Category: Wearables

April 1, 2025
Amazfit Bip 6: $80 Smartwatch for HYROX Athletes with AI Support
Key Takeaways
1. The Amazfit Bip 6 smartwatch is priced at $79.99 and features a 1.97-inch AMOLED display with a brightness of up to 2,000 nits.
2. It includes advanced health tracking with the BioTracker 6.0 sensor, monitoring heart rate, blood oxygen, stress, and sleep patterns, and supports over 140 workout modes.
3. The watch offers Bluetooth calling, message notifications, voice-to-text replies, and includes the Zepp App for easy meal tracking.
4. It is water-resistant up to 5 ATM, has a battery life of up to 14 days, and is available in four colors: Black, Charcoal, Stone, and Red.
5. The Bip 6 does not include LTE or ECG support but focuses on essential fitness features, making it a strong competitor against affordable options from Fitbit and Garmin.
Amazfit has launched the Bip 6 smartwatch, which is aimed at fitness enthusiasts and is priced at $79.99. This new device comes with a 1.97-inch AMOLED display that boasts a brightness of up to 2,000 nits. Users can choose from four colors: Black, Charcoal, Stone, and Red. With its aluminum alloy construction, the watch is also water-resistant up to 5 ATM and offers a battery life that lasts up to 14 days.
Advanced Health Tracking
The Bip 6 is equipped with Amazfit’s BioTracker 6.0 sensor, which allows for monitoring heart rate, blood oxygen levels, stress, and sleep patterns. It supports more than 140 workout modes, such as HYROX races and endurance training. The smartwatch also provides AI coaching and automatically counts reps for strength training. Additionally, it features offline navigation and round-trip routing to assist outdoor adventurers.
Connectivity and Features
Users can enjoy Bluetooth calling, receive message notifications, and utilize voice-to-text replies along with Zepp Flow voice commands. The newly updated Zepp App also includes camera-based food logging, currently available in North America and set to roll out in Europe, making meal tracking much simpler.
Wayne Huang, CEO of Zepp Health, mentioned that the watch strikes a good balance between style and functionality for people with active lifestyles. The Bip 6 competes with affordable options from Fitbit and Garmin, offering similar features like an AMOLED display and impressive battery life at a more accessible price point.
Purchase Information
You can find the Bip 6 available for purchase on Amazfit.com and Amazon. While it doesn’t come with LTE or ECG support, it avoids subscription fees and focuses on essential fitness features, including HYROX race integration. This combination of pricing and performance makes it a viable choice for those seeking a fitness tracker priced under $100. We have also compiled a list of the top Amazfit smartwatches to consider this year, which you can view by following the link.
Source:
Link

Tags: Amazfit Bip 6, budget fitness tracker, Fitness Smartwatch
April 1, 2025
Amazfit Active 2 Update: Enhanced AOD, Sleep Metrics, Step Accuracy
Key Takeaways
1. The Amazfit Active 2 smartwatch firmware update (version 6.012.3) introduces a smarter Readiness Score algorithm focused on sleep quality.
2. The update features a brighter Always-On Display (AOD) for improved visibility.
3. Notification pop-ups during workouts have been enhanced for clarity.
4. A new meditation app is included for guided sessions.
5. User feedback on step tracking accuracy varies, with some reporting improvements while others still experience issues.
The Amazfit Active 2 smartwatch has begun receiving a new firmware update, version 6.012.3. This update brings various changes and enhancements that users have been discussing on Reddit. According to the changelog, there are four key features being either introduced or improved upon:
Enhanced Features
1. A smarter Readiness Score algorithm that focuses more on sleep quality.
2. A brighter Always-On Display (AOD) for better visibility.
3. Improved notification pop-ups that are clearer during workouts.
4. A new meditation app designed for guided sessions.
User Reactions
Feedback from users about this update has been varied. Some Reddit users have noted a big boost in the accuracy of step-counting, with one person claiming their watch used to miss as much as 30% of their steps, a problem they say is fixed now. On the flip side, there are others who still face issues with step tracking, reporting a loss of about 20% of their daily steps.
Readiness Score Update
The modifications to the Readiness Score algorithm have caught the attention of many users. Some are hopeful that this update will make the score more attuned to sleep quality, which has been a frequent complaint. Nevertheless, others have mentioned needing more time to fully assess the effects of these changes. Early feedback indicates that while physical recovery scores might drop, overall scores are still quite high. Opinions on the brighter AOD, the enhanced notifications, and the new meditation app are limited for now, as users likely need more time to evaluate these features.
As is common with firmware updates, it may take a few days for the new version to reach all Amazfit Active 2 devices.
New Smartwatch Launch
Amazfit has also introduced the Bip 6 smartwatch, priced at $79.99. It comes with a 1.97″ AMOLED display, a 14-day battery life, BioTracker 6.0 sensors, over 140 workout modes, Bluetooth calling, offline navigation, and AI coaching. Targeted at fitness enthusiasts, it supports HYROX race training and provides core health tracking without any subscription fees.
Source:
Link
Tags: Amazfit Active 2, firmware update, Smartwatch Features
April 1, 2025
Garmin Vivoactive 6 Specs and Pricing Ahead of Launch Rumors
Key Takeaways
1. The Vivoactive 6 will have a 1.2-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels, similar to the Vivoactive 5.
2. It is expected to be thinner than the Vivoactive 5, measuring 10.9 mm.
3. The smartwatch will feature 8 GB of internal storage and support BeiDou and QZSS location services.
4. New features will include Garmin Share, animated workouts, and additional running metrics.
5. The anticipated price is around €329 (~$355) in Europe and about $300 in North America.
Hardly any time has gone by since a Reddit user disclosed some early information about the Vivoactive 6 and a possible new Forerunner smartwatch. Yet, new details about the Vivoactive 6 have come to light just ahead of its expected launch in less than a month.
Display and Specs
The Vivoactive 6 is expected to feature an AMOLED display with a diagonal measurement of 1.2 inches and a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels with a density of 325 PPI. In simpler terms, the screen on Garmin’s next Vivoactive will be identical in size and resolution to the one on the Vivoactive 5 (currently priced at $179.95 for refurbished units on Amazon). Unfortunately, it is still unclear if the display will be larger this time around.
Design and Features
Reportedly, the Vivoactive 6 will be a bit thinner than the previous model, measuring at 10.9 mm. This new smartwatch is anticipated to come with 8 GB of internal storage and will support BeiDou and QZSS location services. Additionally, Fitness Tracker Test has noted that the Vivoactive 6 will include features like Garmin Share, animated workouts, and running metrics, which were lacking in its predecessor. The website also mentions that the Vivoactive 6 will be priced at €329 (~$355) in Europe, while it is expected to cost around $300 in North America.
Source:
Link
Tags: Garmin, Smartwatch, Vivoactive 6
March 31, 2025
Amazfit Bip 6 Launch: Major Upgrades Over Bip 5 for Under $80
Key Takeaways
1. The Amazfit Bip 6 is priced at $79.99, cheaper than the Bip 5, which was $89.99.
2. It features a 1.97-inch AMOLED display, upgraded from the Bip 5’s 1.91-inch TFT display, with a peak brightness of 2,000 nits.
3. The Bip 6 has a battery life of up to 14 days, compared to 10 days with the Bip 5, powered by a 340 mAh battery.
4. It includes the latest BioTracker 6.0 heart rate sensor, supporting heart rate variability (HRV) monitoring and dual-band GNSS.
5. The watch has a lightweight aluminium alloy frame, weighs 27.9 g, is rated at 5 ATM for water resistance, and offers various watch faces and health tracking features.
Amazfit has just unveiled the Bip 6, which has been the subject of several leaks over the past month. To put things in perspective, the Bip 6 comes around 18 months after the release of the Bip 5, which Amazfit originally priced at $89.99.
Pricing and Variants
In contrast, the Bip 6 is being offered at $79.99, and it comes in a variety of finishes including Black, Charcoal, Red, and Stone. Although the Bip 6 is cheaper than the Bip 5, it’s not merely a budget-friendly option. Amazfit has made enhancements in multiple areas.
Display and Features
For instance, they have upgraded from a 1.91-inch TFT display in the Bip 5 to a 1.97-inch AMOLED screen in the Bip 6. This new display is expected to offer more vivid colors and significantly higher brightness, reaching a peak of 2,000 nits, compared to the Bip 5’s 450 nits.
Battery Life and Sensors
Additionally, the Bip 6 features an impressive battery life of up to 14 days, powered by a 340 mAh battery, surpassing the 10 days seen with the Bip 5. The new model also incorporates Amazfit’s latest BioTracker 6.0 heart rate sensor, which includes support for heart rate variability (HRV) monitoring, along with dual-band GNSS and offline map capabilities.
Design and Usability
All of these enhancements are housed in a lightweight aluminium alloy frame, weighing just 27.9 g and rated at 5 ATM for water resistance. As always, Amazfit has included a wide array of watch faces, exercise modes, and health tracking applications. For additional information, you can visit Amazfit’s official website.
Source:
Link

Tags: Amazfit Bip 6, AMOLED display, Heart Rate Monitoring
March 31, 2025
Garmin Updates Older Flagship Smartwatches After Nearly a Year
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin has released System Software 28.02 for the Fenix 6 and Fenix 6 Pro smartwatches.
2. The update is available worldwide and follows nearly a year after System Software 27.00.
3. System Software 28.02 includes only eight changes, with no new features introduced.
4. The primary focus of the update is on fixing bugs rather than adding new functionalities.
5. The update may also be available for other models like Enduro, Marq, and Tactix Delta, but notifications for availability may take time.
Garmin has begun to release a new stable update for the Fenix 6 and Fenix 6 Pro (currently priced at $369.99 – renewed on Amazon), which is now accessible worldwide. To give some background, it’s been nearly a year since the company launched System Software 27.00 for these smartwatches.
Previous Updates
As we mentioned last May, System Software 27.00 fixed numerous bugs while also introducing a handful of new features. However, the latest update, System Software 28.02, brings significantly fewer modifications. In a post on a forum, Garmin mentions that this new update has only eight changes compared to System Software 27.00. Furthermore, none of the updates can be classified as new features.
Focus on Bug Fixes
Garmin has once again concentrated on addressing bugs. It’s important to highlight that System Software 28.02 should also be available for download on the Enduro, Marq, and Tactix Delta smartwatches. Do keep in mind that it may take some time for Garmin to send out notifications to all eligible smartwatches regarding the availability of System Software 28.02. Below is the complete changelog for the update:
Source:
Link
Tags: Fenix 6, Garmin, System Software 28.02
March 31, 2025
Elon Musk Announces Neuralink Brain Implant Trial for Blind in 2025
Key Takeaways
1. Elon Musk’s Neuralink aims to implant a brain-computer interface (BCI) called Blindsight in a blind person by the end of 2025 to enable low-resolution vision.
2. Neuralink has secured patents for Blindsight, as well as for initial implants named Telepathy and a trademark called Telekinesis.
3. The Blindsight BCI uses tiny electrodes in the visual cortex to activate neurons, generating visuals that the brain interprets as sight, initially in low resolution.
4. The visuals provided by Blindsight will be similar to 8-bit graphics, with future potential enhancements for better imagery and additional wavelengths like infrared and ultraviolet.
5. Human trials for the Telepathy chip are ongoing, and 2025 could mark the first instance of the Blindsight implant restoring vision for a person.
Elon Musk has assured his supporters that by the end of 2025, his brain-computer interface (BCI) company Neuralink will implant a chip in a blind person, enabling them to see, albeit in low resolution.
Blindsight and Patents
The new BCI is named Blindsight, and Neuralink has already secured a patent for this name. They also have patents for their initial implant designed for paraplegics, called Telepathy, and a new trademark known as Telekinesis. The patent for the term Telekinesis seems to be used similarly to Telepathy, based on the details outlined in the USPTO filing.
How It Works
The Blindsight BCI functions by placing a patented array of tiny electrodes in the visual cortex area, activating neurons to generate visuals that the brain interprets as sight, although it’s in low resolution at the beginning.
Graphics Quality
So, how low are these visuals? Musk has said that Blindsight will provide images akin to 8-bit graphics, resembling those from classic Atari games available on Amazon. However, Neuralink aims to enhance the imagery in the future. Musk emphasized, “To manage expectations, the initial vision will be low resolution, similar to Atari graphics, but it has the potential to surpass natural vision and allow you to see in infrared, ultraviolet, or even radar wavelengths.” This statement was made when the FDA awarded the Blindsight implant a Breakthrough Device Designation in September, which clears the way for human trials.
Progress with Monkeys
On stage, Musk confirmed that Blindsight has been successfully implanted in monkeys for several years. He reiterated that this new brain chip could ultimately provide “superhuman” vision.
Human Trials
The Telepathy chip is currently being tested on three human subjects with spinal cord injuries or ALS. The year 2025 might be significant as it could be the first instance when the Blindsight BCI implant restores some level of vision for a person.
Source:
Link
Tags: Blindsight, Neuralink, Telepathy
March 31, 2025
Amazfit Active 2 Update: Enhanced Smart Readiness Score
Key Takeaways
1. The new firmware update for Amazfit Active 2 is version 6.0.12.3, which is a 13.49MB file and is being released gradually in various countries, including the US and Germany.
2. The readiness score feature is now ‘smarter’ and aligns better with users’ sleep patterns.
3. The always-on display has been improved to be brighter for better visibility in sunny conditions.
4. Workout notifications have been enhanced to deliver content directly to users instead of appearing as alerts.
5. A new meditation application has been added to the smartwatch, and users have reported improved step counting accuracy.
Amazfit Active 2 smartwatch owners are begining to notice a fresh update. This comes after the previous version 6.0.8.4, which added local music storage to the device. The new firmware, version 6.0.12.3, is a 13.49MB file and is being released to users gradually. Reports of this update have emerged from customers in various countries, like the US and Germany.
Improvements Noted
The change log for version 6.0.12.3 lists four key enhancements. The readiness score has become ‘smarter’, aligning better with your sleep patterns. While many users are hopeful about this update, the early feedback doesn’t seem to indicate significant changes. Another enhancement is that the always-on display is brighter now, making it easier to see the screen in sunny conditions. Additionally, workout notifications have been improved, delivering content directly to users instead of popping up as alerts. Lastly, a meditation application has been introduced to the Amazfit Active 2 smartwatch, currently priced at $99.99 on Amazon.
User Feedback
One notable change that users have pointed out, which isn’t included in the release notes, is the improvement in step counting accuracy. It seems that a previous issue with the step counting algorithm has been resolved with this update. Once the update is accessible to you, it can be downloaded through the Zepp app. To initiate the process, navigate to Profile > My Devices > Amazfit Active 2 > System Update.
Source:
Link
Tags: Amazfit Active 2, firmware update, Step Counting Improvements
March 31, 2025
New Garmin Smartwatch Leaks and Forerunner 975 Release Rumors
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin is preparing to launch the Forerunner 975 later this year, following the refresh of its Enduro and Fenix series.
2. A new Vivoactive smartwatch, the Vivoactive 6, is in development and expected to be released next month.
3. The Vivoactive 6 will come in four color options and feature new silicone bands.
4. Key features of the Vivoactive 6 include an accelerometer, compass, gyroscope, and several advanced running metrics, but it will not have altimeter or ECG support.
5. The Vivoactive 6 will use Garmin’s Elevate V5 heart rate sensor and feature a redesigned main hardware button resembling a digital crown for improved comfort.
It looks like Garmin is getting ready to update one of its well-liked smartwatch lines. Just to summarize, the company refreshed its Enduro and Fenix series last year, introducing the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Fenix 8. Recently, there have been hints that Garmin might be setting things in motion for the release of the Forerunner 975.
New Developments on the Forerunner 975
In this regard, new reports have surfaced indicating that the Forerunner 975 could be launched later this year. Meanwhile, there is evidence suggesting that a new Vivoactive smartwatch is already well into its development phase. For context, the Vivoactive 5 (currently priced at $179.95 for refurbished models on Amazon) has been available for more than a year and a half. This device is exclusively offered in a 42 mm case size and features a vivid circular AMOLED display, providing up to 11 days of battery life, along with various functionalities found in Garmin’s pricier models.
Features of the Upcoming Vivoactive 6
If the recent leak is correct, then Garmin plans to release a successor in four different color options, each accompanied by matching silicone bands. The Vivoactive 6 is reported to include an accelerometer, compass, and gyroscope, but will not support altimeter or electrocardiogram (ECG) features. Instead, it is expected to include functions such as Ground Contact Time, Vertical Oscillation, Pace Pro, Running Power, and VO2 Max.
It seems that Garmin has integrated the Vivoactive 6 with its Elevate V5 heart rate sensor array. Furthermore, it appears that Garmin has altered its main hardware button to look more like a digital crown. This change seems to be for comfort, as the button doesn’t seem to have any new features added. According to reports, the Vivoactive 6 is set to be launched next month, although a specific release date has not been disclosed yet.
Source:
Link

Tags: Forerunner 975, Garmin, Vivoactive 6
March 31, 2025
Fitbit Users: New Deadline for Account Transfers Announced
Key Takeaways
1. Fitbit users now have until February 2, 2026, to convert their accounts to Google accounts, an extension from the previous 2025 deadline.
2. All Fitbit devices are now available exclusively through the Google store, and the Fitbit website has been taken down.
3. Users must switch accounts to retain access to the Fitbit platform and avoid losing historical data.
4. The account conversion can be done through the Fitbit app, with options to merge with an existing Google account or create a new one.
5. Many users have expressed concerns about data privacy and potential use for targeted advertisements, despite Google’s assurance that Fitbit data will not be used for ads.
Fitbit has extended the timeline for its smartwatch and fitness tracker users to transition their accounts. Many users received an email from Fitbit stating they now have until February 2, 2026, to convert their Fitbit account into a Google account. This change is an extension from the previous deadline set for 2025.
Background on the Transition
Google took over Fitbit in early 2021 and has since made several adjustments to simplify its smartwatch offerings. All Fitbit devices, including the Charge 6 (curr. $119.95 at Amazon), are now available exclusively through the Google store, and the Fitbit website has been taken down. The recent message from Google emphasized that this account switch applies to everyone, even those already using a Gmail account for Fitbit. Users who do not make the switch will lose access to the Fitbit platform, and their historical data will also be erased after the February 2 deadline.
How to Switch Your Account
To convert your Fitbit account to a Google account, you can do this through the Fitbit app. There’s a specific setting to move your Fitbit data to your Google Account. Users might need to update their app before they can carry out this process. Google also highlights that users have the option to download or delete their Fitbit data at any time before the deadline. While you can merge your Fitbit account with an existing Google account, there’s also the option to create a new account if you prefer not to link your data.
User Reactions and Concerns
On Reddit, numerous users have voiced their displeasure and anger regarding this change, feeling as though they’re being pressured to share their data with Google. Some have raised worries that their data might be utilized for targeted advertisements. In a previous statement, Google clarified that Fitbit data isn’t connected to ads. It remains uncertain if there will be any advantages to transferring your data before the February 2026 deadline, as there don’t seem to be any immediate changes.
Source:
Link
Tags: Charge 6, Fitbit, google
March 31, 2025
Casio Pro Trek PRW-6900TFS: Topographic Strap & Triple Sensor Tech
Key Takeaways
1. Casio has partnered with the Chinese brand The Free Spirits to launch a special edition of the Pro Trek PRW-6900TFS, featuring two models: PRW-6900TFS-1PRB and PRW-6900TFS-1PRT.
2. The watch design includes a dark grey casing with bright orange markers and a busy dial, plus a digital display that matches the color scheme.
3. Each model comes with two strap options: a khaki resin strap and a bi-color flame-retardant leather strap with a topographic design.
4. The 1PRT edition includes a co-branded camping tent (limited to 100 pieces), while the 1PRB version features a compact tent bag (900 units available).
5. Both models have the same features as the original PRW-6900, with a retail price of ¥6,490 (about $894) for 1PRT and ¥3,690 (about $508) for 1PRB, available only in China.
Casio has joined forces with the Chinese outdoor brand The Free Spirits to introduce a special edition of the Pro Trek PRW-6900TFS. This partnership marks a unique first for both the collaboration and the way it’s packaged. There will be two different models available: the PRW-6900TFS-1PRB and PRW-6900TFS-1PRT, as noted by @morgan_gshock on Instagram. Both versions are built on the PRW-6900 platform and come in specially designed gift boxes that include extra straps and co-branded camping items.
Watch Design
The watch features a dark grey casing and dial, with bright orange markers and hands that really pop, even if the dial seems a bit too busy. The orange digital display fits nicely with the overall color scheme.
Straps and Accessories
Both models come with two types of straps. The first one is a sleek, khaki resin strap, while the second is a unique bi-color flame-retardant leather strap that showcases a topographic design—this strap is a real highlight in terms of visual appeal.
The 1PRT edition includes a co-branded camping tent, and only 100 pieces will be made available. On the other hand, the 1PRB model replaces the tent with a compact tent bag, and there will be 900 units of this variant. Both options come with a quick-release strap tool and special packaging as well.
Features and Pricing
Functionality is the same as the original PRW-6900: the watch includes Casio’s third-generation Triple Sensor technology, featuring a digital compass, barometer, altimeter, and thermometer. There’s no solar power or GPS included, but for an analog-digital hybrid with sensors, that’s pretty standard.
In China, the retail price is set at ¥6,490 (around $894) for the 1PRT edition with the tent and ¥3,690 (about $508) for the 1PRB version that comes with the bag. Currently, it looks like this release will only be available in China, with no updates about international sales.
Source:
Link
Tags: Casio, Pro Trek PRW-6900TFS, The Free Spirits