Category: Wearables

  • Garmin Fenix 9 Launch: New Features to Expect

    Key Takeaway

    – Garmin Fenix 9 likely launching in second half of 2026, following typical release cycle.
    – Solar charging for AMOLED displays is a possible upcoming feature, supported by active patents.
    – Improved GNSS accuracy is a realistic and plausible upgrade for the next model.
    – Muscle oxygen saturation is possible but may require a multi-sensor setup for practical use.
    – Enduro 4 appearance in Garmin APK is a weak but potential hint at an upcoming Fenix 9 launch.

    Upcoming Garmin Fenix 9 Successor

    It’s safe to say that Garmin is working on a successor to the Garmin Fenix 8. In a recent YouTube video, TechAvid summarizes the latest speculation, much of which is based on information that is already familiar. Garmin has not yet officially commented on the Fenix 9—at least not directly. However, Garmin has already confirmed plans for the second half of 2026, which would fit the usual release cycle. TechAvid’s claim that Garmin’s Enduro and Fenix watches tend to launch around the same time is at least supported by the Enduro 3 and Fenix 8 launch. That makes the appearance of the Enduro 4 in the Garmin APK a possible, if still weak, hint at an upcoming Fenix 9 launch.

    Possible New Features for Fenix 9

    It remains unclear which new features the Fenix 9 might bring. One obvious possibility—also mentioned in the video—is that Garmin could eventually bring solar charging to its AMOLED watches. Garmin is still actively working on solar charging, as patents suggest. Just today, there were also reports that Amazfit may be developing solar charging for its own smartwatches. If both companies manage to combine solar cells with AMOLED displays, an interesting showdown could follow. Amazfit could also target MIP fans with a MIP-based solar watch, a segment Garmin appears to be gradually moving away from.

    Better GNSS Accuracy and Muscle Oxygen

    Another plausible improvement—and one we consider entirely realistic—is better GNSS accuracy. We have already reported on a relevant patent and also looked at where even higher location accuracy might actually matter in practice. There is also discussion of muscle oxygen saturation. In our view, however, this would not necessarily be a feature exclusive to the Fenix 9. Muscle oxygen saturation is measured locally and refers to a single muscle rather than the body as a whole. For most sports, the wrist is still not the ideal measurement location, so a multi-sensor setup would likely be the more practical approach.

    • Garmin Fenix 9 launch likely in 2026
    • Solar charging for AMOLED watches is a possibility
    • Improved GNSS tracking is expected
    • Muscle oxygen saturation might need alternative sensors
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  • New Casio Pro Trek PRJ-01 Leaks: First Fully Analog Watch with Carabiner Strap

    New Casio Pro Trek PRJ-01 Leaks: First Fully Analog Watch with Carabiner Strap

    Key Takeaway

    – Fully analog design marks first Pro Trek to drop digital readouts
    – Smaller case at 44.4 × 39.1 × 11.6 mm
    – Retains Tough Solar, low battery alert, calendar, and 100m water resistance
    – Select AE models include fabric strap with carabiner for backpack attachment
    – Estimated pricing from $175 to $200 with a July 2026 release expected

    New Analog Pro Trek from Casio

    Casio’s Pro Trek line has always been about sensors and digital readouts — altimeters, barometers, compasses, and connected features. All this has pretty much defined the range for years. However, an incoming model looks to take a different direction. Images and details published today by Russian watch blog Casioblog point to the PRJ-01, a new Pro Trek series built around a fully analog dial, and its the first one in the lineup to drop digital readouts entirely.

    Dimensions and Key Features

    The PRJ-01 shares its octagonal silhouette with the existing PRJ-B001 but looks to be way smaller — the case measures 44.4 × 39.1 × 11.6 mm, compared to 50.3 × 46 × 13.6 mm on the PRJ-B001. Despite the stripped-down feature set, Casio has reportedly kept Tough Solar on board, along with a low battery alert function, calendar, and 100-meter water resistance. Wide hour and minute hands with a thin accent seconds hand means that visibility should be great. The dial is expected to feature a luminescent coating similar to the PRW-61LD-3.

    Three Variants and Strap Options

    Three variants show up in the leaked images — the PRJ-01-1 in black resin, the PRJ-01AE-7 in white/light grey, and the PRJ-01AE-8 in dark grey. The AE variants are where things get more interesting: select models are said to ship with a fabric strap and a carabiner attachment, which means the watch can be clipped to a backpack or piece of gear when needed. The strap system is designed for quick swaps between rubber and fabric in the field.

    Pricing and Release Timeline

    Pricing is estimated at around $175 for the base PRJ-01-1, with the carabiner-equipped AE models coming in closer to $200. A July 2026 release is expected, though Casio hasnt made an official announcement yet.


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  • Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 Redesign Leak, No Classic 9

    Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 Redesign Leak, No Classic 9

    Key Takeaway

    – No Galaxy Watch 9 Classic in 2026 (and no rotating bezel successor).
    – Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 will get a redesign with a boxier, classic-inspired look.
    – Thinner bezels, a new orange-accented Quick button, and button layout changes.
    – New color options: beige, black with blue strap, silver with green strap.
    – One UI 9 Watch update will bring new watch faces and a Samsung Health redesign.

    Redesign Details Emerge for Next Galaxy Watch Ultra

    The succesor to the first Galaxy Watch Ultra or the 2025 refresh is getting a redesign according to GalaxyTechie on X, while scattered rumors about a Galaxy Watch 9 Classic appear to have been false—at least according to this tipster. Accordingly, there will be no succesor to the Galaxy Watch8 Classic with rotating bezel in 2026, which is entirely in line with Samsung’s usual release schedule. The posibility that a new Classic version might be missing from the next Samsung wearable generation was also recently noted in the analysis of some fresh FCC documents.

    Borrowed Elements from Classic Design

    According to the leaker, there will be a redesign of the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 instead, which will borrow a few elements from the classic smartwatch design—specifically, a slightly more boxy design with the numbers 1–12 on the bezel, although it has not been confirmed whether the bezel will rotate. The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 display is also said to feature thinner bezels and there will be differences in the button design on the right side, as the first render image below suggests.

    Quick Button and Color Options

    Accordingly, the round Quick button in the middle will be replaced by a wider button marked with a new orange accent color. New options are also expected in terms of colors and straps, including for the Galaxy Watch9. The base model (of the Galaxy Watch9 and/or the Galaxy Watch Ultra2) will reportedly be beige, with a black version featuring a bluish strap and a silver version with a green strap also avaliable. The images above also hint at new features and watch faces as part of One UI 9 Watch, a Samsung Health redesign is expected as well.

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  • Casio G-Shock x Pokémon Collab Watch Officially Leaks

    Casio G-Shock x Pokémon Collab Watch Officially Leaks

    Key Takeaway

    – First full-sized G-Shock in Casio x Pokémon collaboration
    – Design inspired by Pikachu: red/green hands, Poké Ball sub-dial, clear resin case
    – Previous collabs were limited to smaller Baby-G models
    – Likely wider global release, not region-limited
    – No official confirmation on pricing, specs, or release date yet

    Pokémon and G-Shock Finally Collide?

    Until now, Casio’s past collaborations with Pokémon have so far adhered to one lane, and that is compact Baby-G models like the BA-110PKC, released back in 2020 and 2021. That could change with a newly leaked image, which shows a full-sized G-Shock joining the lineup for the first time, branded as the GA-110PKM-7A. The image comes from Instagram leaker @geesgshock, whom adds this is actually a re-share — a previous post on the same watch was reportedly taken down at the sources request. Seeing it resurface is generally a good sign.

    Design Inspired by Pikachu’s Palette

    It’s built on the GA-110 case in clear, translucent resin. The overall design looks to be inspired from Pikachu’s color palette. The hour and minute hands carry red and green tones, like Pikachu’s cheeks and tail, and a small sub-dial sits near the 9 o’clock position styled after a Poké Ball. “Pokémon” branding is visible across the dial at 3 o’clock, while the see-through case and band mean the internal components show through, just like past clear G-Shock releases. The size disparity is prolly the most important aspect here.

    Full-Sized G-Shock vs Baby-G

    Every previous Casio x Pokémon watch has existed in the smaller Baby-G space. If this leak holds any weight, the GA-110PKM-7A would be the first time the collab scales up to a full-sized G-Shock, which could grab a different audience than what past releases did. The leak implies a likely release in the near future, likely as a wider, global drop rather than a region-limited one.

    Pricing and Timing Still Unconfirmed

    Casio and The Pokémon Company haven’t confirmed anything officialy yet, so pricing, specs, and timing are unverified for now. Keep an eye out for more leaks or a potential announcment soon. This could be a fan favorite if it hits shelves.

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  • Amazfit Helio Strap Pro Pre-Order Priced Below Garmin Instinct 3

    Amazfit Helio Strap Pro Pre-Order Priced Below Garmin Instinct 3

    Key Takeaway

    – Pre-orders for the Amazfit Helio Strap Pro are open at $199.99, shipping starts June 25.
    – Priced at twice the cost of the older model but undercuts mid-range smartwatches like the Garmin Instinct 3.
    – Package includes two sensors: the Core Motion HR (arm-worn) and Core Motion Waist (clip/strap).
    – Features over 60 sport modes with improved tracking for strength and cardio via the waist sensor.
    – Offers 24/7 heart rate, sleep, and recovery monitoring to calculate the HybridCharge Index (0-100).

    Amazfit Helio Strap Pro Pre-orders Begin at $199.99

    The Amazfit Helio Strap Pro was officially unveiled on Thursday, though Amazfit did not reveal pricing details yesterday. Now, Amazfit has opened pre-orders for the Helio Strap Pro at $199.99, with shipping set to begin on June 25. While this means the Amazfit Helio Strap Pro costs twice as much as the older Amazfit Helio Strap, Amazfit is still able to undercut the list price of mid-range smartwatches like the Garmin Instinct 3 ($299). For this price, buyers get a package that includes both the Core Motion HR and the Core Motion Waist.

    Dual Sensor Setup for Accuracy

    To track workouts as accurately as possible, the Core Motion HR – which features a built-in heart rate and motion sensor – is designed to be worn on the upper arm, while the Core Motion Waist motion sensor can be worn around the waist using either a clip or a strap. With more than 60 sport modes, the Amazfit Helio Strap Pro is designed to be relatively versatile. Thanks to the additional motion sensor on the waist, Amazfit aims to track strength and cardio workouts with higher precision.

    Core Stability and Muscle Strain Analysis

    This sensor allows the Helio Strap Pro to better assess core stability and the strain on various muscles. The Amazfit Helio Strap Pro also offers most of the features already familiar from the Helio Strap – heart rate can be monitored around the clock, and sleep and recovery are tracked as well. This allows the Amazfit HybridCharge Index to be calculated, which indicates current training capacity on an easy-to-understand scale from 0 to 100 points.

    Comprehensive Tracking Features

    More details about the Amazfit Helio Strap Pro are available on the official product page. The device is designed for athletes who want deeper insite into their workouts without investing in a full smartwatch. With its dual-sensor approach, Amazfit promises better detection of body movement and heart rate data during complex excercises. The strap itself is adjustable and comfortable for all-day wear, though the additional waist sensor might take some getting used to for new users. Amazfit USA haven’t confirmed any specific regional availability restrictions yet, but the product is listed with shipping starting in late June.

    • Price: $199.99
    • Shipping begins: June 25
    • Includes: Core Motion HR and Core Motion Waist sensors
    • Over 60 sport modes
    • HybridCharge Index from 0 to 100 points
    • 24/7 heart rate and sleep tracking


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  • Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Newer to Get watchOS 27 Only

    Key Takeaway

    – watchOS 27 introduces new AI features like a Siri AI app, but will only be available on the Apple Watch Ultra 2, Series 9, or SE 3.
    – Three older models (Series 8, SE 2, and first-gen Ultra) will lose support for feature updates.
    – Apple limits these AI features to newer hardware because the S9 chip is up to 52% faster and required for optimal performance.
    – Using an older processor (based on 2019’s A13) made it unfeasible to offer the same Siri AI experience across all platforms.

    watchOS 27 Brings Big Changes, But Only for Newer Watches

    Apple announced watchOS 27 at WWDC, the next major operating system update for the Apple Watch, which is expected to be released this fall. The update primarily introduces new AI features, such as the brand-new Siri AI app, which resembles chatbots like ChatGPT, aswell as an improved Workout Buddy. However, the operating system requires at least an Apple Watch Ultra 2, an Apple Watch Series 9, or an Apple Watch SE 3.

    Older Models Left Behind in This Update Cycle

    So this means watchOS 27 can be installed on three fewer generations of Apple Watches than watchOS 26 – the Apple Watch Series 8, SE 2, and even the first-generation Apple Watch Ultra from 2022 will no longer recieve feature updates. Speaking to TechRadar, David Clark, who is responsibile for watchOS development, explained the reasons behind this decision. According to him, Siri AI and the new tap gesture work “best” when the processing power of the Apple Watch Series 9 and newer models is available.

    The Processor Power Gap Is the Real Reason

    Apple is thus once again limiting an AI feature to relatively new hardware, likely not least to encourage users of older models to upgrade. The Apple Watch Series 6, 7, and 8 use a technically identical processor that is still based on the architecture of the Apple A13 from 2019. It wasn’t until the Apple S9 in the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 that a new chip was introduced, which remained unchanged through the Series 11. As our benchmarks show, the newer chip is up to 52 percent faster.

    Why Apple Didn’t Offer a Lite Version for Older Watches

    According to David Clark, releasing watchOS 27 without Siri AI for older models would not have been an option, as Apple aims to offer the same version of Siri accross all platforms. This means users of those unsupported watches—like the Series 8, SE 2, or original Ultra—wont get any further feature updates at all. The decision cleary pushes owners of older devices toward upgrading if they want the latest AI capabilities, which is a familiar pattern form Apple in recent years.

    • Supported models: Apple Watch Ultra 2, Series 9, SE 3
    • Unsupported models: Series 8, SE 2, first-gen Ultra
    • Key new features: Siri AI chatbot, improved Workout Buddy, tap gesture
    • Processor improvement: Up to 52% faster in newer models
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  • Casio launches red lantern G-Shock watches in US

    Casio launches red lantern G-Shock watches in US

    Key Takeaway

    – G-Shock Red Lantern series (DW-5600AKA-4 and DW-6900AKA-4) launched in the US for $190, inspired by Japanese paper lanterns.
    – Both models feature red resin casing/straps, black accents with Japanese “shock resistant” text, and a red-tinted LED backlight.
    – The DW-5600 is rectangular, the DW-6900 is round; both include stopwatch, timer, alarm, and 200m water resistance.
    – Casio also released the G-Shock Bold Camo collection (4 models, $145–$280), each including a free Camo Pouch.

    G-Shock Red Lantern Series Hits US Shores

    Casio has officially launched its G-Shock Red Lantern series in the US for $190, with the G-Shock DW-6900AKA-4 and DW-5600AKA-4. The series was first launched by the company in its home market of Japan in April. Both watches are part of the Aka-Chochin series, which takes its name from the traditional red paper lanterns that are often hung outside taverns in Japan.

    Design and Inspiration Behind the Red Lantern Models

    Casio’s G-Shock Red Lantern watches are inspired by red paper Akachochin lanterns that frequently hang outside bars in Japan. Both the DW-5600AKA-4 and DW-6900AKA-4 feature red colored resin casing and straps. There are black accents, like Japanese characters that read “shock resistant”, buttons and band loops. And the LED backlight used to illuminate the digital display has a red tint.

    Two Distinct Watch Profiles Offered

    The G-Shock DW-5600 is a rectangular digital watch, and the DW-6900 is a round watch with triple circle graphics above a thinner display. Both have a 1/100th second stopwatch, timer and alarm and both are water resistant to 200 m.

    Simultaneous Launch of Bold Camo Collection

    In addition to the Red Lantern series, Casio has also introduced the G-Shock Bold Camo collection to the US market. The four new models—the DW6900CMG-3, GA700CMG-3A, GAV01CMG-3A, and GM6900CMG-3—are currently available on the G-Shock US website. Priced between $145 and $280, each watch in this rugged lineup includes a complimentary G-Shock Camo Pouch with purchase.

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  • Casio Adds 4 New Camo G-Shock Watches in US with Free Pouch

    Casio Adds 4 New Camo G-Shock Watches in US with Free Pouch

    Key Takeaway

    – Four models ($145–$280) now on sale in the US at gshock.casio.com, each with a free Camo Pouch
    – Original camo pattern blending the G-mark into the design, with gold accents
    – Entry-level DW6900CMG-3 ($145) is fully camo; top-tier GM6900CMG-3 ($280) has gold ion-plated steel bezel
    – Standard G-Shock durability: 200m water resistance, 5-year battery (10-year for GAV01CMG-3A)
    – Wide range of silhouettes and price points, with analog-digital and world time options

    Casio’s G-Shock Bold Camo Collection Hits the US Market

    So the new Casio G-Shock Bold Camo stuff is officially for sale now in the United States. There’s four models total, them being the DW6900CMG-3, GA700CMG-3A, GAV01CMG-3A, and GM6900CMG-3. You can find them all on the G-Shock US website. They cost between $145 and $280 each. Also, if you buy one you get a free G-Shock Camo Pouch thrown in with the purchase.

    The Design and Camo Pattern Explained

    This collection uses a original camo pattern that basically mixes the G-mark right into the design. Gold accents are also used all over the dial, case, and bezel, but it changes depending on the model your looking at. You got four different watch shapes in the lineup. So buyers can pick from different prices and styles pretty easily.

    Pricing and Silhouette Breakdown

    The cheapest one is the DW6900CMG-3 at $145, it’s fully camo with a resin bezel and band in green camo, plus a gold dial underneath it. Next up the GA700CMG-3A costs $165, it uses the bigger analog-digital 700 case, with a camo bezel and band, and a gold vapor-deposited dial for a shiny metal look. The GAV01CMG-3A is $210 and it’s the most interesting becuase it’s the first GA-V01 model in a color series with other non-GA-V01 watches, and it has the same camo band. The top one is the GM6900CMG-3 at $280, it upgrades to a gold ion-plated stainless-steel bezel finished with multiple polishing methods and partial laser etching of the camo design.

    Standard Specs and Features

    All four have standard G-Shock spec, which includes 200-meter water resistance, a stopwatch, countdown timer, daily alarm, hourly time signal, and auto-calendar. The GA700CMG-3A and GAV01CMG-3A also get world time added. Battery life is about five years for most of them, except the GAV01CMG-3A which goes for around ten years.

     


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  • Ultrahuman M2 Live: Affordable Glucose Tracking, No Subscriptions

    Key Takeaway

    – Ultrahuman M2 Live is a successor to the 2021 glucose sensor, pairing with the Ultrahuman Ring Air.
    – The Abbott Lingo Sensor is more compact and cheaper at $99 for a two-pack with subscription.
    – The sensor is for wellness only, not for diabetes management requiring insulin.
    – The app analyzes food impact, provides a “Fuelling Score” for workouts, and offers AI chatbot tips.
    – U.S. launch with subscription ($99/month for 2 sensors) or individual purchase ($129/two-pack).

    Ultrahuman M2 Live Sensor Launches with Lower Price Point

    The Ultrahuman company has been offering a blood glucose sensor since 2021, and they now have gotten a successor. The Ultrahuman M2 Live offers basically the same functionality, but the Abbott Lingo Sensor is somewhat more compact – and, above all, it is significantly less expensive. A package containing two sensors will now cost you $99 with a subscription to the service.

    Functionality and Health Tracking Details

    The Ultrahuman M2 Live now measures blood glucose levels around the clock, it can display this data inside the Ultrahuman app alonside the data collected by the Ultrahuman Ring Air. This blood glucose sensor is being marketed as a wellness product only, and according to Ultrahuman, it is not suitable at all for people with diabetes who need to require insulin. One single sensor can be used for 14 days before it eventually needs to be replaced by the user themself.

    App Features like Analysis and AI Chatbot

    Amongst other things, the smartphone app can analyze how different foods affect your blood sugar levels, and it can assign a score from 1 to 10 for a particular meal. The so-called “Fuelling Score” indicates how well the current blood sugar level is suited for engaging in workout sessions. The app can also flag irregularities and then provide tips for you on how to achieve more stable blood glucose levels; for this purpose, Ultrahuman even offers, among other things, an AI chatbot assistant feature.

    Pricing and Availability Details for US Launch

    Ultrahuman M2 Live will first be available to launch in the U.S. area. A subscription that provides customers with two sensors per month will cost $99 in total. Those persons who kinda prefer not to subscribe can also buy the sensors individually for themselves. A two-pack costs around $129, and a year’s supply of 26 sensors is currently available for $1,229. More information is available at on the Ultrahuman website thats official.

    • A two-pack of sensors costing $129
    • A yearly supply of 26 sensors being $1,229
    • Subscription at $99 per month for two sensors


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  • Honor Launches Smartwatch with 35-Day Battery Life

    Honor Launches Smartwatch with 35-Day Battery Life

    Key Takeaway

    – Two new color options: shadow black and twilight brown
    – 1.46-inch AMOLED display with 3,000 nits peak brightness
    – Advanced health tracking and 120+ sports modes
    – Up to 35 days of battery life on a single charge
    – Launch price £169.99 after £80 discount, includes free £59.99 earbuds

    Honor launched the Watch 6 in the global market

    Arriving as a follow-up to the Watch 5, its available in two new color options, namely, shadow black and twilight brown. As for design, it retains the same design from its predecessor, which debuted two years ago. The smartwatch comes in a single 46.5 mm case size and features a recyclable aluminum alloy body complemented by a 316L stainless steel bezel.

    Speaking of dimensions, it measures 10.8 mm (0.42 inch) in thickness

    It ways 41 grams (0.090 lbs). The smartwatch sports a 1.46-inch AMOLED touchscreen display that outputs at a 464 x 464 pixel resolution with a peak brightness of 3,000 nits. The Watch 6 is designed to go head-to-head with devices from Apple, Google, Garmin, and Samsung, and it offers advanced health tracking features, including heart rate, blood oxygen, stress levels, and sleep cycles.

    On top of these features, it is equiped with 120+ sports modes

    Including trail running, badminton, football, and more. It can also track detailed climbing and distance metrics precisely thanks to the AccuTrack dual-band six-star GPS. The battery life of the watch remains the same as its predecessor, featuring 980 mAh battery life. Honor claims that the watch offers up to 35 days of battery life on a single charge.

    The Honor Watch 6 has an RRP of £249.99

    As a part of the launch offer, Honor is offering an early bird discount of £80, bringing the price down from £249.99 to £169.99 for a limited time. In addition, you also get £59.99 worth of Honor Choice Earbuds Clip completely free. Interested buyers can purchase the smartwatch directly from Honours official website.


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