Category: Wearables

February 27, 2025
Meizu Note 22 Series Smartphones to Launch at MWC 2025
Key Takeaways
1. Meizu will present a range of AI-enhanced “ecosystem” devices at MWC 2025, including a smartwatch, smart ring, and StarV AR glasses.
2. The flagship Meizu 21 smartphone will be showcased, despite not being available in international markets yet.
3. The Note 22 and 22 Pro are making a global comeback, along with new budget models Mblu 22 and 22 Pro.
4. Upcoming smartphones will run on Flyme AIOS, featuring DeepSeek technology from launch.
5. A new device may include a large ~6,550mAh battery and incorporate DeepSeek R1 technology for the Chinese market.
Meizu is set to showcase its vision of how AI can enhance our lives at MWC 2025, with a full range of “ecosystem” devices being presented during the conference from March 3-6.
Product Range Highlights
The company has shared that this new collection will feature a smartwatch and a smart ring, alongside the StarV AR glasses. Additionally, the Meizu 21 will be presented, even though this flagship Android smartphone is currently not accessible on the international markets.
Global Comeback
On a more exciting note, the anticipated Note 22 and 22 Pro appear to be making a comeback on the global stage, along with the new Mblu 22 and 22 Pro, which seem to be part of a new budget sub-brand from Meizu.
These smartphones are expected to operate on Flyme AIOS, which reportedly now utilizes the DeepSeek technology right from the start, just like the other Meizu products that will be introduced at MWC 2025.
Battery Upgrades and Features
There are rumors that one of the new devices might come equipped with a significantly enhanced battery of around ~6,550mAh, as per the well-known leaker Digital Chat Station.
The source also suggests that Meizu may start incorporating DeepSeek R1 into their smartphones, including the upcoming 22 and 22 Pro models, at least for the Chinese market.
If you’re looking for accessories, the Meizu LifemeHIFI USB C to 3.5mm adapter with an integrated DAC is currently available on Amazon.
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Tags: Flyme AIOS, Meizu, Meizu 21
February 27, 2025
Garmin Fenix 8 Beta Update Resolves New Tool Issues
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin released a beta update (version 13.32) for Fenix 8, Fenix E, and Enduro 3 smartwatches shortly after version 13.31.
2. The update fixes a major bug that caused devices to lock up when the new Passcode feature was used.
3. Improvements were made to the keyboard functionality when replying to messages and using the Emergency Assistant tool.
4. Corrections were made to the Virtual Partner Pace Range and activity data issues.
5. Users in Garmin’s Beta Program can access the update through the system settings, but a stable version release date is not yet known.
Garmin has launched a new beta update for their Fenix 8, Fenix E, and Enduro 3 smartwatches. This update, version 13.32, comes soon after the release of version 13.31, which introduced features like Passcode, Body Battery TrueUP, and a QWERTY Keyboard Layout for all users.
Bug Fixes Included
The beta update 13.32 addresses several issues affecting these smartwatches. One major fix resolves a bug that could cause the devices to lock up when the new Passcode feature was activated. Garmin has also worked on problems related to the keyboard, particularly when users were replying to messages or using the Emergency Assistant tool, which could lead to crashes. Additionally, issues with the Virtual Partner Pace Range and activity data have been corrected, along with a fix for the Strength-based Daily Suggested Workout data that appeared blank after completion.
How to Access the Update
Users who are part of Garmin’s Beta Program can access this beta version 13.32 by navigating to Menu > System > Software Update > Check for updates. At this time, it is not clear when a stable version of the update will be available to all users of the Fenix 8, Fenix E, and Enduro 3, which is currently priced at $833.99 on Amazon.
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Tags: Enduro 3, Fenix 8, Garmin
February 27, 2025
Whoop Update Boosts Sleep Staging Accuracy by 7%
Key Takeaways
1. Whoop’s updated Sleep Staging Algorithm enhances sleep stage detection accuracy by 7% and improves sleep/wake detection precision by 3%.
2. Users may see changes in their sleep statistics, particularly in awake time and restorative sleep, but other metrics like Recovery and HRV remain unaffected.
3. The update is based on two years of research from Central Queensland University and the University of Arizona, with high accuracy rates in heart rate and HRV measurements.
4. The new algorithm was implemented on February 24th, and data recorded before that date will not change.
5. Users of Whoop devices, such as the Whoop 4.0, will receive notifications in the app about the updates.
Whoop has rolled out an update for its Sleep Staging Algorithm in its health and fitness trackers. The company asserts these modifications enhance the accuracy of sleep tracking, providing “clearer insights” into your rest and recovery.
Enhanced Sleep Stage Identification
Whoop states it has improved the way it detects the four sleep stages: wake, light sleep, REM, and deep sleep. The company claims this update has increased accuracy by 7% due to the integration of more data points. Additionally, there’s been a 3% boost in sleep and wake detection precision. This enhancement should result in fewer errors in identifying wake times, which can happen when you shift positions during sleep.
User Feedback on Sleep Metrics
According to Whoop, users might notice variations in their sleep statistics, especially regarding their awake time and restorative sleep data. Some users have shared on Reddit that they’re experiencing a noticeable decrease in their total wake times. However, Whoop assures that other metrics like Recovery, Strain, and HRV will not be affected by this update.
Research Behind the Update
The new algorithm started to take effect on February 24th, and any sleep data recorded prior to this date will remain unchanged. This release is based on two years of research conducted at Central Queensland University and the University of Arizona. The polysomnography (PSG) data revealed that Whoop’s heart rate measurements boast an accuracy of 99.7%, while HRV measurements are 99% accurate. Moreover, the brand’s devices have been shown to surpass competitors in calculating total sleep time.
The improved Sleep Staging Algorithm will automatically update for users of devices like the Whoop 4.0 (currently priced at $239 on Amazon). Users can expect a notification in the Whoop app detailing the changes.
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Tags: Sleep Staging Algorithm, Whoop, Whoop 4.0
February 27, 2025
Amazfit Balance Smartwatch Update Now Available for More Users
Key Takeaways
1. The Amazfit Balance smartwatch is receiving a global update, version 3.25.11.1, called Balance OTA 8.1.
2. The update includes optimizations for sleep and wake detection algorithms, as well as step-counting improvements.
3. A new feature allows support for DJI Osmo Action Bluetooth remote control, enabling users to overlay workout data on video recordings.
4. Additional features include a Strength Training Action Quality Assessment and extra workouts for activities like Ski mountaineering and Dog walking.
5. The update is being rolled out in phases, with no specific timeline provided for availability to all users.
The Amazfit Balance smartwatch is now getting its 3.25.11.1 update globally. This new version, called the Balance OTA 8.1 update, was shared with everyone earlier this month. At first, it was just for people in the US, Canada, and Italy who own the device.
Update Features
According to Zepp Health’s announcement, the update brings three optimizations. These are improvements to the algorithms for sleep detection and wake detection, as well as changes to the step-counting algorithm. Additionally, the timing for the Morning Update delivery has been said to be better now.
Detailed Change Log
Users of the Balance smartwatch have shared more information about the update. The file size for the update is 11.02MB. Another exciting feature that has been introduced is the support for the DJI Osmo Action Bluetooth remote control available in the App store. The release notes also mention that this feature allows users to overlay their workout data, like speed or route, onto video recordings.
The extended change log also highlights a new Strength Training Action Quality Assessment, along with extra workouts for Ski mountaineering, Dog walking, Snow shoveling, and a tap-to-wake option. However, it’s important to note that these features, as well as an intelligent workout start, an unread notifications indicator, and a Bluetooth disconnection alert, were included in the earlier version 3.25.5.5 update that came out in December.
Phased Rollout
This update is being rolled out in phases, and many users in the US, Canada, and Italy have mentioned they are still waiting for it. Sadly, Zepp Health hasn’t provided a timeline on when they expect to make the 3.25.11.1 update available to all Amazfit Balance smartwatch owners (currently priced at $149.99 on Amazon).
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Tags: Amazfit Balance, Smartwatch Update, Zepp Health
February 26, 2025
Pixel Watch 3 Gains Loss of Pulse Detection Feature in the US
Key Takeaways
1. The Pixel Watch 3 will introduce the Loss of Pulse detection feature in the U.S. by the end of March 2024, following FDA approval.
2. This feature can detect if the heart has stopped due to various medical emergencies and will alert emergency services if the user does not respond to a notification.
3. Loss of Pulse detection enhances existing safety features on the Pixel Watch 3, including Car Crash Detection and Fall Detection, and is available on an opt-in basis.
4. The technology uses sensors, signal-processing algorithms, and AI to assess pulse presence and determine if a loss of pulse event has occurred.
5. If the user fails to respond to alerts, the watch can trigger an audio alarm, initiate a countdown, and call emergency services with the user’s location.
About six months after it was first announced during the Made by Google event, the Pixel Watch 3 is finally set to introduce the Loss of Pulse detection feature in the United States. The tech giant has confirmed that it has received the green light from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and users can expect this feature to be available by the end of March. Since its announcement in 2024, Loss of Pulse detection has already been rolled out in 14 other countries.
Unique Life-Saving Technology
Google claims that the Loss of Pulse feature is a groundbreaking addition that can identify if the heart has stopped beating due to cardiac arrest, respiratory failure, circulatory failure, overdose, or poisoning. In such cases, it can alert emergency services for quick, potentially life-saving intervention. Initially, the feature will send a notification to the user, asking if they are okay. If the user does not reply, emergency services will be notified automatically.
Enhanced Safety Features
The Loss of Pulse detection will complement the existing health and safety functionalities of the Pixel Watch 3, which already includes Car Crash Detection, an ECG app, Safety Check, notifications for irregular heart rhythms, and Fall Detection. This feature will be available for users of the Pixel Watch 3 on an opt-in basis.
How It Works
The Loss of Pulse detection operates by utilizing the smartwatch’s sensors, sophisticated signal-processing algorithms, and artificial intelligence to determine if a pulse is present. Initially, if the Heart Rate sensor, which utilizes green light, fails to detect a pulse, the infrared and red lights activate to search for other signs of a pulse. Simultaneously, the motion sensor looks for any indication of movement. Based on these findings, the AI algorithm assesses whether a loss of pulse event has occurred and sends out a check-in notification. If there is still no response, the watch will activate an audio alarm and begin a countdown. Should there still be no reply, the watch can use the paired phone (in the case of the non-LTE model) to call emergency services, providing them with the user’s location.
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Tags: google, Loss of Pulse Detection, Pixel Watch 3
February 25, 2025
OnePlus Watch 3 Release Delayed Due to ‘Meda in China’ Typo
Key Takeaways
1. The release of the OnePlus Watch 3 has been delayed by over a month due to a typo that says “Meda in China” instead of “Made in China.”
2. OnePlus has offered customers the option to return the watch or keep it as a unique limited edition item.
3. The new launch date for the OnePlus Watch 3 is set for April 2025, with no specific date announced yet.
4. Pre-orders for the watch will remain open until April, offering a $30 discount and an additional 10% off for students.
5. Expected delivery dates for pre-orders are April 15 for priority and April 16 for standard delivery.
The OnePlus Watch 3 was supposed to be up for sale starting today after it was announced a week ago, but a little typo on the backside of the watch has led to a delay in its release by over a month.
Typo Troubles
Only days after its announcement, early reviews pointed out a typo found on the back of the OnePlus Watch 3. Instead of the text saying “Made in China,” it mistakenly says “Meda in China.” This tiny mistake has turned into a big problem for the company.
OnePlus has acknowledged the issue, telling customers they can either return the watch if the error bothers them or keep it as a unique limited edition. Following this, OnePlus released another statement confirming the watch’s release would be postponed.
New Release Date
As reported by 9to5Google, OnePlus has now pushed back the launch of the OnePlus Watch 3 to April 2025. In their statement, the company explained that the delay is directly linked to the typo below the watch face, which they are working on rectifying with a new manufacturing run.
While there’s no exact date yet for when in April the watch will be available, the pre-order page on the OnePlus US site indicates that the expected delivery dates are April 15 for priority and April 16 for standard delivery.
Pre-order Benefits
Pre-orders will stay open until April, meaning that all benefits related to pre-orders will still apply until then. For instance, customers in the US can enjoy a $30 discount on the watch’s original price of $329.99 by using the code TIME1010, plus an additional 10% off with a student discount.
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Tags: Oneplus, OnePlus Watch 3, typographical error
February 25, 2025
Casio Launches New Rugged AE1600H Watches in the US
Key Takeaways
1. The Casio AE1600H series includes three models: AE1600H-1AV (black), AE1600H-5AV (beige/brown), and AE1600H-8BV (dark gray).
2. These watches are designed to be durable, with 100 meters of water resistance and a battery life of approximately 10 years.
3. Key features include dual time, a 1/100-second stopwatch, a 24-hour countdown timer, hourly chimes, and five multi-function alarms.
4. The watches maintain accuracy within 30 seconds per month and have a calendar that functions automatically until 2099.
5. The current retail price for each model is $35.95, available through Casio’s online shop.
The Casio AE1600H-1AV, AE1600H-5AV, and AE1600H-8BV timepieces have just been released in the United States. These watches first became available for import to North America via Amazon starting in January, but they were priced higher than expected. Moreover, they have also recently made their debut in various European markets.
Sturdy Design and Features
Casio characterizes these timepieces as “heavy-duty,” boasting a water resistance of 100 meters and an estimated battery lifespan of 10 years. Each watch features a large LCD display encased in a robust resin body, complemented by a strap that matches its color. Additionally, an amber LED backlight, activated by a central button, makes it easier to view the watch in dim lighting conditions.
Functionality and Accuracy
These watches come with several features such as dual time, a 1/100-second stopwatch, and a 24-hour countdown timer. They also include hourly chimes and five multi-function alarms, one of which includes a snooze option. Casio claims that the watch maintains accuracy within 30 seconds each month, and the calendar is programmed to operate automatically until the year 2099.
Color Variants and Pricing
The AE1600H-1AV is offered in black, the AE1600H-5AV in a beige/brown hue, while the AE1600H-8BV features a dark gray casing and strap. The first two models showcase the standard light display with dark figures, whereas the third model presents a dark display with lighter figures. You can currently purchase the Casio AE1600H-1AV, AE1600H-5AV, and AE1600H-8BV watches at the brand’s online shop for $35.95.
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Tags: 10-year battery life, Casio AE1600H, heavy-duty watches
February 25, 2025
Amazfit Active 2 Premium Smartwatch Now Launched in the US
Key Takeaways
1. The Amazfit Active 2 Premium smartwatch is available for pre-order in the U.S., with shipping starting soon.
2. The Premium version features a sapphire glass cover and includes both a black leather strap and a red silicone sports band.
3. It offers extensive health and fitness tracking, supporting over 160 workout modes and includes an AI-driven Zepp Coach feature.
4. The smartwatch boasts a battery life of up to 10 days on normal use and 21 hours with continuous GPS.
5. Pre-order price is $129.99, and customers in Canada can also pre-order but may incur customs fees.
The Amazfit Active 2 Premium smartwatch is ready for pre-order in the United States. The regular version featuring a silicone strap was introduced back in January, while the Premium version is set to debut in February. The standard model has also recently launched in Europe, with the Premium edition expected to become available there in March or April.
Enhanced Durability and Design
The Premium Active 2 offers a sapphire glass cover for its screen, making it sturdier than the standard model’s 2.5D Tempered glass. Additionally, it includes a black leather strap alongside a red silicone sports band. Other than these differences, it shares the same features as the other Active 2 models, boasting a 1.32-inch AMOLED display that achieves up to 2,000 nits of brightness.
Health and Fitness Features
This smartwatch comes packed with health tracking capabilities, monitoring metrics such as heart rate and sleep quality. It supports over 160 workout modes, including the HYROX race, and includes GPS navigation. The Zepp Coach feature offers AI-generated workouts customized to your personal goals, while the Zepp Flow assistant enables voice commands and speech-to-text message replies. New additions also include a notification center and remote control support for calls, music, and camera (iOS only) on your smartphone. Amazfit claims that the watch can last up to 10 days on a single charge with normal usage, or 21 hours when using GPS continuously.
Pre-Order Details
You can pre-order the Amazfit Active 2 Premium for $129.99, with shipping expected to start in about a week, coinciding with its official general sale. Customers in Canada can also place pre-orders through the US site, although they may face customs duties and fees for these orders. Amazfit has expressed a desire to launch the new Active 2 smartwatches in additional countries but has not provided specific dates for those releases.
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Tags: Amazfit Active 2 Premium, Health-Tracking Features, smartwatch pre-order
February 25, 2025
Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Now in Bronze Gold and Burgundy
Key Takeaways
1. The new Omega Seamaster Diver 300M features a bronze gold and burgundy color scheme, succeeding the 007 Edition 300M.
2. The watch has a 42-mm bronze-gold case, dual screw-downs, a matte black dial, and vintage Super-LumiNova for visibility in low light.
3. It is water-resistant up to 300 m (~1000 ft) and includes a domed, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal for durability.
4. Crafted from Omega’s Bronze Gold alloy, the watch is resistant to corrosion and features the Co-Axial Chronometer Calibre 8806 movement with a 55-hour power reserve.
5. The retail price is $13,900 with a black rubber strap and $27,900 with a bronze gold bracelet.
A Swiss luxury watch brand, Omega, has introduced the latest version of its iconic diving watch, the Omega Seamaster Diver 300M, now available in a bronze gold and burgundy color scheme. This new model succeeds the 007 Edition 300M, which was priced at $4,600 on Amazon and launched in 2020 in conjunction with the James Bond film, “No Time To Die.” It’s interesting to note that the new version shares a similar look with the 007 Edition, featuring an oxalic anodized bezel ring and dial.
Design Features
The Seamaster Diver 300M boasts a 42-mm bronze-gold case, equipped with dual screw-downs positioned at 3 and 10 o’clock. The matte black dial is elegantly detailed with PVD18K bronze-gold hands and blackened indices. Additionally, the hands and indices are coated with vintage Super-LumiNova, which enhances visibility during low-light conditions.
Durability and Water Resistance
The Bronze Gold case is complemented by a rich burgundy bezel that beautifully contrasts with the overall case color. As part of the Seamaster Diver collection, this watch inherits the same domed, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal durability seen in the standard Seamaster Diver 300M series. Designed to endure all kinds of aquatic adventures, the watch is water-resistant up to 300 m (~1000 ft).
Material and Movement
The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M in Bronze Gold and Burgundy is crafted from Omega’s unique Bronze Gold alloy, made up of 37.5% 9K gold, palladium, and silver. The brand claims this alloy is resistant to corrosion without any verdigris oxidation.
This timepiece is driven by Omega’s proprietary Co-Axial Chronometer Calibre 8806 movement, providing a power reserve of 55 hours. The METAS-certified movement ensures accuracy within a range of 0/+5 seconds per day, while also offering 15,000 gauss magnetic resistance, similar to other Seamaster Divers.
Pricing and Availability
The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M in Bronze Gold and Burgundy is currently available for purchase on Omega’s official website and at authorized dealers. It retails for $13,900 if you choose the black rubber strap, or $27,900 if you opt for the bronze gold bracelet.
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Tags: Bronze Gold, luxury watch, Omega Seamaster Diver 300M
February 24, 2025
Garmin Update Adds Passcode Feature and Enhanced Body Battery
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin released software version 13.17 for Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches, following a beta version.
2. The update improves Body Battery accuracy with the new Body Battery TrueUp feature and supports the new HRM 200 heart rate monitor.
3. Users can now set a passcode for added security and access new Connect IQ watch faces and apps.
4. The update includes GCM Translations version 2.25 and an updated Golf Courses Database version 1.05 for the Venu 3 series.
5. Some users report ongoing issues, such as battery drain, Wi-Fi Sync problems, and Google Assistant malfunctions.
Garmin has rolled out software version 13.17 for users of the Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches. This stable update comes just after the beta version 13.17, incorporating all modifications from the 13.xx testing phase into these Garmin devices.
Enhanced Features
Release notes for version 13.17 highlight improvements in Body Battery accuracy for those utilizing multiple devices. This is made possible through the new Body Battery TrueUp feature, which allows your wearables to sync relevant data for a better estimate of your energy levels. Additionally, these smartwatches can now connect with the new HRM 200 heart rate monitor, currently priced at $149.99 on Amazon.
Security and Compatibility
Moreover, Venu 3 and vivoactive 5 users can now set a passcode for extra security. There’s also support for the latest batch of Connect IQ watch faces and apps, including the ComingUp to-do list application. All models are updated to GCM Translations version 2.25, while the Venu 3 series watches receive an updated Golf Courses Database version 1.05.
User Concerns
However, users have reported facing some issues after this update. Firstly, version 13.17 does not seem to fix the battery drain issue that some customers mentioned after the last update. Other problems include difficulties with Wi-Fi Sync using Garmin Connect, lost data, and Google Assistant malfunctioning for certain smartwatch users who have Android phones. Software version 13.17 is now accessible for all Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatch users. To download it, navigate to Menu > Settings > System > Software Update.
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Tags: Garmin Venu 3, Garmin vivoactive 5, Software Update 13.17