Category: Wearables

  • New Casio G-Steel Minimalist Watches: Black Metal, Tough Solar, Bluetooth

    New Casio G-Steel Minimalist Watches: Black Metal, Tough Solar, Bluetooth

    Key Takeaway

    – Sleek, minimalist design with a logo-free bezel and stainless steel band, marking a departure from traditional bold G-Shocks.
    – Two dial color options: all-black (B1000BD-1) and deep blue (B1000BD-2), with identical size and materials.
    – Powered by Tough Solar charging, Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone pairing, and standard G-Shock durability (200m water resistance, shock resistance).
    – Eco-friendly construction using biomass plastics in the carbon fiber reinforced resin case.
    – Initially launched in Japan at ¥75,900, with global release expected shortly after.

    New G-Steel Watches Unveiled

    Casio has took the wraps off two new sleek G-Steel watches. We’ve known the company was gearing up to launch the GST-B1000BD-1 and GST-B1000BD-2 for a few weeks now, thanks to a May leak that gave us a pretty good look at the upcoming lineup. Now, they’re finally out and launching first in Japan before shortly making their way to the global markets.

    Designed for Everyday Style

    Casio is positioning the G-Shock GST-B1000BD-1 and B1000BD-2 as stylish “all-around watches,” something you can practically wear all the time. Except for the dial color, both watches are identical in size and material, with the dial hue being the only real differentiator. The B1000BD-1 sports an all-black dial, while the B1000BD-2 comes with a deep blue dial, with both featuring dual sub-dials and a date display.

    The minimalist design of the GST-B1000BD is quite a departure from your usual bold, logo-clad G-Shocks. Here, we have a sleek, logo-free bezel that shifts its appearance depending on the lighting. You also get a stainless steel band showing off both hairline and mirror finishes, alongside a newly developed one-push tri-fold clasp. Throwing a nod to the original DW-5000C, the dial incorporates a brick pattern for a sporty touch. Underneath the black ion-plated exterior, the carbon fiber reinforced resin case—made using eco-friendly biomass plastics—keeps the module safe. The result is a highly wearable footprint measuring 46.9 x 44.2 x 11.6 millimeters and weighing just 118 grams.

    Technical Features and Pricing

    As for the technical features, these models are packing Casio’s Tough Solar charging system, delivering up to five months of battery life on normal use or eighteen months on power-saving mode. You also get Bluetooth connectivity to pair the watch to your smartphone using the Casio Watches app, which offers features like automatic time correction, easy clock settings, and a handy phone finder tool. Standard G-Shock perks like 20 ATM (200 meters) water resistance, a Super Illuminator LED light, and a shock-resistant structure are all present.

    International Launch Details

    Both models are currently available for pre-order in Japan for ¥75,900 and are set to go on sale later in June. They are expected to make their way to international markets, including the US and Europe, shortly after.


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  • Two New Casio Edifice Watches With Textured Dials

    Two New Casio Edifice Watches With Textured Dials

    Key Takeaway

    – Two new Casio Edifice EFV-160D watches officially unveiled with textured, shimmering dials.
    – Available in light blue (EFV-160D-2BV) and burgundy (EFV-160D-4AV).
    – Features: silver-tone stainless steel case/bracelet, 100m water resistance, date display, ±20 sec/month accuracy.
    – Release date and price are not yet announced; previous models retail around $120.

    New Casio Edifice Models Unveiled

    Casio has officially unveiled the Edifice EFV-160D-2BV and EFV-160D-4AV watches on its international website. The pair of watches was rumoured in May 2026 and is set to join three older EFV-160D watches, which feature Clous De Paris dials. This new additions look to expand the lineup with some fresh colour options.

    Dial and Case Specifications

    The new Casio Edifice EFV-160D-2BV and EFV-160D-4AV watches also have textured faces, though with a shimmering finish. The EFV-160D-2BV has a light blue dial, while the EFV-160D-4AV has a burgundy face. Both versions have a silver-tone stainless steel casing, measuring 47.5 x 40 x 10 mm (~1.87 x 1.57 x 0.39 inches). This is accompanied by a matching metal bracelet with a one-touch 3-fold clasp. The dimensions are ment to provide a comfortable fit for most wrists.

    Movement and Water Resistance

    Casio’s Edifice EFV-160D watches have three analog hands, which should remain accurate to within 20 seconds each month. Plus, there is a date display in the 3 o’clock position. Other features include a slightly curved mineral glass, a screw lock back and 100m water resistance. These features make the watch suitable for everyday wear and light swimming activities, though its not a divers watch per se.

    • Light blue dial on EFV-160D-2BV
    • Burgundy dial on EFV-160D-4AV
    • Silver-tone stainless steel casing
    • Dimensions: 47.5 x 40 x 10 mm
    • Metal bracelet with one-touch 3-fold clasp
    • Three analog hands accurate to within 20 seconds per month
    • Date display at 3 o’clock position
    • Slightly curved mineral glass
    • Screw lock back
    • 100m water resistance

    Release Date and Pricing

    It is unclear when the Casio Edifice EFV-160D-2BV and EFV-160D-4AV watches will be released, and at what price. For context, the older Edifice EFV-160D-2AV retails for $120 (curr. $96 at Amazon). The pricing for these new models may vary depending on the region and avalability when they eventualy launch.

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  • New Garmin Wearable Promises Enhanced Workout Tracking

    New Garmin Wearable Promises Enhanced Workout Tracking

    Key Takeaway

    – Garmin CIRQA Smart Band rumored to enhance workout tracking when used with a Garmin smartwatch on the opposite wrist.
    – Dual-device use may improve automatic workout detection and GPS trigger (with optional manual start).
    – Could reduce missing activity data, but the band is also expected to function as a standalone health and recovery tracker.
    – All claims originate from an unverified, deleted Reddit post; treat as unconfirmed until Garmin’s official announcement.

    New Rumors About Garmin CIRQA Smart Band

    There is a fresh rumor floating around suggesting the Garmin CIRQA Smart Band could provide you with enhanced workout tracking. This wrist-worn wearable has been the topic of speculation since the start of 2026, when the product briefly popped up on the brand’s Canadian website before being removed.

    Working Alongside a Garmin Smartwatch

    In a recent Reddit post, wich has since been taken down, one user indicated that the CIRQA Smart Band could be used alongside a Garmin smartwatch, like the Fenix 8 (51 mm AMOLED curr. $849.99 at Amazon), for improved workout monitoring. It appears that users would be advised to wear the two devices on opposite wrists for optimal results.

    • Enhanced automatic workout detection function when both devices are used together.
    • For example, during outdoor running, the CIRQA and smartwatch would automatically detect a run and start GPS tracking.
    • Users could pick between fully automatic tracking or a workout detection alert that requires a manual ‘start’ input.

    Missing Data and Standalone Use

    The Redditor also hinted that using the two wearables together could cut down on the amount of missing activity data. However, it seems likely that the Garmin CIRQA will still be able to operate as a standalone device if needed. Its expected features include tracking health metrics and monitoring your recovery after a workout session.

    As Gadgets and Wearables points out, it’s worth taking this rumor with a pinch of salt, given the Reddit user didn’t provide any solid evidence for their claims. So far, Garmin has not officially announced the CIRQA Smart Band or its features. The release date and pricing for this wearable also remain unconfirmed.

    Reddit, Gadgets and Wearables

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  • Sapphire Crystal Casio Edifice EFK-200 Mechanical Watch July

    Sapphire Crystal Casio Edifice EFK-200 Mechanical Watch July

    Key Takeaway

    – Sapphire crystal glass confirmed across all EFK-200 models
    – Flagship EFK-200XPB-1A features a carbon case body
    – Miyota 8215 movement replaces Seiko NH35 from previous generation
    – Pricing now expected at $300–320, lower than earlier $350–400 estimate
    – Five colorways launching simultaneously in July 2026

    Casio’s Next Mechanical Edifice is No Longer Just a Rumor

    Following our March report on early renders leaked by CasioBlog, the same source has now published a more detailed breakdown of the EFK-200 series. This time, there’s a July 2026 announcement window on the line, and several previously tentative specs are now locked in. It’s pretty exciting for fans of the brand who have been waiting for something new.

    Confirmed Features and New Details

    The biggest confirmations: as per Casioblog, sapphire crystal glass is now explicitly confirmed across the entire range, and the flagship EFK-200XPB-1A does indeed use a carbon case body — two details we flagged as unverified in our earlier coverage. The gold EFK-200DG-5A additionally receives full IP coating across the bezel, case, and bracelet. The carbon variant pairs uses a black rubber strap with rose gold indices and hands for the sake of contrast. This makes the lineup pretty diverse for collectors.

    Design Evolution Over Previous Models

    Design-wise, the EFK-200 is more of an evolution than anything else. The chamfered bezel, faceted crown, and slightly raised center bracelet links are some key changes over the EFK-110. The lug-less bracelet-to-case integration also carries over. Something really special here is the dial treatment — where previous generations had stone-like textured surfaces, the EFK-200 opts for gradient finishes with fine speckled detailing. It gives the watch a much more modern appearance.

    Inside, the Miyota 8215 in module 5766 configuration is expected, so it’s nearly guaranteed that we are moving away from the Seiko NH35 that powered the EFK-100. The movement offers 42 hours of power reserve, 21 jewels, 21,600 vph, and a seconds-stop function for precise time-setting. This is a definite shift in there movement strategy for this line.

    Pricing and Colorways

    Pricing is now expected to come in slightly lower than our March estimate of $350-400. CasioBlog is specifying a $300-320 range, closer to the EFK-110 generation. Five colorways will reportedly launch simultaneously: black (EFK-200CD-1A), blue (EFK-200D-2A), red (EFK-200D-4A), gold (EFK-200DG-5A), and carbon black (EFK-200XPB-1A). There will be no availability of the Casio Edifice EFB-730D-7AV in this release.


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  • Amazfit Balance 3 launches at $369 with 3,000 nits AMOLED & 64 GB

    Amazfit Balance 3 launches at $369 with 3,000 nits AMOLED & 64 GB

    Key Takeaway

    – Stainless steel body, 10 ATM water resistance, and sapphire crystal display
    – Smaller 658 mAh battery: 21 days normal, 7 days with always-on display; thinner case
    – 1.5-inch display, 3,000 nits brightness, 64 GB storage
    – Full health monitoring: heart rate, SpO2, skin temperature, stress, sleep, cycle tracking
    – $369.99, $230 cheaper than Balance Ultra; pre-order now, mid-June delivery

    Amazfit Balance 3: A Fresh Alternative

    Together with the Balance Ultra, Amazfit also announced the Balance 3 todai, which offers almost the same features, with two diffrences. Firstly, the body is made of stainless steel insted of titanium, but is also waterproof up to 10 ATM, and the sapphire crystal display cover is already availible on the cheaper model.

    Battery Life and Display Details

    Secondly, the battery is slighly smaller at 658 mAh. This gives the smartwatch a battery life of 21 instead of 30 days, or seven insted of ten days with an active always-on display, but the watch is also slightly thinner with a hight of 14.6 millimetres including sensors. With a diameter of 51.4 millimetres, the smartwatch is very big, but also boasts a 1.5-inch display with a brightness of 3,000 nits.

    Health and Sports Tracking

    The smartwatch can keep an eye on heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, skin tempature and stress levels round the clock and inform users of an unusually high or low heart rate, low blood oxygen saturation or excessive stress. The watch also features sleep and cycle tracking as well as more than 180 sports modes. 64 GB of storage is availible for map data, apps and music. Amazfit offers built-in speakers and microphones for phone calls and conversations with AI assistants, an NFC chip for contactless payment and a GPS module.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Amazfit Balance 3 can now be pre-ordered at the manufacturers online store and delivery is expected to begin mid-June. With a list price of $369.99, the Balance 3 is exactly $230 cheaper than the equally new Balance Ultra.

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  • Amazfit Balance Ultra Smartwatch: Titanium, 30-Day Battery

    Key Takeaway

    – Balance Ultra features titanium case, sapphire crystal, and 10 ATM water resistance
    – 780 mAh battery offers up to 30 days normal use or 50 hours with continuous GPS
    – 1.5-inch 3,000-nit AMOLED display with AI assistant, phone calls, and 64 GB storage
    – BioTracker 6.0 PPG sensor for 24/7 health monitoring and over 180 workout modes
    – Priced at $599.99, available for pre-order now with shipping by end of June

    Amazfit announces new Balance smartwatches

    Amazfit today unveiled two successors to the Balance 2, the Balance 3 and the Balance Ultra. The new top model in the Balance series sets itself apart from the cheaper Balance 3 with a higher-quality housing and longer battery life. The case of the Balance Ultra, which is waterproof up to a pressure of 10 ATM, is made of titanium and the display is protected from scratches by sapphire crystal.

    Battery and dimensions detailed

    The 780 mAh battery should provide a battery life of up to 30 days with normal use, or up to ten days with an active always-on display. If the GPS module is used continuously, the battery life drops to 50 hours. With a diameter of 52 millimetres, a height of 15.5 millimetres including the sensor bulge and a weight of 57 grams without the wristband, the Balance Ultra is not particularly compact, but the watch offers a wide range of functions.

    Display, sensors and features

    Amazfit installs a 1.5-inch AMOLED display with a brightness of up to 3,000 nits, microphones and speakers for an AI assistant and phone calls, and 64 GB of memory for map data, apps and music. The BioTracker 6.0 PPG sensor monitors pulse, blood oxygen saturation, stress and skin temperature around the clock. The smartwatch supports over 180 workout modes including a dive mode. An NFC chip allows contactless payment via Zepp Pay.

    Pricing and availability

    The Amazfit Balance Ultra is now available for $599.99 in the Amazfit online store and will be shipped by the end of June. Amazfit supplies two wristbands. The smartwatch is compatible with both Android smartphones and the Apple iPhone.

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  • Samsung Next-Gen Fitness Tracker: Leaked Release Window

    Samsung Next-Gen Fitness Tracker: Leaked Release Window

    Key Takeaway

    – Galaxy Fit 4 expected to launch around September 2024, not at the July Unpacked event.
    – Device will likely debut alongside the Galaxy S26 FE and Galaxy Tab S12 series.
    – Galaxy Fit line offers a budget-friendly health tracker with long battery life (up to 2 weeks).
    – Lacks WearOS, Wi-Fi, LTE, microphone, speaker, and advanced health features like ECG.

    Galaxy Fit 4 Launching Later This Year, Report Claims

    Samsung took almost four years to release a follow-up to the Galaxy Fit 2. When it finally unveiled the Galaxy Fit 3 in February 2024, it didn’t launch it in the US until the next year. If the rumors going about are accurate, the wait for the Galaxy Fit 4 might not be as long, according to a new story.

    Timeline and Event Details

    Quoting anonymous informants, SamMobile has reported that the next Galaxy Fit wearable, thought to be called the Galaxy Fit 4, will be released this year. The source hasn’t disclosed any technical specifications, but it did share a timeline for its release. Apparantly, the Galaxy Fit 4 will not launch at the upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event, which is rumored to be scheduled for July.

    Insted, the device will be introduced a few months after that, probably around September. It is beleived to be launched along with the Galaxy S26 FE and the Galaxy Tab S12 series. This timing could position it strongly against other fitness bands on the market.

    Comparing Features and Pricing

    The Galaxy Fit range is a more affordable option compared to Samsung’s Galaxy Watch series. It lets users monitor their health and fitness activities without spending too much money. For example, the Galaxy Fit 3 can track over 100 different exercises and sports, with automatic detection for some of them. It also includes heart rate tracking, blood oxygen level monitoring, sleep tracking, and fall detection – all for a price of $47.99.

    • Battery lasts up to two weeks on a single charge
    • Outlasts many of Samsung’s expensive Galaxy Watch models
    • Does not ship with WearOS, so users cannot install apps
    • Lacks Wi-Fi, LTE, a microphone, and a speaker
    • Missing advanced health features like ECG, blood pressure monitoring, and irregular heart rhythm alerts

    Market Position and Competitors

    When the Galaxy Watch Fit 4 finally arrives, it will be going up against rivals such as the Amazfit Bip Max, Amazfit Bip 6, and Redmi Watch 6. These competitors often offer similar health tracking capabilities at comparable price points, making the new model’s success dependant on it’s unique features and software improvements.

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  • Google Pixel Watch 5 Certification Listing Leak

    Google Pixel Watch 5 Certification Listing Leak

    Key Takeaway

    – Pixel Watch 5 appears in BIS certification with four model numbers, likely representing 41mm/45mm sizes and Wi-Fi/cellular variants.
    – A near-pristine prototype was discovered while scuba diving in the Caribbean, confirming IP68 water resistance.
    – Design is identical to the Pixel Watch 4 based on leaked images.
    – The chipset is unclear: either a custom Tensor or Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Wear Elite.

    Underwater Discovery Shocks Tech World

    A certification for the Pixel Watch 5 has emerged from India’s BIS agency, just one day a almost pristine prototype was discovered while diving in the Caribbean. Four model numbers are listed: G0F3Y, G1XJ6, G25QD, and GFW3R. These probably correspond to 41mm and 45mm sizes, plus Wi-Fi only and cellular trims. But at this stage, its still too early to pin down which number belongs to which version.

    Scuba diver stumbles upon prototype

    X user Randy Pitchford reported that a friend of his found a smartwatch while diving near Saint Martin island. Looking closely at the device, it turned out to be a Pixel Watch 5 based on the engraving on its back. For instance, the text clearly identifies it as the unreleased model. The discovery came just after a seperate dive yielded a similar find, making this a bizarre coincidence.

    Design unchanged and specs revealed

    From the leaked pictures, the Pixel Watch 5 looks identical to the Pixel Watch 4. The backplate also reveals other important details like IP68 ingress protection, which obviously kept salt water away from the internals. Apart from what we saw in these images, not much information is available about the upcoming wearable. Speculation suggest a custom Tensor chipset might power it, though Qualcomm recently announced the Snapdragon Wear Elite, so that could appear instead.

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  • Garmin Update Adds Health History & Recovery Mode

    Garmin Update Adds Health History & Recovery Mode

    Key Takeaway

    – Garmin released the May 2026 Smartwatch and Cycling Computer Feature Update.
    – The update adds Gear Tracking and Bosch eBike smart system support on Edge devices (e.g., Edge 550, Edge 1050).
    – Premium golf features have already rolled out to Fenix E and Fenix 8 series via System Software 22.35.
    – More device updates are planned over the coming weeks, with no specific timeline provided.

    Garmin’s Recent Activity and New Updates

    Garmin has had a busy few months, with multiple product announcements and software updates having occured since its previous Feature Update. For instance, the company updated its Forerunner smartwatch series in mid-May with the release of the Forerunner 70 and Forerunner 170 (curr. $299 on Amazon). They also quietly improved the battery life on some older models but didnt announce this widely.

    Focus on Cycling Computers

    Now, it has returned with the May 2026 Smartwatch and Cycling Computer Feature Update. For some reason, Garmin has focused on the latter in its official announcement. Currently, it has only showcased added Gear Tracking and Bosch eBike smart system on Edge devices like the Edge 550 or Edge 1050. The Edge 550 is priced at $399.99 and the Edge 1050 is priced at $599.99. However, the May 2026 update is also said to include the following changes: new navigation alerts for dangerous turns, better integration with Di2 shifting, and improved climbpro profiles.

    • Gear Tracking now supports chain and cassette wear monitoring
    • Bosch eBike smart system compatibility for real-time battery and assist data
    • Automatic crash detection and live tracking improvements

    Rollout Status and Premium Features

    According to Garmin, these new features have already begun rolling out in some cases. For instance, the ‘premium golf features’ described in the comparison chart above appear to have already been expanded on the Fenix E and Fenix 8 series with the release of System Software 22.35. These golf features include improved hazard overlays and green contour maps, avaliable only on the higher-end models. The Fenix E starts at $799.99 while the Fenix 8 series ranges from $999.99 to $1,499.99 depending on size and materials.

    Upcoming Device Updates

    Garmin claims it will continue to update devices over the coming weeks. Unfortunately, it has not yet given any timescale for doing so. This is frustrating for users who rely on consistent firmware schedules. Please see the images above and below for more details, as well as Garmin’s official announcement. The company is expected to push these updates to other compatible models like the Venu 3 and Instinct 3 series in the near future.


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  • New Asus Smartwatch Global Launch: AMOLED, Titanium, Health Monitor

    New Asus Smartwatch Global Launch: AMOLED, Titanium, Health Monitor

    Key Takeaway

    – Asus launched multiple devices at Computex 2026, including the XG Core graphics dock, NUC 16, ExpertBook B5 Flip G2, TUF Gaming 16, and new Zenbook 14 laptops.
    – The new VivoWatch 6 Plus combines titanium alloy and sapphire crystal glass with a 1.43-inch AMOLED display.
    – Health features include continuous monitoring, ECG, blood pressure, gait, and sleep breathing movement analyses.
    – Pricing and availability for the VivoWatch 6 Plus have not been announced.

    Asus Unveils a Bunch of New Stuff at Computex 2026

    Asus has brought countless devices to Computex 2026 this week in Taipei. For instance, it unveiled the XG Core graphics dock today, as well as the NUC 16 and the NUC 16 for Windows 365. On top of that, the company has introduced the ExpertBook B5 Flip G2, TUF Gaming 16, Ascent QN10 mini-PC and multiple Zenbook 14 laptops.

    Return to the VivoWatch Series

    Also, it has returned to its VivoWatch series with a new Plus model. To recap, Asus unveiled the VivoWatch 6 in June 2024 with blood pressure, ECG and body composition monitoring. Less than a year later, it complemented the VivoWatch 6 with the smaller VivoWatch 6 Aero. As we discussed at the time, the VivoWatch 6 Aero follows the elongated design of fitness trackers like the Smart Band 9, or the Smart Band 10 we reviewed in September 2025 (curr. $48 on Amazon).

    Two Variants and Build Materials

    Seemingly, the new VivoWatch 6 Plus combines both form factors across two variants. Pricing and availability remain unknown for now. However, Asus has confirmed that the Plus combines a titanium alloy case with a sapphire crystal glass display. Moreover, the latter is an AMOLED panel that spans 1.43-inches across. Asus has not revealed any other display parameters yet.

    Health Monitoring Features

    Instead, it claims that the VivoWatch 6 Plus offers continuous health monitoring. Also, the wearable features ECG and blood pressure capabilities too, as well as gait and sleep breathing movement analyses. Please see Asus’ press release for more details.


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