Category: Wearables

  • Casio Pro Trek PRW-61D-2 Launches with “Dragon Eye” Japan-Inspired Design

    Casio Pro Trek PRW-61D-2 Launches with “Dragon Eye” Japan-Inspired Design

    Key Takeaway

    1. The Casio Pro Trek PRW-61D-2 features a themed design inspired by Japan’s natural phenomena, with a textured dial resembling melting snow and ice, and a deep blue bezel reflecting water rings.
    2. It maintains core outdoor functions like Tough Solar, Multi Band 6 radio timekeeping, Triple Sensor, and water resistance, with upgraded materials such as sapphire crystal and bio-based resin components.
    3. The watch’s strap is made from a durable, carbon fiber-reinforced bio-based material, enhancing rigidity and longevity.
    4. Notable for its improved nighttime readability through generous lume and a backlit digital and analog display.
    5. Priced around $500, the PRW-61D-2 is initially available in Japan with a broader release anticipated.

    New Addition to the Pro Trek Collection

    Casio is now introducing a new model to its renowned Pro Trek series, the PRW-61D-2, and this new watch has more that just simple features. Its design tells a story, especially with its visual details that draws extra attention. The watch is based on the existing PRW-61 platform but shines with a fresh dial and bezel design inspired by an impressive natural event in Japan.

    Features & Technical Specifications

    The PRW-61D-2 is positioned on the upper level of the Pro Trek family, keepin the trusted features intact. It includes Tough Solar power, Multi Band 6 radio timekeeping, and Casio’s Triple Sensor system, which includes an altimeter, barometer, compass, and thermometer. It also comes with key outdoor functions such as world time, stopwatch, countdown timer, alarms, and a 100-meter water resistance. This makes it a versatile outdoor timepiece for adventurers.

    Unique Design with Natural Inspiration

    The standout aspect of this watch lay with its artistic execution. The dial features a textured pattern that looks like melting snow and ice, inspired by the “Dragon Eye” formation seen seasonally on Mount Hachimantai. The deep blue bezel symbolizes the water ring encircling this natural spectacle, making the watch stand out with its deliberate thematic design, contrasting with more utilitarian models that are usually more plain.

    Material Upgrades & Build Quality

    This new model also sees improvements in material quality. It is equipped with sapphire crystal glass treated with anti-reflective coating for durability and clarity. The screw-down crown ensures better sealing from the elements. The case and caseback are made from bio-based resin, emphasizing eco-friendly construction.

    Strap and Nighttime Visibility

    The strap is crafted from a carbon fiber-reinforced bio-based material, similarly used in other Casio models like the PRW-B1000, making it more rigid and sturdy. On the face, there’s ample lume on the dial, hands, and indices, which helps with visibility in low-light conditions. The backlight covers both the digital area and analog parts smoothly, promising excellent readability in darkness.

    Pricing and Availability

    It is expected that the watch will retail for about $500 when converted from Japanese yen (¥79,200), and currently, it has been announced only for the Japanese market. Though wider availability is probable, no official confirmation has been given yet. Customers can expect sales to commence in May, with this stylish and functional model making a good impression for outdoor lovers.


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  • Eight New Seiko Watches Featuring Unique Cut-Out Dials

    Eight New Seiko Watches Featuring Unique Cut-Out Dials

    Key Takeaway

    1. Seiko has launched eight new Selection open heart watches in Japan, featuring a cut-out window at 9 o’clock to reveal the movement.
    2. The collection includes four larger models and four smaller ones, with various dial and bezel color options, all housed in silver-tone stainless steel.
    3. All models are powered by the 4R38 automatic calibre with approximately 41 hours of power reserve and a daily accuracy of -35 to +45 seconds.

    Seiko Launches New Selection of Open Heart Watches in Japan

    Seiko has just announced a fresh lineup of eight open heart watches under its Selection range in Japan. These watches are characterized by their simple three-hand analog design, with a distinctive cut-out window located at the 9 o’clock mark on each dial, which showcases the moving parts inside of the watch. The designs cater both to those who prefer larger and smaller wristwatches, making this collection pretty versatile for a wide array of customers.

    Details About The Larger Models

    The larger models are known by their codes HFB001, HFB002, HFB003, and HFB004. They all share the same stainless-steel case design, with dimensions roughly measuring 40.0 mm in diameter, 11.8 mm in thickness, and a length of 46.2 mm. The color options for the cases include silver and gold, with dial colors ranging from silver, blue, to black. The silver bezel comes with the silver dial model, while the gold bezel pairs with the black and silver dials, giving the collection a nice colorful variety.

    Smaller Versions Of The Collection

    On the other hand, the smaller watches are identified by model numbers HFB007, HFB008, HFB009, and HFB010. These feature a more compact case with dimensions close to 33.7 mm in diameter, 10.8 mm in thickness, and 39.6 mm in length. They maintain the same stainless steel case material, but are styled with delicate color accents, including pink dials with matching pink bezels. The silver bezel is paired with a silver dial, and the gold bezel comes with a silver dial as well, giving varied aesthetics that cater to different style preferences.

    Movement and Performance Specs

    Every watch in this Seiko Selection line uses the 4R38 automatic movement. This calibre allows the watch to run approximately 41 hours on a full charge, making it pretty reliable for daily wear. Though some reports mention the daily accuracy fluctuates between -35 to +45 seconds, which isn’t the most precise but still acceptable within typical standards for automatic watches.

    Availability and Market Release

    As for when these new Seiko open heart watches will hit Japanese stores or other countries like the US, there has yet to be any official announcement. It’s uncertain whether these models will be available internationally immediately or only in Japan initially. For those interested in the style, older Seiko open heart models, like the SCVE053, can sometimes be imported or bought through third-party sellers at around $225, but availability can vary.

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  • Garmin Smartwatches Get New Features with Connect Update

    Garmin Smartwatches Get New Features with Connect Update

    Key Takeaway

    1. Expansion of social features, including unilateral account following and integration of LiveTrack and GroupTrack.
    2. Introduction of “Authorized Viewer” for full data access sharing, with enhanced privacy controls.
    3. Improved training plans tailored to different levels and customizable goals.
    4. Enhanced nutrition tracking workflow.
    5. Limited social access for children’s accounts.

    Garmin’s latest smartwatches are closely tied to a smartphone’s Garmin Connect app, providing users with a seamless experience. And yes, there are some exciting updates coming soon that will bring more social features to the table. on the other hand, the current system only allows friend requests that need to be manually confirmed, but soon, you will be able to follow other accounts without needing approval. This change will make social interactions much more fluid. When people follow each other, they’ll still be considered friends, keeping the community tight-knit.

    Enhanced Social and Location Sharing Features

    The new update will not only improve social networking but also embed features like LiveTrack and GroupTrack directly into the app. which means, you’ll be able to easily share your live location with friends during activities like running or cycling. Very handy if you want to keep friends updated in real-time. There’s also a new feature called “Authorized Viewer” that allows one Garmin Connect user to access your data openly. It’s a good way for friends or coaches to review your progress. Of course, privacy is important, so Garmin is reportedly working on advanced settings so users can control exactly who sees what data and when.

    Limited Child Accounts and Better Training Plans

    Kids’ accounts will be quite restricted when it comes to these social functions, keeping them safer online. In addition, Garmin plans to improve training plans that are categorized into beginner, challenger, and achiever levels. So, it’ll be easier to pick plans that match your skill level, and you can set specific goals for your workouts. There’s also mention of refinements to the nutrition tracking workflow, aiming for smoother user experience. Not sure yet if some of these features will need a subscription like Garmin Connect+.

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  • Apple cancels Tim Cook’s Vision Pro headset: Leaked reasons explained

    Apple cancels Tim Cook’s Vision Pro headset: Leaked reasons explained

    Key Takeaway

    1. Apple has reportedly ceased development of the Vision Pro headset due to poor consumer interest and high return rates.
    2. The company is shifting focus toward developing more affordable smart glasses, rather than high-end VR headsets.
    3. Key executives, including CEO-elect John Ternus, favor products with broader market appeal over experimental hardware like the Vision Pro.
    4. Competition in the XR market remains strong, with Meta, Samsung, and others continuing to develop and release new devices.

    Apple’s Vision Pro Project Seems to Have Hit a Dead End

    According to what a lotta sources are saying, Apple has kinda given up on its Vision Pro headset after the recent M5 update didn’t really do well with consumers. The new update in October 2025 brought in the snazzy new M5 chip along with a more comfortable “Dual Knit Band,” but people still didn’t seem to care much. The $3,499 price tag was a big turn off, and the 1.3-pound weight felt like wearing a small football helmet. Like, who wants that for work or just everyday YouTube bingeing?

    Sales Figures and User Feedback

    • Headset sales total just about 600,000 units, which isn’t very impressive.
    • There’s also talk about how many people are returning the headset, and it’s way higher than what you’d see with most other Apple stuff like the Mac Pro wheels which are $1,000.

    Insiders say Apple has now officially stopped working on the Vision Pro and has shifted its tech team to different projects. Interestingly, there used to be plans for a cheaper version called “Vision Air” last year, but that’s been scrapped too. The big boss overseeing the Vision Pro, Mike Rockwell, has now switched gears and is leading Apple’s Siri team. So, it’s up to us to see if that move will bear fruit, especially with Google’s new Gemini AI models helping Siri now.

    Leadership Changes And Future Plans

    Apparently, Apple’s new CEO-elect, John Ternus, wasn’t all that into the Vision Pro to begin with, even though Tim Cook really loved it. It looks like Ternus prefers more practical and broadly appealing products over shiny, niche gadgets. Looks like he might want Apple’s future tech to be more about everyday stuff that most people would actually want to buy instead of high-end, experimental gear. This difference in visions could be why the development stopped, but personally, not much detailed info is out there.

    Shift Toward Smart Glasses and the Competition

    Even though the Vision Pro M5 is still available for now, Apple seems to be changing its game plan. Instead of high-end VR gear, they are focusing more on making smart glasses. These glasses are supposed to look just like Ray-Ban Meta glasses, emphasizing AI features but without any big screens. And the cool part? They’re expected to be way more affordable.

    The XR market isn’t slowing down at all. Meta still rules the scene, though there’s talk that the Quest 4 might not come out until 2027. Samsung continues to make and sell their Galaxy XR headset, and they’re apparently working on the Galaxy Glasses to try to compete with Apple’s emerging smart glasses line.

    Just a reminder though, Apple hasn’t officially confirmed they are stopping the Vision Pro project, so take all this news with a grain of salt. The device is still technically on sale, and official plans might still change down the line.


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  • MemoMind AR Glasses with Display and Discreet Design – Discount Available

    MemoMind AR Glasses with Display and Discreet Design – Discount Available

    Key Takeaway

    1. The MemoMind One is a discreet, camera-free AR headset with an adjustable virtual display distance, scheduled for Kickstarter launch on May 28.
    2. It supports multiple functions including translations, navigation, and calendar management, compatible with Android and iOS.
    3. Available for pre-order at $599, with options for prescription lenses, but some advanced features may require a subscription.

    AR Headset with Innovative Features

    The MemoMind One is an augmented reality headset that is getting ready for its debut on Kickstarter, which will be happening on May 28. It comes with an integrated display that can reach a maximum brightness of 2,000 cd/m², making the virtual images vivid and clear. Users can adjust the virtual viewing distance from just one meter to as far as five meters, giving them flexibility depending on what they wanna see. The design is camera-free which helps keep the look subtle and less intrusive when you use it out and about but does limit some of its AR functionalities.

    Design & Privacy Considerations

    One of the main points about the MemoMind One is its clean, discreet look. Without any built-in camera, it presents an inconspicuous profile, perfect for folks who worry bout privacy concerns. The device, while lacking some advanced AR capabilities that camera-equipped headsets might have, focuses on blending into regular environments, making it less likely to attract unwanted attention in public or social situations.

    Functions & Compatibility

    The headset is pretty versatile for daily use. It can show real-time translations, act as a teleprompter, or provide turn-by-turn navigation with maps displayed right in front of your eyes. You can also stay on top of your schedule by viewing calendar entries without taking out your phone. It works with both Android and iOS devices and offers control through voice commands, gestures, or a small physical button, making it straightforward to operate. Currently, you can pre-order the MemoMind One from $599, and if you need prescription lenses, those can be added for extra fee. Keep in mind, reserving one requires a deposit, and some premium features might be part of a subscription plan.

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  • RingConn Gen 3 Launches Soon with Blood Pressure Monitoring and Haptic Feedback

    RingConn Gen 3 Launches Soon with Blood Pressure Monitoring and Haptic Feedback

    Key Takeaway

    1. The RingConn Gen 3 Smart Ring will launch on May 5th with no subscription required for core features.
    2. It offers a wider range of sizes (US 6 to 15) to fit most users.
    3. Features include haptic feedback, blood pressure risk estimation, and improved sleep and activity tracking with over ten days of battery life.

    Introduction to the New RingConn Gen 3 Smart Ring

    The RingConn Gen 3 Smart Ring was first teased at CES in January, but the company kept tight lipped about the prices and when it will be available for purchase. Despite this silence, they did clarify that, unlike the Oura Ring 4 which costs about $349, this new ring will not require a subscription to access key features.

    Launch Details and Pricing Expectations

    In their latest announcement, the manufacturer now says the RingConn Gen 3 Smart Ring will officially launch on Tuesday, May 5th. It is unclear whether customers will be able to pre-order on that day or if the ring will be ready for immediate shipping. Also, the price remains a mystery for now. For comparison, the previous version, RingConn Gen 2, is priced at $386. The new version promises various improvements, including more size options, with sizes ranging from US 6 to 15, so most people should find a good fit.

    Innovative Features and Functionalities

    This smart ring offers some clever features, such as a vibration motor that can give haptic alerts — for example, when you’ve hit your daily step goal or if there’s an unusual heart rate detected. Plus, it can estimate blood pressure risk, but it doesn’t measure blood pressure directly. Instead, it uses data from sensors like the heart rate, SpO2, skin temperature, and movement. With over ten days of battery life and improved sleep and activity tracking, the RingConn Gen 3 is designed to be a dependable device you can rely on throughout your daily routine.

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  • Inllie Launches Two Stylish Women’s Smart Bracelets with Advanced Health Tracking

    Inllie Launches Two Stylish Women’s Smart Bracelets with Advanced Health Tracking

    Key Takeaway

    1. The Luna Core and Sense Core have distinct designs—bracelet vs. strap—with the Luna Core featuring premium materials like 18K gold and silver powder.
    2. Both devices offer comprehensive health tracking features, with the Sense Core including a built-in display for showing time and health data.
    3. Battery life varies between the two: Luna Core lasts 5-7 days; Sense Core lasts 7 days, with both offering extended standby times.
    4. Priced at $149 (Luna Core) and $109 (Sense Core), with a limited-time $79 discount when purchased together.

    New Wearable Devices from Inllie

    Inllie, a hot new name in the wearable tech world, have just launches their two fresh smart bands, named Luna Core and Sense Core. These gadgets are looking quite different from each other, with the Luna Core sports a traditional bracelet shape while the Sense Core comes with a strap, seeming more like a typical fitness band. When talking about what they’re made of, Luna Core is crafted with a stainless steel bracelet, accented with zinc alloy and epoxy resin, and it even has 18K gold and silver powder for a touch of luxury.

    Build and Material Quality

    Meanwhile, the Sense Core’s body built is mainly zinc alloy with epoxy resin, attached with either a sleek metal milanese strap or a soft silicon band. It’s also equipped with a display, so you can see the time, health stats, and other info right on your wrist. In terms of weight, Luna Core is lighter, tipping the scales at 11.6 grams, or just 0.02 pounds, whereas the Sense Core weighs little more at 16.5 grams or 0.03 pounds. Both are very slim, with a thickness of only 5.6 mm, making them comfortable for daily wear. It looks stylish and practical without feeling bulky.

    HealthFeatures and Durability

    Both wearables have fairly similar features, offering a wide range of health and lifestyle tracking tools. These include monitoring heart rate, blood oxygen levels, stress levels, heart rate variability, female cycle tracking, sleeping patterns—both duration and quality—and step counting along with support for different workout modes. They are designed to be reliable for regular use, having passed standards like GB/T 2423.8 for drops and GB/T 2423.10 for vibrations, so they can withstand everyday knocks and shakes.

    Battery Life and Pricing

    The Luna Core comes with a 26 mAh battery, promising an impressive 5 to 7 days of usage under regular conditions, and up to 12 days when on standby. On the other hand, Sense Core has a slightly smaller 18 mAh battery, which lasts about 7 days of normal use, with standby time stretching up to 10 days. As for cost, the Luna Core sells for $149, while the Sense Core is a little cheaper at $109. An interesting deal makes it possible to buy both for only $229, giving a big discount of $79—definitely a tempting offer for those wanting to mix and match. Remember, this deal won’t last forever, so grab it while you can. You can find more info about these devices directly from Inllie’s website.


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    • Galaxy Glasses: Samsung’s Android XR Glasses with Gemini Technology

      Galaxy Glasses: Samsung’s Android XR Glasses with Gemini Technology

      Key Takeaway

      1. Samsung is developing new smart glasses called Galaxy Glasses (“Jinju”) that will support Google’s Android XR OS, featuring a camera and AI assistant, Gemini.
      2. The Galaxy Glasses will be lightweight (around 50 grams), lack a display, and include features like Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi, directional speakers, and photochromic lenses.
      3. Expected pricing for Galaxy Glasses is between $379 and $499, with a potential release in 2024, possibly announced at the Galaxy Z Unpacked event.
      4. Samsung is also working on a more advanced pair of smart glasses (“Haean”) with micro-LED displays, anticipated to launch in 2027 at a higher price point of $600–$900.

      New Samsung Galaxy Smart Glasses Leak

      Last October was a busy month for Samsung, they announced their first device that runs on Google’s Android XR, called the Galaxy XR. Now, there’s a new rumor going around about another piece of wearable tech that Samsung is working on. It seems like a pair of smart glasses that could be the next big thing in their lineup. The information comes from a pretty reliable leak, and it sheds some light on what these glasses might be like.

      Details on the Speculations

      When Google introduced Android XR late in 2024, they said it will support not just headsets but also smart glasses. Samsung, who already have a headset out, seems to be focusing more on these smart eyepieces now. The leak, coming from Android Headlines and OnLeaks, talks about a device called “Jinju,” which is supposedly the code name for the Samsung Galaxy Glasses. They are expected to enter a competitive market, standing against devices like the Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2) and Huawei AI Glasses. Interestingly, these glasses won’t have a display, but they will come equipped with a camera instead.

      What Features Will They Have?

      One major feature that’s highlighted is support for Gemini, Samsung’s AI assistant. This means users will be able to ask questions, get translations, or even find directions, all through voice commands. The specs reported include a Snapdragon AR1 processor, a 12 Megapixel Sony IMX681 camera, and a small 155mAh battery. They’ll utilize Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi, and will feature directional speakers along with photochromic lenses that change tint based on lighting conditions. These glasses are very light, weighing about 50 grams. Actual weight might vary if different styles are released. Interestingly, Samsung previously worked with Warby Parker and Gentle Monster on smart glasses, which makes these potentially similar or the same glasses.

      Pricing and Expected Release

      The rumored price for these Galaxy Glasses falls between $379 and $499. That price range is quite comparable to the Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2), which can be found on different retail sites. It’s not confirmed if Samsung will stick to this price once they officially launch them. Aside from these, Samsung is also reportedly developing another set of smart glasses under the codename “Haean.” These are expected to feature a micro-LED display like the Meta Ray-Ban Display, and they could cost more—around $600 to $900. The Haean glasses are believed to be released in 2027, while the Galaxy Glasses might be announced this year, possibly during the Galaxy Z Unpacked event.

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    • Garmin Launches Recovery Mode to Fix Smartwatch Errors

      Garmin Launches Recovery Mode to Fix Smartwatch Errors

      Key Takeaway

      1. Garmin smartwatches are introducing a new recovery mode to address severe software issues.
      2. Recovery mode is triggered automatically during startup when problems are detected and offers various repair and troubleshooting options.
      3. Users can attempt automatic repairs, manually terminate activities, delete maps, or reset the device to factory settings within recovery mode.
      4. The feature is currently in beta testing and available on select devices, with limited options for downgrading firmware versions.

      New Recovery Mode in Garmin Smartwatches

      Garmin’s latest update has introduced a new feature called recovery mode, which can be a real game-changer for users who face serious issues with their smartwatches. But frankly, this is not exactly what most people would like to come across while using their device, especially since it’s meant to fix what could be major glitches. The problem is that when software issues happen, fixing them isn’t always straightforward or quick, leading to a lot of frustration. One big pain point is that Garmin doesn’t usually offer official options for downgrading firmware versions, leaving users stuck with the latest updates and limited recovery options in the rare case of problems.

      Automatic Detection and User Options

      • When your Garmin watch encounters a startup problem, the recovery mode can be triggered automatically.
      • You will see a menu with numerous options, including trying an automatic repair that aims to fix common errors without deleting your data.
      • If needed, you also can manually stop any activity that might be causing the issue.
      • Another option is to delete saved maps locally to free up space or fix corrupt data.

      Manual Firmware Installation & Reset

      Beyond basic troubleshooting, the recovery mode makes provision for connecting your watch to a computer via USB. This allows for a hands-on approach, where more advanced users can install firmware manually—something that could be tricky for most regular users. And if everything else fails, there’s always the option to reset the device completely to its original factory settings, wiping all data and settings in the process. Garmin has started to roll out this recovery tool gradually, specifically to select devices under the beta testing phase, indicating that it’s still a work in progress.

      Current Status & Outlook

      As reported by Gadgets & Wearables, this feature is still being tested and will gradually become available for more Garmin watches in the future. Users probably hope they won’t need to use it often, but it’s reassuring to know that there is a safety net when things go wrong. The recovery mode aims to provide users with a way to fix serious software problems independently, but it also highlights Garmin’s acknowledgment that some issues can’t be resolved through simple updates or resets alone.

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    • Garmin Smartwatch Major Update Brings New Features and Improvements

      Garmin Smartwatch Major Update Brings New Features and Improvements

      Key Takeaway

      1. Garmin is releasing beta version 17.19 for the Venu X1, addressing specific bugs and adding improvements.
      2. The update resolves call acceptance issues, enhances key functionality during climbing activities, and fixes map layer display problems.
      3. Users must manually request the beta update via the device settings, as it is not automatically distributed.

      Garmin’s Venu X1 Gets New Beta Firmware

      Garmin has recently rolled out a new beta firmware version for the Venu X1, signaling an ongoing commitment to refining their premium smartwatch. The last official update, version 16.40, was released earlier this month and primarily focused on fixing bugs that appeared following the previous v16.37 release about a month prior. The price for the Venu X1 on Amazon is now around $699, highlighting its position in the market as a high-end device.

      Upcoming Software Enhancements

      The latest beta, v17.19, is now available to owners who’ve enrolled in the beta program and is set to bring several improvements. Interestingly, Garmin opted to skip v17.16 — a version issued to other models like the Venu 4 and Vivoactive 6 — and instead, move straight to v17.19. This update reportedly includes a dozen or more refinements from previous versions, though it remains somewhat unclear whether v17.19 is a continuation of v16.40 or another earlier v17.xx release that was never in public domain.

      What Does Beta 17.19 Fix?

      • Responds to user complaints about incoming call handling during certain scenarios.
      • Enhances button functionality during intense physical activities such as bouldering and indoor climbing.
      • Fixes a mapping problem where the popularity layer wouldn’t load after user disables routing.

      Manual Update Process

      Unlike some firmware releases, Garmin does not automatically push out Beta v17.19, meaning users need to initiate the update manually. To do so, they should go to the main menu, then Settings, System, followed by Software, and finally tap ‘Check for Updates’. Users should be aware that this process is essential to experience the newest improvements and bug fixes that Garmin has officially listed for this update.

      Official Change Log

      Although Garmin hasn’t released the comprehensive official changelog for v17.19 in detail, the key highlights focus on functionality improvements and bug rectifications, ensuring smoother operation during calls and navigation activities. The update aims to enhance overall user experience and fix lingering issues, bolstering the Venu X1’s reputation as a premium fitness-focused smartwatch.

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