Category: Wearables

April 3, 2025
Grand Seiko SBGW323 Kiri: Purple Mt. Iwate Dial & 100m Water Resistance
Key Takeaways
1. The Grand Seiko SBGW323 Kiri features a dial inspired by Mt. Iwate and its purple kiri flowers.
2. The watch carries the classic Grand Seiko 44GS style with a compact 36.5 mm stainless steel case and 100 meters of water resistance.
3. The dial has a textured purple pattern and includes hour markers and hands, but no date window.
4. It is powered by the caliber 9S64 manual movement, offering a 72-hour power reserve and accuracy of +5/-3 seconds per day.
5. The Grand Seiko SBGW323 Kiri is priced at $5,600/€6,000 and will be available starting in May 2025.
The Japanese brand Grand Seiko has unveiled its newest mechanical timepiece, the SBGW323 Kiri. This elegant dress watch features a dial design inspired by Mt. Iwate, which is famous for its beautiful purple kiri flowers located on the northeastern shore of Honshu, Japan’s primary island.
A Modern Classic
This watch represents a fresh interpretation of the classic Grand Seiko 44GS style. It carries the distinguished characteristics of its 1967 predecessor, the 44GS, and is designed with a compact 36.5 mm case made of stainless steel, measuring 11.6 mm in thickness. The watch is topped with a box-shaped sapphire crystal and has a steel caseback that displays Grand Seiko’s recognizable lion logo. Furthermore, it offers a water resistance of 100 meters (10 bar), making it appropriate for light water activities.
Stunning Dial Design
The standout feature of the SBGW323 is undoubtedly its dial. It has a lovely, soft purple pattern reminiscent of the Mt. Iwate and the kiri flower. The textured surface is highlighted with hour markers, along with hour, minute, and second hands, but it does not include a date window.
Technical Excellence
Inside the Grand Seiko SBGW323 Kiri is equipped with a caliber 9S64 manual movement that operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, contains 24 jewels, and provides a power reserve of 72 hours. This mechanical movement ensures an accuracy of +5/-3 seconds per day and is resistant to magnetic fields up to 4,800 A/m gauss. The watch is finished off with a matching stainless steel bracelet that features a fold clasp and push-button release.
The price tag for the Grand Seiko SBGW323 Kiri is set at $5,600/€6,000. It is expected to be available starting in May 2025 at Grand Seiko boutiques and select authorized retailers globally.
Source:
Link

Tags: Grand Seiko, mechanical watch, SBGW323 Kiri
April 3, 2025
Amazfit T-Rex 3 Smartwatch Update: Zepp OS 4.5 Now Available
Key Takeaways
1. The Amazfit T-Rex 3 smartwatch has received a new update, version 3.6.5.9, enhancing its software to Zepp OS 4.5.
2. A new Real-time Performance metric for Trail Running activities allows users to monitor their physical status during workouts.
3. Improvements for HYROX races include tracking time spent in the Roxzone and enhanced map features with detailed terrain views.
4. GPS pacing has become more stable, benefiting runners in urban and wooded environments.
5. The update can be downloaded via the Zepp app by accessing Profile > Amazfit T-Rex 3 > System Update.
A new update for the Amazfit T-Rex 3 smartwatch has been released. The update, labeled version 3.6.5.9, is a 19.57MB file and is being rolled out to users around the globe in stages. The last update, version 3.5.7.1, came out in February and included changes related to HYROX for the smartwatch.
New Features and Improvements
The recent version 3.6.5.9 updates the T-Rex 3 to Zepp OS 4.5 from the earlier Zepp OS 4.0. According to the release notes, this update introduces a new Real-time Performance metric specifically for Trail Running activities. This feature lets users monitor their “physical status” in real-time, with additional analysis accessible in the workout record. To enable this feature, users can navigate to Trail Running > Assistant > More > Real-time Performance.
Enhancements for Users
In this update, the Amazfit T-Rex 3 smartwatch, which is priced at approximately $234.99 on Amazon, also sees improvements for the HYROX race. Users can now keep track of the time they spend in the Roxzone, which is the area between the running track and other workout stations. Additionally, the map feature has been enhanced, as it now supports map downloads via Bluetooth and offers a more detailed view of the terrain, including glaciers, shrubs, and wetlands.
Better Performance
The GPS pacing is reportedly more stable, which is great news for city runners who are often surrounded by tall buildings or those who prefer running in wooded areas. Furthermore, the Readiness algorithm has been fine-tuned, but user feedback on this adjustment is still pending. As is customary, the version 3.6.5.9 update can be downloaded through the Zepp app. Users should navigate to Profile > Amazfit T-Rex 3 > System Update to access it.
Source:
Link
Tags: Amazfit T-Rex 3, Real-time Performance, Zepp OS 4.5
April 2, 2025
Casio Launches $130 Translucent G-Shock GA2100BM in the US
Key Takeaways
1. The Casio GA2100BM series features clear casings and straps with metallic dials in sky blue, rose gold, and silver.
2. The new models enhance the traditional GA2100 design with vibrant tinted dials but do not introduce groundbreaking design elements.
3. The clear resin band makes the watches lighter, appealing for summer wear; however, it’s not a new concept for Casio.
4. Performance-wise, the watches offer 200 meters of water resistance, a Carbon Core Guard construction, and a battery life of three years.
5. Priced at $130, the GA2100BM series competes with other budget options like the Timex Expedition North and Swatch Big Bold.
Casio’s GA2100 series has always been bold in trying out new materials and colors, and now the latest models are finally up for sale in the US, just about a week after their debut in Europe. The new GA2100BM pieces introduce a see-through element to an already recognized shape. The previously announced range consists of three variations – GA2100BM-7A2, 7A5, and 7A8 – each with a clear casing and strap, along with vapor-deposited metallic dials in shades of sky blue, rose gold, and silver. While they are visually appealing, there isn’t any groundbreaking design here; this collection plays it quite safe.
Lively Dials
The tinted dials bring some vibrancy to the traditional octagonal GA2100 design, particularly with the shiny metallic finish that gives the hands and markers a richer appearance. The clear resin band is likely to make the watches feel lighter and more suitable for summer. However, this isn’t a new approach for Casio; they’ve previously explored clear resin or colorful accents. Those already acquainted with the GA2100 series might view this more as a seasonal update than anything revolutionary.
Solid Features
In terms of performance, these watches don’t disappoint: they offer 200 meters of water resistance, a Carbon Core Guard construction, world time features, a 1/100s stopwatch, countdown timer, dual LED lighting, and a battery life of three years. Priced at $130, it’s a decent option for a reliable and stylish everyday watch. Yet, in this price range, it does have some competition from other watches like the Timex Expedition North and the Swatch Big Bold, both of which provide their own distinctive flair.
Source:
Link
Tags: Casio GA2100, everyday watch, GA2100BM
April 2, 2025
Withings BeamO 4-in-1 Health Tracker Now Available in Europe
Key Takeaways
1. The Withings BeamO smart thermometer tracks health in four ways: temperature, stethoscope, pulse oximeter, and 1-lead ECG.
2. It features a HotSpot Gen2 temperature sensor and can perform a full health assessment in under a minute.
3. The device connects to smartphones via Wi-Fi and allows users to share health data with healthcare professionals during consultations.
4. The BeamO is currently available in select European countries for €249.95, with a three-month complimentary Withings+ subscription offering additional services.
5. The device is awaiting FDA approval for launch in the US and UK, where it is expected to be priced at $249.95.
Withings has introduced the BeamO smart thermometer in several European nations. This device, which tracks health in four different ways, was unveiled at CES 2024 where it received an Innovation Award. It’s a contactless thermometer that also includes a stethoscope, a pulse oximeter, and a 1-lead ECG, enabling users to monitor various heart and lung health indicators.
Features and Specifications
The BeamO contains a HotSpot Gen2 temperature sensor along with two electrodes, a multi-wavelength PPG sensor, a piezoelectric sensor, and a force sensor, displaying data on a built-in color LCD screen. Withings claims that this device can perform a full health assessment in under a minute from the ease of your home. The company also mentions that the gadget can help to identify indicators of AFib, hypoxemia, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
Connectivity and Dimensions
Furthermore, the BeamO connects to smartphones using Wi-Fi, which allows users to access their data through the Withings app. You can even share your readings live during a video or phone consultation with a healthcare professional. The gadget is compact, measuring 3.7 x 1.9 x 13.6 cm (~1.5 x 0.7 x 5.4 inches) and weighing 80g (~2.8 oz). It reportedly lasts for up to eight months on its built-in battery, which can be recharged via USB-C in about an hour.
Pricing and Availability
Currently, the Withings BeamO is available for purchase in countries such as the Netherlands, Spain, and France for €249.95. As part of a broader three-month Withings+ subscription, customers get a complimentary Cardio Check-up with a certified cardiologist; this subscription will cost €9.95 per month after the initial period. In the US and the UK, the BeamO is still labeled as “Coming Soon” on the brand’s online stores. It appears the company is still waiting for essential FDA approval, which has delayed its US launch; it is anticipated to be priced at $249.95 once available.
Source:
Link
Tags: Health Tracking, smart thermometer, Withings BeamO
April 2, 2025
Meta Hypernova Launching This Year: Google Glass Dream Continues
Key Takeaways
1. The Ray-Ban Meta Glasses cost around $329 and feature a 12 MP camera, five microphones, and speakers for multimedia functions.
2. Meta plans to release a more advanced model called Hypernova, priced between $1,000 and $1,400, by the end of the year.
3. The Hypernova will include a display on the right lens, allowing users to view apps and notifications directly in their line of sight.
4. Control will be via a touch-sensitive area on the glasses, with a wristband planned for gesture control.
5. The Hypernova will have a smartphone-like user interface, launching with several apps, including camera, navigation, and an app store.
The Ray-Ban Meta Glasses, priced around $329 on Amazon, are equipped with a 12 MP camera, five microphones, and speakers. This allows the glasses to take photos and videos, play music, and listen to voice commands. As reported by Bloomberg, Meta is gearing up to introduce a more advanced model, known as Hypernova, before the year ends.
New Features and Pricing
The expected price of the Hypernova is between $1,000 and $1,400. To explain the steep price tag, Meta plans to add a display at the bottom right corner of the right lens. There are also whispers of a Hypernova 2 set to be unveiled in 2027, which may include displays for both lenses. The integrated display is anticipated to enhance the functionality of the Hypernova compared to the Meta Ray-Ban Glasses since users will be able to project apps directly into their line of sight. This means, similar to Google Glass, users could see navigation apps or new messages without needing to check their phone or smartwatch.
Control and User Interface
Sources indicate that the glasses will be controllable via a touch-sensitive area on the side, with plans for a wristband to allow gesture control. The Hypernova is said to include a user interface similar to a smartphone, featuring a homepage for app selection, and is expected to launch with at least a camera app, a navigation app, a gallery app, and an app store for additional software. Notifications from a connected smartphone will also be visible on the screen.
Source:
Link
Tags: Hypernova, Ray-Ban Meta Glasses, smart glasses
April 2, 2025
Casio G-Shock GMC-B2100 Premium Full-Metal Watches Now in US
Key Takeaways
1. Casio has launched three new Full-Metal G-Shock models in the US: GMCB2100D1A, GMCB2100AD2A, and GMCB2100ZE1A.
2. The watches feature an octagonal bezel, screw-lock crown, and are made of stainless steel, with options for black, light blue, and a special 50th Anniversary edition.
3. GMC-B2100 models include Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone features, dual time display, and tools like a stopwatch, countdown timer, and daily alarm.
4. All models are shock-resistant, water-resistant up to 200m, and utilize Tough Solar charging; they weigh 171 g and have a width of 51.3 mm.
5. Pricing in the US is $800 for GMCB2100D1A and GMCB2100D2A, and $930 for the special edition GMCB2100ZE1A.
Casio has introduced three new Full-Metal G-Shock timepieces in the United States: the GMCB2100D1A, GMCB2100AD2A, and GMCB2100ZE1A. These GMC-B2100 models were first launched in October 2024 and are currently available in markets such as the UK and the Netherlands.
Design Features
These high-end Casio watches feature an octagonal bezel and a screw-lock crown, crafted from stainless steel. The GMCB2100D1A showcases a black watch face, while the GMCB2100D2A presents a light blue face. The GMCB2100ZE1A is a special edition model commemorating the 50th Anniversary of Casio Watches, flaunting a black ion-plated case and band with gold accents. Each watch weighs 171 g (about 6.0 oz) and measures 51.3 mm (around 2.0 inches) at its widest point.
Functionality and Connectivity
The GMC-B2100 watches offer dual time display, providing users with a variety of world time zones. They come with Bluetooth capabilities, enabling connection to a smartphone. This means that the Casio Watches app can be used for features like automatic time adjustment and phone finder. Additionally, the watches include handy tools such as a 1-second stopwatch, a countdown timer that can last up to 24 hours, and a daily alarm. The built-in LED backlight makes it easier to read the dial in dim conditions, while the power-saving mode can extend battery life for up to 18 months.
Pricing and Availability
Moreover, all three watches are shock-resistant, water-resistant up to 200m, and equipped with Tough Solar charging. The Casio G-Shock GMCB2100D1A and GMCB2100D2A are currently available in the US for $800 each. Meanwhile, the GMCB2100ZE1A can be purchased through the brand’s online store or at select exclusive locations for a higher retail price of $930.
Source:
Link

Tags: Casio G-SHOCK, Full-Metal watches, GMCB2100 watches
April 2, 2025
Fitbit App Update: Redesigned Pages, Removed Features
Key Takeaways
1. Fitbit has updated its app’s Health Metrics section with a redesigned landing page for better readability, featuring larger font sizes for key metrics.
2. The main health metrics displayed include breathing rate, blood oxygen, resting heart rate, heart rate variability, and skin temperature variation, along with a new diagram showing daily metrics within personal ranges.
3. The Trends tab has been removed, requiring users to check historical data by clicking on each statistic individually, which has received mixed feedback from users.
4. The updated health metrics pages are available for both iOS and Android users, including both Premium and non-subscribers.
5. Google is discontinuing Google Assistant for its Sense and Versa 3 wearables, allowing users to switch to Amazon Alexa, with limitations based on language and country.
Fitbit has begun a new update that features redesigned pages. The focus this time is on the Health Metrics section of the app, which can be accessed via a tile on the Today tab. Earlier, the company refreshed the interface for tracking sleep, heart rate, and stress levels.
Enhanced Readability
On the updated Health Metrics landing page, the Fitbit team has improved the readability of each metric by increasing the font size. The same five measurements remain visible: breathing rate (BR), blood oxygen (SpO2), resting heart rate (RHR), heart rate variability (HRV), and skin temperature variation. Additionally, there’s a new diagram at the top that displays how many of these daily metrics fall within your personal range.
Changes to Historical Data Access
As part of the update, the Trends tab has been eliminated. Now, if users want to check their historical data, they need to click on each statistic separately to open a new page. Here, you have options to view data by week, month, or year and can scroll through your logged information. This update has received a mix of feedback from users. A lot of people have expressed their annoyance on Reddit about the removal of the Trends page, while others appreciate the fresh design and enjoy the range chart.
Availability and Google Assistant News
These revamped health metrics pages are accessible for both iOS and Android users, catering to both Premium subscribers and non-subscribers alike. In related news, Google has recently revealed that it will be discontinuing Google Assistant for its Sense and Versa 3 wearables. The feature will be phased out gradually over the coming weeks. Instead, users can utilize Amazon Alexa, though this functionality is currently limited to certain languages and countries. It’s worth noting that Google Assistant was never offered on the newer models like the Sense 2 and Versa 4 (currently priced at $169 on Amazon).
Source:
Link
Tags: Fitbit, Sense, Versa 3
April 1, 2025
Casio G-Shock MTG-B4000 Leak: Specs, Price, and Launch Date
Key Takeaways
1. The Casio MTG-B4000 is expected to launch in June 2023.
2. The estimated price for the watch is around 180,000 yen (approximately $1,204).
3. Key features include Tough Solar charging, Multi-band 6 radio reception, Bluetooth connectivity, and a laminated carbon case.
4. The watch will likely be available in two color options.
5. It is expected to debut in Japan before reaching international markets like the US and Europe.
Hot on the heels of an initial leak back in March that gave us our first glimpse, Casio’s next premium G-Shock, the MTG-B4000, has surfaced online yet again. Fresh details have emerged, revealing the key features of the watch, price tag, and when you might actually be able to strap one onto your wrist.
Latest Leak Information
The newest leak comes from the Japanese blog Great G-Shock World, which has a solid record for sharing news on upcoming Casio and G-Shock timepieces. According to their findings, G-Shock enthusiasts should circle June on their calendars, as this is when the MTG-B4000 is expected to launch. As anticipated from the high-end Metal-Twisted G-Shock (MT-G) series, this watch won’t be your average tough companion. The report estimates the price to be around 180,000 yen, which is about $1,204, placing it squarely in the luxury market.
Features and Specifications
Regarding the features, the leak hints at a classic G-Shock combination. It is said that the watch will include Tough Solar charging, Multi-band 6 radio reception for precise atomic timekeeping in various regions, Bluetooth connectivity, and a case constructed from laminated carbon sheets.
Expected Color Variants
The G-Shock MTG-B4000 is likely to be available in two color options. While an exact launch date and details about availability are still uncertain, it seems likely that it will debut in Japan before making its way to international markets, including the US and Europe.
Source:
Link
Tags: G-SHOCK, luxury watch, MTG-B4000
April 1, 2025
Garmin Vivoactive 6 Launches at $299 with Bright AMOLED Display
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin has launched the Vivoactive 6, the successor to the Vivoactive 5, priced at $299.99.
2. The Vivoactive 6 features a more vibrant AMOLED display, maintaining a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels and supporting Always On Display.
3. It offers a battery life of up to 11 days and increased built-in storage, along with new features like Red Shift and Daily Suggested Workouts.
4. The Vivoactive 6 lacks passcode support and is compatible only with 20 mm watch bands.
5. The watch will be available for order starting April 4 and comes in four different colors.
Companies usually avoid launching new products on April 1 for obvious reasons. However, Garmin has chosen to unveil the successor of the Vivoactive 5 (currently priced at $214 on Amazon), which was released just a bit over 18 months ago.
Display Enhancements
Garmin says that the Vivoactive 6 boasts a more vibrant AMOLED screen compared to the previous model. Nevertheless, they haven’t provided detailed information on this aspect. What they did confirm is that the 1.2-inch display maintains a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, and features Always On Display capability.
Battery Life and Features
Similar to its forerunner, the Vivoactive 6 offers a battery life of up to 11 days. This time, Garmin has upped the built-in storage capacity, and it now supports BeiDou and QZSS location services. Additionally, the Vivoactive 6 is equipped with a built-in gyroscope, which was not present in the Vivoactive 5. New features include Red Shift, more activity profiles, Daily Suggested Workouts, and a Smart Wake Alarm designed to wake you ‘gently’ at the ‘best time’ according to your sleep data.
Missing Features
Interestingly, the Vivoactive 6 does not include passcode support, which Garmin had rolled out to several smartwatches this year, including the Vivoactive 5. It’s also worth noting that the new Vivoactive is only compatible with 20 mm watch bands. The standard watch bands are made to fit wrist sizes ranging from 125 mm to 190 mm in circumference. The Vivoactive 6 will be up for order starting April 4 for a price of $299.99 and will come in four different colors. For a complete list of differences between the Vivoactive 5 and Vivoactive 6, check out Garmin’s product comparison page.
Source:
Link
Tags: Garmin, Smartwatch, Vivoactive 6
April 1, 2025
Apple Watch Series 10 Prototype Features Ring-Shaped Sensor
Key Takeaways
1. Photos from @StellaFudge reveal a prototype of the Apple Watch Series 10 with a unique sensor layout and smaller center LEDs for heart rate and SpO2 readings.
2. The prototype features a semi-transparent ring surrounding the LEDs, possibly hinting at future blood glucose or blood pressure monitoring, though these features are not ready for market.
3. The Apple Watch Series 10 lacks an EDA sensor for stress tracking and does not track body fat and muscle percentage, which are available in the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7.
4. Significant improvements for the upcoming Apple Watch may not be ready for its expected launch in September, as many features are still in development.
5. Future plans include a smartwatch with a built-in camera and Apple Intelligence capabilities, but this is not expected to be released until 2027.
Photos shared by X account @StellaFudge (shown below) seem to reveal a prototype of the Apple Watch Series 10 featuring a unique sensor layout. When comparing it to the standard Apple Watch Series 10, the eight center LEDs, which function for heart rate and SpO2 readings, are visibly smaller.
Details on the Prototype
Surrounding these LEDs, there is a semi-transparent ring that likely contains additional LEDs. The function of this extra sensor remains unclear; it might be an initial version of Apple’s long-awaited blood glucose or blood pressure monitoring feature. However, reports indicate that neither of these sensors is close to being market-ready, hence they will not be included in the Apple Watch Series 11.
Competition and Features
Apple is also falling behind its rivals in various aspects. For instance, the Apple Watch Series 10 does not include an EDA sensor, which measures electrodermal activity to assess the user’s stress levels throughout the day, nor does it have a sensor for tracking body fat and muscle percentage, features found in the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7.
At this point, not much solid information is available about the upcoming Apple Watch. Rumors suggest that many significant improvements may not be ready in time for the smartwatch’s anticipated launch in September. For instance, Apple is said to be working on a smartwatch that includes a built-in camera, capable of answering questions about the environment using Apple Intelligence, but this feature is not expected to arrive until 2027.
Source:
Link
Tags: @StellaFudge, Apple Watch Series 10, prototype sensors