Category: Wearables

  • China’s First Spinal Implant Helps Paraplegics Walk in 2 Weeks

    China’s First Spinal Implant Helps Paraplegics Walk in 2 Weeks

    Key Takeaways

    1. A surgical team in Hangzhou successfully implanted a closed-loop spinal cord neural interface in a paraplegic man, enabling him to stand and walk independently.
    2. The patient, Mr. Jin, had lost movement and sensation below the chest due to a spinal injury and showed no improvement after traditional rehabilitation.
    3. The procedure involved placing a 16-contact stimulation electrode in the lumbar spinal cord, paired with a wireless pulse generator, all developed in China.
    4. Remarkable recovery was observed, with Mr. Jin regaining leg movement, standing, and walking within weeks, along with improvements in sensory perception and bladder control.
    5. The innovative adaptive interface used in the procedure allows for more natural walking patterns, and researchers plan to conduct larger trials to improve treatment for spinal cord injuries.


    A surgical group in Hangzhou has successfully completed the first implantation in China of a closed-loop spinal cord neural interface, which has enabled a 61-year-old paraplegic man to stand and walk on his own. This groundbreaking operation took place at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, supported by Zhejiang University’s Nanhu Brain-Computer Interface Institute and several other collaborators. This milestone marks a significant advancement in restoring motor and sensory abilities following serious spinal cord injuries.

    Background of the Patient

    Mr. Jin experienced a total loss of voluntary movement and most of his sensations below the chest due to a thoracic 3/4 fracture sustained from a fall in October 2024. After undergoing four months of traditional rehabilitation, he showed no meaningful improvement in motor function. Clinicians deemed his chances of walking independently to be extremely slim.

    Details of the Procedure

    In March 2025, neurosurgeons placed a 16-contact stimulation electrode into Mr. Jin’s lumbar spinal cord, along with a small, wireless, rechargeable pulse generator located in his abdomen. All the equipment utilized during this procedure was developed in China and holds domestic intellectual property rights. The closed-loop system links real-time electromyography feedback with customized patterns of multi-site stimulation, designed to enhance remaining spinal circuits instead of drowning them in constant pulses.

    Remarkable Recovery Progress

    Recovery came swiftly. By the third day after the surgery, Jin was able to voluntarily flex and extend his legs. By the fifteenth day, he could stand and walk without assistance. One month later, he was able to navigate turns, inclines, and varying speeds using a walker. Alongside this physical recovery, sensory perception in his lower limbs improved, and he regained bladder and bowel control, indicating a possible repair of the afferent pathways.

    The research team highlights that conventional stimulators with fixed parameters rarely restore complex, self-initiated walking. Their adaptive interface merges precise selection of contacts with dynamic adjustments in frequency and amplitude, facilitating a more natural walking pattern. Considering that around 3.7 million individuals in China are living with spinal cord injuries, researchers aim to conduct larger trials to fine-tune the parameters, assess durability, and investigate new methods for repairing neural injuries, including studies on various types of paralysis.

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  • Honor Watch 5 Ultra Launches in Malaysia: 40M Dive Mode & Titanium Body

    Honor Watch 5 Ultra Launches in Malaysia: 40M Dive Mode & Titanium Body

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Honor Watch 5 Ultra features a durable titanium alloy case and scratch-resistant sapphire glass, designed for toughness and inspired by a spaceship’s viewport.
    2. It includes a 40-meter Free Diving Mode, 5ATM and IP68 ratings for water and dust resistance, and various training modes for apnea.
    3. The smartwatch has a 1.5-inch display with a resolution of 466×466 pixels and can last up to 15 days on a single charge, with fast charging capabilities.
    4. Health features include a one-minute Honor Health Scan, sleep tracking with calming music, and audio recording synced with the Honor Notes app.
    5. The watch is available for pre-order in Malaysia at RM1,099 ($260), with a promotional price of RM999 ($236) for early orders, and will officially launch on May 30.


    Honor has launched its Watch 5 Ultra smartwatch in Malaysia. This smartwatch was first revealed at the Mobile World Congress 2025 event in March.

    Features of the Honor Watch 5 Ultra

    The Honor Watch 5 Ultra is designed with a titanium alloy case made from aerospace-grade materials and is certified by SGS for its durability. Its design includes scratch-resistant sapphire glass and an octagonal bezel that takes inspiration from a spaceship’s viewport.

    This watch is equipped with a 40-meter Free Diving Mode that measures depth, speed, water temperature, maximum depth, time spent underwater, and direction. It also features two apnea training modes and a testing mode. The device is rated 5ATM and IP68 for resistance to water and dust.

    Display and Battery Life

    Equipped with a 1.5-inch display, the watch has a resolution of 466×466 pixels and a pixel density of 310 PPI. It can last up to 15 days on a single charge. A wireless fast charger is included, providing a full day of battery life in just 10 minutes of charging. The watch has dimensions of 46.3 x 46.3 x 11.4 mm and weighs 51.8 grams without the strap.

    Health features on the Watch 5 Ultra include a one-minute Honor Health Scan. For sleep tracking, it provides calming music and watch faces optimized for sleeping. Users can also record audio directly on the watch and sync it with the Honor Notes app. The two-way search function helps locate either the watch or the connected phone. It is compatible with Android 9.0 and above, as well as iOS 13.0 and above.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Watch 5 Ultra is currently available for pre-order in Malaysia, with two strap options: Black fluoroelastomer and Brown leather. However, at this time, only the Brown leather version is available. The retail price is RM1,099 ($260), but customers who pre-order by May 29 can take advantage of a promotional price of RM999 ($236). Official sales are set to begin on May 30.


  • Casio OCW-S6000PB-7A Oceanus Manta: Titanium and Sapphire Bezel

    Casio OCW-S6000PB-7A Oceanus Manta: Titanium and Sapphire Bezel

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio OCW-S6000PB-7AJF is part of the Oceanus Manta series, launching in June 2025, with a limited release of 600 pieces priced at ¥385,000 (approximately $2,700).
    2. The watch features a silver-white dial with dark blue subdials and a unique sapphire bezel with 72 facets for enhanced light reflection.
    3. It operates on Tough Solar technology and includes Multi-Band 6 radio control, along with Bluetooth connectivity for added features via the Casio Watches app.
    4. Constructed from lightweight titanium, the watch has a water resistance rating of 10 bar and offers day, date, and 24-hour tracking through organized subdials.
    5. While not a significant innovation, the design is appealing to Oceanus fans, emphasizing clean aesthetics and craftsmanship suitable for everyday wear.


    Casio has introduced a new model in its Oceanus Manta series, the OCW-S6000PB-7AJF, which is expected to launch in June 2025. The watch is priced at ¥385,000 (approximately $2,700) and will be limited to just 600 pieces. While it retains the classic Manta style, this model features some noticeable enhancements.

    Design and Features

    This new offering sticks to the OCW-S6000 design aesthetic, which is characterized by its slim, lightweight build and emphasis on balance. The watch face showcases a silver-white background with dark blue subdials and a 12 o’clock index, creating a pleasant vertical contrast. A standout feature of this watch is the sapphire bezel, which is intricately cut with 24 facets on the top and 48 on the sides, allowing it to beautifully catch and reflect light from various angles. The focus here is more on shimmer rather than a bright shine.

    Technical Specifications

    As with many models in the Oceanus collection, it operates on Tough Solar technology and includes Multi-Band 6 radio control. Bluetooth connectivity via the Casio Watches app enables features like world time, self-correction, and a phone finder. Constructed from titanium, both the case and bracelet are designed to keep the watch light on the wrist, while its water resistance is rated at 10 bar.

    The subdials provide day, date, and 24-hour tracking, which might not be extraordinary but is nicely organized. Additionally, Casio has applied platinum vapor deposition to the outer bezel, which modifies how it reflects light under different circumstances.

    Conclusion

    Overall, this new release does not aim to innovate significantly. However, it should certainly appeal to Oceanus enthusiasts who appreciate clean, detailed designs ideal for everyday wear. It’s understated, well-crafted, and is likely to look more impressive in motion than it does in static images.

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  • Casio AQS820 Tough Solar Watches Now Available in the US

    Casio AQS820 Tough Solar Watches Now Available in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio AQS820W series features three color options: black, military green, and beige tan, all priced at $55.95.
    2. Key features include Tough Solar charging, 100-meter water resistance, five daily alarms, dual countdown timers, world time for 48 cities, and a full auto-calendar valid until 2099.
    3. The watch design is straightforward, with a resin construction that keeps it lightweight at 46 grams.
    4. The solar battery can last up to 10 months with regular use or up to 23 months in power-saving mode.
    5. The AQS820W offers a reliable, budget-friendly alternative to G-Shock watches, available for purchase from Casio’s official US store with limited stock.


    The Casio AQS820W series, which was quietly re-launched in April, is now officially for sale in the United States. The collection features three color options: black (AQS820W-1AV), military green (AQS820W-3BV), and beige tan (AQS820W-5AV), all priced at $55.95.

    Features and Specifications

    These fresh models bring back the lesser-known AQ-S820 line, designed to be practical and positioned below Casio’s G-Shock and Edifice collections. Even with its budget-friendly price, the watches deliver a good range of features. Each of the three variants includes Tough Solar charging, water resistance up to 100 meters, five daily alarms, dual countdown timers, an LED backlight with afterglow, world time function for 48 cities, a stopwatch that measures to 1/100 of a second, and a full auto-calendar valid until 2099.

    Design and Build

    The design remains unchanged from earlier leaks, staying faithful to the original’s straightforward style. A flat resin bezel frames a clear hybrid dial, where white analog hands stand out nicely against the dark backdrop. The LCD screen positioned at 6 o’clock displays the date, day, and other timekeeping features.

    Constructed entirely from resin, including the band and glass, the AQS820W is lightweight at only 46 grams. Casio claims that with regular use, the solar charge battery can last up to 10 months, or up to 23 months if kept in complete darkness with power-saving mode activated.

    Practicality and Availability

    The AQS820W balances functionality with simplicity. It’s designed for individuals who want a reliable, solar-powered watch that covers the essentials. Each model is currently available for purchase from Casio’s official US store, although stock appears to be limited at this time. For less than $60, it stands out as a great value option in Casio’s current analog-digital selection, particularly for those seeking a G-Shock alternative that’s less bulky and more affordable.

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  • TAG Heuer Unveils Limited Edition Monaco Chronograph Stopwatch

    TAG Heuer Unveils Limited Edition Monaco Chronograph Stopwatch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Limited Edition Release: The TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Stopwatch is a limited edition watch with only 970 pieces available.

    2. Design Inspiration: The design is influenced by TAG Heuer models from the 1960s and 1970s, closely resembling the original 1969 Monaco.

    3. Striking Aesthetic: Features a bold color scheme of black, white, and red, with a black DLC-coated titanium case and a leather strap.

    4. Advanced Movement: Powered by the Calibre 11 automatic movement, it operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour and has a 40-hour power reserve.

    5. Water Resistance and Dimensions: The watch is water-resistant up to 100 meters and has dimensions of 39 x 15 mm.


    TAG Heuer has introduced the Monaco Chronograph Stopwatch just in time for the Formula 1 Grand Prix de Monaco happening on May 25th. The design of this watch draws inspiration from models created in the 1960s and 1970s, closely resembling the original 1969 TAG Heuer Monaco, featuring a crown positioned on the left side.

    Design Details

    The Monaco Chronograph Stopwatch showcases a striking color combination of black, white, and red, set against an opaline silver backdrop. The case is crafted from black DLC-coated titanium, complemented by a leather strap in black. A domed sapphire crystal glass safeguards the dial, which includes a minute track on the perimeter, two sub-dials, and a date display. Moreover, the hour markers and the hour and minute hands glow in the dark, making it easier to tell the time in dim settings.

    Movement and Specifications

    This timepiece is powered by the Calibre 11 automatic movement, functioning at a rate of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz) and providing a power reserve of 40 hours. It is also water-resistant up to 100 m (~330 ft) and has dimensions of 39 x 15 mm (~1.5 x 0.6 inches).

    The TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Stopwatch (CAW218F.FC6356) is a limited edition watch, with only 970 pieces being produced. It is priced at $9,850/£8,600/€9,650 and includes a specially designed travel pouch for added convenience.

    Conclusion

    With its rich heritage and modern technology, the TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Stopwatch is sure to be a sought-after item for watch enthusiasts and collectors alike. Its exclusive nature and premium craftsmanship make it a standout choice for anyone looking to blend style with functionality.

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  • Casio G-Shock Color-Changing Watches Launching Worldwide

    Casio G-Shock Color-Changing Watches Launching Worldwide

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock Baby-G BGA-10 series includes four models: BGA-10-3A (green), BGA-10-4A (pink), BGA-10-6A (purple), and BGA-10-7A (white).
    2. The watches feature a color-changing design with hearts and a cupid’s arrow-shaped second hand, along with a hidden heart pattern.
    3. The BGA-10 watches are water-resistant up to 10 bar and have a battery life of three years, with an accuracy deviation of only 20 seconds per month.
    4. Each watch measures 46.6 × 42.1 × 11.4 mm and weighs 34 g, making them lightweight and compact.
    5. Priced at €89.90, the watches are available in select European countries, but release dates and availability in other markets, including North America, remain uncertain.


    The Casio G-Shock Baby-G BGA-10 series watches have just launched in Europe. This collection features four different models: the BGA-10-3A (green), BGA-10-4A (pink), BGA-10-6A (purple), and BGA-10-7A (white).

    Unique Design Features

    These Baby-G timepieces boast a striking color-changing design element. Underneath the watch face, a multicolored panel spins around, giving the appearance of hearts changing colors on the dial. Other interesting design details include a second hand shaped like a ‘cupid’s arrow’, a heart pattern cleverly hidden under the removable bezel, and a vibrant date display.

    Specifications and Durability

    The BGA-10 is built to be water resistant up to 10 bar and can operate for as long as three years powered by an SR920SW battery. Casio states that the watch keeps time accurately, deviating only 20 seconds each month. These resin watches have dimensions of 46.6 × 42.1 × 11.4 mm (approximately 1.8 x 1.7 x 0.5 inches) and have a weight of 34 g (around 1.2 oz).

    Pricing and Availability

    Casio’s new G-Shock Baby-G models BGA-10-3A, BGA-10-4A, BGA-10-6A, and BGA-10-7A are priced at €89.90 and will be sold in countries such as the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany, although the exact release date for these regions remains unclear. The BGA-10-7A is currently for sale at the G-Shock UK store for £79.90; however, it is uncertain when or if the other color options will be released in this market. Additionally, Casio has not yet announced any intentions to introduce these products to North America.

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  • Apple to Launch Stylish Smart Glasses and New Camera AirPods

    Apple to Launch Stylish Smart Glasses and New Camera AirPods

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is developing a lighter, compact version of smart glasses aimed for everyday use, set to launch in 2026 after the Vision Pro 2 headset.
    2. The new smart glasses will feature cameras, speakers, and microphones for calls, navigation, music, and translation, focusing on design rather than groundbreaking technology.
    3. Apple’s approach is to create AR glasses that look like regular eyewear, avoiding the bulky designs of traditional headgear.
    4. There are considerations for integrating vision technology into other devices like the Apple Watch and AirPods, but progress is mixed with some projects on hold.
    5. Apple’s future in AI devices may diverge from the iPhone model, with potential challenges from competitors, including former chief designer Jony Ive working with OpenAI.


    In an effort to accelerate the launch of its Vision Pro 2 AR/VR headset, Apple has decided to set aside a lighter and more compact version that resembles standard glasses rather than bulky ski goggles.

    New Smart Glasses on the Horizon

    The project for smart glasses from Apple seems to be revived, but it will take the shape of a simpler gadget that can be used on a daily basis. This new device is comparable to the Meta AI Ray-Ban glasses, which are currently available for under $400 on Amazon.

    Expected to hit the market in 2026, the new smart glasses will come after the release of the Vision Pro 2 later this year. They are anticipated to be crafted from higher-quality materials and will likely have a more elegant appearance than Meta’s Ray-Bans. There’s also talk of a new generation of these glasses that could feature enhanced designs and ergonomics.

    Features and Functions

    Apple doesn’t plan to introduce any groundbreaking features with its 2026 smart glasses. Instead, they will distinguish themselves from the efforts of Meta and Google primarily through their design. The glasses are set to include cameras, speakers, and microphones to facilitate calls or voice commands, play music, provide navigation assistance, and offer translation on the move.

    This is a more modest approach compared to Apple’s ultimate vision of creating true AR glasses that enrich the real world with digital information overlays while still resembling regular eyewear, avoiding the awkwardness of traditional headgear.

    Future Innovations and Challenges

    Apple’s engineers are reportedly considering integrating vision technology into other wearables, such as a camera-equipped Apple Watch or AirPods. However, the Watch project has seemingly been put on hold, while work on AirPods with cameras is still progressing.

    After a rocky start with its iPhone AI rollout, Apple is searching for a successful approach to the next wave of AI devices that might diverge from the iPhone format. In a recent statement during the DOJ lawsuit against Google’s parent company, Eddy Cue from Apple hinted that “you may not need an iPhone 10 years from now as crazy as it sounds,” referencing the growing influence of AI-enabled devices.

    Adding to the challenges for Apple, former chief designer of the iPhone and Mac, Jony Ive, has joined OpenAI to work on the next generation of AI-powered devices. Although Apple has stronger brand recognition, other companies have struggled to develop dedicated AI gear, making the introduction of smart camera-equipped Apple AI glasses or AirPods a potentially wise decision, with their success dependent on design and pricing.

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  • New Garmin Wearable Leaks: Sleep Tracking Features Revealed

    New Garmin Wearable Leaks: Sleep Tracking Features Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched the Forerunner 570 at a price of $549.00, alongside the Forerunner 970 and HRM 600 heart rate monitor.
    2. The upcoming Sleep Band aims to improve sleep comfort with an adjustable strap and a new clasp design.
    3. The Sleep Band will track sleep stages and wake users gently through a vibration motor, reducing disturbances to others.
    4. Users are encouraged to wear the Sleep Band on their upper arm for more accurate data collection.
    5. The Sleep Band is expected to launch in about two months, with a strong interest in its sleep tracking capabilities.


    Garmin has unveiled the Forerunner 570, priced at $549.00 on Amazon, alongside its pricier counterpart, the Forerunner 970, and the specialized HRM 600 heart rate monitor. It’s worth noting that while Garmin has expanded its range of wearables with many smartwatches in recent times, it still occasionally explores other product categories.

    Upcoming Features

    According to the website, Garmin’s upcoming wearable aims to enhance comfort during sleep with an adjustable strap and a newly designed clasp. Additionally, this new device, referred to as the Sleep Band, is expected to track sleep stages and utilize the gathered information to wake users gently through a vibration motor as they transition into lighter sleep, all while minimizing disturbances to others. It appears Garmin suggests that users wear the Sleep Band on their upper arm instead of their wrist to achieve the most precise data. Specific details are currently limited; however, the5krunner claims that the device will officially launch ‘in about two months’ or by August at the latest.

    Release Timeline

    The5krunner has hinted at the forthcoming release of this device, suggesting that it will be available soon. Although Garmin has established a strong reputation in the smartwatch market, it seems they are also aiming to innovate in other areas, like sleep monitoring. As excitement builds around the Sleep Band, many are eager to see how this product will fare in a competitive field of sleep trackers.

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  • Amazfit Balance 2 Smartwatch May Launch Soon in the US

    Amazfit Balance 2 Smartwatch May Launch Soon in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch is expected to launch in the US this summer, following its debut in China in May.
    2. A representative from Amazfit indicated that the US release might occur in the next month or two, though no official date has been set.
    3. Key features of the Balance 2 include a 1.5-inch AMOLED screen, dual speakers, and a battery life of up to 21 days.
    4. The smartwatch offers GPS tracking, offline maps, music storage, and is waterproof up to 10 ATM, with a future update for scuba diving mode.
    5. While priced at around $305 in China, the US price and release date are still unconfirmed, along with availability in other regions like Europe.


    The Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch is expected to debut in the United States this summer. This device made its first appearance in China earlier in May as the next version of the original Balance, featuring multiple enhancements.

    New Insights on Launch Timing

    Recently, a Reddit user named u/PerspectiveGlad3870 shared a screenshot of an email exchange with the Amazfit support team, which sheds light on the US launch timeline. The Amazfit representative mentioned that while there is currently no set release date for the Balance 2 in the US, it might be available “in the next month or two.” This information seems to support statements made by executives at Zepp Health during a recent discussion regarding the company’s Q1 financial results, hinting at more products being released in 2025.

    Specifications and Features

    The Amazfit Balance 2 boasts a 1.5-inch AMOLED screen that is safeguarded by sapphire crystal glass, marking an improvement over its predecessor. Another notable enhancement is the addition of dual speakers and a bigger battery, which is claimed to last up to 21 days under normal usage. The device is powered by the same chipset as the T-Rex 3 and operates on Zepp OS 5.

    Among its features are GPS tracking, offline maps support, music storage, and detailed running metrics like vertical amplitude and ground contact time. Additionally, the smartwatch is waterproof up to 10 ATM, with a forthcoming update set to introduce a scuba diving mode. In China, the Amazfit Balance 2 is priced at CNY 2,199 (around $305). However, the pricing and exact release date for the US market remain unconfirmed, and it’s uncertain when it will be available in other regions, such as Europe.

    Conclusion

    As the anticipation builds for the Amazfit Balance 2, fans and potential buyers are eager for more details. With its enhanced features and impressive specifications, it seems poised to make a significant impact in the smartwatch market. The timeline for its arrival in the US and beyond continues to be a topic of interest among tech enthusiasts.

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  • Galaxy Watch 8 Series Uses Same SoC as Watch 7

    Galaxy Watch 8 Series Uses Same SoC as Watch 7

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy Watch8 series will use the same Exynos W1000 processor as the Galaxy Watch7, with no upgrade expected.
    2. The design will remain similar, featuring round dials, size options, and retaining the rotating bezel on the Galaxy Watch8 Classic.
    3. Charging speeds will stay the same as in previous models, with only a slight increase in battery capacity.
    4. New software features including updated tile previews and improved Quick Button functionality will be introduced with One UI 8 Watch.
    5. The official launch of the Galaxy Watch8 series is anticipated in July, alongside the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 smartphones.


    The Galaxy Watch8 series has been a hot topic filled with numerous leaks and speculations ahead of its official launch in July. Although there are some exciting changes and new features to anticipate, a significant element of the upcoming smartwatch lineup appears to be unchanged from the previous generation. Reports indicate that the Watch8 series will, regrettably, not see an upgrade in its processor.

    Processor Details

    An APK teardown by Android Authority has suggested that the same SoC from the Galaxy Watch7 (Buy on Amazon), the Exynos W1000, will be utilized in the Galaxy Watch8 series. This is not very surprising, as Samsung hasn’t announced any successor to this chip, but it is still a letdown for fans of the Galaxy Watch who were hoping for a more robust smartwatch this year.

    References to the W1000 chip were identified in connection with the three anticipated models in the Galaxy Watch8 series. The chip carries the part number SC55535AHA and has been linked to Fresh 8, Fresh 8 Small, and Wise 8, which are believed to correspond to the Galaxy Watch8, Galaxy Watch8 40mm, and Galaxy Watch8 Classic, respectively.

    Features and Design

    In terms of what will remain the same, it has been previously reported that the new smartwatches will retain the same charging speeds. The size options and round dial design will also be making a comeback. Similar to the Galaxy Watch6 Classic (Buy on Amazon), the rotating bezel is expected to return with the Galaxy Watch8 Classic. The battery capacity will see a slight increase, though not by a significant margin. Additionally, new software features powered by One UI 8 Watch are set to include updated tile previews and better Quick Button functionality on the Galaxy Watch8 Classic.

    Samsung is likely to introduce the Galaxy Watch8 series in July, alongside its Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 smartphones. There are also rumors of a new budget-friendly pair of true wireless earbuds, thought to be named the Galaxy Buds Core.

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