Category: Wearables

  • Garmin May 2025 Updates: New Rucking Features and Sleep Enhancements

    Garmin May 2025 Updates: New Rucking Features and Sleep Enhancements

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released significant software upgrades for its smartwatches, including the Fenix 8 series, Instinct 3, and Venu 3 series.
    2. New features include Breathing Variations for tracking sleep breathing changes and new rucking activities for improved workout accuracy.
    3. Enhanced security features include a passcode option and optional wrist detection.
    4. The Stage Timer tool is designed for competitive shooters to receive time alerts through connected hearing protection.
    5. Premium offerings are upgraded with Garmin Trails, connecting to Connect+ and Outdoors Maps+ services.

    Garmin has revealed significant new software upgrades for many of its smartwatches, including the Fenix 8 series, Instinct 3, and Venu 3 series. The company has also mentioned Forerunner models, although it hasn’t specified which ones. It’s likely that this includes the Forerunner 255 to Forerunner 965 (currently priced at $499.99 on Amazon), rather than the recently released Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970.

    New Features for Enhanced Performance

    In a recent press statement, Garmin shared that the newest feature updates aim to improve device security, health insights, and workout accuracy. One notable addition is the Breathing Variations tool, which tracks breathing changes during sleep using Pulse Ox data from compatible smartwatches. Additionally, the updates include new rucking activities and Pack Weight features for strength training, enhancing the precision of calorie burn and VO2 max statistics.

    Enhanced Security and Competitive Tools

    The updates from Garmin also bring its highly anticipated passcode feature and optional wrist detection. Furthermore, they’ve introduced the Stage Timer, a useful tool for competitive shooters that can send time alerts through connected hearing protection. Garmin is also upgrading its premium offerings with new functionalities like Garmin Trails, which connect to its Connect+ and Outdoors Maps+ services. For more in-depth information, check out Garmin’s full press release.

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  • Xiaomi Launches Watch S4 with New Xring T1 Chip for 15th Anniversary

    Xiaomi Launches Watch S4 with New Xring T1 Chip for 15th Anniversary

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi Watch S4 15th Anniversary Edition features a new Xring chipset, enhancing performance and energy efficiency.
    2. The smartwatch can last up to 9 days on a single charge, even with the eSIM function activated.
    3. It includes unique functionalities like a live camera preview from a connected smartphone.
    4. The watch can unlock Xiaomi vehicles, a feature not found in typical smartwatches.
    5. The 15th Anniversary Edition is priced at approximately $180 and is available in Black and Green Flame colors, but its global availability is uncertain.

    Xiaomi has updated its Watch S4 smartwatch just two months after launching the standard version globally to take the place of the popular Watch S4 (currently priced at $128.99 on Amazon). This new ’15th Anniversary Edition’ was unveiled along with the Civi 5 Pro, Xiaomi 15S Pro, and Pad 7 Ultra, and it’s not just a simple makeover. In fact, Xiaomi has also redesigned this smartwatch to make it distinct from the regular Watch S4.

    New Features and Enhancements

    According to Xiaomi’s announcement, the Watch S4 15th Anniversary Edition is the first smartwatch equipped with an Xring chipset, similar to what is found in the Xiaomi 15S Pro and Pad 7 Ultra for mobile devices and tablets. The alternative chipset, known as the Xring T1, is touted for its energy efficiency, allowing the watch to last up to 9 days on a single charge, even with the eSIM feature activated. Additionally, the built-in modem reportedly boosts network performance by as much as 35% based on official tests.

    Unique Functionalities

    Moreover, this special edition brings new functionalities, such as a live camera preview from a connected smartphone. Another interesting capability is that it can unlock Xiaomi vehicles, a feature not typically found in other smartwatches. Currently, Xiaomi is offering the 15th Anniversary Edition in Black and Green Flame colors for CNY 1,299 (approximately $180) each. However, the company hasn’t provided any information on whether this anniversary model will be available for sale outside of China.

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    Xiaomi Launches Watch S4 with New Xring T1 Chip for 15th AnniversaryXiaomi Launches Watch S4 with New Xring T1 Chip for 15th Anniversary

     

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  • Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic Leaked Images Show Fresh Design

    Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic Leaked Images Show Fresh Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic model is returning after skipping previous series, with high-resolution images leaked.
    2. The Classic will feature a squircle shape and will only be available in one size: 47mm.
    3. It will have a 1.5-inch display and a thicker casing, with dimensions of 46mm x 46.5mm x 14.2mm.
    4. The design includes a rotating bezel, two buttons, and an orange crown, enhancing its aesthetic.
    5. The battery capacity will see a slight increase from 425mAh to 435mAh, with a potential release at Samsung’s Unpacked event in July.

    The Galaxy Watch 8 is Samsung’s upcoming top-tier smartwatch series, and one of its variants has recently been revealed through a collection of high-quality images.

    Classic Model Returns

    If you’re keeping track, Samsung has been releasing its “Classic” models on a roughly two-year schedule. The Galaxy Watch 4, launched in 2021, featured a Classic option; however, the Watch 5 did not include this variant. The Classic made a comeback with the Watch 6 series, but the Watch 7 skipped it once more. Now, all indications suggest that the Classic will reappear in the Galaxy Watch 8 collection. Thanks to an exclusive leak from OnLeaks (via SammyGuru), we can see it clearly in sharp, high-resolution visuals.

    Design and Features

    The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is set to showcase a squircle shape, similar to the Galaxy Watch Ultra. It’s expected to come in just one size, specifically 47mm, marking a change from previous models. To put it into perspective, the Watch 4 Classic was offered in both 42mm and 46mm sizes, while the Watch 6 Classic had options of 43mm and 47mm. This shift to a single size may be due to Samsung’s decision to introduce a new Ultra model soon.

    Furthermore, the leaked information suggests that the Watch 8 Classic will feature a 1.5-inch display housed in a slightly thicker casing. The dimensions are noted to be 46mm x 46.5mm x 14.2mm. The images also indicate the return of the rotating bezel, complemented by two buttons and a striking orange crown.

    Battery and Release Date

    Despite the bulkier design, don’t anticipate a significant upgrade in battery life. The Classic is rumored to see a slight increase in capacity from 425mAh to 435mAh, which likely won’t lead to much additional performance in everyday usage.

    If Samsung adheres to its typical release schedule, we can expect to see the complete Galaxy Watch 8 range, including the Classic and a potential new Ultra model, debut at the Unpacked event in July alongside the Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7.

    Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic Leaked Images Show Fresh DesignSamsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic Leaked Images Show Fresh Design
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  • Casio AQ-S820W Watches with Dual Timers Now Available in More Countries

    Casio AQ-S820W Watches with Dual Timers Now Available in More Countries

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio has released the AQ-S820W-1AV and AQ-S820W-3BV watches in several European countries, including the Netherlands, Spain, and France, with a retail price of €59.90.

    2. The AQ-S820W watches feature a resin case, weigh 46 g, and have dimensions of 52.5 x 50.1 x 12.7 mm, along with various functionalities like world time, countdown timers, and five daily alarms.

    3. The watches include an amber LED backlight and are water-resistant up to 100 m, with solar charging capabilities and a battery life of around 10 months under typical usage.

    4. A tan variant, AQ-S820W-5AV, has been showcased but is not yet available in Europe.

    5. There is no confirmed release date for the AQ-S820W models in Europe or plans for their launch in the United States at this time.

    The Casio AQ-S820W-1AV and AQ-S820W-3BV watches are being released in more European nations. These models were first leaked in April 2025 and were later confirmed on the brand’s UK site during the same month.

    Availability in Europe

    Casio has now made the AQ-S820W-1AV (black) and AQ-S820W-3BV (khaki) available on its online platforms in countries such as the Netherlands, Spain, and France. Each watch has a recommended retail price of €59.90, which is the same as older models in the series, like the AQ-S800W-1BV. For those in the UK, the AQ-S820 is priced at £54.90. There’s also a tan variant, the AQ-S820W-5AV, showcased on the brand’s global site, but it has not yet been launched in Europe.

    Specifications and Features

    The AQ-S820W watches feature a resin case, bezel, and strap, with dimensions of 52.5 x 50.1 x 12.7 mm (~2.1 x 2.0 x 0.5 inches) and a weight of 46 g (~1.6 oz). They offer world time across 48 cities, along with a home city-world time swap function. Additional features include two countdown timers for interval training, a stopwatch that measures up to 1/100th of a second, and five daily alarms. An amber LED backlight aids visibility in dim lighting, and the watches are water-resistant up to 100 m. They also provide solar charging with a power-saving mode and a battery power indicator; under typical usage without light exposure, the watch can last around 10 months.

    Future Launch Plans

    It remains uncertain when the AQ-S820W-1AV and AQ-S820W-3BV will officially be available in Europe. Additionally, Casio has not yet revealed any intentions to release these watches in the United States. Currently, the brand offers older AQ-S800 models, such as the AQ-S800W-1B2V (currently priced at $40.97 on Amazon).

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  • Samsung Galaxy Watch8 Classic Leaks: Rotating Bezel & Redesign

    Samsung Galaxy Watch8 Classic Leaks: Rotating Bezel & Redesign

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy Watch6 Classic was launched in summer 2023 and may be replaced by the Galaxy Watch8 Classic in 2025.
    2. The Galaxy Watch8 Classic design combines elements from the Galaxy Watch6 Classic and Galaxy Watch Ultra.
    3. It features a rotating dial, two physical buttons, a digital crown, and a unique band system.
    4. The dimensions of the Galaxy Watch8 Classic are approximately 46 x 46.5 x 14.2 mm, likely marketed as a 47 mm case size.
    5. The Galaxy Watch8 Classic is expected to be revealed in July at the next Galaxy Unpacked event alongside other new products.

    The Galaxy Watch6 Classic has been out for a bit now, first shown to the world in the summer of 2023, alongside the Galaxy Z Fold5 and Galaxy Z Flip5 (currently priced at $488 – renewed on Amazon). Though Samsung shifted focus to the Galaxy Watch Ultra last year, a recent beta version of One UI Watch suggests that the Classic could make a comeback in 2025 as part of the Galaxy Watch8 lineup.

    Sneak Peek of the Galaxy Watch8 Classic

    Recently, OnLeaks has shared an initial detailed glimpse of the upcoming Galaxy Watch8 Classic, in collaboration with SammyGuru. Technically, the Galaxy Watch8 Classic is set to take the place of the Galaxy Watch6 Classic. However, the design presented appears to blend features from not only the Galaxy Watch6 Classic but also last year’s Galaxy Watch Ultra.

    Design Features and Specifications

    In terms of design, the Galaxy Watch8 Classic boasts a rotating dial that fits snugly into a squircle-shaped case. Additionally, Samsung has added two physical buttons and a digital crown, along with its unique band system. Reports indicate that the Galaxy Watch8 Classic will have dimensions of 46 x 46.5 x 14.2 mm, which Samsung will likely market as a 47 mm case size. As it stands, the Galaxy Watch8 Classic is anticipated to be unveiled alongside the Galaxy Watch8, Galaxy Z Fold7, and Galaxy Z Flip7 this coming July at Samsung’s next Galaxy Unpacked event.

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  • Google Unveils New Smart Glasses at Google I/O Event

    Google Unveils New Smart Glasses at Google I/O Event

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google has unveiled its new smart glasses at the I/O conference, built on the Android XR platform, marking its second attempt in this space after twelve years.
    2. The glasses feature advanced technology including a camera, microphone, speakers, and a “discrete display” integrated into the lenses.
    3. They can provide real-time information such as player statistics during sports events and support various functions like calls, music, navigation, and translations.
    4. Google is collaborating with Gentle Monster and Warby Parker to create stylish designs that encourage all-day wear.
    5. The glasses aim to blend technology with fashion, making them appealing for everyday use.

    Following the sneak peek of the latest Google Smart Glasses a couple weeks ago, Google has now shown off the model in use at its own I/O conference. Built on the new Android XR platform, these glasses aim to make life easier in multiple ways. After a long gap of twelve years, this marks Google’s second venture into smart glasses. Unlike the previous attempt, it’s not immediately clear that these are smart glasses.

    Showcasing the Technology

    Google presented the new AI glasses during the event. An employee donned them while the visuals she was seeing were displayed on a big screen. These glasses are packed with various sensors and hardware to perform a range of functions. Besides the standard speakers found in the temples, they come equipped with a camera and a microphone on the front, along with a “discrete display” integrated into the lenses, as per Google’s description.

    Real-World Applications

    The demonstration highlighted how the glasses can deliver extra, real-world information. For instance, while enjoying a baseball game, the glasses can show player statistics and allow the user to chat with Gemini about the ongoing match. Naturally, they support making calls, playing music, and showcasing a variety of features on request, like navigation maps, weather updates, text and chat messages, translations, and details about local restaurants and shops, among other things.

    Stylish Partnerships

    For these new smart glasses, Google is teaming up with South Korean brand Gentle Monster and American retailer Warby Parker to create what they call “stylish glasses.” Shahram Izadi, who is the Vice President and General Manager for Android XR at Google, made a fitting statement:

    “We understand that glasses can only be truly beneficial if you want to wear them all day.”

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  • Garmin Forerunner 570 & 970 Now Available with HRM 600 Monitor

    Garmin Forerunner 570 & 970 Now Available with HRM 600 Monitor

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches, along with the HRM 600 heart rate monitor.
    2. The Forerunner 570 is priced at $549.99, making it the most affordable option among the new models.
    3. The Forerunner 970 is only available in a 47 mm size and costs $749.99, which is 50% more than the recently reduced Forerunner 965 priced at $499.99.
    4. The HRM 600 heart rate monitor is available for $169.99 but is not yet sold by third-party sellers like Amazon.
    5. Garmin offers the Forerunner 570 in 42 mm and 47 mm sizes with multiple finish options available.

    Garmin has recently begun offering the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 worldwide, having unveiled both models last week along with the HRM 600. Interestingly, the HRM 600 is also available starting today, but it’s not yet sold by third-party sellers like Amazon. For your information, the HRM 600 is priced at $169.99 for the XS-S and M-XL sizes; you can check out our launch article for more technical specifications.

    Pricing and Availability

    When it comes to Garmin’s new Forerunner smartwatches, the Forerunner 570 stands out as the most affordable option at $549.99. Presently, Garmin has various stocks of all 42 mm and 47 mm sizes, providing three different finishes for each. The full-color names for the Forerunner 570 include:

    – 42 mm
    – 47 mm

    Forerunner 970 Specifications

    On the other hand, the Forerunner 970 is only available in a 47 mm size, similar to the Forerunner 965. However, the Forerunner 970 costs a staggering 50% more than the 965, since Garmin has lowered the price of the Forerunner 965 to $499.99. For complete technical information, please refer to our Forerunner 970 launch article. Currently, the latest smartwatch from Garmin is priced at $749.99 and comes in the following finishes.

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  • Garmin Fenix 7 and 7 Pro Get New Stable Update and Beta Release

    Garmin Fenix 7 and 7 Pro Get New Stable Update and Beta Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released a stable update (System Software 15.31) for Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 smartwatches after extensive beta testing.
    2. The update includes nearly 100 modifications, featuring 20 new functionalities for these high-end devices.
    3. Upcoming updates are expected for the Fenix 7 series and related models, following their last stable update in March (System Software 20.22).
    4. A new beta version (21.19) has been released, introducing ECG functionality and indicating progress towards the finalization of the v21.xx beta cycle.
    5. Garmin aims to distribute System Software 21.19 or a similar version to multiple smartwatch models soon, pending successful testing of recent adjustments.

    Garmin has rolled out a new stable update for its Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 smartwatches, which currently retails for $1,299.99 on Amazon. This update, System Software 15.31, comes after an extensive beta testing phase and brings nearly 100 modifications to these high-end devices, including 20 fresh features.

    Upcoming Updates for Fenix 7 Series

    Interestingly, the Fenix 7 series and its counterparts might be getting updates soon as well. To provide some background, the Enduro 2, Epix 2, Fenix 7, and Tactix 7 received their last stable update at the start of March with System Software 20.22. Following that, numerous beta versions were released to testers, kicking off with Beta Version 21.04 at the month’s end.

    New Beta Version Released

    Recently, Garmin has indicated that a new stable update is forthcoming, following the launch of Beta Version 21.19. This new beta introduces ECG functionality, suggesting that Garmin is nearing the conclusion of its v21.xx beta development cycle.

    If everything goes smoothly, we can anticipate that Garmin will begin to distribute System Software 21.19 or a similar version to the Enduro 2, Epix 2, Fenix 7, and Tactix 7 smartwatches in the coming days. Currently, Garmin has been testing various adjustments between System Software 20.22 and Beta Version 21.19. The comprehensive list of these changes is available below; however, it’s important to note that not every change is certain to be included in a future stable update.

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  • Xreal Launches Project Aura Glasses for Android XR Platform

    Xreal Launches Project Aura Glasses for Android XR Platform

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xreal has launched Project Aura glasses in collaboration with Google, built for the Android XR operating system.
    2. Project Aura glasses feature dual 3D environmental sensors and a camera for AI integration and media capture.
    3. The glasses are expected to have specifications similar to the Xreal Air 2 Ultra, including a 385-inch virtual screen and high-quality displays.
    4. Google is working to establish a presence in the AR/VR/XR market, facing competition from brands like Meta.
    5. More details about Project Aura will be revealed at the Augmented World Expo (AWE) in June, but no specific release date has been announced.

    Xreal has introduced the Project Aura glasses in collaboration with Google, designed for the new Android XR extended reality operating system. These glasses will connect to an external device that runs on a Qualcomm Snapdragon XR chipset.

    Google’s Long Journey in XR

    Google has been trying to make a name for itself in the AR/VR/XR realm for years, starting with Google Cardboard, which turned smartphones into displays and hosts. However, competitors like the Meta Quest 3 series (available on Amazon) have gained more traction among gamers and virtual reality fans. The Android XR represents Google’s newest effort to develop an independent operating system tailored for virtual reality applications.

    Features of Project Aura

    The design of the Project Aura glasses is quite similar to the Xreal Air 2 Ultra, featuring dual 3D environmental sensors located at the top corners of the front frame. Additionally, Aura includes what seems to be a camera positioned above the nose bridge, which can be utilized with Google Gemini AI, as well as for capturing photos and videos.

    Specifications and Release Information

    The Air 2 Ultra has the ability to project a virtual screen as large as 385 inches, employing dual Sony 0.68-inch 1080p micro-OLED displays with a refresh rate of 120 Hz and a brightness level of 500 nits. Therefore, it is expected that the Project Aura glasses will have comparable specifications.

    Xreal is set to share more details during the Augmented World Expo (AWE) in June, although neither Xreal nor Google has provided a specific release date for the Android XR.

    Those who are keen on exploring the newest AR glasses might want to check out similar products available at Xreal, Rokid, and RayNeo stores on Amazon.

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  • Moto Watch Fit Priced at $199: Is It Worth the Cost?

    Moto Watch Fit Priced at $199: Is It Worth the Cost?

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Moto Watch Fit is priced at £89.99 in the UK, $199 in the US, and $249 in Canada, but lacks advanced features like ECG and blood pressure monitoring.
    2. The pricing in North America is considered high compared to competitors, raising concerns about customer attraction.
    3. Competing smartwatches include the Amazfit Active 2 at $99.99 and the Samsung Galaxy Watch FE at $167, which offer more features at lower prices.
    4. The Moto Watch Fit features a 1.9-inch AMOLED display, supports over 100 sports modes, and has a battery life of up to 16 days.
    5. Motorola plans to start selling the Moto Watch Fit on May 22 through its website, with future availability on Amazon and Best Buy.

    Last month, Motorola introduced the Moto Watch Fit as its latest smartwatch. The company announced that it will be priced at £89.99 in the UK, but information about prices in other areas was not provided. However, Motorola has since shared the pricing for the Moto Watch Fit in both the US and Canada.

    Pricing Details

    As reported by 9to5Google, the Moto Watch Fit will retail for $199 in the United States and $249 in Canada. This is quite expensive, especially since the Moto Watch Fit does not operate on WearOS, which would allow for Android apps, nor does it feature advanced health tracking options like ECG and blood pressure monitoring.

    Pricing Concerns

    It remains unclear why Motorola is setting such high prices for the Moto Watch Fit in North America. While the company might point to tariffs as a reason for the US pricing, this shouldn’t apply to Canada. At these price points, the Moto Watch Fit may struggle to attract customers, with many other options available that are much cheaper and offer similar or even superior features.

    Competitors in the Market

    The Moto Watch Fit is up against competitors like the Amazfit Active 2, which is available on Amazon for $99.99. This smartwatch features a 1.32-inch display that can reach up to 2,000 nits of brightness, supports over 160 sports modes, and boasts a battery life of up to 10 days.

    If you’re looking for a more complete smartwatch, you might consider the Samsung Galaxy Watch FE, currently priced at $167 on Amazon. It includes ECG and blood pressure monitoring, along with various health-tracking capabilities. Additionally, since it runs on WearOS, users can access apps from the Play Store. An LTE version is also available.

    Motorola plans to start selling the Moto Watch Fit on May 22 via its website, with future availability on Amazon and Best Buy. The smartwatch features a 1.9-inch AMOLED display, Gorilla Glass 3, support for over 100 sports modes, built-in GNSS, heart rate and SpO2 monitoring, and an impressive battery life of up to 16 days.

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