Category: Wearables

  • New Casio Edifice EFS-S650 Metal Watches Launching Worldwide

    New Casio Edifice EFS-S650 Metal Watches Launching Worldwide

    Key Takeaways

    1. Three new Casio Edifice EFS-S650 watches are launching in Europe, including the EFS-S650D-2A, EFS-S650D-3A, and EFS-S650DC-1A.
    2. The EFS-S650D-2A and EFS-S650D-3A are priced at €219, while the all-black EFS-S650DC-1A costs €259; specific launch dates are not yet available.
    3. These watches feature a stainless steel case, polished ceramic bezel, and a stainless steel strap with a one-touch 3-fold clasp.
    4. The Edifice EFS-S650 watches include multiple timekeeping functions, sapphire crystal glass, water resistance up to 100 m, and solar charging capabilities.
    5. The design is targeted at fans of high-end sports cars, combining luxury with robust features for performance-oriented users.


    Three new Casio Edifice EFS-S650 watches are set to arrive in more European markets. Among these are the EFS-S650D-2A and EFS-S650D-3A, which made their way to the UK earlier this July. There’s also the sleek EFS-S650DC-1A in all-black, which was recently seen on the brand’s global website.

    Availability in Europe

    In countries such as the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany, Casio has added the Edifice EFS-S650D-2A (featuring a blue dial and bezel with a silver case) and the EFS-S650D-3A (coming with a green dial and bezel, also in silver) to its online store. Each of these models is priced at €219. On the other hand, the all-black EFS-S650DC-1A comes at a higher price of €259. However, the company has not shared a specific date for when these watches will be available. Interested buyers are encouraged to sign up for email alerts regarding the launch of these products.

    Design and Features

    Targeted towards fans of high-end sports cars, these watches showcase a stainless steel case with a polished ceramic bezel, marking a first in the Edifice range. Each timepiece is equipped with a stainless steel strap that includes a one-touch 3-fold clasp. The dimensions of these watches are 46.7 x 40.9 x 11.7 mm (approximately 1.8 x 1.6 x 0.5 inches), with a weight of 140 g (around 0.3 lbs).

    The Edifice EFS-S650 is an analog watch that features three hands for minutes, seconds, and hours. It also includes three additional dials: one for displaying time in a 24-hour format, and two linked to a 1-second stopwatch. The watch face is safeguarded by sapphire crystal glass that has an anti-reflective coating, and the watches are water-resistant up to 100 m. Furthermore, they support solar charging, allowing for up to five months of usage on a full charge. It remains uncertain whether or when the Casio Edifice EFS-S650 watches will be released in the United States.

    Conclusion

    Casio’s new Edifice line offers a blend of style and functionality, catering to those who appreciate both luxury and performance in their timepieces. With the promise of robust features and striking designs, these watches are certainly worth waiting for.

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  • Garmin Fenix 7 Smartwatches Introduce New Passcode Feature Beta

    Garmin Fenix 7 Smartwatches Introduce New Passcode Feature Beta

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released beta update version 23.06 for select smartwatches, following a previous update in the 23.xx series.
    2. The update includes bug fixes, specifically addressing crashes on the Battery Notification Settings page and issues with loading courses.
    3. New issues have emerged, with users of certain languages reporting features only displaying in English.
    4. The Device Passcode feature has been introduced but was not included in the change log and is still not available for all Fenix 7 users.
    5. Garmin Beta program participants can download the update via the system menu, though a timeline for a stable release is unclear.


    Garmin is rolling out a new beta update for its Fenix 7, Fenix 7x, Fenix 7s, Epix, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and MARQ Gen 2 smartwatch. This beta version 23.06 comes just shortly after the previous update in the 23.xx testing series, which modified the graph on the Breathing Variations page and gave the Recent Stress widget a visual refresh.

    Bug Fixes Introduced

    The latest beta includes two important bug fixes for the Fenix 7 and similar devices. The first fix addresses an issue on the Battery Notification Settings page that could lead to these watches crashing. This problem was reported by a number of users on the Garmin forum. Additionally, this update resolves a problem where users were unable to load courses.

    New Issues Arise

    Despite these fixes, new issues have been reported. Users who speak Polish, German, and Russian have pointed out that certain features of the devices are now only displayed in English. The Garmin team has not yet recognized this problem or provided any timeline for a solution. Moreover, after the version 23.05 update, users have noticed the introduction of the Device Passcode feature. This feature was highly requested and had been made available to other models earlier this year. It remains uncertain why this update was not included in the change log.

    If you’re part of the Garmin Beta program, you can download the beta version 23.06 by navigating to Menu > System > Software Update > Check For Updates. It is still not known when a stable release of this software will include the Device Passcode feature for all Fenix 7 smartwatch users (currently priced at $519 on Amazon).

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  • Garmin Smartwatch New Accessory Support in Latest Stable Update

    Garmin Smartwatch New Accessory Support in Latest Stable Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Garmin Descent Mk2, Mk2S, and Mk2i dive computers received a stable software update to version 28.00, the first of 2025.
    2. New features include support for the S1 SubWave Buoy, allowing tracking of divers, and support for YouTube Music (but not for Descent D2).
    3. The update fixes bugs related to Dive Time SubWave messages, the Kill Switch function, surface interval time display, and Garmin Pay wallet locking issues.
    4. The update is available for all users of the Descent Mk2 series and can be downloaded through the Garmin Connect app or Garmin Express.
    5. The previous version 26.30 replaced the time-in-zones bar chart with a heart rate chart on the post-dive summary page.


    The Garmin Descent Mk2, Descent Mk2S, and Descent Mk2i dive computers have received a new stable update. The system software version 28.00 is the first update for these devices in 2025. This update comes after the version 26.30, which replaced the time-in-zones bar chart with a new heart rate chart on the post-dive summary page.

    New Features Introduced

    According to the changelog for software version 28.00, this update adds support for the new S1 SubWave Buoy, which is currently priced at $2,499.99 on Amazon. This accessory, which launched in July, allows divers to be tracked by their topside crew. Additionally, users can expect support for YouTube Music with this update. However, it has been noted by users that the developers have not yet made the Descent D2 compatible with this app.

    Bugs Fixed in the Update

    Version 28.00 also addresses several issues that were present in previous releases. Bugs related to Dive Time SubWave messages and the Kill Switch function have been corrected. Garmin has also resolved a problem where the surface interval time was not displayed correctly on some watch faces. Furthermore, an issue with Garmin Pay, which caused the wallet to lock sooner than expected, has been fixed.

    Downloading the Update

    The system software 28.00 is available for all users who have the Descent Mk2, Descent Mk2S, and Descent Mk2i dive computers. Users can download the update through the Garmin Connect app or via Garmin Express.

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  • Casio G-Shock Black and Gold: Three New Watches Coming Soon

    Casio G-Shock Black and Gold: Three New Watches Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio is launching four new G-Shock models in the Black and Gold collection in Japan starting August 1, 2025.
    2. The new models include the GA-010GB-1A9, GA-010GGB-1A9, and GA-100GGB-1A9, featuring a mix of analog-digital displays and advanced functionalities.
    3. Key features across the models include Carbon Core Guard design, 10-year battery life, world time support, stopwatches, countdown timers, and multiple alarms.
    4. Prices for the new models range from ¥15,950 (~$108) for the GD-010GB-1A9 to ¥21,450 (~$145) for the GA-010GGB-1A9.
    5. Some of these models may also be available online in Russia and Thailand, with potential future availability in Europe, though this is not yet confirmed.


    Casio is gearing up to introduce four new timepieces in the G-Shock Black and Gold collection in Japan over the next few weeks. Earlier in July 2025, the G-Shock GD-010GB-1A9 was unveiled. Now, three additional models, the GA-010 and GA-100, have been confirmed, as seen in images shared by the Japanese outlet MyNavi News.

    New Models Overview

    The first two watches are the GA-010GB-1A9 (featuring a black dial) and the GA-010GGB-1A9 (which boasts a gold vapor deposition dial). These analog-digital G-Shocks are expected to include the brand’s Carbon Core Guard design, along with an estimated battery life of 10 years. They come packed with features like world time support, a stopwatch, a countdown timer, and five daily alarms. The GA-010GB-1A9 is anticipated to retail for ¥19,250 (~$130), while the GA-010GGB-1A9 will be pricier at ¥21,450 (~$145).

    Hybrid Watch Details

    Another model is the GA-100GGB-1A9, which is a hybrid watch featuring a black resin case and a gold deposition dial. It has a three-dial face, which includes two small digital displays. This model is designed to be shock resistant, magnetic resistant, and has a water resistance rating of up to 200 m. Additionally, it comes with tools like a 1/1000th second stopwatch, various alarms, a countdown timer, and it can accommodate 29 world time zones. The price for this watch will be ¥20,900 (~$141).

    Previous Model Recap

    As mentioned in our earlier piece, the GD-010GB-1A9 is a digital watch that features a black resin case and a gold bezel. It also incorporates the Carbon Core Guard structure, offers 200 m water resistance, and has an estimated battery life of 10 years. This model allows for Multi Time functionality for four cities and includes a stopwatch, time display, and five alarms. It is expected to be priced at ¥15,950 (~$108).

    The Casio G-Shock models GA-010GB-1A9, GA-010GGB-1A9, GA-100GGB-1A9, and GD-010GB-1A9 are set to launch in Japan on August 1, 2025. Alongside their release in Japan, these watches have also been noticed on online platforms in Russia and Thailand. There are whispers that some of these models might officially arrive in Europe, although the company has not yet confirmed this. Previous models from the Black and Gold series are currently available at the brand’s online store in the US.

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  • Garmin Launches Major Update for High-End Smartwatches

    Garmin Launches Major Update for High-End Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has updated multiple Forerunner smartwatch models, including the Forerunner 165, 255, 265, 955, and 965, and introduced beta updates for the Forerunner 570 and 970.
    2. Beta testing is now ongoing for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8, with the release of Beta Version 17.19.
    3. Beta Version 17.19 primarily focuses on bug fixes, including a crash issue related to the back button in the add activities menu.
    4. The update removes the Fitness Age feature during sleep mode and adds support for Focus Mode on watch faces.
    5. The update will be delivered automatically via over-the-air (OTA) download, with more beta versions expected before moving to stable software.


    In the past few days, Garmin has focused on refreshing its Forerunner smartwatch lineup, both current and older models. This week alone, the company rolled out two updates for the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965. Additionally, they have also introduced the initial beta updates for the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970.

    Latest Developments in Garmin’s Beta Testing

    Garmin has now shifted its efforts back to beta testing for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299.99 on Amazon) with the release of Beta Version 17.19. This latest update comes just under a week after the previous Beta Version 17.18, which included several changes for the supported smartwatches. Interestingly, Beta Version 17.19 incorporates the same set of features as its predecessor.

    Improvements and Fixes

    Most of the enhancements in this update are focused on fixing bugs, including a specific issue that could lead to a crash when users pressed the back button in the add activities menu. Furthermore, the Fitness Age feature will no longer appear during sleep mode. In addition, Beta Version 17.19 introduces support for Focus Mode on watch faces. Garmin indicates that this update will be delivered automatically through an over-the-air (OTA) download. According to a post on the company’s forum, additional beta versions are expected before the v17.xx software is moved to Garmin’s stable software branch.

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  • Pebble Returns: Core Devices Revives Smartwatches Core 2 Duo & Time 2

    Pebble Returns: Core Devices Revives Smartwatches Core 2 Duo & Time 2

    Key Takeaways

    1. Core Devices is reviving the Pebble brand with new smartwatch models named Pebble 2 Duo and Pebble Time 2.
    2. The original Pebble brand had a brief history and ceased operations in 2016, but it remains recognizable.
    3. The Pebble Time 2
    is different from the originally announced model in 2016 that never shipped.
    4. The Pebble 2 Duo is expected to start shipping by the end of August, with a second batch in mid-September.
    5. US orders for the Pebble 2 Duo will incur an additional $10 charge due to tariffs.


    The new smartwatch models from Core Devices, founded by Pebble’s creator, will reintroduce the well-known Pebble name. The two new models have been rebranded to include Pebble in their titles, marking a significant effort to revive the brand after it closed nearly a decade ago. While there is no official release date for these smartwatches yet, they are expected to start shipping at the end of August.

    Brand Recognition

    Most people are familiar with the Pebble brand, even though it has a limited range of products and a brief operational history. In 2016, it was revealed that Pebble would cease operations and discontinue support for all its devices, just three years after launching its first smartwatch. This year, founder Eric Migicovsky started a new venture called Core Devices, aiming to bring Pebble smartwatches back to life and introducing two models: Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2.

    Exciting Updates

    In a recent post on his personal blog, Migicovsky mentioned that his team has secured the Pebble trademark and the two upcoming smartwatch models are now named the Pebble 2 Duo and the Pebble Time 2. The asterisk in the Time 2 name indicates that this version is somewhat different from the original Pebble Time 2 that was announced in 2016 but never actually shipped.

    Shipping Details and Pricing

    Regarding the release schedule, Migicovsky noted that the Pebble 2 Duo has not yet entered mass production, with the first batch expected to ship by the end of August. A second batch is set for mid-September. However, the timeline for the Pebble Time 2* remains uncertain, as Migicovsky has just received the first fully assembled unit running PebbleOS, which is part of the Engineering Verification Test (EVT) phase. He also provided some information on pricing, mentioning that, due to tariffs, US orders for the Pebble 2 Duo will incur an additional cost of $10.

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  • Google Pixel Watch 4 Band Colors and Fast Charger Revealed

    Google Pixel Watch 4 Band Colors and Fast Charger Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel Watch 4 will maintain the 41 and 45 mm case sizes and introduce customizable strength-training tracking and real-time coaching for runners.
    2. An official Google Sport Band will be available, compatible with both sizes of the Pixel Watch 4.
    3. Design features include ventilation similar to the Apple Watch Nike Sports Band and a variety of vibrant colors such as Iris, Lemongrass, Limoncello, and Indigo, along with neutral tones like Moonstone, Porcelain, and Obsidian.
    4. The anticipated launch date for the Pixel Watch 4 is August 20, 2025, with color options including Black, Gold, Silver, and Moonstone.
    5. The new Pixel Watch Charger will be 25% faster and designed to hold the watch upright while charging.


    The Pixel Watch 4 is expected to keep the 41 and 45 millimeter (mm) case sizes that were introduced with the earlier model. However, it may be the first to offer customizable strength-training tracking and real-time coaching for runners.

    New Accessories on the Horizon

    Potential buyers who are interested in these unique features might also have the option to buy an official Google Sport Band, compatible with both sizes of the watch, according to Android Headlines.

    Design and Color Variations

    Recent images shared by the blog, based on upcoming predictions for the Pixel Watch 4, indicate that it will feature ventilation similar to the Apple Watch Nike Sports Band. The watch could come in colors like Iris, Lemongrass, Limoncello, and Indigo.

    In addition, there may be more ‘everyday’ or Active bands available in the same vibrant colors, along with more neutral tones such as Moonstone, Porcelain, and Obsidian.

    Launch and Charging Features

    The Pixel Watch 4 is anticipated to launch on August 20, 2025, and will likely be offered in Black, Gold, Silver, and more Moonstone options.

    Two of these colors, Silver and Black, are said to utilize the new Pixel Watch Charger, which is reportedly “25%” faster than its predecessor. This innovative charger is designed to hold the watch upright on one side, thanks to dedicated pins, while it recharges.

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  • Casio G-Shock Limited Edition To Be Hero X Collaboration Watches

    Casio G-Shock Limited Edition To Be Hero X Collaboration Watches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio launched three limited edition G-Shock x To Be Hero X watches for the Chinese market, announced on Weibo.
    2. The first model, GA-110HDS-7APRT, features a blue and white design with a phosphorescent dial and is priced at CNY 1,090 (around $152).
    3. The second model, GA-2100AS-5APRT, has a blue-green design inspired by the character Lucky Cyan, priced at CNY 990 (approximately $138).
    4. The third model, GA-2100-1APRT, inspired by Lin Ling, features a black design with gold accents, priced at CNY 890 (around $124).
    5. All watches will come in special packaging and are set to release in August 2023, but may not be available in the US.


    Casio has unveiled three new G-Shock x To Be Hero X watches specifically for the Chinese market. The announcement was made on Weibo, a popular social media platform, and these watches are anticipated to be limited editions, making them exclusive for this region.

    Details on the First Watch

    The first model is the G-Shock GA-110HDS-7APRT, which is based on the recently launched Hidden Glow Vol. 2 edition. On the strap of this watch, you’ll find the premiere date and time of the anime series, 202504060830, printed in blue, matching the watch’s blue and white aesthetic. This timepiece includes features like a phosphorescent dial, world time capability, and a stopwatch that can measure to 1/1000 of a second. It is expected to be priced at CNY 1,090 (around $152).

    Features of the Second Model

    Next up is the G-Shock GA-2100AS-5APRT, which draws inspiration from the character Lucky Cyan. It sports a blue-green design on a beige strap, along with a beige case and an octagonal bezel made from bio-resin. This hybrid watch is built using the brand’s Carbon Core Guard technology, offers world time settings, and comes with a double LED backlight. The recommended retail price for this model is CNY 990 (approximately $138).

    The Final Watch in the Collection

    The third watch is the GA-2100-1APRT, inspired by the character Lin Ling, also referred to as The Commoner. This model features a black face, casing, and strap, with the strap highlighting a gold design. As another digital-analog option, it supports world time and includes useful features like five daily alarms and a stopwatch that counts in increments of 1/100 of a second. Being the most affordable option, its price is set at CNY 890 (around $124).

    Each Casio G-Shock x To Be Hero X watch will come in specially designed packaging and is expected to hit the shelves in China this August. Although these watches may not be available in the US, the original versions can be found in the Casio store on Amazon.

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  • Meta sEMG-RD Bracelet: Control Devices with Muscle Signals

    Meta sEMG-RD Bracelet: Control Devices with Muscle Signals

    Key Takeaways

    1. Meta has developed a wristband called sEMG-RD that translates muscle electrical signals into digital commands for various functions.
    2. The device uses advanced AI to quickly adapt to new users without lengthy training sessions, improving user experience.
    3. It features enhanced gesture recognition, allowing it to measure the strength of gestures for more complex interactions in VR and AR.
    4. The wristband can read handwritten text at a speed of 20.9 words per minute, showcasing its advanced capabilities.
    5. This technology represents a significant breakthrough in alternative control methods, benefiting users with disabilities and reducing reliance on traditional controllers.


    Meta has just released a study in the journal Nature that introduces a new wristband named sEMG-RD. This gadget is designed to pick up electrical signals from muscles located just under the skin and turns them into digital commands. These commands can perform different functions, like moving the cursor, navigating through a computer desktop, or launching applications.

    Advanced AI Features

    Naturally, the tech giant relies on AI to enhance this device. The newest model can smoothly adapt to new users without needing lengthy training sessions, which was a drawback in earlier models. This improvement is thanks to innovative neural network algorithms that can analyze signals quickly and create tailored control models.

    Enhanced Gesture Recognition

    Furthermore, the developers demonstrated that this device has the ability to gauge the strength of gestures, such as how hard an object is squeezed in a virtual space. This feature opens doors to more complex interactions in virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) environments. Moreover, it can currently read handwritten text at an impressive pace of 20.9 words per minute.

    Meta has been working on similar technologies since 2021. The newest version of the wristband is highlighted as one of the company’s most exciting breakthroughs in alternative control methods, which don’t depend on cameras or traditional controllers. This innovation could also offer significant advantages for users with disabilities.

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  • Garmin Venu Smartwatches Update: New Bug Fixes Released

    Garmin Venu Smartwatches Update: New Bug Fixes Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released a new update, Beta 15.02, for Venu 3 and Venu 3S smartwatches in its Beta Program.
    2. The smartwatches are currently priced at $459.99 on Amazon.
    3. The stable software branch has been on Software Version 14.15 since mid-May.
    4. Beta 15.02 aims to fix two bugs: incorrect wheelchair push counts during swimming and the golf auto-shot feature.
    5. Users can check for the update manually through the Main menu, Settings, System, and Software Update.


    Garmin has rolled out a new update for its Venu 3 and Venu 3S smartwatches that are part of its Beta Program. Currently, these smartwatches are priced at $459.99 on Amazon. Just to recap, the company has been keeping its stable software branch on Software Version 14.15 since mid-May. In the meantime, it has focusing on v15.xx builds, which began over a month ago.

    New Build Released

    Now, the company has begun to distribute the third build in this cycle, labeled as Beta 15.02. Garmin suggests in a forum announcement that this update will automatically be pushed at some point. If it doesn’t show up, users can manually check for Beta 15.02 by going to ‘Check for Updates’ found in Main menu, then Settings, System, and finally Software Update.

    Update Details

    As per the company, Beta 15.02 is a rather small update meant to fix two existing bugs. First, the update aims to resolve a problem where wheelchair push counts might increase during swimming sessions. Secondly, the golf auto-shot feature should function correctly again once Beta 15.02 is installed. For more information, users can refer to Garmin’s forum post.

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