Category: Wearables

  • Apple watchOS 26 Launches with AI Workout Buddy Feature

    Apple watchOS 26 Launches with AI Workout Buddy Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. Introduction of the AI-based “Workout Buddy” for motivational support during workouts.
    2. Enhanced Workout app with personalized workouts, music playlists, and automatic volume adjustment.
    3. Smart Stacks feature providing useful prompts based on user habits and sensor data.
    4. Upgraded communication features, including AI-translation for text messages and caller information alerts.
    5. Compatibility for watchOS 26 is limited to Apple Watches from 2020 onwards, excluding the first-generation Apple Watch SE.

    Apple has revealed watchOS 26 for its Apple Watches, featuring a fresh Liquid Glass interface, handy new tools, and an AI-based Workout Buddy. This operating system works with all Apple Watches that came out in 2020 or later (like the Apple Watch 10 available on Amazon), except for the first-generation Apple Watch SE.

    Introduction of Workout Buddy

    The Workout Buddy needs to be linked to an iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence and Bluetooth headphones. While users exercise, the Buddy offers motivational support to help them meet their targets, providing updates on various stats like distance, heart rate, milestones, and pace. After each workout, users receive congratulatory messages. All the spoken encouragement is generated by AI, with the right tone and energy for popular activities such as running, walking, and strength training.

    Enhancements in the Workout App

    The Workout app has been revamped to allow easier access to personalized workouts, while Apple Music can now pick playlists that fit the user and their workout preferences. It can also suggest additional playlists and podcasts based on previous exercise history. The volume of the speaker adjusts automatically to match the surrounding noise levels.

    Apple Watches with watchOS 26 will use Smart Stacks to show useful prompts based on a user’s daily habits and sensor data. For instance, if a user appears to be lost, a prompt may suggest using the Backtrack feature to retrace their steps. A simple flick of the wrist now enables users to dismiss notifications. If someone tends to forget things, they can record notes using the new Notes app by typing or dictating.

    Improvements in Communication Features

    In watchOS 26, calling and messaging get several upgrades. Text messages will be AI-translated automatically and offer suggested actions based on their content. However, Live Translation is limited to the Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 when connected to an Apple Intelligence-supported iPhone. Users can now hear the name of the caller and the reason for the call before picking up. Furthermore, when on hold during a call, users will receive alerts when they are taken off hold.

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  • XH12C Smartwatch: Affordable Alternative to Apple Watch Ultra

    XH12C Smartwatch: Affordable Alternative to Apple Watch Ultra

    Key Takeaways

    1. Affordable Price: The Lokmat XH12C smartwatch is priced just under $73, making it a budget-friendly option.
    2. Design Similarities: The watch resembles the Apple Watch Ultra 2 but lacks the same durability, particularly not being suitable for swimming.
    3. Outdated Software: It runs on Android 8.1, which may limit the user experience with apps on its smaller screen.
    4. Decent Specifications: Features include an SC8541E SoC, 2 GB of RAM, 32 GB storage, cellular connectivity, and an integrated camera.
    5. Battery Life: The smartwatch has an 850 mAh battery, offering up to five days of usage on a single charge.

    Lokmat has introduced a new smartwatch, the XH12C, which we’ve shared news about before. This model can be purchased directly as an import for just under $73, making it quite an affordable option. The design of the watch bears some similarities to the Apple Watch Ultra 2, though it lacks the same level of durability—it’s not suitable for swimming, for instance. The XH12C runs on an outdated version of Android, specifically 8.1. Lokmat claims that users can access apps, but they should note that using standard apps on a smaller screen can be challenging. The display size is 2.06 inches and features a resolution of 410 x 502.

    Technical Specifications

    The smartwatch houses an SC8541E SoC along with 2 GB of RAM and 32 GB of internal storage. It supports cellular connectivity and can work with a nano-SIM card, allowing access to LTE mobile networks. Equipped with an 850 mAh battery, it boasts a battery life of up to five days. A camera is cleverly integrated into the crown of the watch. The GNSS module is compatible with GPS, Beidou, and Glonass systems. Additionally, the XH12C comes with a pedometer and claims to monitor heart rate.

    Conclusion

    In summary, the Lokmat XH12C presents itself as an economical smartwatch option with various features, although its limitations in durability and software may be a concern for potential buyers. With its appealing price point and decent specifications, it could be a suitable choice for those looking for basic smartwatch functionality without breaking the bank.

    XH12C Smartwatch: Affordable Alternative to Apple Watch UltraXH12C Smartwatch: Affordable Alternative to Apple Watch Ultra
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  • Casio G-Shock MTGB2000YBD2 Premium Watch Launching in the US

    Casio G-Shock MTGB2000YBD2 Premium Watch Launching in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock MTGB2000YBD2 watch will soon launch in the US, priced around $1,200.
    2. The watch features a Dual Core Guard structure, with a carbon monocoque case and blue-gray ion-plated bezel.
    3. It includes advanced functionalities like Bluetooth connectivity, dual time zones, and a fully automatic calendar.
    4. The watch is powered by Tough Solar charging, lasting over 29 months without a charge, and is classified as Triple G Resist.
    5. It has a water resistance of up to 200 meters and weighs approximately 131 g (4.6 oz).

    The Casio G-Shock MTGB2000YBD2 watch is poised to hit the US market soon. This high-end watch debuted in Japan back in May, where it is known as the MTG-B2000YBD-2A and is priced at ¥181,500 (approximately $1,255).

    Upcoming US Launch

    According to a report from G-Central, a blog focused on Casio products, the MTGB2000YBD2 is expected to retail for about $1,200 in the US within the next few weeks. However, Casio has not yet made any official statements regarding the launch details of this MT-G series watch in the United States.

    Features and Specifications

    The MTGB2000YBD2 is designed with a Dual Core Guard structure, featuring a carbon monocoque case topped with a blue-gray ion-plated stainless-steel bezel and buttons. This watch is radio controlled (Multiband 6) and includes Bluetooth connectivity. Users can adjust settings and access features like a phone finder through the Casio Watches app. It also offers dual time functionality with 27 available time zones and a fully automatic calendar. Additionally, it has a 1-second stopwatch, countdown timer, and a daily alarm.

    An LED backlight ensures that the watch’s face is easy to read even in dim light conditions. Thanks to Tough Solar charging and a power-saving mode, the watch can last over 29 months without needing a charge. This model is classified as a Triple G Resist watch, making it resistant to shocks, centrifugal forces, and vibrations. Moreover, it boasts a water resistance of up to 200 meters. The dimensions of the watch are 55.1 x 49.8 x 15.9 mm (about 2.2 x 2.0 x 0.6 inches) and it weighs 131 g (approximately 4.6 oz). It remains unclear if it will also be made available in Europe.

    Conclusion

    Casio, along with G-Central, has generated excitement around this new watch, leaving fans eager for more information on its launch.

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    Casio G-Shock MTGB2000YBD2 Premium Watch Launching in the US

     

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  • Wear OS 6: New Features Ahead of Google Pixel Watch 4 Release

    Wear OS 6: New Features Ahead of Google Pixel Watch 4 Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google is not planning to launch new smartwatches for a while, following the Pixel Watch 3 release last summer.
    2. Wear OS 6 introduces a feature that automatically locks smartphones when out of range from the Pixel Watch.
    3. A new ‘Water Lock’ feature in Wear OS 6 may disable the touchscreen when water is detected, similar to features in other smartwatch OSs.
    4. Google is expected to announce the Pixel 10 models and possibly the Pixel Watch 4 on August 20.
    5. The Pixel Watch 4 is anticipated to be thicker than previous models and will support inductive charging, but full specifications are not yet available.

    Google is not planning to launch any new smartwatches for some time. Just to remind you, the Pixel Watch 3 (currently priced at $299 on Amazon) was introduced last summer alongside the Pixel 9 series in two different sizes. However, last month, the company unveiled Wear OS 6 during its yearly I/O conference.

    New Features Discovered

    Recently, 9to5Google reported that it found a new feature in Wear OS 6 that was not mentioned during the conference. Based on recent changes in the code, the site displayed a screenshot revealing that users can now lock their smartphones automatically when they are out of range from their Pixel Watch. This new option is set to enhance the existing Watch Unlock feature, which allows users to unlock their phones with their smartwatch while they are close to each other.

    Additional Updates on Wear OS 6

    In the meantime, Android Authority has stated that the Developer Preview of Wear OS 6 includes a feature called ‘Water Lock’. At the moment, the details about what this feature entails are not very clear from the code strings. Nevertheless, both Android Authority and 9to5Google suggest that Water Lock will function similarly to features found in One UI Watch and Apple watchOS, which disable the touchscreen when water is detected and then ejects the water by producing a sound from the device’s speakers.

    Upcoming Pixel Launch

    Currently, Google is expected to announce the Pixel 10 models on August 20, bringing back the Adaptive EQ feature, among other updates. Therefore, it is likely that the Pixel Watch 4 models will also be introduced on the same day, with shipping anticipated to start towards the end of August. Reports indicate that the Pixel Watch 4 will be more than 16% thicker than the existing models and will support inductive charging as well. Full specifications for the Pixel Watch 4 series are still not available at this time.

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    Wear OS 6: New Features Ahead of Google Pixel Watch 4 ReleaseWear OS 6: New Features Ahead of Google Pixel Watch 4 Release
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  • Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic Specs and Design Revealed on eBay

    Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic Specs and Design Revealed on eBay

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic resembles the Galaxy Watch Ultra, featuring a square body and round display with a prominent bezel.
    2. The bezel is expected to be rotatable, enhancing user navigation for scrolling and zooming.
    3. It includes a silver case, three buttons, and has a water resistance rating of up to 5 ATM.
    4. The watch is rumored to have 64GB of storage, which is double that of the Galaxy Watch Ultra.
    5. The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic may use the Exynos W1000 chip, but current prototypes lack functionality and compatibility with Samsung’s Wearable app.

    The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is likely to follow in the footsteps of the Galaxy Watch Ultra, which is currently priced at $399 on Amazon. Recently, high-resolution images of this new Samsung smartwatch were shared online, and soon after, a prototype appeared on eBay with a starting bid of only $150.

    Design and Features

    The eBay listing showcases the first actual images of the smartwatch, revealing a square body with a round display, similar to the Galaxy Watch Ultra. A notable feature is the bezel, which seems to stick out from the main case. It’s expected that the bezel on the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic will be rotatable, allowing users to easily scroll through lists or zoom in on maps and photos, for example.

    Specifications

    The silver case comes with three buttons on the right side, while the left side has openings for speakers and microphones. Unfortunately, the sensors on the back are hidden under a sticker, so we can’t see them yet. However, the back does show the model number “SM-L505U,” an LTE modem, and a strong sapphire crystal display cover. The case itself is 46mm wide and has a water resistance of up to 5 ATM.

    Storage and Performance

    The listing on eBay states that the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic has 64GB of storage, which is double that of the Galaxy Watch Ultra. However, it seems the watch isn’t functional at the moment as it can’t connect and isn’t compatible with Samsung’s Wearable app just yet. Previous rumors suggest that the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic will use the Exynos W1000 chip, which has also been featured in earlier Samsung smartwatches.

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    Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic Specs and Design Revealed on eBaySamsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic Specs and Design Revealed on eBaySamsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic Specs and Design Revealed on eBaySamsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic Specs and Design Revealed on eBaySamsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic Specs and Design Revealed on eBay

     

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  • Seiko Presage SPB497: Limited Edition with Unglazed Porcelain Dial

    Seiko Presage SPB497: Limited Edition with Unglazed Porcelain Dial

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Seiko Presage Classic Series SPB497 features a unique unglazed Arita porcelain dial, known for its high quality and decorative rhombus pattern symbolizing health and prosperity.
    2. The watch has a 40.6 mm stainless steel case, 12.4 mm thickness, gold stick hour markers, and a knurled crown at the 3 o’clock position, with no day/date window.
    3. It is powered by Seiko’s in-house 6R51 automatic movement, offering a 72-hour power reserve and operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour.
    4. The watch includes a dual-curved sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating and is water-resistant up to 100 m, suitable for light water activities.
    5. The limited edition SPB497 is priced at €1,950/$1,850, with only 1,200 pieces available starting July 2025.

    Japanese watchmaker Seiko has introduced its newest addition to the Presage Classic Series, the Craftsmanship Unglazed Arita Porcelain Dial Limited Edition SPB497. The highlight of this watch is undoubtedly its distinctive dial. Specifically, this dial is crafted from Arita porcelain, a material known for its exceptional quality. Additionally, there’s a decorative rhombus pattern around the dial’s edge, representing a historical symbol of health and prosperity.

    Design Details

    The unglazed porcelain dial is beautifully paired with simple gold stick hour markers and matching gold hands. Similar to the SBGW323 with an Mt. Iwate dial, Seiko draws inspiration from nature and traditional Japanese culture for the SPB497. In terms of dimensions, this new reference boasts a 40.6 mm (1.5 inch) stainless steel case and has a thickness of 12.4 mm (0.48 inch). There is no day/date window present, but it features a knurled pull-out crown located at the 3 o’clock position.

    Movement and Functionality

    Moreover, the SPB497 is driven by Seiko’s latest in-house automatic movement, the 6R51 caliber. This movement is also found in various Seiko models, including the special edition Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind and the King Seiko. The mid-range caliber operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour and offers a power reserve of up to 72 hours.

    Additional Features

    The case is topped with a dual-curved sapphire crystal that has an anti-reflective coating on the inside. Additionally, the watch is rated for 100 m (10 bar) of water resistance, making it suitable for light water activities. The stainless steel case is paired with a leather strap that features a three-part folding clasp for added convenience.

    The Seiko Presage Classic Series Craftsmanship Unglazed Arita Porcelain Dial Limited Edition SPB497 comes with a price tag of €1,950/$1,850 and will be available through Seiko Boutiques and selected retail partners globally starting July 2025. It’s important to note that this timepiece is a limited edition, with only 1,200 pieces being produced. For more information about the watch, you can visit Seiko’s official website.

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    Seiko Presage SPB497: Limited Edition with Unglazed Porcelain Dial

     

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  • Huawei Smartwatch Update Adds New Messaging Feature

    Huawei Smartwatch Update Adds New Messaging Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Huawei Watch Fit 3 is receiving a new firmware update, version 5.0.0.17, which is 110.5 MB in size.
    2. Users can now directly respond to messages from their smartwatch using the new Celia keyboard feature, available for Android devices.
    3. The update allows users to reject calls from WhatsApp, Messenger, Instagram, and Telegram via notifications on the watch.
    4. The firmware aims to improve system stability in certain situations, though specific details are not provided.
    5. The update is being released in phases and can be downloaded through the Huawei Health app.

    The Huawei Watch Fit 3 smartwatch is getting a fresh global update. The new firmware, version 5.0.0.17(C00M03), is a 110.5 MB download that follows the HarmonyOS 5 release that happened at the end of 2024. This update introduces several enhancements related to messaging and calls.

    New Messaging Features

    According to the change log for firmware version 5.0.0.17, users can now directly respond to messages from their Watch Fit 3. This new capability comes from the integration of the Celia keyboard, which allows users to reply to messages across different platforms, including SMS, Whatsapp, and Messenger. However, it should be noted that this feature is only available for those using Android devices.

    Call Management Enhancements

    In addition, this update adds a feature that enables users to reject calls from WhatsApp, Messenger, Instagram, and Telegram. Now, users have the option to decline calls from their connected smartphone through notifications on their watch. Moreover, the firmware is reported to improve system stability in “certain situations,” although specifics are not provided.

    The firmware version 5.0.0.17(C00M03) can be downloaded via the Huawei Health app. It appears that the update is being rolled out in phases, and it is not yet clear when it will be available to all Huawei Watch Fit 3 users.

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  • Samsung Galaxy Watch Sleep Apnea Feature Receives CE Certification

    Samsung Galaxy Watch Sleep Apnea Feature Receives CE Certification

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung’s Galaxy Watch sleep apnea feature has received CE certification, allowing use in 34 European countries, Australia, and Singapore.
    2. This certification expands the total number of countries where the feature is available to 70.
    3. The sleep apnea function was previously authorized by the U.S. FDA, marking it as the first wearable device approved for identifying moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea.
    4. Obstructive sleep apnea leads to disrupted breathing during sleep, causing daytime drowsiness and various health issues.
    5. Samsung Health offers personalized sleep coaching and enhances sleep settings, but the feature is officially supported only on Galaxy smartphones with Android 12 or later.

    Samsung has recently shared news through a press release that the sleep apnea function of the Galaxy Watch — which can be accessed through the Samsung Health Monitor app — has received CE certification. This certification allows the feature to be used in 34 European nations, along with Australia and Singapore, increasing the total to 70 countries. Users in these regions can now avoid the need to use methods like pretending to live in a different location. The CE certification is an advancement from the De Novo authorization Samsung got from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration back in February, marking the first instance where a wearable device was approved for identifying moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea.

    Understanding Sleep Apnea

    Obstructive sleep apnea involves repeated interruptions in breathing or episodes of shallow breathing, which can cause frequent awakenings and greatly interfere with regular sleep patterns. This condition may result in daytime drowsiness, higher blood pressure, and a variety of other health issues. Many people might not realize they have sleep apnea because they are often unaware that their sleep is being disturbed over and over again.

    Features of Samsung Health

    According to reports, Samsung Health not only identifies sleep apnea but also provides tailored sleep coaching and assists in improving the sleep setting. This function is available on the Galaxy Watch 4 and more recent smartwatch models; however, it is officially only supported on Galaxy smartphones running Android 12 or later.

    Samsung’s innovative approach to health monitoring continues to expand, offering users valuable tools to better understand and manage their sleep health.

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  • New Casio G-Shock GBX100S Watches Launching in Europe and US

    New Casio G-Shock GBX100S Watches Launching in Europe and US

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock G-Lide GBX100S-1 and GBX100S-2 watches are expected to launch in the US soon, following their recent release in Europe and Japan.
    2. The anticipated price for these models in the US market is around $170, based on reports from a Casio-focused blog.
    3. The watches feature a stainless steel bezel, clear casing, and a dark MIP LCD display, with the GBX100S-1 having a black resin strap and the GBX100S-2 a blue band.
    4. Key features include Moon data, tide graphs, workout tracking, world time zones, a stopwatch, countdown timer, and a daily alarm, with Bluetooth connectivity for app synchronization.
    5. The watches are water-resistant up to 200 m and have a battery life of approximately two years with a replaceable CR2032 battery.

    The Casio G-Shock G-Lide GBX100S-1 and GBX100S-2 watches might be coming to the US market soon, after they were recently launched in Europe. These devices were speculated about earlier this year and became available in Japan around mid-May.

    Upcoming US Launch

    According to a recent article from the Casio-focused blog G-Central, these two models from the GBX100S series are expected to hit the US shelves in the near future. The report mentions that they will likely be priced at $170 in this market, although the source of this pricing detail is not specified. In Europe, particularly in countries like the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany, these surfing watches are currently available for €169 each at Casio’s online store. In this region, they are referred to as the GBX-100S-1 and GBX-100S-2.

    Design and Specifications

    The GBX100S watches come with a stainless steel bezel and a clear casing, giving them a skeleton-like appearance. They both showcase a dark MIP LCD display with light-colored digits. The GBX100S-1 is equipped with a black resin strap, while the GBX100S-2 features a blue band. Each watch has dimensions of 50.9 x 46 x 14.7 mm (~2.0 x 1.8 x 0.6 inches) and weighs 66 g (~2.3 oz).

    Features and Performance

    Among the features of the shock-resistant GBX100S are Moon data, tide graphs, and sunrise/sunset displays. They offer workout tracking with metrics such as distance, speed, and pace; this information can be synchronized with the Casio Watches smartphone app via Bluetooth. The watches also support various world time zones and include a stopwatch, countdown timer, and daily alarm. Moreover, they are water-resistant up to 200 m and are expected to last around two years on a replaceable CR2032 battery.

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    New Casio G-Shock GBX100S Watches Launching in Europe and US
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  • Garmin Forerunner Smartwatches Update: Improved Battery Life

    Garmin Forerunner Smartwatches Update: Improved Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released software version 6.17 for the Forerunner 570 and 970 smartwatches, marking its first stable update since their launch in May 2025.
    2. The update improves battery life for the Forerunner 970 and the 47 mm version of the Forerunner 570, though specific improvements in battery duration are not disclosed.
    3. A translation update is now available for users in Japan, but the update does not address reported bug issues on Garmin forums, such as touchscreen problems and rebooting issues.
    4. Users can access the software update by navigating to Menu > System > Software Update > Check For Updates on their smartwatches.
    5. The Forerunner 970 is priced at $549.99 on Amazon and is expected to last up to 15 days, while the Forerunner 570 (47 mm) can last up to 11 days on a single charge.

    Garmin has rolled out software version 6.17 for the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches. These running devices were introduced in late May 2025. This update is the first stable one for these watches, which Garmin refers to as a hotfix.

    Battery Improvements

    The software update, version 6.17, reportedly boosts the battery life “on watch face” for the Forerunner 970 and the larger 47 mm version of the Forerunner 570 (currently priced at $549.99 on Amazon). Sadly, Garmin hasn’t provided any details about how much battery life has improved. Just to remind, the Forerunner 970 is expected to last up to 15 days, while the Forerunner 570 47 mm can last up to 11 days on a single charge.

    Translation Updates and Issues

    For those who bought one of these new Forerunner smartwatches in Japan, an update for translations is now available. The last note in the change log is a bit mysterious, mentioning “changes to support manufacturing.” However, the software release doesn’t seem to address any bug fixes related to problems users have reported on the Garmin forum. These include touch-screen issues on the Forerunner 570 and a rebooting problem on the Forerunner 970 that is connected to features like Google Assistant and maps.

    How to Get the Update

    Garmin states that software version 6.17 is accessible now for all users of the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches. To download this update, simply navigate to Menu > System > Software Update > Check For Updates.

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    Garmin Forerunner Smartwatches Update: Improved Battery Life
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