Category: Wearables

  • Garmin Smartwatches Beta Update: New Workout Metrics Added

    Garmin Smartwatches Beta Update: New Workout Metrics Added

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released beta version 22.03 for several smartwatch models, including Fenix 7 and Epix.
    2. New features include Reps and Set time data fields for HIIT and improvements to the swimming rest screen.
    3. The ‘edit’ option has been removed from Garmin Coach workouts.
    4. Various bug fixes have been implemented, addressing issues with activity maps, power modes, HRV glance, and music volume.
    5. Currently, about 20% of users have received the update, with ECG functionality hinted for future stable release.

    Garmin has released beta version 22.03 for its smartwatches including the Fenix 7, Fenix 7x, Fenix 7s, Epix, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and MARQ Gen 2. This update comes just weeks after the stable version 21.19 was launched, which introduced a new Breathing Variations tool, an updated Running Track Database, and several enhancements related to the sensors.

    New Features for Users

    With this new beta update, users can now access Reps and Set time data fields for HIIT activities. Additionally, improvements have been made to the rest screen for swimming activities, although specifics on these enhancements are not disclosed. Garmin has also eliminated the ‘edit’ option from Garmin Coach workouts, making it impossible to make edits.

    Bug Fixes Included

    Beta version 22.03 is accompanied by a variety of bug fixes. These fixes address issues with the activity map, activity power modes, and the HRV glance. An issue where the music volume was not updating correctly has been fixed, along with a potential crash that could occur when trying to open the connection information page. Complete release notes are available below.

    Rollout Information

    A Garmin representative shared on the company forum that about 20% of users have received the software update so far. However, there’s no timeline given for when the full rollout will be finished. The update also mentions that ECG functionality is included, hinting that a stable version may soon be available for all users of the Fenix 7, which starts at $599.99 on Amazon, along with other compatible smartwatches.

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    Garmin Smartwatches Beta Update: New Workout Metrics Added

     

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  • Polar Grit X2: Compact AMOLED Smartwatch with ECG & Offline Maps

    Polar Grit X2: Compact AMOLED Smartwatch with ECG & Offline Maps

    Key Takeaways

    1. Product Introduction: The Polar Grit X2 is a new rugged smartwatch available for purchase, priced at €480 in Europe, with two color options: “Night Black” and “Brown Copper.”

    2. Advanced Tracking Features: It offers dual-band GPS, heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen tracking, ECG capabilities, and a temperature sensor, making it suitable for various workouts.

    3. Smartwatch Functions: Users can receive smartphone notifications, manage music playback, and enjoy an AMOLED touchscreen with always-on functionality.

    4. Storage and Navigation: The device includes 32GB of internal storage for offline maps and supports turn-by-turn navigation through Komoot, alongside traditional compass and barometer features.

    5. Durability and Battery Life: The Grit X2 boasts a battery life of about a week on a full charge and is water-resistant up to 50 meters, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.

    Polar has recently added a new model to its collection of wearables, named the Polar Grit X. This device is now available for purchase. The Polar Grit X2 is a rugged smartwatch packed with features, making it a potential alternative to the Amazfit T-Rex 3 or even the Garmin Fenix 8, which starts at $799 on Amazon. In Europe, its price is set at €480, and customers can buy it directly from the manufacturer in two colors: “Night Black” and “Brown Copper”.

    Impressive Features

    The advanced capabilities of Polar’s smartwatches are pretty well-known. The Grit X is capable of tracking workouts, including the distance, thanks to its dual-band GPS support GNSS module. It can also monitor heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and even perform ECGs. Additionally, there’s a temperature sensor included. For those into running, it can calculate running power and also provides advanced metrics for swimming. Plus, a variety of training and workout programs are accessible.

    Smartwatch Capabilities

    Moreover, this new Polar smartwatch allows users to see notifications from their smartphones and manage music playback. The device features a 1.28-inch AMOLED touchscreen with a resolution of 416 x 416 pixels. This screen supports always-on functionality and has an ambient light sensor. For comparison, the Grit X2 Pro comes with a larger 1.39-inch display. The internal storage is 32GB, which can be used for offline maps, including points of interest. It also supports turn-by-turn navigation via Komoot, and a compass as well as a barometer can assist with traditional paper maps. Most importantly, the Grit X is said to have a battery life of about a week on a full charge and is water-resistant up to 50 meters.

    Polar’s new wearable offers a great combination of features and durability, making it a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts and fitness fans alike.

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  • Casio US Launches Six Hidden Glow G-Shocks: Sea of Stars Edition

    Casio US Launches Six Hidden Glow G-Shocks: Sea of Stars Edition

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio has launched six new G-Shock watches with luminescent blue dials in the Hidden Glow Volume 2: Sea of Stars series.
    2. The watches use a glow-in-the-dark material that absorbs light and glows like ocean plankton, while also featuring LED lights for digital display visibility.
    3. The G-Shock watches are waterproof up to 200 meters, with a durable design that resists drops and shocks, and feature ocean-inspired colors.
    4. Key functionalities include a stopwatch, timer, world time, and five daily alarms.
    5. The GA110HDS-7A is priced at $140, while the other five models are priced at $110 each, with availability soon on the Casio website and Amazon.

    Casio US has revealed a collection of six new G-Shock watches featuring luminescent blue dials as part of their Hidden Glow Volume 2: Sea of Stars series.

    Exciting Features

    The special glow-in-the-dark material used in these watches absorbs light from sunlight or artificial sources, allowing them to glow in the dark like ocean plankton, without needing any electricity. Despite this unique feature, these G-Shock watches are still designed with LED lights, enabling users to view the digital displays. Notably, the GA110 model incorporates an automatic light function that activates the LED when the watch is lifted for reading.

    Durable Design

    These G-Shock watches boast a waterproof rating of 200 meters (656 ft.) and are crafted with a tough design that can endure drops, shocks, and rough handling. They feature white cases and bands accented with blue, drawing inspiration from the ocean, which is a shift from the original Hidden Glow series’ gray color scheme. Each watch includes essential timekeeping functionalities such as a stopwatch, timer, world time, and five daily alarms.

    Pricing and Availability

    The GA110HDS-7A has a suggested retail price of $140, while the other five models in the Hidden Glow series are priced at $110 each. All watches from the Hidden Glow Vol. 2 collection will soon be available for purchase on the Casio website. Customers can also find them at the Casio store on Amazon for availability.

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  • Buy New Casio G-Shock Black and Red Watches in the US from $99

    Buy New Casio G-Shock Black and Red Watches in the US from $99

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio launched the Black and Bold Red G-Shock series in the US after its debut in Japan.
    2. The collection features five models with matte black cases, dark red displays, and sharp contrasts.
    3. Each model offers 200-meter water resistance, shock resistance, world time, and stopwatch features; the GAB2100 includes solar charging and smartphone connectivity.
    4. All watches share a design element of red-tinted LCDs or red details against black bezels and straps.
    5. The collection is available on Casio’s official US online store and is noted as a standout release of the year, though not classified as limited edition.

    Casio has launched its Black and Bold Red G-Shock series in the United States, after it was first introduced in Japan. This collection features five striking models that show off matte black cases, dark red displays, and sharp monochrome contrasts, giving the watches a bold and aggressive appearance in both digital and analog-digital styles.

    Full Lineup Overview

    The complete range now includes:

    Each model keeps the original specifications of the base watch, including impressive 200-meter water resistance, shock resistance, world time, and stopwatch features. The GAB2100 model also includes solar charging and smartphone connectivity. A key design feature shared by all five watches is the eye-catching red-tinted LCDs or red details, which create a vibrant contrast against the black bezels and straps.

    Availability and Release

    The latest collection can be found now at Casio’s official US online store (links can be found in the source). This release follows a staggered launch that began earlier in the UK and Japan. Although Casio has not classified this series as a limited edition, its unique color scheme and wide range of styles make it one of the standout G-Shock releases this year.

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    Buy New Casio G-Shock Black and Red Watches in the US from $99
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  • Xiaomi Smart Band 10 Leaked: Modern Design and Affordable Price

    Xiaomi Smart Band 10 Leaked: Modern Design and Affordable Price

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi is preparing to launch the Smart Band 10 with a larger display and slimmer bezels compared to the Smart Band 9.
    2. The new model will feature a 1.72-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 212 x 520 pixels.
    3. The battery size will remain at 233 mAh, with an estimated battery life of 21 days.
    4. Smart Band 10 will come with HyperOS 2.0 and over 150 pre-installed sports modes, maintaining compatibility with Android 8.0 and iOS 12.0.
    5. The expected global price for the Smart Band 10 is between €40 and €50 (approximately $45-$57).

    It appears that Xiaomi is getting ready to update its Smart Band fitness tracker series with a new model. Just to remind you, Xiaomi launched the Smart Band 9 Pro (currently priced at $82 on Amazon) globally late last year and expanded its availability in March during MWC 2025 in Barcelona.

    New Features of Smart Band 10

    According to early insights from XpertPick, Xiaomi is putting the finishing touches on the Smart Band 10, which will feature a bigger display and slimmer bezels compared to the Smart Band 9. The dimensions of the Smart Band are expected to increase slightly from 46.53 x 21.63 mm to 46.57 x 22.54 mm to fit a 0.1-inch larger display. The AMOLED screen will now measure 1.72 inches and will upgrade to a resolution of 212 x 520 pixels with 326 PPI, improving from the Smart Band 9’s 192 x 490 pixels and 325 PPI.

    Battery and Software Updates

    On the flip side, the new Smart Band’s battery size is rumored to stay the same at 233 mAh, and the estimated battery life will reportedly remain unchanged at 21 days. Additionally, XpertPick suggests that the Smart Band 10 will debut with HyperOS 2.0, offering over 150 sports modes pre-installed. Xiaomi is also expected to keep compatibility with Android 8.0 and iOS 12.0, along with features like ambient light and PPG sensors. Currently, XpertPick estimates that the Smart Band 10 will be available globally soon, priced between €40 and €50 (approximately $45-$57).

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, Xiaomi seems to be making significant improvements to its Smart Band line-up. With a larger display and enhanced features, the Smart Band 10 could cater to a wider audience of fitness enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for its official release, as it seems to be just around the corner!

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  • Casio G-Shock GA-V01: New Colors Coming Soon!

    Casio G-Shock GA-V01: New Colors Coming Soon!

    Key Takeaways

    1. Three new color options for the Casio G-Shock GA-V01 watch are coming: vivid pink, white, and gold.
    2. The new models will have dimensions of 49.1 x 58.2 x 19.6 mm and weigh around 74 g.
    3. Features include shock resistance, water resistance up to 200 m, world time for 48 cities, and various timers and alarms.
    4. The expected retail price for the new models is around $140/£119/€139.
    5. The exact release date and availability in different countries are still unknown.

    Three new models of the Casio G-Shock GA-V01 watch are said to be coming soon. This watch was first introduced in four colors in 2025, and its design has sparked mixed feelings among fans of Casio.

    New Colors on the Horizon

    The reliable source geesgshock has mentioned three new watches: the GA-V01-4A (vivid pink), the GA-V01-7A (white), and the GA-V01A-9A (gold). These are expected to be launched later in 2025, adding to the current lineup which includes the GA-V01-1A (black), GA-V01-2A (blue-purple), GA-V01-9A (neon yellow), and GA-V01A-8A (silver).

    Specifications and Features

    These new color options will likely have dimensions of 49.1 x 58.2 x 19.6 mm (about 1.9 x 2.3 x 0.8 inches) and will weigh around 74 g (approximately 2.6 oz), featuring a resin case and strap. If they share the same functionalities, these watches will be shock resistant and equipped with the new Shock Release Hand. They should also offer water resistance up to 200 m and include world time settings for 48 different cities. Users can expect features like a stopwatch, countdown timer, and several alarms. A white LED backlight along with Neobrite elements may also be part of the package to enhance visibility in low light. Additionally, the current models last approximately 10 years on a replaceable CR2025 battery.

    Pricing and Availability

    The anticipated retail prices for the Casio G-Shock GA-V01-4A, GA-V01-7A, and GA-V01A-9A watches are around $140/£119/€139. However, the exact release date and the countries where they will be sold remain uncertain.

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    Casio G-Shock GA-V01: New Colors Coming Soon!
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  • Casio Unveils G-Shock MRG-B2000 Watches with UK Release Date

    Casio Unveils G-Shock MRG-B2000 Watches with UK Release Date

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock MRG-B2000BG-3A and MRG-B2000RG-3A are now available for pre-order in Japan.
    2. Both watches feature designs inspired by kurogane-iro, a blue-green color from samurai armor, with different materials for each model.
    3. They include Bluetooth connectivity, allowing access to settings via the Casio Watches app, and support dual time zones.
    4. Key features include Tough Solar charging, 200 m water resistance, a 1-second stopwatch, a countdown timer, and a daily alarm.
    5. The pre-order price for each watch is ¥ 385,000 (~$2,690), with UK pricing and availability still to be announced.

    The Casio G-Shock MRG-B2000BG-3A and MRG-B2000RG-3A timepieces have now opened for pre-order in Japan. Earlier this year, there were whispers about these watches when their designs and multiple features came to light. The MRG-B2000BG-3A has also appeared on the brand’s UK online store, hinting at a possible launch in that region.

    Unique Features of the Mr-G Series

    Both of these Mr-G series watches pay homage to kurogane-iro, a blue-green hue seen in samurai armor. The MRG-B2000BG-3A features a brushed titanium bezel and a matching titanium strap, while the MRG-B2000RG-3A sports a recrystallized titanium bezel along with a Durasoft fluoro rubber strap. Due to this, the MRG-B2000BG-3A is a bit heavier at 150 g (~5.3 oz), whereas the MRG-B2000RG-3A weighs in at 138 g (~4.9 oz).

    Technology and Functionality

    The two MRG-B2000 watches share identical features. They come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to access various settings and tools via the Casio Watches smartphone app. These are radio-controlled (Multiband 6) watches that support dual time zones. Additional features include a 1-second stopwatch, a countdown timer offering a 24-hour range, and a daily alarm. Moreover, they provide Tough Solar charging and boast a water resistance of 200 m.

    Pre-order Information

    Currently, you can pre-order the Casio G-Shock MRG-B2000BG-3A and MRG-B2000RG-3A watches in Japan for ¥ 385,000 (~$2,690) each. The pricing and release date for the MRG-B2000BG-3A in the UK is still pending announcement. It’s also uncertain if the MRG-B2000RG-3A will be available in this market as well.

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    Casio Unveils G-Shock MRG-B2000 Watches with UK Release Date
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  • Casio G-Shock DW-5600WW-7 All White Watch Now Available

    Casio G-Shock DW-5600WW-7 All White Watch Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio has launched a new all-white G-Shock model, the DW-5600WW-7, in Japan.
    2. The watch features a digital display with a white LED backlight and is made from white resin.
    3. It is shock-resistant, water-resistant up to 20 ATM, and has a five-year battery life.
    4. Key functionalities include a stopwatch, countdown timer, alarm, and automatic calendar.
    5. The DW-5600WW-7 is priced at ¥14,300 (about $100) and is currently available for pre-order in Japan.

    Casio has introduced a new all-white G-Shock model in Japan called the DW-5600WW-7. This watch is part of the 5600 series, which also includes recent models such as the Black and Bold Red DW-5600BBR-1 and the DW-5600KHG24-1, the latter of which is inspired by the artist Katsushika Hokusai.

    Specs and Design

    The DW-5600WW-7 features a digital display with a light LCD that can be lit up using a white LED backlight. Its casing, octagonal bezel, and strap are crafted from white resin. The dimensions of the watch are 48.9 x 42.8 x 13.4 mm (approximately 1.9 x 1.7 x 0.5 inches), and it has a weight of 52 g (around 0.11 lbs). This model is shock-resistant, water-resistant up to 20 ATM, and is designed to last around five years with a replaceable battery.

    Features and Functionality

    Among the features of the DW-5600, you’ll find a 1/100 second stopwatch, a countdown timer that can go up to 24 hours, an alarm, and hourly time signals. The time can be shown in either 12 or 24 hour formats, and the calendar operates automatically. Additionally, Casio claims that the time will stay accurate within 15 seconds each month.

    Availability and Pricing

    The Casio G-Shock DW-5600WW-7 is currently available for pre-order in Japan at a price of ¥14,300 (about $100). However, it is still unclear when or if this watch will be released in other markets, such as North America. In the meantime, the older DW5600UE-1 model can be found on Amazon for $59.96.

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  • Amazfit Active 2 Square Smartwatch Leaked at Retailers

    Amazfit Active 2 Square Smartwatch Leaked at Retailers

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit Active 2 Square has been spotted at retailers in Mexico, alongside mentions of its original round version.
    2. It features a 1.75-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 390 x 450 px, a stainless steel bezel, and sapphire crystal glass protection.
    3. The smartwatch includes two straps (leather and silicone) and measures 43.2 x 36.9 x 9 mm, weighing around 31.4 g.
    4. It is expected to have the BioTracker 6.0 PPG biometric sensor, over 160 sports modes, and a 260 mAh battery lasting up to five days under heavy usage.
    5. The official announcement for the Amazfit Active 2 Square is anticipated in June 2025, with unclear details on a standard version and global pricing.

    The Amazfit Active 2 Square seems to have been spotted at various retailers in Mexico. There was some talk about this particular model when people started calling the original Active 2 the Active 2 (Round). Additionally, the Active 2 Square was briefly seen on a Zepp security website.

    Retailer Insights

    Recently, sellers on Walmart and Celcom have shared some details and photos of the Active 2 Square Premium. This Square model reportedly features a bigger 1.75-inch AMOLED display that has a resolution of 390 x 450 px. Just like the round version of the Active 2 Premium watch, it is said to come with a stainless steel bezel and two buttons, while the screen is protected by sapphire crystal glass. The watch includes two straps: one made of leather and another made of silicone. Its dimensions are 43.2 x 36.9 x 9 mm (approximately 1.7 x 1.5 x 0.4 inches), and it weighs around 31.4 g (about 1.1 oz).

    Features and Specifications

    While we are still waiting for the complete feature list, the product listing suggests that the Amazfit Active 2 (Square) will include the same BioTracker 6.0 PPG biometric sensor found in the round model, offering more than 160 sports modes along with the PulsePrecision heart rate algorithm. It remains uncertain if this Premium model will support NFC contactless payments in some regions. The smartwatch seems to be equipped with a 260 mAh battery that can last up to five days under heavy usage.

    Future Developments

    It’s still unclear if there will be a standard version of the Active 2 Square and how it might differ from the Premium version. The Amazfit Active 2 Square smartwatch is anticipated to be officially announced in June 2025, but specific launch dates and global pricing details are still unknown. To remind you, the Amazfit Active 2 Premium (Round) is currently priced at $129.99 on Amazon.

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  • Amazfit Balance 2 Runner Smartwatch Coming Soon

    Amazfit Balance 2 Runner Smartwatch Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit Balance 2 Runner is a new smartwatch variant specifically designed for runners, following the original Balance 2 launched in May 2025.
    2. The Balance 2 Runner may also be referred to as the Amazfit Balance 2 SE and has been linked to the codename “Warsaw” in Zepp Health’s software.
    3. Expected features include a round 480 x 480 pixel display, various health sensors (accelerometer, gyroscope, altimeter), and GPS support for tracking workouts.
    4. The watch’s dimensions are similar to other Balance 2 models, measuring 49 x 49 x 13 mm (approximately 1.92 x 1.92 x 0.51 inches).
    5. No official announcement regarding the launch date or pricing has been made, but the original Balance 2 is priced at around $277 in China.

    A new Amazfit smartwatch has seemingly been unveiled: the Balance 2 Runner. The original Balance 2 was launched in China in May 2025, succeeding the initial Balance watch that came out in 2023. In June, there were whispers about the Balance 2 XT, which is anticipated to be a high-end version of the device featuring titanium parts.

    New Variant for Runners

    According to a report from AndroidTR, there’s also a third version of the Amazfit Balance 2 tailored specifically for runners. A smartwatch identified as model A2547 recently showed up in filings with the FCC, the organization that oversees communication devices in the United States. One document even presents a mockup of a label for the watch’s packaging. A note in the document refers to the device by its codename “Warsaw.” AndroidTR has discovered references to Warsaw in some of Zepp Health’s software, which connects to the name Amazfit Balance 2 Runner. There’s also speculation that this device might be named the Amazfit Balance 2 SE.

    Expected Features and Specifications

    There are rumors that the Balance 2 Runner smartwatch will come with a round display boasting a resolution of 480 x 480 pixels. It is likely to include sensors such as an accelerometer, gyroscope, and altimeter, along with GPS support. This means users should be able to track various health metrics and their workouts effectively. The dimensions of the watch are reported to be similar to other Balance 2 models, measuring 49 x 49 x 13 mm (approximately 1.92 x 1.92 x 0.51 inches).

    Despite the buzz, Amazfit has not yet made an official announcement regarding the Balance 2 Runner or Balance 2 SE smartwatch. There’s currently no information available about its launch date or pricing. For reference, the original Balance 2 smartwatch is priced at CNY 1,999 (around $277) in China. It may serve as an alternative to the older Amazfit Cheetah Pro running smartwatch, which is currently priced at $179.99 on Amazon.

    Conclusion

    In summary, while the details surrounding the Amazfit Balance 2 Runner remain uncertain, the anticipation is building within the running community. As we await further announcements from Amazfit, it will be interesting to see how this new model competes with existing options in the market.

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