Category: Wearables

May 12, 2025

Garmin Update for High-End Smartwatches Fixes System Crashes

Key Takeaways

1. Garmin is developing a beta update for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 smartwatches.
2. The recent System Software 13.73 update did not include features available in beta since late March.
3. Beta Version 15.27 is the tenth public build in the v15.xx series, focusing on bug fixes.
4. Aviation, Dive, and ECG functions have been disabled in Beta Version 15.27.
5. The update includes fixes for known issues, including three crash-related problems.

It appears that Garmin is still working on its new beta update for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299.99 on Amazon). Although the company finished April by rolling out System Software 13.73 for its four premium smartwatches, this update didn’t include any of the modifications that have been available to beta testers since late March.

Context of the Update

For some background, Garmin went through more than a dozen v13.xx beta versions before it released System Software 13.35 to its stable software lineup. The launch of Beta Version 15.27 marks the tenth public build in the v15.xx series, not counting the Voice Command Files update that was sent out at the end of last week.

Features Disabled

However, it’s worth noting that Garmin has turned off the Aviation, Dive, and ECG functions in Beta Version 15.27. Consequently, this will not be the concluding beta update for this developmental phase, even though Garmin has made over 150 adjustments since its last stable update.

This time, the focus has primarily been on implementing new bug fixes, with ten highlighted in the changelog for Beta Version 15.27. Interestingly, it has taken until now to address three issues that could lead to crashes, one of which might happen when a user selects a recent course from a saved application. The complete list of changes between Beta Versions v15.26 and v15.27 includes the following:

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Tags: Enduro 3, Fenix 8, Garmin
May 12, 2025

New Casio W-218H Watches Coming Soon with Long-Lasting Battery

Key Takeaways

1. The Casio W-218H-3BV and W-218H-8BV feature a sport digital design with dimensions of 44.4 x 43.2 x 10.8 mm (1.77 x 1.70 x 0.43 inches).
2. They offer water resistance up to 50 meters and an estimated battery life of seven years, powered by a CR2016 battery.
3. Key features include a 1/100-second stopwatch, daily alarm, hourly time signals, and a fully automatic calendar.
4. Users can choose between 12 or 24-hour time formats, with accuracy within 30 seconds monthly and an amber LED backlight for low-light visibility.
5. The watches are set to launch in May, with no specific pricing or release countries disclosed, but they are expected to be affordable based on previous models.

The Casio W-218H-3BV and W-218H-8BV timepieces have been added to the brand’s global website. These watches are characterized by their “sport digital design” and have dimensions of 44.4 x 43.2 x 10.8 mm, which is approximately 1.77 x 1.70 x 0.43 inches.

Features and Specifications

The features of Casio’s new W-218H-3BV and W-218H-8BV remain similar to the older W-218H series models. They provide water resistance up to 50 meters and boast an estimated battery life of seven years, powered by a CR2016 battery. Included tools are a 1/100-second stopwatch, a daily alarm, and hourly time signals.

Users have the option to select between 12 or 24-hour time formats, with accuracy maintained within 30 seconds monthly. The calendar is fully automatic, with February set as a 28-day month. An amber LED backlight facilitates visibility of the digital display in low-light conditions. The W-218H-3BV is crafted from a dark green resin, while the W-218H-8BV sports a lighter mint green, both featuring a dark digital display with bright figures.

Launch and Pricing

Casio has announced a launch for these two watches in May. However, details about the specific countries for the release of the W-218H-3BV and W-218H-8BV, and their pricing, have not yet been disclosed. They are anticipated to be quite affordable, with the previous W-218H-1AV selling for $22.95 in the US (currently priced at $16.88 on Amazon).

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May 12, 2025

Amazfit Smartwatch Users Gain New App-Based Watch Face Search Feature

Key Takeaways

1. Zepp Health has released Zepp App version 9.7 for Amazfit smartwatch users, featuring significant updates from version 9.5.
2. Users can now search for watch faces using keywords or specific watch face IDs, along with a function to copy watch face IDs for sharing.
3. Future updates will simplify the process of removing unused apps, although the release date for this feature is yet to be announced.
4. The Zepp App 9.7 is available for download on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
5. Zepp Health is also updating the Amazfit T-Rex 3 smartwatch, which is currently priced at $234.99 on Amazon.

Zepp Health has begun to distribute the Zepp App 9.7 to users of Amazfit smartwatches. This seems to be a larger update compared to the last major version, 9.5, which was released in February 2025 and introduced a feature that lets users modify workout information.

New Features for Users

With the introduction of Zepp App 9.7, users can now look for watch faces. The Zepp Health team has mentioned that this is a feature many users have been asking for. The update allows you to find a watch face by using either a keyword or a specific watch face ID. Additionally, there’s a function to copy a watch face ID, which could be useful if you want to share it with someone else.

Upcoming Improvements

In a recent blog post on Discord, the company hinted at another enhancement. It seems that a future update will simplify the process of removing apps that you no longer use. Mockups (shown below) illustrate a two-page layout and an optional confirmation window. However, it is still not clear when this feature will be available to Zepp app users.

You can now get the Zepp App version 9.7 from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store. In other news, Zepp Health is also releasing a new update for the Amazfit T-Rex 3 smartwatch, which is currently priced at $234.99 on Amazon.

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Tags: Amazfit Smartwatches, Zepp Health
May 12, 2025

Casio G-Shock DW-5600 Japan-Themed Watches Now Available Again

Key Takeaways

1. Casio is restocking the limited edition DW-5600KH24-1JR and DW-5600KHG24-1JR watches exclusively in Japan due to high demand since their initial launch in January 2025.

2. The DW-5600KH24-1JR features a unique LED backlight with a “Made in Japan” message and Ukiyo-e style art, while the DW-5600KHG24-1JR showcases a different traditional print motif.

3. Both models are priced at ¥17,600 (~$112) and maintain standard DW-5600 specifications, including a lightweight body, auto-calendar, countdown timer, and water resistance of 20 bars.

4. The restock was not officially announced by Casio and appeared quietly on platforms like Amazon Japan, Rakuten, and Yahoo Shopping, with limited quantities in physical stores.

5. These watches are primarily for the Japanese market, making it difficult to find them outside of resale platforms, and interested buyers should act quickly as listings are disappearing fast.

Casio has made a surprising decision to restock its limited edition DW-5600KH24-1JR and DW-5600KHG24-1JR watches exclusively in Japan. These watches first debuted in January 2025 and sold out rapidly due to high demand. Now, select Japanese retailers have received a small number of these models again.

Unique Design Features

These two timepieces are notable for honoring Japanese artistry and craftsmanship. The DW-5600KH24-1JR boasts a custom LED backlight featuring a “Made in Japan” message and comes in packaging that showcases Ukiyo-e style art, specifically inspired by Hokusai’s famous Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji. On the other hand, the DW-5600KHG24-1JR displays a different traditional Japanese print motif but shares the same shock-resistant resin case, a water resistance of 20 bars, and an LED display with backlight.

Pricing and Specifications

Both models were launched at a price of ¥17,600 (~$112). While their design is heavily influenced by Japanese culture, they maintain standard DW-5600 specifications, which include a lightweight body of 52 grams, a full auto-calendar, a countdown timer, a stopwatch, and compatibility for wrist sizes between 145mm and 205mm.

According to various watch blogs and community forums, this restock was not officially communicated by Casio, but instead appeared quietly on sites like Amazon Japan, Rakuten, and Yahoo Shopping. There are also reports of limited quantities being available in physical stores, including G-Shock outlets and some regional watch retailers throughout Japan.

Availability Concerns

Since these watches were never meant for international markets and are closely linked to Japan’s local market, finding them outside of resale platforms will be quite difficult. Those aiming to grab one at the original retail price must act fast, as listings are already vanishing quickly.

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Tags: Casio G-SHOCK, DW-5600KHG24-1JR
May 12, 2025

Casio Unveils New Marine Sports Watches with Stainless Steel Bezel

Key Takeaways

1. The Casio Marine Sports MTD-140 collection includes five models: MTD-140-2AV, MTD-140-3AV, MTD-140D-1AV, MTD-140D-2AV, and MTD-140D-3AV.
2. The MTD-140 watches feature a stainless steel casing, weigh around 75 g, and have various watch face colors with black resin or stainless steel straps.
3. All models display the current day, have three analog hands, and maintain timekeeping accuracy within 20 seconds per month.
4. These watches are water-resistant up to 100 m and are expected to last about three years on an SR920SW battery.
5. The official launch is set for May, but specific release dates, markets, and pricing details are currently unclear.

The new Casio Marine Sports MTD-140 watches are now officially introduced. This collection consists of five different models: the MTD-140-2AV, MTD-140-3AV, MTD-140D-1AV, MTD-140D-2AV, and MTD-140D-3AV.

Specifications Overview

These Casio MTD-140 watches feature a stainless steel casing and they weigh around 75 g (approximately 2.6 oz). The MTD-140-2AV is designed with a blue watch face, while the MTD-140-3AV sports a green face, both equipped with a black resin strap. The MTD-140D models also have a stainless steel casing and bezel, but they come with a stainless steel strap, making them heavier at 138 g (about 4.9 oz). Like the others, they have varied watch face colors: the MTD-140D-1AV is black, the MTD-140D-2AV is blue, and the MTD-140D-3AV is green.

Features and Performance

All models display the current day of the month and include three analog hands, with timekeeping accuracy within 20 seconds each month. Additionally, each watch measures 48.4 × 43.7 × 9.5 mm (around 1.9 x 1.7 x 0.4 inches), provide water resistance up to 100 m, and are anticipated to last for about three years on an SR920SW battery.

According to the Casio International website, the Marine Sports MTD-140 and MTD-140D watches are set to launch in May. However, the exact release date, the specific markets for sale, and pricing details remain unclear. In the meantime, if you’re interested in a different option, the older model Casio MDV-160DD-1A1 has a retail price of $89.95 but is currently listed for $64.95 on Amazon.

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May 12, 2025

New Garmin Fenix 8 Spin-Off Smartwatch Leaks Online

Key Takeaways

1. Garmin launched the Instinct E and Instinct 3 at the start of 2025, followed by the Approach S44 and S50.
2. Upcoming releases include the Forerunner 970 and LTE versions of the Fenix E and Fenix 8, along with other premium smartwatches.
3. Garmin is developing the D2 Mach 2, likely based on the Fenix 8, with a focus on aviation features.
4. Expected enhancements for the D2 Mach 2 include an AMOLED display, Elevate Gen 5 heart rate sensor, and voice assistant support.
5. The D2 Mach 2’s release date is uncertain, but its mention in support documents suggests an official launch may be imminent.

It looks like Garmin is gearing up for a busy latter part of the year. To summarize, the company started 2025 with the global launch of the Instinct E and Instinct 3 (currently $449.99 on Amazon). Just a few weeks later, they released the Approach S44 and Approach S50, and then shifted focus to the Instinct 3 Tactical Edition, Tactix 8, and Vivoactive 6 this season.

New Releases on the Horizon

Recently, there have been hints that Garmin is not only getting ready to unveil the Forerunner 970 but also LTE versions of the Fenix E, Fenix 8, along with other premium smartwatches. In addition, it seems Garmin is working on a new version of the D2 Mach 1.

D2 Mach 2 Development

Particularly, Garmin has begun to include mentions of the D2 Mach 2 in relation to its Grade Adjusted Pace (GAP) software. So far, there’s not much information on how the D2 Mach 2 will differ from the current Mach 1 models. However, the5krunner suggests that Garmin is likely to use the Fenix 8 as a base for the D2 Mach 2, emphasizing its aviation features.

Expected Features and Release Timeline

The upcoming D2 is expected to come with enhancements like an AMOLED display, Elevate Gen 5 heart rate sensor, and support for a voice assistant through its microphone and speaker setup. Unfortunately, it’s still unclear when Garmin plans to launch the D2 Mach 2. The fact that it has appeared in Garmin’s support documents suggests an official release might happen soon, though.

Garmin via the5krunner & Garmin Rumors.

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Tags: Forerunner 970, Garmin
May 12, 2025

Casio Launches G-Shock GMA-P2100SA & GMA-S120SA in Japan

Key Takeaways

1. Casio launched four new hybrid G-Shock watches in Japan: GMA-P2100SA-1A1, GMA-P2100SA-1A2, GMA-S120SA-7A1, and GMA-S120SA-7A2, available for pre-order.
2. The GMA-P2100 models are smaller (46 × 40.2 mm) with features like world time tracking, a 1/100-second stopwatch, and Neobrite hands for visibility.
3. The GMA-S120 models are larger (49 × 45.9 mm), featuring two digital displays, a Home City function, and are fully white with unique colored accents.
4. All models are shock-resistant, water-resistant to 20 ATM, and have a battery life of about three years.
5. Pricing in Japan is ¥17,600 (approx. $122) for the GMA-P2100 models and ¥18,700 (approx. $130) for the GMA-S120 models, with no global release plans announced.

Casio has introduced four new hybrid G-Shock watches in Japan, specifically the GMA-P2100SA-1A1, GMA-P2100SA-1A2, GMA-S120SA-7A1, and GMA-S120SA-7A2. All these models are currently available for pre-order.

Watch Designs

The GMA-P2100SA-1A1 and GMA-P2100SA-1A2 have a small case size of 46 × 40.2 × 11.2 mm and a weight of 40g. These timepieces come with a black octagonal bezel, a black resin strap, and a digital inset display with bright text against a dark backdrop. The 1A1 model features yellow accents, while the 1A2 has red highlights. Both variants can track 31 world time zones, have a 1/100-second stopwatch, a countdown timer, multiple daily alarms, along with a dual white LED backlight. The hands are coated with Neobrite for enhanced night visibility.

Larger Models

On the other hand, the GMA-S120SA-7A1 and GMA-S120SA-7A2 are a bit larger at 49 × 45.9 × 15.8 mm and weigh 55g. These watches are entirely white, featuring round bezels and resin bands. They include two digital displays and a dial indicator. The 7A1 is characterized by orange hands and accents, while the 7A2 opts for blue. They cover 29 time zones, offer a Home City function, a 1/1000-second stopwatch, a countdown timer, five alarms, and an amber LED backlight. Additionally, they come with antimagnetic protection.

Durability and Pricing

All four timepieces are shock-resistant, water-resistant to 20 ATM, and boast a battery lifespan of about three years.

The pricing in Japan is set at ¥17,600 (approximately $122) for the GMA-P2100SA-1A1 and 1A2 models, while the GMA-S120SA-7A1 and 7A2 are priced at ¥18,700 (around $130). Casio has yet to announce any plans for a global release.

Tags: G-SHOCK, GMA-P2100SA, GMA-S120SA
May 11, 2025

Casio G-Shock GMW-B5000D-1C: Full Metal Watch Launching in June

Key Takeaways

1. The Casio G-Shock GMW-B5000D-1C is set to launch soon, with a release expected in Japan in June 2025.
2. The design of the GMW-B5000D-1C is inspired by the original DW-5000C, featuring a red accent ring and a brick-pattern LCD screen.
3. Key features include Tough Solar charging, Multi-Band 6 atomic timekeeping, Bluetooth connectivity, and a water resistance rating of 20 ATM (200 meters).
4. The watch dimensions are 49.3 x 43.2 x 13 mm, weighing approximately 167g, and it includes a robust stainless-steel bracelet.
5. Casio has not confirmed if the GMW-B5000D-1C will be a limited edition or part of a regular collection, but it may be seen as a commemorative piece.

After waiting for months since a leaked image surfaced earlier this year, the Casio G-Shock GMW-B5000D-1C seems to be close to its official launch. This new timepiece, part of the all-metal GMW-B5000 series, has started to show up in certain international watch retailers, as noted by Great G-Shock World. A release in Japan is expected to happen in June 2025.

Design Inspired by the Classic

The GMW-B5000D-1C draws its inspiration from the original DW-5000C, which was Casio’s first G-Shock released in 1983. While the overall shape and structure are similar to the GMW-B5000D-1 that came out in 2018, this new model introduces a red accent ring around the inside of the metal bezel, a design element taken from the classic DW-5000C. The rest of the watch remains consistent with the established design: featuring a brick-pattern positive LCD screen, a stainless steel screw-back case, and a sturdy bracelet.

Features and Durability

This model supports Tough Solar charging, Multi-Band 6 atomic timekeeping, and can sync with smartphones via Bluetooth. Additionally, it comes with a fully automatic LED Super Illuminator backlight, world time for over 300 cities, a stopwatch, countdown timer, and five alarms. Its water resistance rating is 20 ATM (200 meters), ensuring it’s just as tough as any other G-Shock in the full-metal collection.

Size and Weight

In terms of dimensions, the watch measures 49.3 x 43.2 x 13 mm and weighs approximately 167g. Recent images of the side profile and clasp (shown below) confirm that it maintains the stainless-steel bracelet with solid end links and a robust clasp, akin to previous models in the GMW-B5000 series.

This upcoming launch follows a previously leaked image that allowed fans to get a sneak peek at the watch’s design back in March 2025. That first look had already garnered attention for its subtle reference to the DW-5000C. Many at the time thought the red ring around the bezel was a clear reference to the original G-Shock, and the official reveal has now validated that connection.

Casio has not yet disclosed if the GMW-B5000D-1C will be a limited release or a regular part of the collection, but considering its branding and history, it may well be viewed as a commemorative piece. We will keep you updated on pricing and availability once they are confirmed.

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Tags: Casio G-SHOCK, GMW-B5000D-1C, Tough Solar
May 11, 2025

Casio MTP-B190 Watches: Stylish Tank-Inspired Designs & Bezels

Key Takeaways

1. Casio is expanding its watch collection with the new MTP-B190 series, featuring rectangular designs and retro aesthetics.
2. The watches have a simple design with slim bezels, sharp edges, and an analog face, offering 50 meters of water resistance.
3. The MTP-B190 series runs on a quartz movement with a standard battery life of about three years and lacks smart features or solar charging.
4. The collection includes five models, with options for leather straps and stainless-steel bracelets, measuring 41 x 31.5 x 8.1 mm.
5. The gold-tone model is particularly popular, but other colors like dark navy and green are also appealing, earning the nickname “Tankasio” among collectors.

As Casio keeps joining forces with clothing brands such as Ron Herman and Offspring, the Japanese watchmaker has made a quiet decision to roll out the MTP-B190 series too. This new collection consists of a few rectangular watches that boast a retro design, and interestingly, four fresh models have appeared online, all showcasing Roman numerals, uncomplicated cases, and tidy layouts.

Design and Features

The overall design is quite simple: slim bezels, sharp edges, and a basic analog face. It features a center seconds hand, offers 50 meters of water resistance, and runs on a quartz movement powered by a standard SR626SW battery. The battery life is estimated to last about three years, which is typical for watches in this category.

Specifications

There are no solar charging capabilities, smart functions, or unique materials to speak of. The watch is covered in mineral glass, and its dial gives off vibes reminiscent of the ’80s and ’90s. The five different options include a couple with leather straps, while the others come with stainless-steel bracelets. The case dimensions measure 41 x 31.5 x 8.1 mm, making it comfortable for most wrists without feeling too bulky or overly delicate.

Popular Variants

The gold-tone version with the white dial has gained a bit more spotlight compared to the others, but the dark navy and green models should also attract attention from collectors interested in budget-friendly dress watches. Some enthusiasts have playfully dubbed it the “Tankasio,” a clear reference to the Cartier Tank, although this version is definitely carving out its own identity at a much lower cost.

For anyone in search of a subtle, dependable rectangular watch that doesn’t try to be something it’s not, the MTP-B190 series could be a great option.

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May 10, 2025

Casio G-Shock DW-5900 Hender Scheme Collaboration Leaked for May

Key Takeaways

1. Casio is collaborating with Hender Scheme for their fourth G-Shock model, focusing on the DW-5900.
2. The DW-5900 features a cream-colored beige casing and a leather strap designed to develop a unique patina over time.
3. This collaboration follows successful past releases that integrated genuine leather into G-Shock designs.
4. Previous models were limited to Japan and sold out quickly; it’s unclear if the DW-5900 will be available internationally.
5. Fans should monitor Hender Scheme’s online shop and G-Shock Japan for updates on the upcoming release.

In a fresh leak, it appears that Casio is joining forces with the Japanese fashion brand Hender Scheme for their fourth G-Shock collaboration, this time focusing on the classic DW-5900 model. Although there are no official product images or confirmations from either brand at this point, several insiders from the Japanese G-Shock scene suggest that we can expect a release around May.

The Classic Design

The DW-5900, often referred to as “The Three-Eye” because of its unique triple digital display, is considered one of G-Shock’s vintage designs, first introduced in the early ’90s. Hender Scheme seems to be sticking to its tried-and-true approach, bringing back the cream-colored beige casing that fans have seen in earlier collaborations. As always, a major highlight of this model is the leather strap, crafted from real leather that is meant to age beautifully and develop a unique patina over time.

Previous Collaborations

This marks the fourth collaboration between Casio and Hender Scheme, following earlier G-Shock x Hender Scheme watches that featured minimalist styles and earned acclaim for their high-quality construction and stylish details. Even though neither Casio nor Hender Scheme has made any official announcements or shared listings on social media, reports indicate that the launch is just around the corner.

In their 2017 debut, they showcased the DW-5600 with a vegetable-tanned leather strap, marking the first instance where G-Shock integrated genuine leather into its design. A follow-up in 2020 featured the DW-5750 in soft beige shades, once again paired with leather. The most recent release in 2023 was the DW-6900 model, which took a bolder approach with a black resin case and a bridle leather strap.

Availability Concerns

It’s important to mention that previous releases in this series were only available in Japan and were often in limited supply, frequently selling out within days of their launch. At this moment, there’s no word on whether the new DW-5900 edition will be available internationally or exclusively through local retailers and boutiques.

Fans can expect more information in the days ahead. For now, those who appreciate leather-accented G-Shock models should keep a lookout on Hender Scheme’s online shop or G-Shock Japan’s platforms for any updates.

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Tags: Hender Scheme