Category: Wearables

February 26, 2024
OnePlus Watch 2 Pre-Orders Now Available in Europe and North America
Just after the launch today, the OnePlus Watch 2 is heading for Germany, France, the UK, other European nations, and the US and Canada. Interested users can grab the WearOS-based smartwatch announced at the Mobile World Congress from the OnePlus official store (respective store links below). It carries a discounted price tag, and several other goodies are on the way for the next few weeks. The OnePlus Watch 2 is now available for pre-orders at the introductory special price of €299. However, the watch will retail for €329 after the special price. Below, we have mentioned the pricing for the respective European countries:
OnePlus Watch 2 Pricing and Offers
OnePlus is offering a limited-time €30 discount via the OnePlus Store; moreover, there’s an additional discount of over 20% if you buy a OnePlus Phone too. However, the users are offered a free OnePlus Buds 3 if they book the OnePlus Watch 2 between February 26 and February 3. If you enter the party a little late, then you will get a free OnePlus Nord Buds 2 upon buying the new WearOS watch between March 4 and March 31. There are trade-off discounts of up to $50 in the United States and CAD$60 in Canada on certain watches.
In addition, the students will get a flat 10% discount on the OnePlus Watch 2. OnePlus Watch 2 is live for free orders in Europe and North America for €299. You can pre-order your unit, before it goes out of sale at:
Germany – €299
France – €299
UK and EMEA – £299
The offer is not only limited to Europe, it is also applicable to buyers in North America for $299.
OnePlus Watch 2 Features and Specifications
Additionally, after a wait of over a month, the OnePlus Watch 2 launched today, featuring some exciting specifications. It bundles a 1.43-inch AMOLED display and features a Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 SoC. It is the first OnePlus smartwatch running on WearOS 4 out-of-the-box.
The capabilities of the OnePlus Watch 2 have improved with the use of Android-based WearOS 4. It allows users to install apps from an extensive app ecosystem, and features like Google Assistant make it more useful on the go. For more specification information and features, readers could check out our dedicated OnePlus Watch 2 launch coverage.
Tags: OnePlus Watch 2, Pre-order discounts, WearOS
February 26, 2024
Samsung Reveals Galaxy Ring at MWC 2024 – Latest Release!
Samsung has officially unveiled its Galaxy Ring smart ring at Mobile World Conference 2024. Initially teased during Samsung’s Unpacked event in January, the Galaxy Ring is a health and wellness-focused wearable designed to compete with devices like the Oura Ring.
Features and Design
Samsung has now provided more information about the Galaxy Ring, showcasing a minimalist yet substantial design. The ring will be available in platinum silver, gold, and ceramic black color options. According to TheVerge, the Galaxy Ring feels light when worn and comes in sizes 5 to 13, labeled S to XL inside. The battery size varies depending on the ring size, ranging from 14.5mAh to 21.5mAh.
Sensor Suite and Health Features
The Galaxy Ring will boast a suite of sensors for tracking various health metrics. While the full sensor suite is yet to be revealed by Samsung, the company has partnered with Natural Cycles for fertility tracking, resembling a key feature of the Oura Ring. Users can anticipate features such as sleep tracking, heart rate tracking, step counts, and breathing patterns. Samsung has also promised personalized health advice based on users’ sleep data.
A standout feature of the Galaxy Ring is Samsung’s “My Vitality Score,” aimed at measuring alertness and providing insights into the wearer’s overall readiness. Users will receive feedback through “Booster Cards” containing science-based tips incorporating sleep and other health data.
Availability, Pricing, and Compatibility
The Galaxy Ring is set to integrate with the existing Samsung Health ecosystem, including Galaxy Watch devices. Although the exact pricing remains undisclosed, the ring is expected to hit the market later this year. Initially, the Galaxy Ring will only be compatible with Samsung Galaxy smartphones. However, Samsung has plans to extend compatibility to other Android devices and potentially iOS devices in the future.
Tags: Health Wearable, Samsung, Samsung Galaxy Ring
February 26, 2024
Future Apple Wearables: AirPods with Cameras, Smart Rings, & Smart Glasses by Gurman
Apple is rumored to have significant plans in store for its upcoming wearable products. According to reports, the tech giant is delving into the realm of new wearable gadgets and potentially revamping its existing AirPods hearables. Here’s a breakdown of what you should know.
Exploring New Wearable Horizons
Mark Gurman’s latest Power On newsletter sheds light on Apple’s potential ventures into innovative wearable technologies. The report suggests that Apple, headquartered in Cupertino, might be venturing into the creation of new wearable devices. These could potentially include smart glasses, drawing comparisons to the Amazon Echo Frames. For the uninitiated, the Echo Frames offer smart audio capabilities, AI features, and the possibility of incorporating some of the augmented reality functionalities seen in Vision Pro.
Potential Design Overhaul for AirPods
In addition to exploring entirely new wearable products, Apple is also reportedly considering a major redesign for its popular AirPods hearables. While specifics on the redesign are scarce at the moment, this move signals Apple’s commitment to staying at the forefront of wearable technology innovation.
Implications and Expectations
The prospect of Apple delving into smart rings, smart glasses, or other groundbreaking wearables hints at a future where technology seamlessly integrates into everyday life. With the company’s track record of sleek design and cutting-edge features, these potential developments are generating considerable anticipation among tech enthusiasts and consumers alike.
Conclusion
As Apple continues to push the boundaries of innovation, the world eagerly awaits any official announcements regarding these speculated wearable products. Whether it’s smart glasses, revamped AirPods, or entirely new devices, Apple’s foray into the realm of wearables promises to be an exciting journey for both the company and its customers. Stay tuned for more updates as Apple’s wearable roadmap unfolds.
Tags: AirPods 4, Apple, Wearable technology
February 26, 2024
boAt Lunar Embrace Smartwatch: 1.51″ AMOLED Display, BT Calling, Metal Body – India Launch
boAt has recently unveiled the Lunar Embrace, a new addition to its wearable lineup in India. This smartwatch seamlessly combines premium aesthetics with a range of functional features, solidifying boAt’s position in the smartwatch market. The Lunar Embrace joins the ranks of boAt’s recent smartwatch releases, including the boAt Lunar Link and the boAt Ultima Select, both launched earlier this month.
Impressive Specs of the Lunar Embrace Smartwatch
The Lunar Embrace smartwatch features a sturdy metal body and a vibrant 1.51-inch AMOLED display. Users have the flexibility to personalize their watch faces to suit their preferences, enhancing the overall user experience. With Bluetooth calling capabilities, users can conveniently make and receive calls directly from their smartwatch, offering added convenience by allowing storage of up to 20 contacts for quick access.
Health and Fitness Tracking Capabilities
One of the standout features of the Lunar Embrace is its comprehensive health and fitness tracking functionality. It monitors vital health metrics such as heart rate, blood oxygen levels (SpO2), stress levels, and sleep patterns. Additionally, the smartwatch provides menstrual tracking for enhanced wellness monitoring. Boasting over 100 sports modes, the Lunar Embrace caters to a wide range of physical activities, making it a versatile fitness companion for users with varied interests.
Robust Features and Long Battery Life
Designed with an IP68 rating, the Lunar Embrace is built to withstand dust and water exposure, ensuring durability in various environments. In addition to health tracking, the smartwatch offers built-in games, music control, and a host of convenient tools like sedentary alerts, a voice assistant, and real-time weather updates. Despite its feature-packed design, the smartwatch impressively maintains up to 7 days of battery life on a single charge under normal usage conditions.
Pricing and Availability
The boAt Lunar Embrace is competitively priced at Rs. 2,899 and is currently available in Steel Grey and Steel Black color options. Interested buyers can purchase the smartwatch through Amazon.in, making it easily accessible to consumers looking to elevate their wearable technology experience.
Tags: boAt Lunar Embrace, Smartwatch, Wearable technology
February 26, 2024
MWC 2024: Xiaomi Watch 2 Launches Featuring WearOS, 65-Hour Battery Life
Alongside Honor, Xiaomi unveiled a range of new products at its MWC 2024 event, including smartphones and wearable devices. Among the wearable devices introduced were the Xiaomi Watch 2, Watch S3, and Band 8 Pro. The Xiaomi Watch 2, a distinct offering from the Pro version launched last year, is the focus of this article.
Xiaomi Watch 2 Specifications and Features
The Xiaomi Watch 2 sets itself apart from the Watch 2 Pro by omitting a rotating crown in its design. Instead, it features two buttons on the right side. The smartwatch boasts a circular dial with a 1.43-inch AMOLED display that offers a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels. Encased in an aluminum body, the device is 5 ATM water-resistant.
Advanced Health Monitoring and Features
Equipped with a 12-channel advanced health monitoring technology, the Xiaomi Watch 2 can track heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and sleep patterns. Additionally, it includes a menstrual cycle tracker and stress level monitoring. With support for over 160 sports modes and built-in GPS for outdoor activities, this smartwatch is designed for versatile use.
Performance and Functionality
Powered by a Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 processor, the Xiaomi Watch 2 promises enhanced performance and power efficiency. It comes with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage for app downloads and music storage. Running on WearOS, users have access to a wide array of third-party apps and popular apps from the Play Store, such as Google Wallet and Maps.
Notable Features and Battery Life
The Xiaomi Watch 2 includes fall detection capabilities that can alert emergency contacts automatically. In case of emergencies, users can call for help using the device. With a built-in microphone and speaker, hands-free voice calling is supported via a paired smartphone. Additional features include a camera, music control, calendar, flashlight, recorder, weather updates, altitude tracking, and more. The smartwatch is powered by a 495mAh battery that provides up to 65 hours of typical usage.
Pricing and Availability
The Xiaomi Watch 2 is available in Black and Silver color options, priced at EUR 199.
In conclusion, the Xiaomi Watch 2 offers a comprehensive set of features designed to cater to diverse user needs. From advanced health monitoring to convenient functionalities, this smartwatch aims to enhance the overall wearable technology experience for consumers.
Tags: Smartwatch, Wearable technology, Xiaomi Watch 2
February 26, 2024
Cost to Build Apple Vision Pro: Surprisingly Affordable!
Apple’s latest groundbreaking baby AR/VR headset, the Vision Pro, comes with a starting price tag of $3,500. Quite a hefty sum, right? But before you dismiss it entirely, let's delve deeper into what makes this device so special and expensive.
The Breakdown
Analysts reveal that the actual manufacturing cost of the Vision Pro, considering all its intricate components, hovers around $1,500. This indicates that Apple is marking up the price significantly to turn a profit.
Costly Components
The most expensive elements of the Vision Pro are its advanced displays, one dedicated to each eye, which collectively amount to $912. These displays, priced at around $456 each, are the primary cost drivers. Following closely are the powerful chips, essential for both general processing and managing camera and sensor data.
Beyond Just Parts
It's crucial to note that the aforementioned costs solely reflect the expenses on raw materials. Apple incurs additional expenditures on research, development, marketing, and other hidden outlays. Moreover, as a nascent product with limited production volumes, the initial pricing must compensate for these investments.
Future Prospects
Considering that this is merely the initial iteration, future generations of the Vision Pro could witness a decline in pricing as the technology evolves and production scales up. Whether the Vision Pro justifies its premium price hinges on your eagerness to explore the forefront of AR/VR and your financial capabilities. It’s worth mentioning that Apple already charges a notable sum for replacing parts of the headset, indicating potential concerns regarding long-term affordability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Apple's Vision Pro AR/VR headset, while undeniably cutting-edge, comes with a substantial price tag. As the product matures and volumes increase, we may witness a more accessible pricing structure in the future. Ultimately, the decision to invest in the Vision Pro rests on personal enthusiasm for advanced technology and financial feasibility.
Remember, the future of AR/VR is just a blink away.
Tags: Apple Vision Pro, AR/VR Technology, Pricing Strategy
February 25, 2024
Xiaomi Unveils Global Market Launch of Smart Band 8 Pro
Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro Unveiled with Impressive Features
Xiaomi recently introduced the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro globally, marking a significant moment during the grand launch event at MWC 2024 in Barcelona. This smart band, which made its debut in the Chinese market in August last year, comes packed with a plethora of exciting features designed to cater to fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals.
Key Specifications of Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro:
The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro sports a vivid 1.74-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 336 x 480 pixels. Boasting 16.7 million colors and a high sharpness level of 336ppi, the display operates at a smooth 60Hz refresh rate. Noteworthy is its peak brightness of 600 nits, ensuring excellent visibility even under direct sunlight. The 2D straight glued tempered glass serves as protection for this impressive display.
Design and Health Features:
In terms of design, the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro combines a lightweight build of 22.5g with a slim profile of 9.99mm. The device integrates skin-friendly and antibacterial materials, along with elegant leather straps and a durable shell made of fiber high-sitting polymer with NCVM coating.
Functionality-wise, this smart band acts as a comprehensive health and fitness tracker, equipped with sensors for monitoring acceleration, gyroscope movements, heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and ambient light. With features like continuous tracking of various health metrics, including heart rate, blood oxygen, stress, sleep, and women’s health, users can stay informed about their well-being. Moreover, its water-resistant properties up to 5ATM ensure durability.
Advanced Features and Connectivity:
The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro offers a range of advanced features such as breathing training, over 150 sports modes, professional exercise algorithms, and vitality indicators for tracking daily activities and exercise effectiveness. Noteworthy additions include automatic screen brightness adjustment, GNSS chip for independent satellite positioning, and over 100 watch faces including an Always-On Display (AOD) option.
Equipped with NFC and Bluetooth 5.3, this smart band seamlessly integrates with the Mi Fitness App and other devices for enhanced connectivity. The device is powered by a 289mAh battery that provides up to 14 days of battery life, extendable to 6 days in AOD mode, with fast charging capabilities. Smart functionalities like reminders, weather updates, schedules, and call notifications add to its overall appeal.
Pricing and Availability:
The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro comes with a total of 10 band strap options, crafted from anti-bacterial TPU and leather materials. These include 5 TPU variants in Black, Grey, Yellow, Blue, and 2 leather choices in White and Orange. Additionally, there are 3 woven options available in Green, Purple, and Silver. The TPU variant is priced starting at 69 Euros, offering users a variety of customization options to suit their preferences.
For those looking to elevate their fitness tracking experience, the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro presents a compelling choice with its blend of style, functionality, and health monitoring capabilities.
Tags: health monitoring, US Fitness Tracker Market, Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro
February 25, 2024
Xiaomi Watch S3 Global Launch: Interchangeable Bezels & More
Xiaomi Unveils Xiaomi Watch S3 Alongside Xiaomi 14 Series
Xiaomi today hosted an event to unveil its latest flagship smartphone, the Xiaomi 14 series for the global market. Alongside this, the company introduced several other products, including the Xiaomi Watch S3.
Xiaomi Watch S3 Specifications
The Watch S3 sports a sleek, circular design, notable for its interchangeable bezels that let users easily customize its appearance. What’s more, swapping the bezels triggers an automatic change to a matching watch face, adding a fun touch to the experience.
The Xiaomi Watch S3 is equipped with a 1.43-inch AMOLED display featuring a 60Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 600 nits, ensuring excellent visibility even in bright conditions.
It includes a suite of health monitoring features encompassing sleep tracking, heart rate monitoring, and stress level analysis. For fitness enthusiasts, the watch comes with a dual-band satellite positioning system for greater location accuracy. Xiaomi is also claiming an impressive battery life of up to 15 days on a single charge.
HyperOS System and eSIM Technology
Moreover, the Watch S3 boots on the company’s new HyperOS system. HyperOS is designed to streamline the user experience across Xiaomi’s different operating systems.
Additionally, the wearable also has built-in eSIM technology. This allows users to make calls and access the internet directly from the watch, providing additional independence from their smartphones.
Price
The Xiaomi Watch S3 is available for purchase in Europe at €149 (~$161). It comes in classic black or silver color options.
Tags: Flagship Release, Smartwatch, Xiaomi Watch S3
February 25, 2024
Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 Not Launching in US, Company Confirmation
Fans of affordable fitness trackers in the US will be disappointed to learn that the new Samsung Galaxy Fit3 will not be available for purchase domestically. Samsung has confirmed the decision, stating that they carefully evaluate product launches based on market trends and the specific needs of each region. The Galaxy Fit3 will, however, be released in select markets across Europe, Asia, South America, and later in Korea. Samsung sees greater potential in those regions and believes the costs associated with launching the Fit3 in the US – namely marketing, distribution, and software support – are not justified by the current size of the US fitness tracker market.
Market Trends and Regional Strategies
This decision aligns with a broader trend in the wearables market. Globally, fitness band sales have declined in recent years. Market analysis firm Canalys reports that consumers are increasingly favoring smartwatches, which offer more advanced features such as communication, app support, and health monitoring. The US wearables market is particularly competitive, with established brands vying for consumer attention. While Samsung generally positions its wearables in a premium segment, the lower price points typical of fitness bands may create a less-than-ideal fit for its overall strategy.
Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 Specifications
For a quick recap, the Samsung Galaxy Fit3 sports a rectangular dial with an aluminum chassis and a physical button on the right side. It’s IP68-rated, making it water-resistant up to 50 meters, and boasts a 1.6-inch AMOLED display. Packed with features, the Samsung Galaxy Fit3 can measure heart rate, blood oxygen levels, stress, and support over 100 workout activities. It includes a sleep tracker with snoring detection and sleep coaching. With a 208mAh battery claimed to last up to 13 days, the Samsung Galaxy Fit3 includes 16MB RAM and 256MB of storage onboard. It also offers convenient features such as music and camera control, quick reply, and more.
Tags: Samsung Galaxy Fit3, US Fitness Tracker Market, Wearables Market Trends
February 25, 2024
Huawei Watch GT 3 Pro Global Model Receives Harmony OS 4 Update
Huawei has recently initiated the global rollout of an update for its Watch GT 3 Pro smartwatch, unveiling Harmony OS 4 to users worldwide. This latest update, identified as version 4.0.0.111(C00M07), brings forth numerous enhancements aimed at enriching the overall user experience. Among the notable features integrated into this update is a refined user interface that enables users to conveniently view app names within the app grid by utilizing the rotating crown to zoom in. Additionally, a new touch protection feature has been introduced to prevent inadvertent inputs while engaging in workouts.
Improved User Experience
The update implements greater customization options for workout data displays and introduces an Enable Screen functionality, which activates the screen upon receiving notifications. These modifications are geared towards enhancing the user-friendliness and efficiency of the smartwatch.
Performance Enhancements
Aside from interface refinements, this update bolsters the smartwatch’s performance by offering clearer text, swifter access to notifications, and an enhanced always-on display that showcases more information. Moreover, improvements have been made to the alarm functionality and the accuracy of training data. Notably, the update size amounts to 157 MB, and Huawei advises users to ensure that their Huawei Health app is updated to the latest version before proceeding with the installation of the new firmware.
In parallel, the Huawei Watch GT 4 series is also set to receive updated software, albeit with a distinct changelog from that of the GT 3 Pro, yet sharing the same version number.
Details:
- Update version: 4.0.0.111(C00M07)
- Update size: 157 MB
- Recommended to update Huawei Health app before firmware installation
Tags: Harmony OS 4, Huawei Watch GT 3 Pro, Smartwatch Update