Category: Wearables

  • Garmin Launches Beta Update with New Smartwatch Features

    Garmin Launches Beta Update with New Smartwatch Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released beta version 15.00 for the Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches, following the end of the 14.xx testing phase.
    2. The new beta update enhances the breathing variations feature that monitors breathing changes during sleep and improves the device passcode tool.
    3. Bug fixes in version 15.00 include resolving issues with downloaded golf courses and fixing audio problems during breathwork activities for Venu 3 and Venu 3s users.
    4. Users can download the beta update by navigating to Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update.
    5. The ECG app on the Venu 3 smartwatch is disabled in this beta version, which is standard early in the beta testing phase.

    The Garmin Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches are getting a fresh beta update. Beta version 15.00 has launched just a month after the end of the 14.xx testing phase. The previous stable version introduced new features for the Garmin Golf app subscription and a tool for tracking breathing variations.

    Updates to Breathing Features

    In this new Beta version 15.00, Garmin has improved the breathing variations feature, which monitors your breathing changes during sleep. The release notes mention enhancements to the recently added device passcode tool too. However, Garmin hasn’t clarified how users of the Venu 3 and vivoactive 5 will benefit from these updates.

    Bug Fixes and Improvements

    The changelog for beta version 15.00 also indicates that Garmin has resolved issues regarding downloaded golf courses. Additionally, a bug affecting the audio during some breathwork activities has been fixed, but this only impacts users of the Venu 3 and Venu 3s smartwatches, which currently start at $426.94 on Amazon.

    In a post on the Garmin forum, a team member informs users on how to download the beta version 15.00 update: simply head to Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update. It’s also important to note that, with this update, the ECG app on the Venu 3 smartwatch is disabled, which is standard practice early in the beta testing phase.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Oakley Launches Smart Glasses with 3K Camera and AI Assistant

    Oakley Launches Smart Glasses with 3K Camera and AI Assistant

    Key Takeaways

    1. Meta is launching new smart glasses in collaboration with Oakley, featuring five unique designs and technical upgrades from the previous Ray-Ban model.
    2. The glasses are available as sunglasses or prescription lenses, with built-in microphones and speakers for AI interaction and audio playback.
    3. The front-facing camera can record videos in 3K resolution and responds to real-world questions and text translation.
    4. The glasses have an IPX4 certification for water resistance and boast a battery life of up to eight hours, extendable to 48 hours with a charging case.
    5. The Oakley Meta HSTN model will be released on July 11, priced at $499, with additional models expected later this summer starting at $399.

    Following a fruitful partnership with Ray-Ban, Meta is broadening its lineup of smart glasses by introducing a new model created in collaboration with Oakley. This new smart glasses come in five unique designs and boast several technical enhancements compared to the previous Ray-Ban version.

    Versatile Options

    The glasses can be purchased as either sunglasses or prescription lenses, with Oakley charging an extra fee for the latter. They are equipped with built-in microphones and speakers. When paired with a smartphone via Bluetooth, users can interact with an AI voice assistant or listen to music and podcasts through the speakers located at the temples. Additionally, the front-facing camera enables the glasses to respond to questions about real-world objects or to translate printed text.

    Enhanced Features

    One notable upgrade is the camera’s ability to record videos in 3K resolution instead of just 1,080p. These glasses also hold an IPX4 certification, which means they should resist rain, but they are not entirely waterproof. Meta has managed to double the battery life, offering up to eight hours of use; when utilized with the provided charging case, users can expect a total runtime of up to 48 hours.

    Pricing and Release Date

    The initial model, named the Oakley Meta HSTN, is slated for release on July 11, priced at $499. Additional models are anticipated to launch later this summer, starting at a price of $399.

    Source:
    Link

    Oakley Launches Smart Glasses with 3K Camera and AI AssistantOakley Launches Smart Glasses with 3K Camera and AI AssistantOakley Launches Smart Glasses with 3K Camera and AI AssistantOakley Launches Smart Glasses with 3K Camera and AI AssistantOakley Launches Smart Glasses with 3K Camera and AI Assistant

     

    Tags: , ,
  • MIT Researchers Launch 5G Receiver 30x Better Than Traditional Models

    MIT Researchers Launch 5G Receiver 30x Better Than Traditional Models

    Key Takeaways

    1. 5G devices are causing increased signal interference for small, battery-operated gadgets like health trackers and environmental sensors.
    2. MIT has developed a passive filtering receiver that efficiently blocks unwanted signals using pre-charged capacitors and tiny switches.
    3. The new receiver operates on less than a milliwatt of power and occupies an area smaller than 0.05 square millimeters.
    4. It can block 30 times more harmonic interference compared to standard receivers, enhancing communication reliability.
    5. Future research aims to power IoT devices through ambient Wi-Fi or Bluetooth signals, potentially eliminating the need for batteries.

    As 5G devices become more prevalent, the airwaves are getting busier with signals. For small, battery-operated gadgets such as health trackers or environmental sensors, this noisy background can lead to interference that hampers communication. These compact devices can’t utilize the large, energy-consuming signal filters found in bigger electronics like smartphones.

    Innovative Solution

    The team at MIT has tackled this challenge by creating a receiver featuring a groundbreaking passive filtering method. This system incorporates a distinctive arrangement of pre-charged, stacked capacitors along with minuscule switches to prevent unwanted signals from being amplified. This innovative approach is highly efficient, allowing the whole receiver to use less than a milliwatt of power while maintaining an active area of less than 0.05 square millimeters. Remarkably, the new receiver is capable of blocking 30 times more harmonic interference compared to ordinary receivers.

    Engineering Excellence

    This level of efficiency is the result of smart engineering — employing the bootstrap clocking method to consistently power the switches, and taking advantage of the Miller effect, which enables small capacitors to function like much larger ones.

    The following Internet of Things (IoT) applications could gain the most from this advancement:

    Future Possibilities

    Researchers are currently investigating methods to power the chip by capturing ambient Wi-Fi or Bluetooth signals — a breakthrough that might eventually result in IoT devices that do not require batteries.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Casio G-Shock GMW-B5000D-1C Launching Soon in Europe

    Casio G-Shock GMW-B5000D-1C Launching Soon in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock GMW-B5000D-1C watch will soon be available in several European countries, including the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany, with a retail price of €549.

    2. The watch features a full-metal design, inspired by the original G-Shock DW-5000C, and includes a digital display, brushed stainless steel bezel, and reflective finish.

    3. It is shock-resistant, water-resistant up to 200 meters, and utilizes Casio’s Tough Solar charging technology.

    4. Key features of the GMW-B5000D-1C include tracking five time zones, a stopwatch, countdown timer, five daily alarms, and Bluetooth connectivity for use with the Casio Watches app.

    5. The exact release date for the watch is unconfirmed, but it is expected to launch in July 2025, with email alerts available for interested buyers.

    The Casio G-Shock GMW-B5000D-1C watch is officially set to arrive in more countries across Europe. Speculation about this timepiece started in early 2025, with its initial launch taking place in Japan and the UK.

    European Availability

    Casio has now added the G-Shock GMW-B5000D-1C to its online shops in nations like the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany. The retail price is set at €549, a detail first revealed by a French retailer back in June. Although the exact release date is still unconfirmed, the product page indicates that the watch is expected to be available in July. Additionally, interested buyers can register to get an email alert about the launch.

    Design and Build

    This model, the GMW-B5000D-1C, boasts a full-metal construction and takes design cues from the original G-Shock, the DW-5000C. It features a digital display along with a brushed stainless steel bezel and a reflective finish on the stainless steel strap. The watch is built to withstand shocks and is water-resistant up to 200 meters, plus it includes Casio’s Tough Solar charging technology.

    Features and Specifications

    Among the various features of the G-Shock GMW-B5000D-1C are the ability to track five different time zones, a stopwatch that measures to 1/100 of a second, a countdown timer, and five daily alarms. Furthermore, this radio-controlled watch comes with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to access additional features and settings via the Casio Watches smartphone app. The gadget has dimensions of 49.3 x 43.2 x 13 mm (~1.9 x 1.7 x 0.5 inches) and weighs 167 g (~5.9 oz). It remains unclear if or when the Casio G-Shock GMW-B5000D-1C will make its way to the US market.

    Source:
    Link

    Casio G-Shock GMW-B5000D-1C Launching Soon in Europe

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Garmin Fenix 8 to Get Enhanced Apple Health Integration

    Garmin Fenix 8 to Get Enhanced Apple Health Integration

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is enhancing collaboration with Google Health Connect for better integration with Apple Health on smartwatches like the Forerunner 570.
    2. Garmin Connect will soon allow users to read data from Apple Health, enabling a seamless experience across different smartwatch brands.
    3. Users can utilize third-party sleep monitors, with data contributing to the “body battery” calculation in Garmin Connect.
    4. Garmin will limit the types of data that can be shared with Apple Health, not fully opening its ecosystem.
    5. Current data shared includes body fat percentage, blood pressure, BMI, steps, distance, heart rate, sleep metrics, and workouts, but advanced sensor data like ECG is not supported.

    Garmin is enhancing its collaboration with Google Health Connect, and soon smartwatches like the Forerunner 570 will see improved integration with Apple Health, as reported by the5krunner. For years, Garmin Connect has allowed users to export chosen data so that it can be viewed within the Apple Health app, alongside information from an Apple Watch or other health monitors.

    Future Data Exchange

    In the upcoming future, Garmin Connect will gain the ability to read data from Apple Health. This means that users can see their fitness and health metrics in the Garmin Connect app and directly on their Garmin smartwatches. This feature allows users to switch between smartwatches of different brands without experiencing any gaps in the data displayed on their Garmin devices. Additionally, it will enable the use of third-party sleep monitors, where the collected data can be utilized in Garmin Connect to help calculate the “body battery,” which reflects the user’s stress levels.

    Limitations on Data Sharing

    Even with these advancements, Garmin is not anticipated to fully open its ecosystem. There are reports that the company is limiting which types of data can be read from and written to Apple Health. As of now, it’s unclear which specific data will support complete two-way synchronization. Currently, Garmin Connect can already send various data points, including body fat percentage, blood pressure, BMI, number of steps, distance traveled, heart rate, sleep tracking metrics, and completed workouts to Apple Health. However, it does not support the transfer of advanced sensor data like electrocardiogram (ECG) information.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • New Casio G-Shock Surfrider Foundation Watch Launching in Europe

    New Casio G-Shock Surfrider Foundation Watch Launching in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. The G-Shock x Foundation Surfrider Japan collaboration watch, G-5600SFJ-9, will be available in more European countries, launching in July 2025 at a price of €149.
    2. The watch features a unique design with a golden yellow resin case and strap, inspired by a beach in morning sunlight, and is shock-resistant and water-resistant up to 200 meters.
    3. It includes Tough Solar charging technology, making it eco-friendly and efficient.
    4. Key functions of the watch include support for five world time zones, a stopwatch, countdown timer, five daily alarms, and an LED backlight.
    5. The watch will be sold exclusively to Casio ID members, and interested customers can sign up for notifications about its availability.

    Casio has announced the upcoming release of the G-Shock x Foundation Surfrider Japan collaboration watch, known as the G-5600SFJ-9, in more European nations. Initially rumored back in April 2025, this timepiece has already made its debut in various markets including the UK and Japan.

    Pricing and Availability

    Recently, Casio has added the G-Shock G-5600SFJ-9 to its online stores in countries such as the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany. It is set to be priced at €149 when it launches in July 2025. However, the exact launch date is yet to be disclosed, and interested customers can sign up for email notifications once the watch becomes available. It’s important to mention that this watch will be sold exclusively to Casio ID members. You can easily create a free account on Casio’s website.

    Design and Specifications

    The Casio G-5600SFJ-9 features a resin case and strap, showcased in a golden yellow color with beige speckles. This design is inspired by “a beach bathed in morning sunlight.” The watch dimensions are 46.7 x 43.2 x 12.7 mm (approximately 1.8 x 1.7 x 0.5 inches) and it weighs 47 g (around 1.7 oz). This collaboration model is shock-resistant, with a water resistance of up to 200 meters, and it uses Tough Solar charging technology.

    Functions and Features

    Among its features, the watch supports up to five world time zones, a stopwatch accurate to 1/100th of a second, and a countdown timer with a 24-hour range. Additionally, it includes five daily alarms, hourly time signals, and an LED backlight for better visibility in low-light conditions. The display allows users to choose between 12 or 24 hour formats, along with showing the date and day of the week. Information regarding the potential release of the Casio G-Shock × Surfrider Foundation Japan G-5600SFJ-9 watch in the US is still pending announcement.

    Source:
    Link

    New Casio G-Shock Surfrider Foundation Watch Launching in Europe

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Amazfit Helio Strap Launch Date Leaked with New Wearable in App

    Amazfit Helio Strap Launch Date Leaked with New Wearable in App

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit Helio Strap is expected to launch soon, with a potential release date of June 24th confirmed by a HYROX athlete and an Amazfit representative.
    2. Key features include health monitoring (heart rate, sleep quality, stress levels) and a BioCharge feature, similar to Garmin’s body battery system.
    3. The strap weighs approximately 0.04 lbs (18 g) and integrates with other Amazfit devices through the Zepp app.
    4. Users can expect about ten days of usage on a single charge.
    5. The pricing is likely to be $79.99 in the US, with no current information on pricing in other regions like Europe.

    The Amazfit Helio Strap is set to be launched soon, likely in the coming days. Earlier this month, there were whispers about this device, and a product listing was spotted at a retailer in the US. Additionally, Amazfit has officially announced a special HYROX Edition of the device through a blog post.

    Confirmation of Release Date

    A recent leak from a HYROX athlete on social media seems to have confirmed the release date. In the comments of a related post about the Helio Strap, they mentioned that it would be available starting June 24th. This date matches what an Amazfit representative previously said on Reddit, suggesting that eager customers won’t have to wait too long. However, it remains uncertain if June 24th will be the release date worldwide or just for certain areas.

    Features and Specifications

    We already have insight into some features the Amazfit Helio Strap will provide, such as monitoring health metrics like heart rate, sleep quality, and stress levels. It is anticipated to introduce a BioCharge feature, which is somewhat similar to Garmin’s body battery system. The strap will come with a simple black band, weighing approximately 0.04 lbs (~18 g). It’s designed to work seamlessly with other Amazfit devices, consolidating data within the Zepp app. Plus, users can expect about ten days of usage on a single charge.

    Pricing Information

    According to a leaked product listing from Walmart, the Amazfit Helio Strap is likely to be priced at $79.99 in the US. However, details regarding its pricing in other regions, like Europe, have not yet been disclosed.

    Source:
    Link

    Amazfit Helio Strap Launch Date Leaked with New Wearable in App
    Tags: , ,
  • Citizen Launches Limited Edition Titanium Attesa Blue Universe Watches

    Citizen Launches Limited Edition Titanium Attesa Blue Universe Watches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Citizen is launching two limited-edition watches (CC4106-74E and CB3046-76E) on July 3, 2025, with a total of only 3,800 pieces available.
    2. Both watches are made from enhanced “Super Titanium” and feature a durable Duratect DLC Blue finish.
    3. The CC4106-74E has advanced GPS timekeeping and a 44 mm case, while the CB3046-76E features radio-controlled timekeeping and a 39 mm case.
    4. The design includes a striking black dial with star-like accents and a tough titanium coating, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
    5. Pricing for the CC4106-74E is approximately $2,495, and for the CB3046-76E, it is around $1,058, both excluding tax.

    In recent updates, Citizen is adding to its Attesa Blue Universe series with two new limited-edition watches that are set to launch on July 3, 2025. The models, CC4106-74E and CB3046-76E, are crafted from enhanced “Super Titanium” materials and come with a Duratect DLC Blue finish. Only 2,000 of the CC4106-74E and 1,800 of the CB3046-76E will be made, making these timepieces quite rare.

    Features and Specifications

    These watches belong to Citizen’s ACT Line, designed for professionals who appreciate a blend of performance and stylish technology in their wristwatches. The CC4106-74E boasts the advanced F950 movement, featuring GPS timekeeping, world time covering 39 cities, a 1/20 second chronograph, and a dual time zone function. It has a case diameter of 44 mm and a thickness of 13.7 mm. In contrast, the CB3046-76E is a bit sleeker, measuring 39 mm in width and 9.7 mm in thickness, and operates on the H128 movement, which offers radio-controlled timekeeping for Japan, China, the US, and Europe, along with a perpetual calendar and dual time functionality.

    Design Elements

    What makes this collection remarkable is Citizen’s application of DLC Blue, a tough titanium coating with a deep, lustrous finish. This is complemented by a greyish-black Duratect DLC on the case, blending into a consistent matte appearance. The dial evokes the essence of outer space, featuring a black background and twinkling accents that resemble stars. Both watches come with sapphire crystal glass and are rated for water resistance up to 10 bar.

    The new Blue Universe Collection continues the design narrative that Citizen introduced in 2022 with earlier DLC Blue versions. While the previous models had a rather simplistic look, the 2025 release is adorned with a variety of decorative elements, such as larger luminous markers and more intricate dial textures. The CC4106-74E is priced at 363,000 yen excluding tax (approximately $2,495), while the CB3046-76E is priced at 154,000 yen before tax (around $1,058).

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • New Casio GBX-100S Fitness Tracking Watches Now Available in US

    New Casio GBX-100S Fitness Tracking Watches Now Available in US

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio has launched the GBX100S-1 and GBX100S-2 G-Lide series watches in the US for the first time, priced at $170 each.
    2. These watches are designed specifically for surfers and outdoor enthusiasts, featuring a durable G-Shock build and eco-friendly bio-based urethane bands.
    3. Both models include a high-contrast Memory In Pixel (MIP) LCD screen, displaying tide graphs, moon phases, and sunrise/sunset times, along with tracking conditions at over 3,300 locations worldwide.
    4. The watches offer Bluetooth connectivity for automatic time updates, phone notifications, and GPS data correction, along with fitness tracking features and 200-meter water resistance.
    5. Color options include the GBX100S-1 in black and the GBX100S-2 in navy blue, with availability on Casio’s official US store and a discounted version on Amazon.

    Casio has launched the GBX100S-1 and GBX100S-2 G-Lide series watches in the US, marking their first appearance in the market. These surf-oriented G-Shock models were previously unveiled in Europe on June 7 but had not been available in the US until now. Currently, both models can be purchased from Casio’s official US website for $170 each.

    Designed for Surfers

    These timepieces are made particularly for surfers and outdoor enthusiasts, combining the durable nature of G-Shock with features suited for ocean activities. The bezel is crafted from a mix of stainless steel and clear resin, creating a unique layered look that catches the light beautifully. The watch bands are made from bio-based urethane, adding to their eco-friendly appeal.

    Features and Functionality

    Both GBX100S versions boast a high-contrast Memory In Pixel (MIP) LCD screen that enhances visibility in bright sunlight. They show tide graphs, moon phases, sunrise and sunset times, as well as high and low tide information, while also tracking conditions at over 3,300 spots worldwide through the Casio Watches app on smartphones.

    With Bluetooth connectivity, these watches can automatically update time, deliver phone notifications, and correct GPS-based data. They also offer features like step and distance tracking, pace monitoring, training logs, and calorie calculations, making them practical for more than just surfing. With a water resistance of 200 meters, four daily alarms, and a battery life lasting up to two years, they are built to withstand tough conditions.

    Color Options and Pricing

    The GBX100S-1 features a black band, while the GBX100S-2 comes in navy blue. Both models are now selling for $170 USD and can be found directly on Casio’s official US store.

    Source:
    Link

    New Casio GBX-100S Fitness Tracking Watches Now Available in US
    Tags: , ,
  • Increase in Red Screen of Death Reports on Older Samsung Galaxy Watches

    Increase in Red Screen of Death Reports on Older Samsung Galaxy Watches

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Samsung Galaxy Watch4, while not the latest model, is still available for purchase on Amazon.
    2. Reports of a serious hardware issue with the watch’s display changing colors have been increasing, but the extent of the problem is unclear.
    3. The display issue can lead to the watch becoming unresponsive or unusable, with repairs often requiring a costly display replacement.
    4. Users have experienced this issue multiple times, raising concerns about the watch’s longevity and repair costs.
    5. Potential buyers should consider these issues and the availability of newer models before purchasing the Galaxy Watch4.

    The Samsung Galaxy Watch4 has been around for a while, as we looked at it in 2021. Even though it’s not the latest gadget, you can still find it for sale on Amazon. Recently, Android Authority has noticed a growing number of reports about a serious hardware issue related to this model. It’s important to be careful for two reasons. First, it’s hard to know how common the problem really is, since people with issues are more likely to speak up compared to those who don’t have any. Second, there’s no clear timeline of when these reports started or if they are actually on the rise.

    Description of the Issue

    The specific problem isn’t exactly new. The Galaxy Watch4’s display can change colors unexpectedly, turning reddish, pink, orange, or anything in between. This issue can get worse, making the watch unresponsive and ultimately unusable, with restarting either being impossible or ineffective. A user on Reddit shared that his smartwatch, which is 2.5 years old, experienced this issue twice: first, the mainboard was replaced while it was still under warranty. Then, two and a half years later, he was offered a display replacement at an authorized service center for about $80. Samsung seems to be suggesting the same fix (display replacement) for other users facing similar troubles. Considering the watch’s age, its current price, and the presence of newer models, this type of repair might not be worth it.

    Conclusion

    In summary, while the Galaxy Watch4 is still on the market, potential buyers should be aware of these reported issues. The cost of repairs and the availability of newer options could make it a less appealing choice now.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,