watch 9 and Ultra 2 in December 2023 due to a patent dispute with Masimo over blood oxygen monitoring technology.
    2. To resume sales, Apple removed the blood oxygen monitoring feature from these models in January 2024.
    3. Blood oxygen monitoring has been reintroduced through a firmware update scheduled for August 14, 2024, but requires an iPhone for tracking.
    4. Users must upgrade their iPhone to iOS 18.6.1 and Apple Watch to watchOS 11.6.1 to access the feature, which only applies to models sold after January 17, 2024.
    5. Models purchased before January 17, 2024, and those sold outside the US will retain the original blood oxygen monitoring capabilities.

    Back in December 2023, Apple temporarily stopped selling the Apple Watch 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 in the United States due to a conflict over its blood oxygen monitoring technology. The company had to back off and remove this feature from those models, but blood oxygen monitoring is making a comeback since Apple has discovered a workaround, although there is a catch.

    Background on the Dispute

    For those who might not know, Apple first added blood oxygen monitoring with the Series 9 smartwatch. At that time, they were entangled in a lengthy patent battle with Masimo, a company that specializes in medical technology and pulse oximeters. Masimo accused Apple of violating its patents, and the International Trade Commission (ITC) sided with Masimo, resulting in a sales ban for the Apple Watch Series 9. Consequently, Apple had to pause sales briefly in December 2023, but by January 2024, it opted to eliminate the blood oxygen feature to restart sales in the US.

    New Update on Features

    Now, Apple has announced that blood oxygen monitoring will be available again on the Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 in the US, thanks to a firmware update scheduled for later today (August 14). The way Apple bypassed the ban was by transferring the measurement and calculation of data to the iPhone. The smartwatches will merely gather the required data and send it to the Respiratory section of the Health app, where users can keep track of their levels.

    This adjustment means that an iPhone is necessary to track blood oxygen, and the data won’t be accessible directly on the watch. Users will also need to upgrade their connected iPhone to iOS 18.6.1 and their Apple Watch to watchOS 11.6.1. This change will only apply to Apple Watch models sold after January 17, 2024. Models purchased before this date, as well as those sold outside the US, will still have blood oxygen monitoring capabilities as usual.

    Conclusion

    In summary, Apple is making strides to reintroduce the blood oxygen monitoring feature after overcoming legal hurdles. As always, staying updated with the latest software versions is crucial for users wanting to access these functionalities.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: ,
  • HTC Vive Eagle Smart Glasses: Zeiss Lenses, 12MP Camera, ChatGPT

    HTC Vive Eagle Smart Glasses: Zeiss Lenses, 12MP Camera, ChatGPT

    Key Takeaways

    1. HTC Vive Eagle is a new competitor to Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses, featuring a semi-transparent frame in four colors.
    2. The smart glasses have built-in speakers, four microphones, and a 12-MP ultra-wide-angle camera for communication, music, and photo/video capture.
    3. The device runs on Qualcomm Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1, with 4 GB RAM, 32 GB storage, and supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.
    4. Battery life is approximately three hours for calls, 4.5 hours for video, and up to 36 hours on standby, with an IP54 rating for water resistance.
    5. Priced at 15,600 TWD (about $520) in Taiwan, availability details for international markets are still pending.

    The HTC Vive Eagle: A New Player in Smart Glasses

    HTC has recently introduced the Vive Eagle, challenging the popular Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses. This new pair of smart glasses features a semi-transparent plastic frame that comes in four colors: red, brown, gray, and black. The lenses are made by Zeiss, but at first, the Vive Eagle will only be offered as sunglasses with UV protection. Other models with optical lenses are expected to arrive in the future.

    Communication and Features

    Equipped with four microphones and built-in speakers, these glasses allow users to communicate seamlessly. They can connect to Google Gemini or ChatGPT as an option. Users can listen to music and capture photos and videos with the 12-MP ultra-wide-angle camera. Notably, the camera is designed to help the AI chatbot engage with the real world, enabling text translations and providing information about visible objects. Besides using voice commands, there’s also a physical shutter button to take photos.

    Specifications and Battery Life

    The Vive Eagle runs on a Qualcomm Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 processor, with 4 GB of RAM and 32 GB of flash storage. It supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. Thanks to its energy-efficient AR chip and a 235 mAh battery, it boasts a battery life of three hours for calls, 4.5 hours for video viewing, and up to 36 hours while in standby. With an IP54 rating, the glasses are safeguarded against light rain. Weighing only 48.8 grams, they are designed for comfort during use.

    The HTC Vive Eagle AR headset will be priced at 15,600 TWD (about $520) in Taiwan. Information on when it will be available internationally is still awaited. More details can be found on the official product website.

    Source:
    Link

    HTC Vive Eagle Smart Glasses: Zeiss Lenses, 12MP Camera, ChatGPT

     

    Tags: ,
  • Garmin Fenix 8 Pro Rumors: LTE and Satellite Smartwatches Leak

    Garmin Fenix 8 Pro Rumors: LTE and Satellite Smartwatches Leak

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin hinted at refreshing popular smartwatches with LTE capabilities, including models like Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8.
    2. Confusion arose about which models would receive phone call functions, with speculation mainly focused on the Fenix 8 series.
    3. A significant leak suggests Garmin may release multiple LTE-enabled devices, not just the Fenix 8 Pro.
    4. The new devices may integrate with Garmin’s inReach series, which uses the Iridium satellite network for messaging.
    5. Garmin is likely to develop a wrist-worn device that incorporates inReach features, similar to the existing Fenix and Quatix series.

    A few months ago, Garmin hinted that it might refresh several well-liked smartwatches with LTE capabilities. Back in late April, we noticed that Garmin’s Connect app had references to phone functions for models like the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8, but these references were soon erased. Since then, Garmin hasn’t made any official announcements.

    Confusion Over New Models

    Interestingly, there was a mix-up where it was suggested that the newer Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 could handle phone calls. Still, new whispers emerged claiming that Garmin would only provide LTE features for the Fenix 8 series as part of a Fenix 8 Pro launch. Now, the5krunner has shared that it has what it calls a ‘huge leak’ about Garmin’s future plans for LTE and Satellite tech.

    Details from the Leak

    According to regular informant @JohnW, the5krunner has put much of this supposed leak behind a paywall. At the moment, there’s no word on when they will disclose this ‘huge leak’. However, we can still pick up some details from what they have shared thus far.

    For example, the5krunner mentions that Garmin’s strategy may involve ‘new devices’ instead of just one. This suggests there will be a range of LTE-enabled wearables beyond just the rumored Fenix 8 Pro. Additionally, it appears these new releases are connected to Garmin’s inReach series, which utilizes the Iridium satellite network for worldwide two-way messaging and other functions.

    Future inReach Devices

    Currently, Garmin offers devices like the inReach Mini 2 or inReach Messenger (currently priced at $249.99 on Amazon) and the more standard GPSMAP 86 or Montana 760. It seems that Garmin is planning to integrate inReach features into a wrist-worn gadget. Consequently, we might see another variant of the Fenix series, similar to the Quatix 8 that was released in June.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Amazfit Balance 2 XT: Affordable Smartwatch Now Available

    Amazfit Balance 2 XT: Affordable Smartwatch Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit Balance 2 XT smartwatch is priced at $199.99, making it $100 cheaper than the original Balance 2.
    2. The smartwatch features a 1.5-inch AMOLED screen and can last up to 21 days on standard use.
    3. It offers health monitoring for heart rate, blood oxygen levels, stress, and sleep, with over 170 sports modes for workout tracking.
    4. The device has 5 ATM water resistance but lacks the Golf app found in the original Balance 2.
    5. Currently available in Gray/Black, the official launch date for the Balance 2 XT in the US and Europe remains uncertain.

    The Amazfit Balance 2 XT smartwatch is now up for grabs at a US retailer. This new device, which hasn’t been formally launched by Amazfit yet, serves as a more affordable option compared to the original Balance 2. Speculation about this smartwatch started back in June, with initial thoughts suggesting it might be a titanium version of the Balance 2.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Balance 2 XT smartwatch has been listed on Best Buy for a while. Now, it can be bought for a price of $199.99, making it $100 less than the standard Balance 2 smartwatch, which is currently priced at $299.99 on Amazon. As of now, the Best Buy website indicates that it will start shipping to customers by August 16th, and will be available for in-store pickup as of August 19th, showing that they have stock already. Numerous users on Reddit have mentioned successfully ordering online, with their delivery and pickup dates matching what was stated.

    Specifications and Features

    Amazfit’s Balance 2 XT smartwatch measures 47 mm in width and features a 1.5-inch AMOLED screen. According to the product details, it can last up to 21 days with standard use, or even longer when in power saving mode. The watch allows you to monitor a range of health metrics, including heart rate, blood oxygen levels, stress, and sleep patterns, plus you can track your workouts with over 170 sports modes. However, compared to the original Balance 2 smartwatch, it doesn’t include the Golf app and only has 5 ATM water resistance, so it’s not suitable for diving. It’s also important to mention that the Best Buy listing seems to contain some errors; for instance, an Amazfit spokesperson confirmed that the XT will feature mineral glass instead of Sapphire.

    Color and Future Launches

    Currently, the Amazfit Balance 2 XT smartwatch is available in just one color: Gray/Black. It’s still uncertain when Amazfit will officially launch this more affordable device in the US or in other areas like Europe.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Amazfit Helio Armband Launches in More Countries Worldwide

    Amazfit Helio Armband Launches in More Countries Worldwide

    Key Takeaways

    1. Amazfit has expanded the availability of the Helio Armband to countries like Spain, France, and Germany, with pre-orders priced at €14.90.
    2. The Helio Armband allows users to wear the fitness tracker on their upper arm for better accuracy and comfort.
    3. The product was initially released in the US and UK in August 2025, where it was briefly called the Helio Arm Band.
    4. The Helio Armband is made from quick-drying nylon and fits arm circumferences between 9.8 to 16.1 inches (~250 to 410 mm).
    5. The device is currently out of stock in the US and is available exclusively through Amazfit’s online shop, with shipping expected before the end of August 2025.

    Amazfit has expanded the availability of the Helio Armband to more countries. This accessory, designed for the Helio Strap, was first released in the US and UK in August 2025, where it was known as the Helio Arm Band for a short time.

    Pre-Order Information

    Now, customers in nations such as Spain, France, and Germany can place pre-orders for the Helio Armband at a price of €14.90. This accessory is exclusively available through the brand’s online shop; it has not yet appeared on Amazon, where the Helio Strap is priced at €99.90. According to the product listing, orders are expected to ship before the end of August 2025. It is also important to mention that the Helio Armband is currently out of stock in the US.

    Features of the Helio Armband

    The Amazfit Helio Armband provides a way for Helio Strap users to position the fitness tracker on their upper arm instead of their wrist. The company claims there are several advantages to this. For one, Amazfit states that having the BioTracker sensor located nearer to the heart should give ‘pro level accuracy’, reducing interference caused by wrist motions. Additionally, wearing the device on the upper arm might be more comfortable for some users.

    Specifications and Details

    The Amazfit Helio Armband measures 22 mm (~0.9 inches) in width and is crafted from a quick-drying nylon fabric. The black adjustable strap is designed to accommodate arms with a circumference ranging from 9.8 to 16.1 inches (~250 to 410 mm). Furthermore, it seems quite simple to transfer the sensor between the arm and wrist straps, as it clicks securely into the holder of each accessory. It is not clear whether or when additional color options for the Helio Strap and Armband will become available.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3 May Feature Same Processor

    Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3 May Feature Same Processor

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple will focus on the iPhone 17 series at the September launch event, with the iPhone 17 Air expected to generate the most interest due to its ultra-slim design.
    2. The event will also showcase the Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3, following the previous year’s format.
    3. The new smartwatches are not expected to have major upgrades in performance or battery life.
    4. Both smartwatch models will use a processor called ‘T8310’, which is a rebranding of previous chipsets.
    5. The Series 11 and Ultra 3 are likely to maintain the same specifications as their predecessors, including 64 GB of storage and 2 GB of RAM.

    Apple is likely to focus on the iPhone 17 series during its launch event in September. Out of the four expected iPhones, the iPhone 17 Air is anticipated to attract the most interest due to its ultra-slim design. The event will also likely showcase the Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3, similar to how the Watch Series 10 and Watch Ultra 2 (current price: $649.99 on Amazon) were featured last year.

    Upcoming Smartwatch Specs

    As reported by MacRumors, the new smartwatches from Apple are not expected to have significant upgrades in performance or battery life. The site mentions that both models are equipped with a processor known internally as ‘T8310’. This name doesn’t provide much insight by itself, but it’s interesting to note that Apple has used the same code for its S9 and S10 chipsets.

    Rebranding Strategy

    In essence, the findings from MacRumors suggest that Apple is choosing to rebrand its smartwatch system-on-chip (SoC) for the third consecutive year. This is similar to what the company did with the Apple S6, S7, and S8. It is also believed that both the Series 11 and Ultra 3 will maintain the same specifications as their predecessors, including 64 GB of storage and 2 GB of RAM, along with features like Bluetooth 5.3, U1 UWB, and Wi-Fi 4 connectivity.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,