Category: Wearables

  • Garmin Announces Exciting New Features for More Smartwatches

    Garmin Announces Exciting New Features for More Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin will add new features like Running tolerance, Running economy, and Evening Report to Fenix 8, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8 smartwatches.
    2. Recent models such as Instinct 3, Instinct E, and vivoactive 6 will not receive these new features.
    3. The Fenix 7 and Epix Pro models are also excluded from the upcoming updates, despite having received recent features.
    4. The release date for the new features for Fenix 8, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8 is currently unknown.
    5. The Garmin Fenix 8 is priced at $789.99, just $40 more than the Forerunner 970, making it a potential option for buyers seeking the latest features.

    Garmin has announced which of its current smartwatches will get the new features from the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970. These new devices were launched worldwide on May 21st, with a starting price of $549.99 (Amazon).

    New Features Coming Soon

    A recent report from DC Rainmaker mentioned that they asked Garmin about features like Running tolerance, Running economy, and Evening Report. Garmin responded that it plans to include these new functionalities for the Fenix 8 series, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8 smartwatches in upcoming software updates.

    Excluded Models

    This means that users of other recently launched models, such as the Instinct 3, Instinct E, and vivoactive 6, will likely miss out on these features. Notably, the Fenix 7 and Epix Pro also aren’t included in this update list. However, these models have recently received features like Breathing Variations and a Rucking activity.

    Future Updates

    It remains unclear when the Garmin Fenix 8, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8 smartwatches will actually get these new features. It’s important to highlight that the Garmin Fenix 8 (47 mm AMOLED Slate Gray with Black Silicone Band) is currently listed on Amazon US for $789.99, just $40 more than the Forerunner 970. Since it seems likely that the Fenix 8 will acquire the new features found in the Forerunner 970, potential buyers might want to think about this slightly older model.

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  • Buy the New Casio G-Shock MTG-B2000YBD-2AJF with Carbon Bezel

    Buy the New Casio G-Shock MTG-B2000YBD-2AJF with Carbon Bezel

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock MTG-B2000YBD-2AJF is now available in Japan after a long wait and pre-orders that began in May.
    2. The watch features a new deep navy and matte black color scheme, with a redesigned bezel made of laminated carbon and fiberglass.
    3. It includes key specifications such as shock resistance, 200 meters of water resistance, solar charging, and Bluetooth connectivity via the Casio Watches app.
    4. The watch has an analog dial with Super Illuminator LED, protected by a sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating.
    5. Priced at ¥181,500 (approximately $1,250), it is currently only available in Japan, with international sales expected to follow.

    After a long wait, the Casio G-Shock MTG-B2000YBD-2AJF is finally up for grabs in Japan. This model was announced and opened for pre-orders back in early May, generating excitement well ahead of its release, which aligns with Casio’s ongoing commitment to luxury in the MT-G series.

    New Features and Design

    This model is based on the 2021 MTG-B2000YBD-1A but boasts a fresh color scheme—deep navy combined with matte black. The bezel has been redesigned using laminated carbon and fiberglass for enhanced durability. The design maintains a well-known dual-core guard structure that protects a carbon-reinforced monocoque case, surrounded by stainless steel components.

    Impressive Specifications

    Weighing in at 131g and measuring over 55mm, this watch certainly makes a statement. It features the classic G-Shock traits: shock resistance, 200 meters of water resistance, solar charging, and Multi-Band 6 radio syncing. Additionally, it offers Bluetooth connectivity through the Casio Watches app, allowing users to adjust time zones, monitor battery life, and set alarms directly from their smartphones.

    The watch’s dial is entirely analog and illuminated by Casio’s Super Illuminator LED for visibility in low-light conditions. A sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating protects the dial. The band features a composite build that mixes resin and metal, secured by a three-fold clasp.

    Pricing and Availability

    Casio is offering the MTG-B2000YBD-2AJF at a price of ¥181,500 (approximately $1,250). Currently, it’s only available in Japan, but international sales are expected to follow soon, similar to past MT-G models that gradually became available in other markets.

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    Buy the New Casio G-Shock MTG-B2000YBD-2AJF with Carbon Bezel
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  • Garmin Health Connect Integration Coming for Smartwatch Users

    Garmin Health Connect Integration Coming for Smartwatch Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin Connect will integrate with Android’s Health Connect in June 2025, allowing data synchronization across devices.
    2. At Google I/O 2025, Garmin reported a 50% increase in active users and announced collaborations with multiple fitness apps.
    3. New features for Health Connect include Medical Records APIs and two new data types: Background Reads and History Reads.
    4. Users will have control over data sharing through a smartphone dashboard, enabling them to manage what data is shared and delete it if needed.
    5. The exact launch date for the Garmin and Health Connect integration has not yet been specified.

    Garmin Connect is set to soon join forces with Android’s Health Connect. This Google service lets users easily share their health information across different apps and devices, which can give you a wider perspective on your health and may help you identify larger trends.

    Announcement at Google I/O

    During the Google I/O 2025 developer conference, it was announced that Garmin would become part of the Health Connect network in June 2025. This development will enable users of Garmin smartwatches to synchronize their workout and health data with other products within the Android ecosystem. Some apps that are already connected to Health Connect include AllTrails, Dexcom G7, Peloton, Oura, and Withings; you can find the complete list on the Google Play Store.

    User Growth and New Features

    The company highlighted that it has experienced a 50% increase in active users over the past six months and pointed out recent collaborations with Flo, Runna, and Mi Fitness. It also shared information about new features for Health Connect, such as Medical Records APIs that work with the new Fitbit Medical record navigator. Additionally, there are two new data types being introduced: Background Reads, which help developers deliver timely insights to users, and History Reads, which highlight long-term trends in health data.

    User Control Over Data Sharing

    Android users will have the ability to control what data is shared between apps through a dashboard on their smartphones. From this dashboard, they can also delete data or decide to prioritize specific data sources over others. However, Garmin and Google have not yet provided a specific date for when the integration will officially launch.

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    Garmin Health Connect Integration Coming for Smartwatch Users

     

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  • Casio GLX-S5610: Brightly Colored Watches Coming Soon

    Casio GLX-S5610: Brightly Colored Watches Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new Casio G-Shock G-Lide GLX-S5610 series features two models: GLX-S5610-2 in blue and GLX-S5610-4 in pink/red, inspired by surfer Bettylou Sakura Johnson and Hawaiian flowers.
    2. The watches include a bio-resin casing and strap, metal framing around the LCD, and features like moon phase data, tide graph, and a stopwatch.
    3. They offer world time support for 48 cities and have an LED backlight for readability in low light.
    4. The watches are water-resistant up to 20 bar and have a battery life of about three years.
    5. The GLX-S5610 models will be available in Japan starting June, with a price of ¥15,950 ($111); availability in other regions is not confirmed.

    The new Casio G-Shock G-Lide GLX-S5610 series watches are set to be available this June. There are two models coming out: the GLX-S5610-2 in blue and the GLX-S5610-4 in pink/red. These eye-catching designs were created with input from professional surfer Bettylou Sakura Johnson, taking inspiration from the vibrant flowers of Hawaii.

    YouTube Feature

    Recently, Bettylou was spotted showcasing the GLX-S5610 watches in a YouTube video (see below). Additionally, Japanese media outlet Mynavi News has released images and further information about these exciting new products.

    Specs and Features

    The GLX-S5610-2 and GLX-S5610-4 come with a bio-resin casing and strap, framed by a metal outline around the LCD display. Notable features include moon phase data, a tide graph, and a stopwatch that measures in 1/100th of a second. They also support world time across 48 cities and feature an LED backlight for nighttime readability. Moreover, these watches are anticipated to be water-resistant up to 20 bar and will function for about three years on a replaceable battery.

    Pricing and Availability

    Casio plans to roll out the G-Shock G-Lide GLX-S5610-2 and GLX-S5610-4 watches in Japan in June, with a recommended retail price of ¥15,950 ($111). There is no information yet on whether these models will be made available in other regions, such as Europe, where earlier models like the GLX-S5600-1 have been offered.

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  • Garmin Updates High-End Smartwatch with New Sleep Feature

    Garmin Updates High-End Smartwatch with New Sleep Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin launched a new stable update, System Software 21.19, for the Fenix 7 and related smartwatches, three months after the previous update.
    2. The update is available on various models, including the Tactix 7, which is priced at $1,199 on Amazon.
    3. System Software 21.19 includes 37 updates from beta versions, featuring around two dozen improvements, including breathing variations insights.
    4. The breathing insights feature is not for medical use and uses pulse Ox data to help users understand their breathing during sleep.
    5. The update also includes unlock icons on the sensor details page, a refreshed running track database, and 16 bug fixes.

    Garmin has recently launched a new stable update for the Fenix 7 and other related smartwatches. This comes nearly three months after the previous System Software 20.22 was released. The new System Software 21.19 is also accessible on different models like the Tactix 7, which is currently priced at $1,199 on Amazon. This update follows more than ten beta versions ranging from 21.04 to 21.19.

    Changes in the New Update

    Similar to the earlier Fenix 8 series, the Fenix 7 and its counterparts have not received every change that Garmin has been testing in beta. Our observations show that Garmin has rolled out 37 updates between the beta versions 21.04 and 21.19. Still, System Software 21.19 brings a noteworthy list of two dozen improvements. One of the highlights is the breathing variations insights feature, now also found on the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970. Although Garmin points out that this feature is not meant for medical use, it utilizes pulse Ox data to give users a better understanding of their breathing patterns during sleep.

    Additional Features and Fixes

    Furthermore, this latest update includes unlock icons on the sensor details page and refreshes the running track database with new entries. Alongside these features, System Software 21.19 introduces 16 bug fixes. For those looking for more details, we have provided the full list of fixes below. You can also check Garmin’s forum posts linked below for additional information and the complete changelog for System Software 21.19.

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  • Casio G-Shock x Hender Scheme DW-5900 Collaboration Watch Release

    Casio G-Shock x Hender Scheme DW-5900 Collaboration Watch Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. The collaboration between Casio and Hender Scheme features a minimalist DW-5900 watch wrapped in leather with a natural veg-tan strap.
    2. The initial sale will occur through a web lottery system on May 25, exclusively for buyers in Japan, followed by in-person sales at select Hender Scheme locations on May 30.
    3. This is the fourth collaboration between Hender Scheme and G-Shock, making it their most unique design yet, with a focus on elegance.
    4. The watch includes a beige resin case, transparent white dial, and a handmade leather strap that develops a natural patina over time.
    5. The package also contains original resin straps for users to switch between the leather and traditional G-Shock styles, with international sales starting May 30.

    Casio along with Hender Scheme has unveiled the new details regarding their latest G-Shock partnership – a minimalist DW-5900 wrapped in leather, featuring Hender Scheme’s unique natural veg-tan strap. While some hints were dropped earlier this month, the exact launch date and base module are now confirmed.

    Launch Details

    The watch will be initially sold through a web lottery system on May 25, but it’s important to note that this is only for buyers residing in Japan. Following this, it will be available at select Hender Scheme retail locations in Japan starting May 30. Their official Instagram account has verified that sales will take place at Sukima Nakameguro, Sukima Osaka, and Sukima Sendai, with each shop hosting in-person sales on the day of the launch.

    A Unique Collaboration

    This marks the fourth collaboration between Hender Scheme and G-Shock, and it’s possibly their most unique. The collaboration transformed the typically tough DW-5900 into something much more elegant. The beige resin case and see-through white dial now complement a handmade leather strap that has been intentionally left without finishing, so it can develop a natural patina as time goes on. The branding is quite subtle, featuring “Hender Scheme” printed only on the underside of the strap and on the digital display.

    Additional Features

    The package also includes a set of original resin straps, allowing users to switch between the unrefined leather option and a more traditional G-Shock style if they prefer.

    No price details have been shared yet, and the release seems to be exclusive to Japan for the moment. However, international customers will have the chance to buy through selected global retailers starting May 30.

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    Casio G-Shock x Hender Scheme DW-5900 Collaboration Watch ReleaseCasio G-Shock x Hender Scheme DW-5900 Collaboration Watch Release
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  • New Casio W-218H Watches with Dark Displays Launching in Europe

    New Casio W-218H Watches with Dark Displays Launching in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio is introducing the W-218H-3BV and W-218H-8BV watches in select European countries.
    2. The watches are priced at €34.90, similar to previous models.
    3. Features include a sporty design, 1/100-second stopwatch, daily alarms, and amber LED backlight.
    4. Battery life is up to seven years, and the watch is water resistant up to 50 meters.
    5. Release date and availability in the US market are still uncertain.

    Casio is set to introduce the W-218H-3BV and W-218H-8BV timepieces in several European nations. These fresh color options for the W-218H line were observed on the company’s global website earlier in May 2025.

    Availability and Pricing

    Currently, the Casio W-218H-3BV and W-218H-8BV watches can be found on online platforms in countries like the Netherlands, Spain, and France. The price listed is €34.90, which aligns with previous models such as the W-218HM-7AV.

    Features and Specifications

    The W-218H is designed as a sporty digital watch featuring a resin case and strap. It comes equipped with a 1/100-second stopwatch, daily alarms, and hourly signals. An amber LED backlight makes it easier to see the display in dim conditions; it has a dark background with light numbers. This watch is anticipated to last up to seven years powered by a CR2016 battery. Additionally, it’s important to mention that it is only water resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming but not for snorkeling or scuba diving.

    Release Information

    Casio hasn’t yet announced the launch date for the W-218H-3BV and W-218H-8BV models. It is still uncertain if these watches will also be available in the US market. In the US, the older Casio W-218H-1AV is priced at $22.95 but is currently on sale for $16.88 on Amazon.

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    New Casio W-218H Watches with Dark Displays Launching in EuropeNew Casio W-218H Watches with Dark Displays Launching in Europe

     

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  • Amazfit Smartwatches Launch Insights from Zepp Health Q1 Results

    Amazfit Smartwatches Launch Insights from Zepp Health Q1 Results

    Key Takeaways

    1. Zepp Health plans to launch additional products in 2025, building on the success of the Amazfit Active 2 and Bip 6.
    2. CEO Wang Huang indicated that the recent product successes will support future mid- to high-end product launches.
    3. The Amazfit Balance 2 is expected to be a key mid-range smartwatch release, featuring upgrades like Sapphire Crystal glass and improved battery capacity.
    4. Speculation exists around a new high-end wearable in the T-Rex series, possibly a refreshed version of the T-Rex Ultra.
    5. No specific global release dates have been announced for the Amazfit Balance 2 or other upcoming smartwatches.

    In a recent investor call, Zepp Health hinted at additional product launches for 2025. During this meeting, the company shared its financial results for Q1 2025, emphasizing the success of its two latest products that were released globally. The Amazfit Active 2 debuted in January, followed by the Amazfit Bip 6 in March. These affordable wearables have reportedly gained significant popularity in Spain and Italy.

    Future Releases

    CEO Wang Huang discussed future releases on two different occasions during the call. First, he stated that the achievements of the Active 2 and Bip 6 “sets a strong foundation for the future launches of our mid- to high-end products in the next quarter.” Later, he spoke about the “exciting introduction of our upcoming range of flagship sports products.” Chief Financial Officer Leon Cheng Deng also mentioned new devices, indicating that Zepp Health intends to “refresh all our major product lines in the upcoming quarters” with “more than 2” product launches before year-end.

    Mid-Range Expectations

    The mid-range smartwatch that was discussed is probably the Amazfit Balance 2, which recently arrived in China. This model improves upon the original Balance with a Sapphire Crystal glass upgrade, dual integrated speakers, and a bigger battery capacity.

    High-End Speculations

    A potential new high-end wearable could belong to the Amazfit T-Rex series, although Zepp Health hasn’t confirmed this yet. Since the T-Rex 3 smartwatch just came out in September 2024, it seems improbable for it to be the T-Rex 4. Instead, it might be a refreshed version of the T-Rex Ultra (currently priced at $229.99 on Amazon), which launched in 2023. This new device might be called T-Rex Ultra 2 or T-Rex 3 Ultra.

    Zepp Health has not yet provided any information regarding the global release date for the Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch, or any other upcoming smartwatches.

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  • Facer Brings Thousands of Watch Faces to Wear OS 6 This Year

    Facer Brings Thousands of Watch Faces to Wear OS 6 This Year

    Key Takeaways

    1. Facer, a popular app for customizing smartwatch faces, was removed due to changes in Wear OS 5.
    2. The app will return with Wear OS 6 later this year, offering a “revitalized, more powerful” experience.
    3. Facer originally launched in 2016 and has a large library of over 500,000 watch faces.
    4. The new version will include thousands of compatible watch faces and improved syncing with mobile apps.
    5. Facer will also introduce new features, brands, and exclusive discounts at the launch.

    Those who have been using smartwatches for a while already know what Facer is but for those unaware, it was the go-to app for watch face customization. Unfortunately, it was removed from the platform due to changes brought by Wear OS 5. Now, the company has announced Facer will be returning “revitalized, more powerful” with Wear OS 6 later this year.

    A Brief History of Facer

    Facer was launched back in 2016 as a third-party app for smartwatches that brings a massive library of free and paid watch faces. It allowed users to customize their watch face outside of what the default available faces were. With the introduction of Wear OS 5 last year, watches running this OS such as Pixel Watch 3 (Buy on Amazon), Samsung Galaxy Watch7 (Buy on Amazon), and Galaxy Watch Ultra (Buy on Amazon), became incompatible with Facer due to some policy changes. Users were limited to only those watch faces built using Google’s “Watch Face Format”. To overcome this, Facer would have had to manually publish faces in the Google Play Store which was not “logistically feasible” for the massive catalog of over 500,000 faces.

    The Comeback of Facer

    Now, Facer has announced its return with the rollout of Wear OS 6 later this year. The company had been working with Google and it seems to have reached an amicable solution. “With new system-level capabilities coming in Wear OS 6, alongside innovations from Facer — the full Facer experience is set to be reintroduced — revitalized, more powerful, and better than ever,” the announcement on Medium reads.

    Exciting New Features

    Facer will bring thousands of watch faces from its catalog that are compatible with Wear OS 6 and more will be added by this fall that are compliant with Google’s new Watch Face Format. It will bring back seamless face syncing between the mobile app and the smartwatch thanks to Watch Face Push in Wear OS 6. Furthermore, Facer will also bring new features, new brands, and exclusive discounts at launch.

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

    Garmin May 2025 Updates: New Rucking Features and Sleep Enhancements

    Key Takeaways

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

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

    New Features for Enhanced Performance

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

    Enhanced Security and Competitive Tools

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

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