Category: Wearables

April 23, 2025
Honor Band 10 Launches: 1.57″ AMOLED, Health Tracking, 14-Day Battery
Key Takeaways
1. Sleek Design: The Honor Band 10 features a slim, dual-curved design with a 1.57-inch AMOLED screen, available in multiple color options.
2. Health Monitoring: It includes advanced health features like continuous heart rate tracking, SpO₂ monitoring, stress detection, sleep analysis, and menstrual cycle tracking.
3. Activity Support: The band supports 96 workout modes, including professional sports and customizable activities, enhanced by AI for better health insights.
4. Long Battery Life: The Band 10 offers up to 14 days of battery life with optimal use, even with an Always-On Display feature.
5. NFC Functionality: The NFC version allows for tap-to-pay and access to public transit, adding convenience for users in China.
Honor has made a return to the world of wearables with the Band 10, a sleek fitness tracker that boasts a slim profile of 8.99mm, combining health technology and stylish design. It was officially launched today in China, with the regular model available for 249 yuan ($34) and the NFC version priced at 299 yuan ($40).
Design and Display
The Band 10 showcases a dual-curved design that gives it a fashionable twist, making it appear more like a trendy accessory rather than a typical fitness tracker. It features a 1.57-inch AMOLED screen that displays bright colors and operates at a 60Hz refresh rate, while an ambient light sensor ensures the brightness adjusts automatically based on the surroundings.
Health Features
This smart band is packed with an extensive range of health monitoring features, such as continuous heart rate tracking, SpO₂ levels, stress detection, advanced sleep analysis, and menstrual cycle monitoring. It incorporates Honor’s AI-powered heart health engine, which provides deeper insights by identifying early symptoms of atrial fibrillation, premature beats, and possible sleep apnea.
Daily Health Insights
The Band 10 offers a “Morning Health Briefing,” which gives a daily summary of your essential health data right on your wrist. For those who love to stay active, it supports 96 workout modes, encompassing 11 professional sports and 85 customizable activities, all enhanced by Honor’s motion health AI.
Battery Life
When it comes to battery performance, the Band 10 can last up to 14 days on a single charge under optimal conditions and around 10 days with normal usage. Even with the Always-On Display feature, it can still provide up to 3 days of usage. The NFC version, available only in China, allows for tap-to-pay, access to public transit, and smart door entry.
Color Options and Design Themes
Available in Coastal Blue, Silver Gray, Obsidian Black, and Mint Green, the Honor Band 10 also introduces new design themes like Floral, Flowing Light, and Minimalist.
Additional Launch
In addition to the Band 10, Honor has unveiled the GT Pro in China, a flagship device aimed at gamers. It sports a 6.78-inch 1.5K LTPO OLED screen, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, with storage options reaching up to 1TB. The device includes a triple rear camera setup featuring a 200MP telephoto lens, a 7200mAh carbon-silicon battery with 90W charging, and is rated IP68/IP69. It also offers advanced cooling, eye protection technology, and a 50MP selfie camera that supports 4K video.
Tags: Fitness Tracker, health monitoring, Honor Band 10
April 22, 2025
Casio LF-30W Analog-Style Watches Launching Soon
Key Takeaways
1. Four models of the new Casio LF-30W watch have surfaced: LF-30W-1A (black), LF-30W-2A (blue), LF-30W-3A (green/khaki), and LF-30W-8A (cream).
2. The watch features a resin case and strap, an amber LED backlight for easy reading, and a fully automatic calendar.
3. It includes world time support, alarms, a stopwatch measuring 1/100-second increments, and a 24-hour countdown timer.
4. The watch is expected to have a battery life of about 3 years when powered by a CR161 battery and allows for 12 or 24-hour time formats.
5. The official launch is anticipated in Japan this May, with a listing price of VND 1,091,000 (approximately $41.99) in Vietnam.
Rumors are swirling about an upcoming Casio LF-30W watch. Four different models from this new collection seem to have surfaced through retailers in Vietnam and Macau: the LF-30W-1A (black), the LF-30W-2A (blue), the LF-30W-3A (green/khaki), and the LF-30W-8A (cream).
Exciting Features Revealed
Images from Watchstore.vn and shared on r/skxmod on Reddit highlight various aspects of this new analog-style Casio timepiece. It will come with a resin case and strap, plus an amber LED backlight that makes it easier to read the digital display in dim light. The calendar feature is fully automatic, and the watch is predicted to maintain accuracy within 30 seconds each month.
Advanced Functionality
The LF-30W includes world time support, with a map located in the top right corner to indicate your approximate time zone. To the left, there are indicators for alarms and hourly time signals. Additionally, it features a stopwatch that can measure time in 1/100-second increments and a countdown timer that can operate for as long as 24 hours. Users can choose to view the time in either 12 or 24-hour formats, and both the day and date are displayed. This watch is also designed to last about 3 years when powered by a CR161 battery.
Launch and Pricing Information
As of now, the details regarding the official launch of the Casio LF-30W watches remain unconfirmed. However, it is anticipated to debut in Japan this May. In terms of pricing, a retailer in Vietnam is listing the watch for VND 1,091,000 (around $41.99). It is still uncertain if, or when, it will be available in markets such as the US or the EU.
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Tags: analog watch, Casio LF-30W, watch rumors
April 22, 2025
New Casio AEQ120W Rugged Watch: 10-Year Battery Launching in US
Key Takeaways
1. The Casio AEQ120W-1BV and AEQ120W-7AV watches have a rugged design with oversized resin cases measuring 53.3 x 52.2 x 16.8 mm.
2. Key features include an analog face, dual digital screens for date and day, world time with 29 time zones, a stopwatch, countdown timer, three daily alarms, and a Telememo function for saving contact info.
3. Both models are waterproof up to 100 m and have a battery life of 10 years with a CR2025 battery.
4. The AEQ120W-1BV has a black resin case and dark gray face, while the AEQ120W-7AV features a lighter gray/green dial.
5. The watches are available for $42.95 on Casio’s online store, but stock is limited; they are out of stock on Amazon, where they are priced at $86.50.
The Casio AEQ120W-1BV and AEQ120W-7AV watches are now available in the United States. These timepieces have a rugged design and come with a sturdy oversized resin case. The dimensions are 53.3 x 52.2 x 16.8 mm (about 2.10 x 2.06 x 0.67 inches).
Features and Displays
The AEQ120W, also known as AEQ-120W, features a round analog face that is encircled by a prominent bezel. There are two inset digital screens that display both the day of the week and the date, equipped with a fully automatic calendar that goes up to the year 2099. These watches also support world time, featuring 29 different time zones and allowing toggling of daylight savings time. Additional functionalities include a stopwatch with 1/100-second precision, a countdown timer, and three daily alarms, one of which can be snoozed. A unique feature is Telememo, which lets users save contact information for up to 30 people, including an eight-character name and a phone number.
Durability and Battery Life
The AEQ120W models are waterproof up to 100 m (approximately 330 ft) and are designed to last for 10 years on a CR2025 battery. The only distinction between the two models is their color schemes. The AEQ120W-1BV sports a black resin case and strap along with a dark gray watch face. The digital displays on this model have a black background with lighter digits. In contrast, the AEQ120W-7AV has the same black resin casing but features a lighter gray/green dial, along with typical light background digital displays.
Where to Buy
You can purchase the Casio AEQ120W-1BV and AEQ120W-7AV watches directly from the brand’s online store, each retailing for $42.95. However, it’s important to note that the listings indicate limited stock is available, though an exact count of units isn’t specified. They are also featured on the brand’s Amazon storefront, but they are currently out of stock there and are priced much higher at $86.50. It remains uncertain if or when these watches will officially be released in Europe.
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Tags: Casio AEQ120W, rugged watches, waterproof design
April 22, 2025
Amazfit Active 2: Ultra-Bright AMOLED Smartwatch Launches in India
Key Takeaways
1. The Amazfit Active 2 smartwatch features a durable stainless steel case and is 50-meter water-resistant.
2. It has a bright 1.32-inch AMOLED display with a brightness of up to 2,000 nits for easy readability.
3. The watch supports around 160 workouts and runs on the Zepp OS 4.5 UI, including new strength training features.
4. It includes the Zepp Flow voice assistant and allows users to save maps for offline use when GPS is unavailable.
5. The smartwatch is equipped with the BioTracker 6.0 PPG sensor for accurate health monitoring, priced at INR 9,999 for the Standard version and INR 11,999 for the Premium version.
Amazfit has just launched its newest Active-series smartwatch in India. This device features a sturdy stainless steel case that is “50 meter water-resistant” and comes with two physical buttons. It is available in a single, bright silver color, and has a round 1.32-inch AMOLED display.
Bright Display for Easy Use
The screen can reach brightness levels of up to 2,000 nits, which should help users easily read the watch face and monitor their progress during any of the approximately 160 workouts available.
Advanced Features for Fitness
The smartwatch runs on the Zepp OS 4.5 UI, which introduces a new feature for strength training. Additionally, the Zepp Flow voice assistant is integrated into the Active 2, enabling users to save maps on the device for times when the built-in GPS may not function properly.
Health Tracking Capabilities
With the latest BioTracker 6.0 PPG sensor, the Amazfit Active 2 offers “precise” health-monitoring capabilities. You can find the smartwatch on Amazon.in priced at INR 9,999 for the Standard version and INR 11,999 for the Premium version.
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Tags: Amazfit Active 2, Health Tracking, Smartwatch
April 22, 2025
New Casio G-Shock GBX-100S: Brushed Stainless Steel Bezel Revealed
Key Takeaways
1. New Design: The G-Shock GBX-100S models feature a transparent skeleton-style exterior and a brushed stainless-steel bezel, maintaining the classic G-Lide square shape.
2. Color Options: Two new color variants are introduced: a black-and-blue split strap and an all-black version.
3. Features: The watches retain the high-contrast MIP LCD and include standard surf data, fitness tracking, and compatibility with the G-Shock Move app.
4. Environmental Considerations: There may be a bioplastic strap option, although the case remains regular resin, suggesting marketing rather than significant material changes.
5. Release Timeline: The watches are expected to launch in May in Japan, with a possible price around $190, making them a fashionable addition to the GBX series.
Just a few weeks after we first shared that Casio was developing a new skeleton-style version of the G-Shock GBX-100, we have now gotten clearer visuals of what to expect. The most recent images, likely intended for promotional use in Japan, showcase two GBX-100S models. These models maintain the classic square shape of the original G-Lide series but add a refreshing “summer” vibe to both their design and materials.
Design Changes
The updated variants keep the essential GBX-100 look but replace the solid resin case with a transparent skeleton-style exterior, complemented by a brushed stainless-steel bezel. This pairing is something that hasn’t been seen in Casio’s surf-oriented collection thus far. While we were aware of the design changes, we were not informed that there would be two new color options. One variant boasts a striking black-and-blue split strap, while the other opts for an all-black aesthetic. Both models keep the signature G-Lide square shape and seem to preserve the recognizable high-contrast MIP LCD, which shows tide information, moon phases, and sunrise/sunset timings synced through Bluetooth.
Features and Functionality
As per the images, the software user interface appears to be the same. The watches will include standard surf data along with fitness tracking capabilities through the G-Shock Move app. Even with the design enhancements, the main features still relate back to the GBX-100TT-2JF model.
One of the images suggests that there might be a bioplastic strap involved, although the case still seems to be made from regular resin. The environmental aspect could be more of a marketing strategy rather than a significant material shift—though Casio has made more substantial efforts in previous G-Lide and Surfrider releases.
Release and Pricing
A launch is anticipated in May in Japan, with broader availability following shortly after. Pricing details have not yet been revealed, but if Casio maintains the approximate $190 price point, this could turn out to be the most fashionable (and sought-after) GBX variant to date.
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Tags: Casio, G-Lide, G-Shock GBX-100
April 22, 2025
Garmin Update Fixes Power Crash Bug in Older Flagship Smartwatches
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin has released Beta Version 21.09 for Fenix 7, Enduro 2, and Tactix 7 smartwatches.
2. The update includes unspecified improvements to the breathing variations page and sensor connection menus.
3. Four bug fixes are introduced, including a fix for shutdown crashes on Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro.
4. A lag issue on CIQ watch faces during screen transitions has been resolved.
5. The ECG functionality remains disabled in this beta version.
Garmin has rolled out another update for beta testers using the Fenix 7. This update is also available on other smartwatches like the Enduro 2 and Tactix 7, which currently retails for $1,084 on Amazon. The new update comes right after Beta Version 21.06, that was released less than two weeks ago.
New Improvements in Beta Version 21.09
Garmin has identified six additional areas for enhancements that are included in Beta Version 21.09. They claim to have fine-tuned the breathing variations page with a number of changes that haven’t been specified. In addition, Garmin indicates that Beta Version 21.09 also upgrades the sensor connection menus for the Fenix 7 and Fenix 7 Pro in ways that are not clearly defined.
Bug Fixes Included
Furthermore, Beta Version 21.09 introduces four bug fixes. For instance, crashes that used to occur while shutting down the Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, or related smartwatches should be a thing of the past. Garmin also mentions that they have fixed a lag issue that could happen on CIQ watch faces during transitions between screens. However, Garmin has yet to announce when a stable update will be available. It’s worth noting that the ECG functionality remains turned off in this beta version. The complete changelog for Beta Version 21.09 is provided below:
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Tags: Beta Version 21.09, Fenix 7, Garmin
April 22, 2025
Limited Edition Casio G-Shock DW-5600 Series Watches Coming Soon
Key Takeaways
1. Two limited edition Casio G-Shock DW-5600 watches are being released in collaboration with Kochi United Sports Club in Japan.
2. The first model features a red resin case with the club’s emblem, while the second model has a black resin case with a rainbow brick wall design.
3. Both watches include functions like a fully automated calendar, stopwatch, countdown timer, alarms, and are water-resistant up to 20 ATM.
4. The retail price is ¥19,800 (approximately $141), with limited availability: 40 red and 10 black watches.
5. Sales will start on June 8th, and only fan club members or season ticket holders can purchase them, with a limit of one watch per customer.
Two fresh limited edition Casio G-Shock DW-5600 series watches are set to release in Japan within the upcoming months. These unique timepieces are the result of a partnership with Kochi United Sports Club, a team that competes in the J3 League of Japan.
Design Details
The first model is inspired by the DW-5600EP-4 and features a striking red resin case and strap. It also showcases the Kochi United SC emblem and coordinating stripes on the lower part of the strap. The second model, which draws from the DW-5600RW-1, comes in black resin and displays a vibrant rainbow brick wall design surrounding the digital screen. Just like the first, this model includes the club’s badge on one of its straps.
Watch Functions
These shock-resistant digital timepieces offer several useful features, such as a fully automated calendar and an estimated battery life of five years. Users can take advantage of tools like a 1/100-second stopwatch, a countdown timer with a 24-hour range, and alarms with hourly time signals. The time can be shown in either 12 or 24-hour formats, and a built-in LED backlight makes it easy to read the display in dark conditions. Moreover, these watches are water-resistant up to 20 ATM and maintain accuracy to within 15 seconds each month.
Pricing and Availability
The Casio x Kochi United SC G-Shock DW-5600 watches will retail for ¥19,800 (approximately $141) in Japan. They will initially be sold during the club’s game against Nara Club on June 8th, with only 40 pieces of the red version and 10 of the black variant available. Purchases are restricted to one per customer, and only fan club members or season ticket holders will have the opportunity to buy them.
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Tags: Casio G-Shock DW-5600, Kochi United SC, limited edition watches
April 22, 2025
Garmin Fenix 8 Solar Teardown: Discover Outdated Technology
Key Takeaways
1. The Garmin Fenix 8 Solar shares many components with the Fenix 7X Solar, including the MIP display and main processor.
2. Key upgrades include the new Synaptics SYN4778 multi-band GNSS chip and the addition of a microphone and speaker.
3. The Fenix 8 Solar features a larger 618mAh battery compared to its predecessor.
4. It has new hardware elements that support voice commands and messaging functionalities.
5. The latest user interface offers enhanced features exclusive to the Fenix 8 generation.
A recent disassembly of the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar has uncovered insights into the internal components of this smartwatch. Launched in August 2024, the Fenix 8 Solar is branded as a high-end multisport device, alongside the Fenix 8 AMOLED and Fenix E smartwatches.
Insights from the Teardown
Ferhad Fidan from F Tipi Blog has posted findings from the teardown of the Fenix 8 Solar 51 mm watch (curr. $1,199.99 at Amazon). This latest device shares many features with the Fenix 7X Solar smartwatch. Among these are the Sharp LS014B7DD01 memory-in-pixel (MIP) display and the main processor, the NXP i.MX RT500 (MRT595SFFOC). Other similar components include the Ambiq Micro Apollo 3 sensor hub chip and the Silicon Labs RS9116-B00 dual-mode WiFi and Bluetooth chip.
New Features and Upgrades
Compared to the Fenix 7X, the Fenix 8 Solar has received several upgrades, including the introduction of the Synaptics SYN4778 multi-band GNSS chip, which supports various satellite navigation systems like GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, and Galileo. It also features a new microphone and speaker, absent in the previous version. Furthermore, there is a bigger 618mAh battery, although the manufacturer is not specified. Additional updates appear to be the STMicroelectronics S4-420 3-axis accelerometer and gyroscope, along with the 32 GB Foresee eMMC storage chip.
Similarities and New Features
The teardown indicates that the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar smartwatch is fundamentally similar to the Fenix 7X Solar. However, the addition of new hardware elements, such as the speaker and microphone, enables functionalities like voice commands and messaging. Moreover, the latest user interface includes a variety of enhanced features that are exclusive to the newest generation of watches.
Tags: Fenix 7X Solar, Garmin Fenix 8 Solar, smartwatch teardown
April 22, 2025
New Casio AQ-S820 Solar Analog-Digital Watches in 3 Variants
Key Takeaways
1. Casio is hinting at a comeback of the AQ series with the new AQ-S820 models, available in black, olive green, and beige.
2. The AQ series started in 1982 with the AQ-500, designed for everyday users seeking solar-powered analog-digital watches at an affordable price.
3. The AQ-S820 maintains a familiar design with features like 100-meter water resistance, five alarms, and an LED backlight, but lacks advanced features found in newer models.
4. The release feels underwhelming for 2025, as it mainly offers color updates rather than significant advancements in technology or design.
5. Pricing is expected to be below G-Shock models, likely in the $60 to $80 range, with further details on regional releases still to come.
Casio seems to be hinting at the comeback of a less prominent series: the AQ-S820. Recently, Casioblog shared that three new variants of this solar-powered analog-digital watch have emerged, available in black, olive green, and beige, with “Tough Solar” prominently displayed. Although it isn’t part of the G-Shock lineup, this series shares a similar design vibe, though it lacks the shock resistance and high-end casing.
A Look Back at the AQ Series
If you’re curious, the AQ series isn’t exactly a new concept. The inaugural model, the AQ-500, was released by Casio in 1982. The brand aimed to blend analog aesthetics with digital features at a more affordable price. It was made for everyday users – those in need of a dependable watch with solar charging, but without the extras or style of a G-Shock.
A Fresh Take on a Familiar Design
It appears that Casio is reviving this series, or at least giving it a refresh with new color choices and minor design tweaks. The overall shape remains recognizable, featuring bold screws on the bezel, a clear analog-digital hybrid face, and labels around the edge for its main buttons. Expect to see features like 100-meter water resistance, five alarms, LED backlight, and world time, based on the specifications of the original model.
Familiar Territory for Casio
That being said, the new AQ-S820 doesn’t really venture into new territory. It feels somewhat underwhelming for a release in 2025, especially since even Casio’s lower-end models have begun incorporating Bluetooth syncing or updating their design aesthetics. What we have here is essentially a simple reissue with new colors – military green (AQ-S820W-3B), tactical tan (AQ-S820W-5A), and an all-black option (AQ-S820W-1A). This is great for those who missed out before, but perhaps not so thrilling for those already immersed in Casio’s offerings.
It’s still uncertain whether Casio plans to promote this as part of a larger retro reissue strategy or just update its standard collection quietly. Though pricing details are not yet confirmed, based on previous trends, it should be priced below G-Shock models, likely in the $60 to $80 range.
We’ll monitor for regional release dates and any potential changes to the features list.
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Tags: AQ-S820, Casio, Tough Solar
April 22, 2025
Vivo Watch 5 Launches: BlueOS 2.0 & 22 Days Battery Life
Key Takeaways
1. Design Improvements: The Vivo Watch 5 features a similar design to its predecessor, with a 1.43-inch curved AMOLED display, 60Hz refresh rate, and two color options (Night Black and Moonlight White).
2. Enhanced Health Monitoring: The smartwatch includes advanced health tracking features such as continuous heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen levels, stress levels, sleep tracking, and insights into blood pressure and heart health.
3. Smart Features: Operating on BlueOS 2.0, it offers an AI Sports Coach for workout recommendations, Bluetooth calling, music control, notifications, and NFC for payments, although third-party app availability is limited.
4. Long Battery Life: The Watch 5 boasts a battery life of up to 22 days in Bluetooth mode, supported by improved power management and an AI Smart Window feature for organizing information.
5. Pricing and Availability: The smartwatch is priced at CNY 799 (about $109) for the silicone strap model and CNY 999 (around $136) for the leather strap version, with pre-orders starting and official sales beginning on April 29.
Along with the latest X200 smartphone series and a few new tablets, Vivo has unveiled a smartwatch named the Watch 5 in China. This device offers slight improvements over the Watch 3, focusing on enhancements in its design, sports tracking capabilities, and health monitoring features.
Design Features
At first look, the design of the Watch 5 appears quite similar to its predecessor. It maintains the classic circular face and sports a 1.43-inch curved AMOLED display that boasts a 60Hz refresh rate and an impressive brightness of up to 1500 nits. The watch comes in two color options: Night Black and Moonlight White, with choices of aluminum alloy or stainless steel cases. Weighing only 32g without the strap, it’s a slight reduction from the previous model’s weight of 35g. Users have the option to select between silicone or leather straps according to their taste.
Smart Features and Health Monitoring
This year’s edition operates on BlueOS 2.0, which includes several new software features. Among them is the AI Sports Coach, capable of analyzing running form and efficiency while also providing fat-burning workout recommendations based on real-time heart rate data. Vivo asserts that it offers a more comprehensive range of health monitoring functions, such as continuous heart rate, blood oxygen, stress levels, sleep tracking, and involvement in studies concerning blood pressure and heart health.
However, similar to the Watch 3, this smartwatch doesn’t feature a full operating system. While there is a functional app store, the availability of third-party apps is limited. It does, however, provide essential functions like Bluetooth calling, music control, and notifications. The device also has NFC for payments, GPS for outdoor activities, and it is rated 5ATM for water resistance.
Battery Life and Compatibility
One of the standout features of the Watch 5 is its battery longevity. Vivo claims the smartwatch can endure up to 22 days when used in Bluetooth mode under typical conditions, thanks to improved power management. Additionally, a new AI Smart Window feature organizes information based on what you are likely to need the most, based on your usage habits.
The Watch 5 is compatible with both Android and iOS devices, which is not always guaranteed in the smartwatch market. For users in China, WeChat functionality is integrated directly into the watch.
Pricing and Launch Details
The Vivo Watch 5 is available at a price of CNY 799 (approximately $109) for the model with a silicone strap and CNY 999 (around $136) for the leather strap version. Pre-orders have already begun, with official sales set to commence on April 29. There has been no announcement regarding its availability in international markets.
Tags: Smartwatch, vivo, Watch 5