Category: Wearables

  • New Casio Edifice EFR-539DE Watches with 3D Bezel Design

    New Casio Edifice EFR-539DE Watches with 3D Bezel Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. Three new Casio Edifice EFR-539DE models introduced: blue (EFR-539DE-2AV), green (EFR-539DE-3AV), and gray (EFR-539DE-8AV).
    2. Each watch features a standard chronograph design with a 1/10th second stopwatch function and a date display.
    3. The build includes stainless steel and aluminum, with water resistance up to 100 meters and a two-year battery life.
    4. Watch dimensions are 54.1 x 49.5 x 11.7 mm and weight is 184 grams.
    5. Release date and pricing remain unclear, with potential availability suggested for July.

    Three fresh Casio Edifice EFR-539DE watches have popped up on the brand’s global site. These timepieces are characterized as sizable standard chronographs, featuring a noticeable bezel, and they come in three different colors.

    Watch Details

    The Casio Edifice EFR-539DE-2AV (blue), EFR-539DE-3AV (green), and EFR-539DE-8AV (gray) are analog watches. Each model includes three hands for seconds, minutes, and hours, along with the date shown on the right side of the dial. The dial displays three smaller dials that are connected to a 1/10th second stopwatch function. This stopwatch can measure split time, elapsed time, and times for 1st and 2nd places.

    Build Quality

    These watches have a casing and bezel crafted from a mix of stainless steel and aluminum, with the band also made of stainless steel. They are designed to be water resistant up to 100 meters, and Casio claims that the replaceable SR920SW battery lasts around two years. The dimensions of each watch are 54.1 x 49.5 x 11.7 mm (~2.1 x 1.9 x 0.5 inches), and they weigh 184 grams (~6.5 ounces).

    Release Information

    There is no clear information on when the Casio Edifice EFR-539DE watches will actually hit the market, nor what their pricing will be. Although the product listings on the company’s global website suggest a potential release in July, it is still uncertain if or when they will be available in countries such as the US, UK, or Netherlands.

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    New Casio Edifice EFR-539DE Watches with 3D Bezel Design

     

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  • Apple Vision Pro 2 Launching in 2025 with Two Key Upgrades

    Apple Vision Pro 2 Launching in 2025 with Two Key Upgrades

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Apple Vision Pro, powered by the M2 chip, received a lukewarm response due to its high price of $3,499 and limited technological advancements at launch.
    2. A new version of the Vision Pro is expected by the end of 2024, featuring slight design changes and a more comfortable headband for extended use.
    3. The upcoming headset is likely to use the Apple M4 chip, while the M5 chip is projected for release in late 2025.
    4. Despite updates, the Vision Pro may struggle to gain popularity unless it has a larger app ecosystem, especially with the anticipated visionOS 26 software upgrades.
    5. Apple is planning a more affordable consumer headset, codenamed “N100,” along with smart glasses that focus on AI features without a display.

    Powered by the Apple M2 chip, the Apple Vision Pro didn’t exactly push the limits of technology when it was first introduced back in February 2024. It faced a rather tepid response, partly because of its high starting price of $3,499. As reported by Bloomberg recently, a new version is expected to come out by the end of this year, featuring only slight modifications to its design and specifications. One key improvement is a new headband that aims to enhance comfort for users during long periods of wearing.

    Speculations on Future Chips

    While the Apple M5 is projected to launch in the latter part of 2025, the upcoming headset will probably still use the Apple M4 chip, an ARM processor that first appeared over a year ago with the iPad Pro, which is around $899 on Amazon. Bloomberg believes that these updates won’t be enough to make the Vision Pro a big hit in the market. However, with software upgrades in visionOS 26, the new headset might become a more appealing option for developers and businesses.

    The Path to Wider Adoption

    For Apple to achieve broader acceptance of its consumer-centric headset, expected sometime in 2027, it’ll need a much larger app ecosystem. This device, which goes by the codename “N100,” is said to be much lighter and more budget-friendly. Additionally, Apple is reportedly developing a pair of smart glasses that don’t have a display but come packed with speakers, microphones, cameras, and, most crucially, AI features.

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  • Amazfit Balance 2: Zepp Health Fixes Smartwatch Features

    Amazfit Balance 2: Zepp Health Fixes Smartwatch Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Amazfit is aware of user concerns about missing features like the BioCharge metric and Golf app on the Balance 2 smartwatch.
    2. The BioCharge feature is being enhanced for the smartwatch form factor and is currently available for Helio Strap users, but no timeline for Balance 2 availability has been given.
    3. The Golf feature was removed in some regions due to low user interest, with no current information on which countries can access it.
    4. Many users have requested the return of the Golf feature, but its future availability remains uncertain.
    5. A recent software update for the Balance 2 smartwatch added scuba diving mode, three HYROX Training Modes, and a safety light feature, but the timeline for the next update is unknown.

    Amazfit has listened to the concerns of Balance 2 smartwatch users regarding a few features that seem to be missing. This smartwatch was first introduced in China in May 2025, with its global launch happening in June.

    User Concerns on Reddit

    On the social media platform Reddit, many customers have expressed confusion about the absence of the new BioCharge metric and the Golf app on their Balance 2 smartwatches. Both features were highlighted in product listings and by influencers. A spokesperson for Amazfit clarified that the absence of BioCharge is a deliberate choice. The company is currently enhancing this feature “specifically for the watch form factor,” and it is already available for Helio Strap users. However, there is no clear timeline for when it will be accessible to Balance 2 smartwatch users, although it is said to be in the final stages of beta testing.

    Golf Feature Update

    Regarding the Golf feature, it appears that it was removed in certain regions because early users did not show enough interest. The company has not yet provided a list of which countries can access the Golf mode. Nevertheless, the same representative from Amazfit mentioned that many users have been asking for its return. It is still uncertain if the Golf feature will be made available again for users in the future.

    Recent Software Update

    In China, Amazfit rolled out a software update for the Balance 2 smartwatch at the end of June, which is currently priced at $299.99 on Amazon. This update added the previously advertised scuba diving mode, along with three HYROX Training Modes and a safety light feature for outdoor workouts during the night. It is yet to be determined when the next software update for the global Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch will be released.

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  • Garmin Introduces Google Health Connect Support for Wearables

    Garmin Introduces Google Health Connect Support for Wearables

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin smartwatches now support Google Maps integration, but only when connected to an Android device.
    2. The integration includes models like Venu 3, Vivoactive 5, Fenix 7, and Fenix 8.
    3. Garmin introduced Google Health Connect, allowing data syncing with third-party services.
    4. Data transfer to Health Connect is one-way; Garmin Connect cannot receive data back.
    5. Users must consent to data syncing, and it requires Android 14 or higher to function.

    Yesterday, Garmin made an exciting announcement about the integration of Google Maps for several of its smartwatch models, including the Venu 3, Vivoactive 5, and the pricier Fenix 7 and Fenix 8, which is currently priced at $999.99 on Amazon. It’s important to note that this new feature is only available when the smartwatches are connected to an Android device. Sadly, Garmin hasn’t clarified if or when iOS users might get access to this functionality.

    New Features Unveiled

    In addition to the Google Maps update, Garmin also mentioned another noteworthy feature in the same press release, concerning Google Health Connect. This integration was only briefly mentioned, which is puzzling. However, it allows data collected by Garmin smartwatches to be synced with various third-party services, and a complete list of these services is accessible on the Google Play Store. The types of data that Garmin can transfer to Health Connect include:

    – Activity Data
    – Wellness Data

    Important Considerations

    It’s crucial to understand that the data transfer from Garmin to Health Connect is a one-way street. This means that the Garmin Connect app will not be able to receive any data back from Health Connect. Users must also agree to allow Garmin to sync their data with Health Connect, as this process does not happen automatically. Additionally, synchronization is only available for devices running Android 14 or higher. For further information, you can visit Garmin’s support page.

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Fixes Chart Issues

    Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Fixes Chart Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is rolling out beta version 10.16 for selected Instinct 3 smartwatches, following the release of version 10.15.
    2. The 10.16 update includes a fix for the Instinct 3 AMOLED model, addressing issues with post-activity summary charts.
    3. Users have reported crashes when accessing Solar or Hydration widgets and checking the Morning Report, which Garmin has not officially acknowledged.
    4. The beta update will be distributed over-the-air (OTA) via the Garmin Connect Mobile app or Garmin Express.
    5. The release date for the public version of software 10.xx for all Instinct 3 models remains uncertain.

    Garmin has begun the rollout of beta version 10.16 for selected Instinct 3 smartwatches, just about a week after the previous beta, version 10.15. This earlier update introduced new Rep Alerts for Jump Rope activities for the Solar and AMOLED models, along with numerous bug fixes.

    Update Information

    The latest beta update, version 10.16, is the second in the 10.xx testing series and includes a fix for the Instinct 3 AMOLED model. This update is said to correct a problem with the post-activity summary charts, although specifics regarding this issue have not been shared.

    User Concerns

    Recent discussions on forums indicate that some users of the Instinct 3 have faced issues where the smartwatch crashes when accessing the Solar or Hydration widgets, as well as when checking their Morning Report. Garmin has not yet recognized this issue, leaving it uncertain when users affected can expect a fix.

    Update Distribution

    Garmin mentions that the beta version 10.16 will be distributed over-the-air (OTA). This means that eligible smartwatch users will receive the update through the Garmin Connect Mobile app while connected to their phones via Bluetooth or through Garmin Express. However, it remains unclear when the public version of software 10.xx will be released for all users of the Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct E models (currently priced at $249.99 on Amazon).

    Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Fixes Chart Issues
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  • New Casio G-Shock x Hidden Collaboration Watch Launching Soon

    New Casio G-Shock x Hidden Collaboration Watch Launching Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new G-Shock x Hidden watch is part of the “In the Blink of an Eye” collection, launching in July 2025.
    2. The watch features an all-white design with dark green highlights and an LED backlight that illuminates the Hidden logo in orange.
    3. Expected features include a stopwatch, countdown timer, multi-function alarm, and water resistance up to 200 meters.
    4. The official release is on July 11th at 3 PM, with early access for members at 12 PM; price details are not yet available.
    5. It’s uncertain if the watch will be sold on Casio’s US online store, and the previous collaboration sold out quickly.

    A new watch from the collaboration between Casio G-Shock and Hidden is coming soon. The Japanese watch maker and the streetwear label first teamed up in 2023 with the DW5600HDN227. This latest model is part of Hidden’s “In the Blink of an Eye” collection, which is set to launch in July 2025.

    Design Details

    The G-Shock x Hidden watch features an all-white casing, bezel, strap, and digital display surround. Dark green highlights are present, including the Hidden logo located on the lower strap, along with black wire protectors for the face. When the LED backlight is activated, the Hidden logo lights up in orange. Assuming this model retains the same dimensions as other DW-5600 series watches like the DW5600UE (currently priced at $35.80 on Amazon), it will measure approximately 48.9 x 42.8 x 13.4 mm (around 1.9 x 1.7 x 0.5 inches).

    Expected Features

    This new G-Shock x Hidden timepiece is anticipated to have features similar to the recent DW5600WW-7 model. It will likely include a stopwatch that measures to the 1/100th of a second, a countdown timer, hourly time signals, and a multi-function alarm. Additionally, it is expected to be water-resistant up to 200 meters and have a battery life that lasts around five years. The watch should also come with a fully automatic calendar and maintain accuracy within 15 seconds each month.

    Release Information

    The Casio G-Shock x Hidden DW-5600 series watch will be available at two of Hidden’s online stores. The official release is slated for 3 PM on Friday, July 11th, at hiddenppf.com. However, members of hiddenrsrch.com can access the purchase early from 12 PM on the same day. The price for this product has not yet been disclosed by the company.

    It remains uncertain whether this watch will also be available at Casio’s US online store. It’s noteworthy that the first watch from this collaboration sold out rapidly; the availability of this new model is still unclear.

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    New Casio G-Shock x Hidden Collaboration Watch Launching Soon
  • Casio Edifice EFK100 Watches Launching Soon in the US

    Casio Edifice EFK100 Watches Launching Soon in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio is launching the Edifice EFK100 series watches in the US, following their availability in the UK and Japan.
    2. The EFK100D-2A and EFK100D-7A are priced at $280, while the EFK100CD-1A is priced at $300, with a release expected in July 2025.
    3. The EFK100 series features mechanical movement, a 40-hour power reserve, and a transparent case back.
    4. Each watch is made with a stainless steel case, sapphire crystal glass, and offers water resistance up to 100 meters.
    5. The green dial model (EFK100D-3A) and the high-end EFK100XPB-1A are not confirmed for the US market.

    Casio has made a big announcement regarding the launch of their new Edifice EFK100 series watches in the US. These watches are already set to be available in other places like the UK and Japan. Back in July 2025, there was a rumor that these timepieces were coming to the country.

    Product Availability

    The Casio EFK100D-2A (with a blue dial), EFK100D-7A (featuring a white dial), and EFK100CD-1A (which has a black forged carbon dial) have shown up on the brand’s online store in the US. The product listings show that the EFK100D-2A and EFK100D-7A will be priced at $280, while the EFK100CD-1A will be available for $300. These watches are expected to be released sometime in July 2025, but a specific date is not yet known. Interested buyers can sign up for email notifications about the launch by creating a free Casio ID account.

    Specifications and Features

    The Casio Edifice EFK100 series marks the brand’s debut in the mechanical watch category. These watches operate on a mechanical movement that has an average daily rate of -35 to +45 seconds and boasts a power reserve of 40 hours. You can see the movement through the transparent case back, and the analog dial comes with three hands along with a date display. Each model is crafted with a stainless steel case and strap, while the dial is shielded by sapphire crystal glass. They are resistant to magnetism, can withstand water up to 100 meters, and also include a hacking function for the seconds hand.

    Other Variants

    It remains uncertain if the green dial model, known as the Casio Edifice EFK100D-3A, will be launched in the US at any time. Additionally, it seems that the high-end EFK100XPB-1A version, which features a forged carbon dial and casing, will not be coming to the US; this particular model has recently been made available in the UK.

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  • Samsung Galaxy Unpacked: New Galaxy Watch Ultra with Health Features

    Samsung Galaxy Unpacked: New Galaxy Watch Ultra with Health Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Introduction of antioxidant index measurement for health monitoring, included in both Galaxy Watch Ultra and Watch8 series.
    2. Storage upgrade from 32 GB in the 2024 model to 64 GB in the 2025 Galaxy Watch Ultra.
    3. Retains the Exynos W1000 chip and 2 GB of RAM with largely unchanged specifications from last year.
    4. Equipped with a 590 mAh battery, offering up to 100 hours of use in power-saving mode and a 10 ATM water resistance rating.
    5. Features a 1.5-inch display with 3,000 nits peak brightness, Quick Button, and dual-frequency GPS, priced at €699 in Europe.

    Along with the Galaxy Watch 8 series, Samsung has launched an updated version of the Galaxy Watch Ultra. The specifications are quite alike to the 2024 model, but there are some notable differences. One such difference is the introduction of a new health monitoring feature: antioxidant index measurement.

    New Health Monitoring Feature

    This feature is also included in the smartwatches from the Watch8 series. According to Samsung, it can measure carotenoids, which may help users evaluate the healthiness of their diet. In addition to this new health tracking capability, the internal storage of the 2025 Galaxy Watch Ultra has been enhanced.

    Storage Upgrade

    While the 2024 model (currently priced at $299.99 on Amazon) has 32 GB of storage, the 2025 version boosts that to 64 GB. The latest Watch Ultra continues to be powered by the Exynos W1000 chip, and it retains 2 GB of RAM. As for the other specifications, they are largely unchanged from last year’s model.

    Battery Life and Durability

    The 2025 Galaxy Watch Ultra comes equipped with a 590 mAh battery, which is claimed to provide up to 100 hours of use in power-saving mode. As a rugged device, it boasts a 10 ATM water resistance rating, and Samsung claims that the titanium chassis can withstand daily wear and tear.

    Another key feature of the updated Galaxy Watch Ultra includes a 1.5-inch display with a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, a Quick Button, and dual-frequency GPS. The new smartwatch is priced at €699 in Europe, and it is offered in Blue Titanium, Grey Titanium, White Titanium, and Black Titanium.

    Samsung Galaxy Unpacked: New Galaxy Watch Ultra with Health Features
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  • Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic Launch: Signature Bezel & Quick Button

    Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic Launch: Signature Bezel & Quick Button

    Key Takeaways

    1. Unique Design and Rotating Bezel: The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic features a distinctive design and includes a rotating bezel for easy navigation without touching the screen.

    2. Quick Button for Accessibility: An additional Quick Button allows users to quickly access features and apps, enhancing user experience.

    3. Increased Storage: The Classic version offers 64 GB of storage compared to 32 GB in the standard model, while maintaining the same RAM and processor.

    4. New Health Tracking Capabilities: It introduces a health tracking feature that measures antioxidant index levels, helping users assess their diet and lifestyle.

    5. Improved Battery and Durability: The smartwatch has a larger 445 mAh battery, IP68 and 5 ATM ratings for water and dust resistance, and comes in two colors with competitive pricing.

    The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic was unveiled at the recent Unpacked event. This version showcases a unique design in comparison to the regular smartwatch, with a significant highlight being its rotating bezel. This feature serves as an input method, enabling users to navigate the user interface without the need to touch the screen.

    New Input Options

    In addition to the rotating bezel, the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is equipped with an extra button called the Quick Button. This button serves as another input option, allowing users to swiftly access various features or open apps. However, these are not the only changes that set this smartwatch apart from its standard counterpart.

    Enhanced Storage and Display

    The standard Galaxy Watch 8 comes with 32 GB of storage, while the Classic version offers a notable increase to 64 GB. Despite this difference, it retains the same 2 GB of RAM and the Exynos W1000 SoC. The smartwatch is sold in a single size of 46 mm, featuring a 1.3-inch display with impressive peak brightness of 3,000 nits and a pixel density of 327 ppi.

    Health Tracking Features

    Like the base model, the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic introduces a new health tracking capability: measuring antioxidant index levels. According to Samsung, this smartwatch can assess carotenoid levels, which may assist users in evaluating the healthiness of their diet and overall lifestyle.

    Battery Life and Durability

    Other prominent features of the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic include a larger 445 mAh battery compared to the standard version, with IP68 and 5 ATM ratings for dust and water resistance, and compatibility with Google Gemini. The smartwatch comes in two color choices: Black and White, with a price tag of €529 in the EU, while the LTE variant is priced at €579.

    Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic Launch: Signature Bezel & Quick Button
  • Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Launch: Bright Display & Health Features

    Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Launch: Bright Display & Health Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Display Improvements: The Galaxy Watch 8 has a brighter display with a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, an upgrade from the 2,000 nits of the Watch 7.

    2. Performance Enhancements: It uses an improved version of the Exynos W1000 SoC, along with 2 GB of RAM and 32 GB of storage, providing quicker and smoother operation.

    3. Design and Durability: The smartwatch features a thinner aluminum frame, Sapphire Glass, and high water and dust resistance ratings of 5 ATM, IP68, and MIL-STD-810H.

    4. Health Tracking Features: It can measure skin carotenoid levels to help monitor health and includes a Health App for improving health and sleep patterns.

    5. Battery and Connectivity: The Galaxy Watch 8 has a battery life of up to 435 mAh with Fast Wireless Charging, and offers LTE connectivity as an option.

    At the most recent Unpacked event, Samsung introduced the latest Galaxy Watch 8. This smartwatch comes in two different sizes: 40 mm featuring a 1.3-inch display and 44 mm with a 1.5-inch screen. There’s also an option for LTE connectivity. In Europe, the prices for the non-LTE models are €379 and €409, while adding cellular support costs an additional €30.

    Upgrades Over Previous Models

    The new Samsung smartwatch has several notable enhancements compared to its predecessor. One major improvement is the display, which is now brighter with a peak brightness of 3,000 nits. This is significantly better than the Watch 7’s maximum brightness of 2,000 nits, making it easier to see in bright conditions.

    Performance Enhancements

    Internally, the Galaxy Watch 8 still uses the Exynos W1000 SoC, but Samsung claims this version is better. It’s designed for quicker and smoother performance. The SoC works together with 2 GB of RAM and 32 GB of storage, and the device operates on the updated One UI 8 Watch, which is based on Wear OS.

    Design and Durability

    In terms of design, the Galaxy Watch 8 has a tougher aluminum frame that is said to be 11% thinner than the previous model (the 40 mm non-LTE is currently available for $159.99 on Amazon). It also features “Sapphire Glass” on the top and has impressive water and dust resistance ratings of 5 ATM, IP68, and MIL-STD-810H.

    One standout feature of this Samsung smartwatch is its ability to track antioxidant levels. The company states that it can measure skin carotenoid levels, which may help users decrease their risk of certain diseases and maintain a healthy diet.

    Health and Additional Features

    Samsung also highlights more health-oriented features available in the Health App designed to assist users in improving their overall health and sleep patterns. Other key features of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 include a dual-band GNSS module, an impressive battery of up to 435 mAh with Fast Wireless Charging, and support for Google Gemini. The smartwatch can be purchased in Silver and Graphite colors.

    Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Launch: Bright Display & Health Features
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