Category: Wearables

  • Amazfit Balance 2 Update Adds New Diving Mode Feature

    Amazfit Balance 2 Update Adds New Diving Mode Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. Zepp Health has launched an upgrade for the Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch, which debuted in May 2025 and is now available worldwide.

    2. The update introduces three new HYROX Training Modes: free training, training templates, and timed training (including TABATA, AMRAP, and EMOM formats).

    3. A new scuba diving mode is included, allowing dives up to 45 m (148 ft) and supporting various diving modes (single cylinder, air, nitrox, and no-stop).

    4. Additional features in the update include a safety light for nighttime workouts and improved navigation options with topographic maps.

    5. The update is currently being rolled out in China, with no announced timeline for availability in other regions.

    Zepp Health has revealed the first upgrade for the Balance 2 smartwatch. This device made its debut in China in May 2025 and has since become available worldwide, along with the brand’s Helio Strap (currently priced at $99.99 on Amazon).

    New Training Features

    On Weibo, a popular social media site in China, Zepp Health disclosed information regarding the latest update for the Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch. This update is expected to introduce three innovative HYROX Training Modes to the device: free training, training templates, and timed training, which includes TABATA, AMRAP, and EMOM formats for the timed training.

    Scuba Diving Mode and More

    The new recreational scuba diving mode is finally here, capable of reaching a maximum dive depth of 45 m (approximately 148 ft). It supports single cylinder, air and nitrox, as well as no-stop diving modes. Additional features consist of a safety light for nighttime workouts and a navigation option for topographic maps. Moreover, there are improvements in the app’s display, activity lists, and the layout of maps and track navigation.

    The update seems to be currently being rolled out for users of the Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch in China. However, the company has not yet provided information on when it will be available in other regions.

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  • Garmin Updates High-End Smartwatches with Activity and Focus Mode Enhancements

    Garmin Updates High-End Smartwatches with Activity and Focus Mode Enhancements

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is rapidly advancing beta development for Fenix 8 and Tactix 8 smartwatches, with Beta Version 17.12 now available.
    2. Beta Version 17.12 introduces 11 changes, including 6 bug fixes and 4 new features like Focus Mode power controls.
    3. One key bug fix addresses user interface slowdowns after saving an activity.
    4. Users must manually request the update for their smartwatches through the system settings.
    5. The Fenix 8 and Tactix 8 smartwatches are currently priced at $1,299.99 on Amazon.

    Garmin is swiftly advancing its beta development for smartwatches such as the Fenix 8 and Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299.99 on Amazon). Just last week, the company released Beta version 17.11, which included 58 alterations from the latest stable update for these smartwatches. However, it is already rolling out a new version that promises even more enhancements.

    New Updates on the Horizon

    The latest update, dubbed Beta Version 17.12, introduces 11 changes. This update includes 6 bug fixes, one of which aims to eliminate user interface slowdowns that occur after an activity is saved. Additionally, it brings four new features, such as Focus Mode power controls and insights on resting heart rate accessible via the heart rate widget.

    Manual Update Required

    Similar to Beta Version 17.11, Beta Version 17.12 will not be automatically provided to Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 smartwatches that are part of Garmin’s Beta Program. Users will need to manually request the firmware package by going to Menu, System, and Software Update on their smartwatch, then clicking ‘Check for Updates’. For more information, take a look at Garmin’s forum post. The comprehensive changelog for Beta Version 17.12 is listed below:

    Garmin’s

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  • Samsung One UI 8 Watch Beta: New Features for Galaxy Watch 7 & Ultra

    Samsung One UI 8 Watch Beta: New Features for Galaxy Watch 7 & Ultra

    Key Takeaways

    1. One UI 8 Watch will be available in July for Galaxy Watch models starting from Galaxy Watch5, with a public beta currently exclusive to Galaxy Watch7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra in the U.S. and South Korea.
    2. The update includes a home screen feature that displays six most-used apps and allows users to list apps alphabetically.
    3. New features include a “Now Bar” for current background activities and a “double-pinch” gesture to trigger functions.
    4. Enhanced user interaction includes a new charging animation, the ability to mark reminders as important, and clearing notifications with a wrist shake.
    5. Additional health and fitness features include the Antioxidant Index, Running Coach, Vascular Load, and Bedtime Guidance.

    Samsung has confirmed that One UI 8 Watch will be available in July for all Galaxy Watch models starting from the Galaxy Watch5. Reports from various users indicate that the company has now launched a public beta version in the United States and South Korea, but it’s currently exclusive to the Galaxy Watch7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra. Typically, Samsung rolls out beta versions to other regions shortly after the U.S. launch, and users interested in trying it out can sign up for the One UI Beta Program.

    New Features and Innovations

    In addition to the new health features previously announced, One UI 8 Watch brings some minor updates. Firstly, the home screen will showcase six of the most-used apps at the forefront, although this feature can be turned off if desired. Furthermore, apps can now be listed alphabetically rather than shown in a grid format. This 1.8 GB update also includes the “Now Bar,” which presents current background activities much like the Galaxy S25. Users can utilize a “double-pinch” gesture to trigger a chosen function.

    Enhancements in User Interaction

    Alongside these updates, Samsung has added a fresh animation that plays when the Galaxy Watch is plugged into a charger. Users can now designate reminders as “important” by marking them with a star, which will then appear at the top of their lists. Notifications can be cleared by a simple wrist shake. One UI 8 Watch organizes multiple notifications from the same application for easier viewing. All the additional health and fitness features, such as the Antioxidant Index, Running Coach, Vascular Load, and Bedtime Guidance, are detailed in this article.

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    Samsung One UI 8 Watch Beta: New Features for Galaxy Watch 7 & Ultra
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  • Garmin Smartwatch Update Fixes Bluetooth Connectivity Issues

    Garmin Smartwatch Update Fixes Bluetooth Connectivity Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released beta version 9.25 for Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct E smartwatches.
    2. The update includes “miscellaneous bug fixes and improvements,” similar to the previous beta version 9.23.
    3. A specific bug fix addresses a Bluetooth connectivity issue for Instinct 3 Solar and Instinct E models.
    4. The update is available over the air (OTA) and can also be manually installed using Garmin Express.
    5. The timeline for a stable software update in the 9.xx series is still unknown.

    Garmin has introduced beta version 9.25 for its Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct E smartwatches. This update comes shortly after beta version 9.23, which provided some minor bug fixes and enhancements for these devices.

    What’s New in the Update?

    According to a post on the Garmin forum, the change log mentions “miscellaneous bug fixes and improvements.” This wording is exactly the same as what was used in beta version 9.23, leaving customers in the dark about the specific advantages these updates might bring. However, there is a specific bug fix highlighted for the Instinct 3 Solar and Instinct E models (current price $299.99 at Amazon); a Bluetooth connectivity issue related to these watches has reportedly been addressed.

    How to Access the Update

    Garmin has announced that beta version 9.25 has been rolled out over the air (OTA) to all users of the Garmin Instinct 3 AMOLED, Instinct 3 Solar, and Instinct E smartwatches. Users should have received the update via Bluetooth when paired with the Garmin Connect app, but it can also be manually installed using Garmin Express. The timing for when a stable software update will be available in the 9.xx series remains uncertain.

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  • Apple Developing 7 Headsets: Vision Pro 2 and Google Glass Rival

    Apple Developing 7 Headsets: Vision Pro 2 and Google Glass Rival

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Apple Vision Pro has underperformed in sales due to its high price of $3,499, but Apple plans to develop seven new headsets instead of reducing AR and VR projects.
    2. A refreshed version of the Apple Vision Pro is expected in Q3 2025, featuring an upgraded M5 chip, though significant improvements may not be present.
    3. A budget-friendly mixed-reality headset, possibly named “Vision Air,” is anticipated in Q3 2027, designed to be 40% lighter and powered by an iPhone-level processor.
    4. Apple is creating lightweight AR glasses to compete with Meta’s Ray-Ban Smart Glasses, set to launch in Q2 2027, featuring voice and gesture controls.
    5. In late 2028, Apple may introduce AR glasses with a display, intended to work with an iPhone or Mac, although development has faced challenges.

    The Apple Vision Pro was revealed more than two years ago. Despite the hype, the headset has seen disappointing sales, mainly because of its high starting price of $3,499. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that instead of scaling back on its AR and VR plans, Apple is actually in the process of creating seven new headsets.

    Future Plans for Apple Vision Pro

    At the forefront is likely a refreshed version of the Apple Vision Pro, which is rumored to be launched in the third quarter of 2025. This new model is expected to include an upgraded Apple M5 chip, but it likely won’t offer any significant improvements. The truly redesigned second-generation Apple Vision Pro might not show up until 2028 at the earliest. Kuo also mentioned a more budget-friendly mixed-reality headset, possibly named “Vision Air,” which could hit the market in the third quarter of 2027. This headset is said to be 40% lighter and powered by an iPhone-level processor. To keep costs down, it might skip several sensors and use a magnesium and plastic frame while still aiming to match the Apple Vision Pro in functionality.

    Competing in the AR Glasses Market

    Additionally, Apple is reportedly developing a product to compete with the Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses. Instead of having a screen, these lightweight AR glasses are expected to use voice and gesture controls, interacting with users through an AI voice assistant. Scheduled for launch in the second quarter of 2027, these glasses are said to come with cameras, microphones, and speakers, and will be available in different frame sizes.

    Upcoming AR Innovations

    In the latter part of 2028, we may see the introduction of a pair of AR glasses that feature a display, similar to the Google Glass. Moreover, Apple is believed to be designing a version that only works when linked to an iPhone or a Mac, functioning like a portable monitor. However, progress on this project has reportedly stalled, as the company faced challenges in finding a way to make it stand out from existing products.

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    Apple Developing 7 Headsets: Vision Pro 2 and Google Glass Rival

     

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  • Garmin Update: Evening Report, Rucking Mode, Custom Focus for Smartwatch

    Garmin Update: Evening Report, Rucking Mode, Custom Focus for Smartwatch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin launched a new update (Beta 12.50) for the Vivoactive 6, advancing from previous versions.
    2. The update includes the new Evening Report feature, providing insights on sleep needs and upcoming schedules.
    3. Beta 12.50 introduces the Garmin Calculator app and the Rucking activity.
    4. Custom focus modes are added for the first time in this beta version.
    5. Release date for these updates on stable software for Vivoactive 6 is currently unclear.

    Garmin has discreetly launched a new update for the Vivoactive 6 within its Beta Program. Just to remind you, the firm released Software Version 10.14 nearly two months ago after providing Beta 10.10 at the beginning of May. This time, Garmin has made a significant leap from two complete software updates to v12.50, featuring a notable addition taken from its latest Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 models (curr. $749 on Amazon).

    New Features

    Specifically, Garmin has included the Evening Report in the Vivoactive 6, which can be activated by going to Watch Settings, then Notifications & Alerts, followed by Report Settings, and finally tapping on Evening Report. This feature is intended to function similarly to Garmin’s current Morning Report. Evening Report offers insights into how much sleep a user might need in advance, along with future workout schedules and upcoming events, among other information.

    Additional Updates

    In addition to this, Beta 12.50 brings the Garmin Calculator app and introduces the Rucking activity. Furthermore, Garmin states that this new beta version also introduces custom focus modes for the very first time. Unfortunately, it is still unclear when these updates will be made available for Vivoactive 6 smartwatches that are using stable software. The complete changelog for Beta 12.50 is as follows:

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  • Amazfit Balance 2 XT Smartwatch Leaked in New Filing

    Amazfit Balance 2 XT Smartwatch Leaked in New Filing

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit Balance 2 XT smartwatch has been leaked, showing new developments since the original Balance 2 was launched in 2025.
    2. Recent documents indicate the Balance 2 XT will feature contactless payment capabilities and may run on Zepp OS 4.0.
    3. The smartwatch is expected to have a premium titanium body and may include Zepp Pay, although currently limited to European users.
    4. The model number for the Balance 2 XT is reported as A2546, with earlier leaks suggesting A2547 or A2430.
    5. No official announcement has been made regarding the release date or pricing, but the Balance 2 XT is anticipated to be more expensive than the original Balance 2.

    The Amazfit Balance 2 XT smartwatch has shown up in another leaked document. The original Balance 2 smartwatch was introduced in China back in May 2025 and became available worldwide in June. Speculations regarding the Balance 2 XT started earlier this year, and it was later found in an FCC filing.

    New Developments

    Recently, a document from EMVCo related to the Amazfit Balance 2 XT has been discovered. This document serves as an approval letter for the upcoming device’s contactless payment feature. The smartwatch is reported to have the model number A2546, while earlier leaks mentioned it could be A2547 or A2430. Additionally, the document hints that the watch will be equipped with Zepp OS 4.0, although the regular Balance 2 smartwatch operates on the newer Zepp OS 5.0.

    Premium Features Expected

    It is believed that the Balance 2 XT smartwatch will be a high-end version of the existing wearable, featuring a titanium body. The EMVCo document also suggests that it may come with the Zepp Pay contactless payment capability, similar to the standard version, but currently, this feature is limited to users in European regions.

    Awaiting Official Announcement

    Amazfit has not made an official statement regarding the Balance 2 XT smartwatch, leaving its release date and pricing unclear. However, it is expected that this new model will be priced higher than the Amazfit Balance 2 XT, which retails for $299.99 on Amazon.

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    Amazfit Balance 2 XT Smartwatch Leaked in New Filing

     

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  • Casio CRW001-1 Ring Watch Restock Now Available in the US

    Casio CRW001-1 Ring Watch Restock Now Available in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio Ring Watch CRW001-1 will be restocked in the US on July 1st on a first come, first served basis.
    2. Customers can sign up for email notifications to know when the watch is back in stock.
    3. The watch fits finger sizes 22 (US 10.5) and can be resized to sizes 19 and 16.
    4. Features include tracking two time zones, a stopwatch, hourly alerts, and a backlit digital screen.
    5. There are currently no plans for restocking the watch in other countries.

    The Casio Ring Watch CRW001-1 is set to be available again in the United States. Originally launched in late 2024, this small watch sold out rapidly upon its release. After successful restocks in the UK and Japan, it’s finally making a return to the US market.

    Announcement of Restock

    Casio US shared on Instagram that the Ring Watch CRW001-1 will be restocked on July 1st. It looks like customers will be able to buy it through the brand’s website, but there are no details about restocking in physical stores. The exact time for the restock has not been specified either. Interested buyers are encouraged to sign up for email notifications to know when the watch is back in stock. Unlike the previous sales in the UK and Japan, this time it’s not going to be a lottery; the Casio Ring Watch will be sold on a first come, first served basis.

    Specifications and Features

    The Ring Watch is made to fit a finger size 22 (US 10.5, EU U) but can be resized to fit a size 19 (19 mm/0.75 inch inner diameter) or a size 16 (18 mm/0.70 inch inner diameter). The watch features a stainless steel case that measures 25.2 mm (about 1.0 inch) in diameter and weighs 16 g (roughly 0.6 oz). Its features include the ability to track two time zones, a stopwatch with 1/100th second precision, and alerts that flash every hour. Additionally, the small digital screen comes with a backlight for better visibility. So far, Casio has not revealed any plans for restocking this watch in other countries.

    Conclusion

    For more updates, you can follow Casio US on Instagram or visit their website. This watch is definitely a unique accessory for anyone looking to add a stylish piece to their collection!

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    Casio CRW001-1 Ring Watch Restock Now Available in the US

     

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  • Seiko Launches Limited Edition Prospex Speedtimer Watch for Athletes

    Seiko Launches Limited Edition Prospex Speedtimer Watch for Athletes

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Seiko Prospex Speedtimer 2025 is a limited edition solar chronograph celebrating the Tokyo World Athletics Championships in September 2025, where Seiko is the Official Timekeeper.

    2. The watch features a unique Edo-Murasaki (Tokyo Purple) dial, Lumibrite-coated hands and indexes for visibility, and includes the event’s logo and limited edition number on the case back.

    3. It has functional capabilities like a 60-minute chronograph, a 24-hour sub-dial, and operates on solar energy, lasting about six months on a full charge.

    4. The watch is powered by Seiko’s V192 solar movement, which is accurate within 15 seconds per month, and includes a Tachymeter and a date display.

    5. The Prospex Speedtimer is available for pre-order in the UK for £650, with a US launch expected in August 2025 at a retail price of $775, limited to just 6,000 units worldwide.

    Seiko has introduced the Prospex Speedtimer 2025 Tokyo World Athletics Championships Limited Edition solar chronograph. This timepiece is a tribute to the forthcoming event set to take place in Japan in September 2025, where Seiko is appointed as the Official Timekeeper.

    Unique Design Features

    The Tokyo World Athletics Championships Limited Edition Prospex Speedtimer showcases an Edo-Murasaki or Tokyo Purple dial. The event’s logo is displayed on the back of the case alongside the limited edition number. It also features hands and indexes coated with Lumibrite, which enhances visibility at night. The watch boasts a stainless steel case that measures 39.0 x 45.4 x 13.3 mm (about 1.5 x 1.8 x 0.5 inches) and includes a stainless steel strap equipped with a three-fold clasp.

    Functional Capabilities

    Equipped with a 60-minute chronograph and a 24-hour sub-dial, the Prospex Speedtimer can be powered by solar energy—whether from natural or artificial light. Once fully charged, it can operate for about six months without any additional light. The watch utilizes Seiko’s V192 solar-powered movement, which is claimed to be accurate within 15 seconds per month. Additional features include a Tachymeter on the bezel and a date display.

    Availability and Pricing

    The Seiko Prospex Speedtimer 2025 Tokyo World Athletics Championships Limited Edition (model SSC955P1) is currently available for pre-order in the UK at a price of £650. It is expected to be launched in the US in August 2025, with a retail price of $775. Seiko has indicated that just 6,000 units of this limited edition watch will be produced globally.

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  • Garmin Boosts Google Health Connect Support for Wearables

    Garmin Boosts Google Health Connect Support for Wearables

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched a support page for data transfer to Google Health Connect.
    2. Data transfer is one-way, from Garmin Connect to Google Health, limiting comprehensive activity tracking.
    3. Transferable data includes activity and wellness metrics like body fat percentage, weight, step count, sleep patterns, and calories burned.
    4. Heart rate information from workouts, swimming stroke counts, and cycling speed and cadence can also be transferred.
    5. The lack of two-way data transfer may affect Garmin Connect’s training and wellness suggestions.

    We talked about this back in May, and now Garmin has launched a support page that indicates it will soon allow data transfer to Google Health Connect. This page details the types of data that will be shared, which includes various activity and wellness information.

    One-Way Data Transfer

    Garmin clarifies right away that this transfer is only one-directional, meaning data flows from Garmin Connect to Google Health, but not the other way around. This limitation could be a problem in some cases: for instance, if someone uses a different device for daily activities versus sports, Garmin Connect won’t have the full picture of the user’s total physical activity. This lack of comprehensive data might affect Garmin Connect’s training and wellness suggestions.

    Types of Transferable Data

    As mentioned earlier, multiple types of activity and wellness-related data can be sent from Garmin Connect to Google Health, along with a few pieces of user-specific information. For example, metrics like body fat percentage and weight—recorded through a compatible scale—are transferable. Other data includes step count, sleep patterns, and calories burned. Additionally, heart rate information from workouts can also be sent over, along with swimming stroke counts and cycling speed and cadence data.

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