Category: Wearables

  • Casio G-Shock GA-V01 Watch in Pink Now Available Online

    Casio G-Shock GA-V01 Watch in Pink Now Available Online

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock GA-V01-4A, a pink variant, has launched in China as the fifth model in the GA-V01 lineup.
    2. The price in China is CNY 990 (approximately $138), consistent with other models except for the pricier GA-V01-8A (CNY 1,090).
    3. Design features include a bright pink resin body, black ‘eyes’, an LCD display, and various useful tools like world time support, stopwatch, and alarms.
    4. The watch has a battery life of up to 10 years and is water-resistant up to 200 meters.
    5. It is uncertain when the GA-V01-4A will be available in other regions, but two additional colors are expected to be released in the future.

    The Casio G-Shock GA-V01-4A has made its debut in China. This is the fifth digital timepiece in the GA-V01 lineup, which became available worldwide earlier in 2025. Speculations about this pink variant began circulating back in June.

    Pricing in China

    In China, the Casio G-Shock GA-V01-4A is priced at CNY 990 (approximately $138). This price aligns with other models like the GA-V01-1A (black), GA-V01-2A (blue-purple), and GA-V01-9A (neon-yellow). However, the fifth model, the GA-V01-8A (silver), is a bit pricier at CNY 1,090 (around $152).

    Design Features

    The GA-V01-4A is presented in several product photos, some of which are generated by AI, showcasing its bright pink resin body, bezel, and strap. It maintains the same bold bezel style and unique black ‘eyes’, along with the LCD display seen in previous versions. Additionally, it features a light pink hour hand, a Shock Release minute hand, and a dial indicator. This watch includes world time support for 31 different time zones and useful tools such as a stopwatch, timer, and alarms. It is reported to last up to 10 years on a CR2025 battery and can withstand water pressure up to 200 meters.

    Future Availability

    It is still uncertain if or when this color option will become available in other regions, such as the United States. Currently, the GAV01-1A is sold for $140 on the Amazon marketplace. Two more colors are anticipated to be launched in the future: the GA-V01-7A (white) and the GA-V01A-9A (gold).

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  • Rogbid Launches Affordable AMOLED Smartwatch with GPS & Fitness Tracking

    Rogbid Launches Affordable AMOLED Smartwatch with GPS & Fitness Tracking

    Key Takeaways

    1. Rogbid’s Apex TS smartwatch is budget-friendly at $59.99, offering GPS features without a high price tag.
    2. The watch has a 1.43-inch AMOLED display and a simple design with three physical buttons for easy use.
    3. It includes AI features like a GPT assistant and Bluetooth calling capabilities with a built-in speaker and microphone.
    4. The Apex TS offers advanced navigation with dual-band GPS, a compass, and health monitoring for heart rate, blood oxygen, and sleep tracking.
    5. The device has a long battery life of up to 45 days on standby and supports over 120 sports modes.

    Rogbid has launched a new smartwatch called the Apex TS, aiming to make GPS-equipped smartwatches more budget-friendly. It offers essential outdoor navigation features, health monitoring, and some modern additions without a steep price tag. At just $59.99, this watch is significantly cheaper than many GPS-enabled models, yet it boasts specs that seem to surpass basic options.

    Display and Design

    The Apex TS features a 1.43-inch AMOLED screen that is designed to be visible even in bright sunlight. The watch is encased in a straightforward design and includes three physical buttons. One button powers the device, another activates a built-in LED flashlight, while the third one directly accesses GPS mode. This button arrangement should be practical, particularly for outdoor enthusiasts.

    Features and Functionality

    In addition to the usual smartwatch functions, Rogbid has integrated AI features, such as a GPT assistant for quick information and options for creating personalized watch faces. Users can make calls via Bluetooth thanks to the watch’s built-in speaker and microphone.

    Navigation and Tracking

    The Apex TS excels in navigation capabilities. It features dual-band, six-satellite GPS, along with route imports, a compass, and a barometric altimeter. Health monitoring includes heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and sleep tracking, and it supports more than 120 sports modes. The device is powered by a 550mAh battery, with Rogbid claiming it can last up to 45 days on standby, although normal mixed usage may lead to shorter battery life.

    The Apex TS is now available in black, blue, and red through Rogbid’s official website. While it may not rival high-end multisport watches, it strikes a good balance of features for those seeking dependable GPS and extended battery life without breaking the bank.

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    Rogbid Launches Affordable AMOLED Smartwatch with GPS & Fitness TrackingRogbid Launches Affordable AMOLED Smartwatch with GPS & Fitness TrackingRogbid Launches Affordable AMOLED Smartwatch with GPS & Fitness TrackingRogbid Launches Affordable AMOLED Smartwatch with GPS & Fitness Tracking

     

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  • Pebble Time 2 Unveils Final Design and New Features

    Pebble Time 2 Unveils Final Design and New Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pebble Time 2 features a fresh design with a curved stainless steel front and textured buttons similar to the Pebble Time Steel.
    2. It includes new enhancements like an extra microphone for noise cancellation, a multicolor RGB LED backlight, and a compass sensor.
    3. The watch has a 1.5-inch 64-color e-paper touch display, heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, step tracking, and is waterproof.
    4. Customers who pre-ordered the Pebble 2 Duo can switch to the Pebble Time 2 but should not cancel their original order to avoid delays.
    5. The Pebble Time 2 is priced at $225, compared to the Pebble 2 Duo’s price of $149.

    The new Pebble smartwatches are advancing nicely, as Eric Migicovsky, the founder of the original Pebble brand and the current CEO of Core Devices, has unveiled the final design of the Pebble Time 2.

    A Fresh Look

    In a blog post and a 15-minute YouTube video, the new design of the Pebble Time 2 (previously called Core Time 2) was showcased, presenting a fresh look that differs significantly from what was displayed back in March during its initial announcement.

    The Pebble Time 2 now features a curved 316 stainless steel front that looks much improved compared to the earlier images. The back of the watch is crafted from the same material and is attached to the body using four screws. Although the number and layout of the buttons remain unchanged, the final version shows that they are textured similar to the buttons on the Pebble Time Steel, adding a nice touch.

    Features and Specifications

    Eric Migicovsky also presented a functional engineering sample but noted that the finish is not yet final. He mentioned that the watch will come in four different colors, although these have not been finalized yet. Once the colors are confirmed, those who pre-ordered the Pebble Time 2 will be contacted to select their favorite color.

    In terms of features, the Pebble Time 2 has picked up some additional enhancements, including an extra microphone that may help with environmental noise cancellation, a multicolor RGB LED backlight, and a compass sensor.

    Confirmed specs include a 1.5-inch 64-color e-paper touch display shielded by a hardened glass lens, 22mm quick-release straps, heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and step tracking. It will also feature a speaker, a linear actuator motor, and it will be waterproof (IP rating yet to be determined).

    Pre-order Information

    The blog post indicated that those who pre-ordered the Pebble 2 Duo, which is expected to ship this month, will have the option to switch to the Pebble Time 2 if they choose. However, they are advised against canceling their Pebble 2 Duo pre-order as that would place them at the end of the waiting list. A link for a survey will be provided to facilitate this change.

    Buyers should be prepared to pay the extra amount since the Pebble Time 2 is priced at $225, in contrast to the Pebble 2 Duo’s $149 price tag.

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  • New Polar Competitor for Whoop 5.0 Coming Soon

    New Polar Competitor for Whoop 5.0 Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Polar is teasing a new fitness device that is not a smartwatch, indicated by the crossed-out word “watch” on their webpage.
    2. The initial teaser suggests the device will be a fitness band, potentially similar to the Whoop 5.0 or Amazfit Helio Strap, priced at $99.99.
    3. A second image on Reddit shows an adjustable fabric wristband and a new sensor design, differing from the Polar 360.
    4. The specific features of the new fitness band have not been disclosed, but it may track metrics like heart rate, skin temperature, activity, and sleep quality.
    5. The official reveal of the new Polar fitness tracking device is scheduled for September 3rd, 2025, with email sign-ups available for updates.

    Polar has shared a new teaser image for an upcoming fitness device. First seen on their website in June, the company clarifies that this is not a smartwatch; the phrase ‘watch this space’ on the page has the word “watch” crossed out. The initial teaser image suggests that this will be a fitness band, possibly similar to the Whoop 5.0 or the Amazfit Helio Strap, which is currently priced at $99.99 on Amazon.

    New Insights from Reddit

    A second image of this Polar device has been posted on Reddit. This image, like the one on their webpage, shows that the wearable will feature an adjustable fabric wristband. Additionally, it reveals the top part of a sensor with a different casing design than the Polar 360. The Polar 360 is currently marketed to businesses for corporate wellness programs, sports teams, or health insurance purposes. It remains uncertain if the new model, which is aimed at consumers, will include a new sensor or a display.

    Awaiting Official Features

    Polar has not yet disclosed the specific features of this new fitness band. However, it’s probable that it will have some capabilities similar to the Polar 360. That model is known for tracking metrics like heart rate, skin temperature, daily activity, and sleep quality. The new Polar fitness tracking device is scheduled to be revealed on September 3rd, 2025. The company is encouraging potential customers to sign up for email updates regarding the product launch.

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    New Polar Competitor for Whoop 5.0 Coming Soon

     

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  • Amazfit T-Rex 3 Update: Zepp OS 5.0 Release Coming Soon

    Amazfit T-Rex 3 Update: Zepp OS 5.0 Release Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit T-Rex 3 smartwatch will soon receive the Zepp OS 5.0 update.
    2. Zepp OS 5.0 introduces features like a Jet Lag Manager, customizable font sizes, and an upgraded AI assistant (Zepp Flow 2.0).
    3. A Golf app may not be available for the T-Rex 3, as it has been removed for some Balance 2 users in certain areas.
    4. The update could include BioCharge, an energy tracking metric currently in development.
    5. No specific release date for the Zepp OS 5.0 update has been announced yet.

    Amazfit has announced that the T-Rex 3 smartwatch will soon get the Zepp OS 5.0 update. This smartwatch launched in 2024 as one of the brand’s premium devices. The last software update, version 3.9.4.4, was rolled out in mid-July, introducing a new HYROX Training workout and enhanced zoom capabilities.

    Update Announcement

    In a recent post on Instagram from Amazfit Germany, it was stated that the T-Rex 3 will be upgraded to Zepp OS 5 “soon.” Zepp OS 5.0 was first introduced with the Balance 2 smartwatch and is also available on the Active 2 (Square). It has recently been made available for the Active 2 (Round), Active 2 Premium, and Bip 6 smartwatches, which currently retails for $79.99 on Amazon.

    New Features Coming

    Zepp OS 5.0 brings several exciting features such as a Jet Lag Manager that helps users adapt to new time zones. Additionally, users can change the font size to better suit their liking, either making it bigger or smaller. There’s also an upgraded version of the AI assistant, named Zepp Flow 2.0.

    Another feature included in Zepp OS 5.0 is a Golf app. However, a recent discussion on Reddit between an Amazfit rep and T-Rex 3 users hints that this smartwatch might not receive the Golf app. This feature has already been taken away from Balance 2 users in certain areas. Another tool that could be included in the T-Rex 3’s first update to Zepp OS 5.0 is BioCharge, an energy tracking metric that is currently on the Helio Strap, but its development for the brand’s smartwatches is still in progress.

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  • Limited Edition Casio Watch with Sapphire Crystal Bezel Launching Soon

    Limited Edition Casio Watch with Sapphire Crystal Bezel Launching Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio Oceanus Manta OCWS6000PB7A watch will be available in the US for $2,500, with only 600 units produced globally.
    2. The watch features a slim design with a white dial, blue accents, and a sapphire crystal bezel that transitions from blue to silver.
    3. It is equipped with Bluetooth for automatic time adjustments and includes a phone finder feature through the Casio Watches app.
    4. The watch has multiple functions, including a 1-second stopwatch, battery level indicator, and water resistance up to 100 meters.
    5. The expected release date in the US is August 2025, but specific details on availability are still unclear, and there is uncertainty regarding a European release.

    The Casio Oceanus Manta OCWS6000PB7A watch is set to arrive in the United States. Originally launched in Japan in June 2025, it is also referred to as the OCW-S6000PB-7A or OCW-S6000PB-7AJF.

    Pricing and Availability

    Casio has now made the Oceanus Manta OCWS6000PB7A available on its US online store, with a price tag of $2,500. The product listing reveals that there are only 600 units produced globally, but it doesn’t specify how many will be in the US. Although the watch is expected to be available in August 2025, no specific release date has been provided. Interested buyers can opt to receive an email alert when the watch is ready for purchase.

    Design Features

    The Oceanus Manta OCWS6000PB7A is characterized as a slim watch, featuring a design inspired by Platinum Blue. It has a white dial accented with blue details, along with a sapphire crystal bezel that transitions from blue to silver. The bezel boasts 12 faceted cuts and 60 concave cuts, enhanced with a platinum vapor deposition. The watch is built with a solid titanium strap and casing, measuring 47.1 x 42.5 x 9.2 mm (about 1.9 x 1.8 x 0.4 inches) and weighs in at 88 g (approximately 3.1 oz).

    Technical Specifications

    This OCWS6000PB7A model is a radio-controlled watch (Multiband 6) that comes equipped with Bluetooth capabilities, allowing for automatic time adjustments and a phone finder feature through the Casio Watches app. It includes a Home City Time Swap option, enabling users to select from 38 different time zones. Additional features include a 1-second stopwatch, a battery level indicator, and an auto hand home position correction. The watch displays three analog hands and a straightforward date feature. It is also water-resistant up to 100 meters and incorporates Tough Solar charging technology.

    As for potential release in Europe, it’s still uncertain when or if the Casio Oceanus Manta OCWS6000PB7A, or OCW-S6000PB-7A model, will be available there.

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  • Casio Launches G-Shock DW-5600KHK25-1DR Watch in the UK

    Casio Launches G-Shock DW-5600KHK25-1DR Watch in the UK

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock DW-5600KHK25-1DR watch will soon be available in the UK, following its popularity in Japan since its January 2025 release.

    2. There is confusion about the pricing, with the UK online store showing £99.90 under the product name and £229 in the specifications section.

    3. The watch’s design is inspired by Edo-period artist Katsushika Hokusai, featuring elements from the woodblock print ‘The Great Wave off Kanagawa.’

    4. Key features include hourly signals, flash alerts, a multifunctional alarm, a 24-hour countdown timer, a stopwatch, and water resistance up to 200 m.

    5. The watch has a battery life of approximately five years and includes a white LED backlight for low-light reading; final pricing and release details for other European markets remain unclear.

    The Casio G-Shock DW-5600KHK25-1DR watch is heading to the UK soon. This model was first revealed in January 2025 for the Japanese market alongside the DW-5600KHG24-1. In Japan, it became very popular, selling out several times.

    Pricing Confusion

    Recently, Casio has added the G-Shock DW-5600KHK25-1DR to its UK online store. There is some confusion regarding the prices shown—£99.90 is displayed under the product name, while the ‘Specifications’ section lists it at £229. Although it is said to be available soon, no specific release date has been provided. Interested buyers are encouraged to sign up to receive an email notification when it launches.

    Design Inspired by Art

    The DW-5600KHK25-1DR, which is also referred to as the DW-5600KHK25-1 or the DW-5600KHK24-1JR, features a design by the famous Edo-period artist Katsushika Hokusai. Drawing inspiration from the iconic woodblock print ‘The Great Wave off Kanagawa’, the frame around the digital display showcases waves and Mount Fuji. The watch has a patterned face and is housed in a black resin casing and strap, measuring 48.9 x 42.8 x 13.4 mm (~1.9 x 1.7 x 0.5 inches) and weighing 52 g (~1.8 oz).

    Functionality and Features

    The 5600 Series watches come with features like hourly time signals, flash alerts, and a multifunctional alarm. Additionally, it includes a countdown timer with a range of 24 hours and a stopwatch that measures in 1/100ths of a second. For low-light conditions, a white LED backlight makes it easy to read the digital display, and users can toggle between 12 and 24 hour formats. Furthermore, this model is water resistant up to 200 m and has a battery life of about five years before needing replacement.

    It’s still unclear what the final price of the Casio G-Shock DW-5600KHK25-1DR will be in the UK. As of now, this collaboration with Katsushika Hokusai has not been confirmed for release in other European markets.

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    Casio Launches G-Shock DW-5600KHK25-1DR Watch in the UK

     

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Update Enhances Breathing Variations Feature

    Garmin Smartwatch Update Enhances Breathing Variations Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Garmin Approach S44 and S50 smartwatches have been updated to system software version 6.58, following version 6.18 released in mid-July.
    2. The 6.58 update includes bug fixes for the Last Shot feature, single-course update files, device club data, and the Last Activity widget.
    3. The reset process for the device after too many wrong passcode entries has been improved.
    4. The Approach S50 received additional enhancements, including a new user interface for the Breathing Variations feature and changes to the device passcode function.
    5. The update is available for all users and can be applied through the Garmin Golf app or Garmin Express on a computer.

    The Garmin Approach S44 and Approach S50 smartwatches have been updated with a new stable version, 6.58. This release comes after the earlier version 6.18, which was rolled out in mid-July and included some bug fixes related to automatic shot detection and PlaysLike distances.

    Update Highlights

    The changelog for the 6.58 system software outlines several additional bug fixes for these golf smartwatches. Notably, two of these fixes address issues with the distances displayed in the Last Shot feature. Garmin has also corrected problems with single-course update files that were being removed incorrectly, along with device club data and the Last Activity widget. Moreover, the process for resetting the device after too many wrong passcode entries has been updated.

    S50 Specific Enhancements

    For the Approach S50, three additional enhancements have been introduced. These involve a refreshed user interface for the Breathing Variations feature and a change to how the device passcode functions, making sure the device doesn’t lock automatically when the wrist heart rate is turned off. The full release notes can be found below.

    As per a recent update on the Garmin forum, the system software 6.58 is now accessible for every user of the Approach S50 and Approach S44 smartwatches (current price: $299.99 on Amazon Marketplace). To apply this update, simply open the Garmin Golf app on your smartphone or use Garmin Express on your computer.

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  • Garmin Updates Older Mid-Range Smartwatches Before Stable Release

    Garmin Updates Older Mid-Range Smartwatches Before Stable Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released Beta Version 17.05 for Instinct 2, Instinct 2X, and Instinct Crossover, replacing Beta Version 17.04.
    2. The update is currently being rolled out to about 20% of eligible devices, with notifications sent via Garmin Connect Mobile or Garmin Express.
    3. Users can manually check for the update through the menu on their smartwatches.
    4. The update aims to fix multiple bugs, including incorrect ‘Wallet Locked’ messages and issues with distance tracking during Open Water activities.
    5. Specific improvements for the Instinct 2X include fixes for strobe light features during multisport activities.

    Garmin has started to release a fresh update for the Instinct 2, Instinct 2X, and Instinct Crossover (currently priced at $314.99 on Amazon), through its Beta Program. To give you some background, Beta Version 17.05 is replacing Beta Version 17.04, which was introduced in early June. This latest update comes almost a year after Garmin began the beta development of v17.xx, starting with Beta Version 17.00.

    Update Rollout Process

    At the moment, Garmin notes that Beta Version 17.05 has been sent out to about 20% of the devices that qualify. Users who are picked for this update will get a notification to download it automatically within the next 24 hours, either through Garmin Connect Mobile (GCM) or while syncing their smartwatches with Garmin Express. Additionally, users can also manually initiate the update installation by navigating through Menu, System, and Software Update to click on ‘Check for Updates.’

    Focus of the New Update

    In a post on the forum, Garmin mentions that this beta update aims to fix multiple bugs found in previous versions. For example, Beta Version 17.05 should fix a problem where the ‘Wallet Locked’ message might show up incorrectly. Also, the distance tracking should no longer increase during Open Water activities when there’s no movement. Furthermore, the Instinct 2X has been updated to fix issues with strobe light features during multisport activities. Sadly, Garmin hasn’t shared when the v17.xx software will become stable.

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  • Polar Smartwatches Introduce PIN Protection and Navigation Updates

    Polar Smartwatches Introduce PIN Protection and Navigation Updates

    Key Takeaways

    1. Firmware update to version 4.1.5 for Polar Vantage V3 and Polar Grit X2 Pro.
    2. New turn-by-turn guidance feature for all routes, providing direction changes and turns.
    3. Enhanced security with a PIN protection feature to prevent unauthorized access.
    4. Heart rate data can now be transmitted to other compatible devices.
    5. Improved map functionality with a larger zoom-out feature for better navigation.

    Polar has launched a fresh software update for its two smartwatch models, the Polar Vantage V3 and the Polar Grit X2 Pro. This update upgrades the firmware to version 4.1.5, bringing not just bug fixes but also several exciting new features. In two related announcements, Polar revealed that turn-by-turn guidance is now accessible for all routes and types of routes. This feature keeps users informed about direction changes and necessary turns, much like how Google Maps operates. Notifications can be received through vibrations and audio, so there’s no need to keep checking the watch.

    Enhanced Security Features

    Similar to Garmin’s move earlier this year, Polar has included a new security feature that allows users to protect their smartwatch with a PIN. The devices can sense when they are taken off, requiring a six-digit PIN to be entered for unlocking and continued use. This addition enhances user privacy by stopping unauthorized individuals from viewing notifications. Another enhancement allows the heart rate data to be transmitted to other devices, which can be beneficial when used with compatible fitness gadgets. Polar mentioned that a few minor updates were made and certain bugs were resolved. For instance, they fixed a bug related to heart rate measurements using optical sensors.

    Improved Map Functionality

    Additionally, users can now enjoy a larger zoom-out feature when looking at maps outside of training sessions. This makes it easier to navigate and plan routes effectively. Overall, these updates aim to improve the user experience and add more functionality to the Polar smartwatches.

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