Category: Wearables

  • Amazfit Active 2 Introduces Tap-to-Wake in Zepp OS 5 Update

    Amazfit Active 2 Introduces Tap-to-Wake in Zepp OS 5 Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit Active 2 (Round) smartwatch is upgraded to Zepp OS 5 with software version 6.2.6.3.
    2. The Zepp Flow assistant has been enhanced to version 2.0, allowing touchscreen map dragging and support for QWERTY/AZERTY keyboards.
    3. A new Jet Lag Manager feature helps users adjust to new time zones, along with improvements in tap-to-wake, sleep analysis, and swimming heart rate tracking.
    4. The firmware update size is 12.93 MB and will roll out to users in the US, Canada, Italy, and China first.
    5. The Amazfit Active 2 (Round) smartwatch is priced at $99.99 on Amazon, and the update can be installed via the Zepp Health app.

    The Amazfit Active 2 (Round) smartwatch is receiving an upgrade to Zepp OS 5, with the software version being 6.2.6.3. This makes it the latest device from Amazfit to adopt its newest operating system, joining the ranks of the Balance 2 and the Bip 6.

    New Features Unveiled

    According to reports from Reddit users, the changelog for update version 6.2.6.3 indicates that the Zepp Flow assistant has been enhanced to version 2.0. Active 2 (Round) users can now use the touchscreen to drag maps. Additionally, the smartwatch now supports both QWERTY and AZERTY keyboard layouts.

    Helpful Tools and Improvements

    A noteworthy new feature included in this update is the Jet Lag Manager, designed to assist users in adapting to new time zones. There is also an improvement in single tap-to-wake functionality. Furthermore, enhancements have been made to sleep analysis and swimming heart rate tracking, while Roxzone time tracking has been introduced in the Hyrox race mode. Although the release notes do not mention Zepp OS 5, a user photo has confirmed this detail.

    Update Availability and Size

    The firmware version 6.2.6.3 is a file size of 12.93 MB. The rollout is expected to begin with users in the US, Canada, Italy, and China, with others set to receive the update in the following weeks. Users of the Amazfit Active 2 (Round), which currently starts at $99.99 on Amazon, can install the update through the Zepp Health app.

    Tags: , ,
  • Kenko Tokina Stargazing Glasses Minimize Light Pollution

    Kenko Tokina Stargazing Glasses Minimize Light Pollution

    Key Takeaways

    1. Kenko Tokina has launched Asterism Glasses, designed to improve nighttime star observation, priced at 17,600 yen (about $120).
    2. Light pollution from urban sources like street lights and advertisements makes it difficult to see stars clearly, affecting city residents.
    3. The glasses feature TR-90 thermoplastic lenses with special coatings to reduce interference from specific light wavelengths.
    4. Equipped with ES extended depth-of-field lens technology, the glasses are classified as medical devices in Japan for their unique focus adjustment.
    5. Asterism Glasses can be worn over prescription glasses and are available for purchase directly from Kenko Tokina’s website.

    Kenko Tokina has introduced Asterism Glasses, a new type of eyewear aimed at enhancing nighttime star observation. These glasses are priced at 17,600 yen (around $120) and can be bought directly from the company’s website in Japan.

    The Problem of Light Pollution

    City residents often struggle to see stars clearly, or sometimes not at all, due to light pollution. Various sources such as street lights, car headlights, landscape lighting, and illuminated advertisements contribute to an atmospheric glow that obscures celestial visibility. You can check out the extent of this issue on an online light pollution map that illustrates the problem globally.

    Innovative Lens Technology

    A significant portion of the light pollution arises from street lamps, which typically use mercury-vapor or sodium-vapor bulbs that emit strong light primarily in the 450 nm (bluish) and 600 nm (yellowish) ranges. The Asterism Glasses feature flexible thermoplastic lenses made from TR-90, which are specially coated to minimize light interference in these specific areas. Additionally, the lenses come with an anti-reflective (AR) coating to lessen undesired reflections from nearby light sources.

    Medical Device Registration

    These lenses are equipped with Itoh Optical Industrial’s ES extended depth-of-field lens technology, providing a permanent focus adjustment that optimizes the ability to view distant stars. Due to this unique focus feature, they are classified as medical devices in Japan.

    The Asterism Glasses have dimensions of 160 × 50 × 175 mm (6.30 x 1.97 x 6.89 in.) and weigh just 33 g (1.16 oz). They are designed to be worn comfortably over prescription glasses.

    Source:
    Link

    Kenko Tokina Stargazing Glasses Minimize Light Pollution
    Tags: , ,
  • Casio GBM-2100A Metal Watches with Bold Bezel Launching in UK

    Casio GBM-2100A Metal Watches with Bold Bezel Launching in UK

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock GBM-2100A-2B (blue dial) and GBM-2100A-4B (burgundy dial) are now available in the UK, priced at £229.
    2. The exact release date for the watches is uncertain, and a third version (GBM-2100A-8B with a white dial) will not be released in the UK.
    3. The watches feature a stylish design with a steel bezel, vibrant dials, and resin casing, measuring approximately 49.3 x 44.4 x 11.9 mm and weighing around 72 g.
    4. They are shock resistant, water-resistant up to 200 m, and include Tough Solar charging for extended battery life, along with Bluetooth connectivity and various features accessible via the Casio Watches app.
    5. It is unclear if these models will be released in other European markets or the US in the future.

    The Casio G-Shock GBM-2100A-2B and GBM-2100A-4B watches have made their debut in the UK store of the brand. Speculations about these models began in June 2025, and they have now been officially revealed for Japan.

    Pricing and Availability

    Casio has officially listed the GBM-2100A-2B (which features a blue dial) and the GBM-2100A-4B (with a burgundy dial) on its online platform in the UK. The retail price for these timepieces is set at £229, however, the exact release date remains uncertain. If you wish to get an update on the launch, you can subscribe to receive a stock alert through email. It’s puzzling why the previously showcased third version, the GBM-2100A-8B (featuring a white dial), is not scheduled for release in this region.

    Design and Features

    These watches are described as stylish, equipped with a striking steel bezel and vibrant dials that include neobrite elements. The casing, along with the black band, is constructed from resin. The dimensions of the watches are approximately 49.3 x 44.4 x 11.9 mm (~1.9 x 1.7 x 0.5 inches) and they weigh around 72 g (~2.5 oz). They are shock resistant and can withstand water up to 200 m, plus come with Tough Solar charging, which prolongs the battery life beyond the standard seven months.

    The GBM-2100A models provide Bluetooth connectivity, and certain tools and settings can be accessed via the Casio Watches app. They feature world time support with 38 available time zones, along with a 1/100th second stopwatch, five daily alarms, and a countdown timer. Additionally, these hybrid watches are equipped with a dual LED backlight and a hands shift function, which ensures that the smaller digital display remains unobstructed by the analog hands.

    Future Releases

    It remains uncertain whether Casio plans to launch the G-Shock GBM-2100A-2B and GBM-2100A-4B models more broadly in Europe or in other markets such as the US.

    Source:
    Link

    Casio GBM-2100A Metal Watches with Bold Bezel Launching in UK

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Haylou Watch 4S: Affordable Smartwatch with 18-Day Battery Life

    Haylou Watch 4S: Affordable Smartwatch with 18-Day Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Haylou Watch 4S features a 1.43-inch AMOLED display with a peak brightness of 1,000 nits and a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels, protected by 2.5D curved glass.

    2. It is powered by a 400 mAh battery that offers up to 18 days of battery life in basic usage mode and around 10 days in everyday use mode.

    3. The smartwatch includes a dual-band GPS chip for precise location tracking and can last up to 26 hours with GPS activated.

    4. It features multi-channel bio-sensors for accurate health monitoring of heart rate, SpO2 levels, and stress, along with a built-in AI assistant.

    5. The Watch 4S supports over 120 sport modes, Bluetooth 5.3 for wrist-call functionality, and is water-resistant up to 1 ATM, priced at $70 on AliExpress.

    Haylou has launched a new budget-friendly smartwatch, the Watch 4S. A standout feature of this device is its impressive 1.43-inch AMOLED display. The brand states that this screen achieves a peak brightness of 1,000 nits, boasts a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels, and is safeguarded by a durable 2.5D curved glass.

    Power and Battery Life

    Inside, the smartwatch is equipped with a low-energy chip, and Haylou claims that it operates on a 400 mAh battery. This setup enables the device to deliver up to 18 days of battery life in basic usage mode. In “everyday use” mode, users can expect the battery to last around 10 days.

    GPS and Tracking Features

    The affordable smartwatch features a dual-band GPS chip with five-system positioning capabilities. Haylou asserts that it can provide precise location information in both urban and rural environments. However, when the GPS is activated, the battery life is estimated to last up to 26 hours.

    In terms of health monitoring, the Haylou Watch 4S comes with what the company refers to as multi-channel bio-sensors. These sensors are designed to accurately track heart rate, SpO2 levels, and stress. Additionally, the smartwatch includes a built-in AI assistant for hands-free functionality.

    Sport Modes and Connectivity

    Furthermore, this smartwatch supports over 120 different sport modes and includes Bluetooth 5.3 for wrist-call functionality. It is rated for water resistance up to 1 ATM and is compatible with push notifications for popular apps like Facebook, Messenger, and WhatsApp. As for the price, the Watch 4S is currently listed on AliExpress for $70, and Haylou is providing various band options for the device. More details can be found in the images below.

    Source:
    Link

    Haylou Watch 4S: Affordable Smartwatch with 18-Day Battery LifeHaylou Watch 4S: Affordable Smartwatch with 18-Day Battery Life
    Tags: , ,
  • Fitbit Smartwatches Update: New Watch Faces and Better Connectivity

    Fitbit Smartwatches Update: New Watch Faces and Better Connectivity

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Fitbit Charge 6 has received a new update, version 220.21, five months after the previous update.
    2. The update introduces three new watch faces: Momentum, Geometric, and Axira, offering better health and fitness data visibility.
    3. Users can now connect the Charge 6 to more exercise machines via unencrypted connections for live heart rate tracking.
    4. The update includes minor bug fixes and enhancements for other Fitbit devices, such as Inspire 3, Sense 2, and Versa 4.
    5. Version 220.21 is being rolled out gradually, and users can download it through the Fitbit app when available.

    The Fitbit Charge 6 smartwatch has been updated with a new version. The latest update, version 220.21, comes five months after the prior update, version 214.24, which introduced new Bluetooth security features and status indicators for settings like do not disturb and sleep mode.

    New Watch Faces

    With the introduction of version 220.21, the Charge 6 now includes three fresh watch faces: Momentum, Geometric, and Axira. As per the company, these designs offer “more comprehensive data at a glance,” simplifying the process of checking your health and fitness information. This update also includes support for unencrypted connections, enabling users to link the Charge 6 with a more extensive selection of exercise machines. Consequently, users can track their heart rate live on the fitness equipment.

    Minor Improvements

    Additionally, there are reportedly small bug fixes and enhancements for the Charge 6. Other minor updates are also being released that fix bugs and adjust the Inspire 3, Sense 2, and Versa 4 wearables. The release notes for all these updates can be found on Google’s support pages.

    Version 220.21 is being launched gradually for users of the Charge 6 smartwatch (currently starting at $149.99 on Amazon). Once it becomes available in your area, you can download the update through the Fitbit app by navigating to the Today tab > Devices and selecting your device.

    Source:
    Link

    Fitbit Smartwatches Update: New Watch Faces and Better Connectivity
    Tags: , ,
  • Garmin Smartwatch Adds Two New Features in Latest Beta Update

    Garmin Smartwatch Adds Two New Features in Latest Beta Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released beta version 12.59 for the Venu X1 smartwatch, the second beta since its June 2025 launch.
    2. New features in beta 12.59 include an automatic rest timer for Strength activities and the Tips app for advice on watch features.
    3. The AutoShot detection function for Golf activities has been enhanced.
    4. A fix was made for the lock screen icon issue during Swim activity saving.
    5. Users can download the beta by navigating through the watch’s settings, with no confirmation on when a stable version will be available.

    Garmin has launched beta version 12.59 for the Venu X1 smartwatch. This marks the second beta update for the device since its initial release in June 2025. It comes after the previous beta version 12.50, which introduced the Evening Report feature, a weekly estimate for running tolerance, and daily workout suggestions for track running.

    New Features Included

    With beta version 12.59, two new features have been added to the Venu X1. The first feature is an automatic rest timer specifically for the Strength activity. The second is the Tips app, which is already present in models such as the Fenix 8 and Forerunner 970. This app provides interactive advice on how to utilize your watch’s features to their fullest.

    Improvements and Fixes

    In addition to these features, Garmin has enhanced the AutoShot detection function that is utilized during Golf activities. Furthermore, they fixed an issue where the lock screen icon wouldn’t show up when users attempted to save a Swim activity. There are also other minor bug fixes and enhancements mentioned, although the release notes do not provide specifics on these.

    You can download beta version 12.59 by navigating through the Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates. It’s still uncertain when a stable version of the 12.xx software will become available for all Garmin Venu X1 smartwatch users (currently priced at $799.99 on Amazon).

    Source:
    Link

    Garmin Smartwatch Adds Two New Features in Latest Beta Update

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Casio G-Shock MRG-B5000HT-1 Limited Edition Watch Launch in UK

    Casio G-Shock MRG-B5000HT-1 Limited Edition Watch Launch in UK

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock MRG-B5000HT-1 is priced at £6,200, making it the most expensive model on Casio’s UK site.
    2. Only 500 pieces of the limited-edition watch will be produced globally, each with a unique serial number.
    3. The watch features a hand-forged DAT55G titanium alloy case and band, with a tsuiki hammertone design and diamond-like carbon coating.
    4. Smart features include Bluetooth connectivity, auto time adjustment, a phone finder, and Multiband 6 radio control for multiple time zones.
    5. Expected release in the UK is August 2025, but specific dates and availability in other regions remain uncertain.

    The Casio G-Shock MRG-B5000HT-1 watch is set to be released in the UK, marking an exciting addition for watch enthusiasts. The buzz surrounding this digital watch started back in June 2025, and it was later seen at a retailer in Europe a few weeks after that. By late July, Casio had officially introduced this limited-edition piece and provided information regarding its launch in Japan.

    Pricing and Availability

    Now, the G-Shock MRG-B5000HT-1 is available on Casio’s online shop in the UK, priced at £6,200. This makes it the priciest model on Casio’s site at the moment. The watch is expected to be released in August 2025, although the specific date is still unknown. Importantly, there will only be 500 pieces made globally, each featuring its own unique serial number. However, it is still unclear how many of these will be allocated to the UK market.

    Unique Features

    The MRG-B5000HT-1 is highlighted as a “one-of-a-kind MR-G timepiece,” crafted with a hand-forged DAT55G titanium alloy case and band. The strap and bezel showcase a tsuiki hammertone design, all protected by a diamond-like carbon (DLC) coating. The dimensions of the watch are 49.4 x 43.2 x 12.9 mm (approximately 1.9 x 1.7 x 0.5 inches), and it weighs in at 112 g (about 3.95 oz).

    Smart Technology

    As a Bluetooth-enabled watch, the MRG-B5000HT-1 comes with features such as auto time adjustment and a phone finder, accessible through the Casio Watches mobile app. It is also a Multiband 6 radio-controlled model, allowing users to choose from five different time zones out of a total of 39. Additional functionalities include a 1/100th second stopwatch, five daily alarms, hourly time signals, and a countdown timer. Furthermore, it boasts an LED backlight and Tough Solar Charging capabilities.

    It is yet to be determined whether the Casio G-Shock MRG-B5000HT-1 watch will receive official confirmation for release in other European regions or in the US.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Casio G-Shock GMC-B2100Y-1A Full Metal Watch Launching in UK

    Casio G-Shock GMC-B2100Y-1A Full Metal Watch Launching in UK

    Key Takeaways

    1. The G-Shock GMC-B2100Y-1A watch will be available in the UK with a price of £690, launching in July 2025.
    2. The watch features a full-metal chronograph with an octagonal bezel made from stainless steel and a resin component for shock resistance.
    3. It includes a textured silicone strap and dimensions of 51.3 x 46.3 x 12.4 mm, weighing 108 g.
    4. Smart functionalities include Bluetooth capability for automatic time updates, Home City time swap, daily alarm, countdown timer, and Tough Solar charging.
    5. Casio has not announced plans to release the G-Shock GMC-B2100Y-1A in other European countries or the United States.

    Casio has shared that the G-Shock GMC-B2100Y-1A watch will soon be available in the UK. This analog watch was first introduced in July 2025 and is set to release in Japan this August.

    Availability and Pricing

    On the Casio UK online store, the G-Shock GMC-B2100Y-1A is currently marked as “coming soon.” The product page indicates that it will be priced at £690 and is scheduled for a July 2025 launch. Although Casio hasn’t provided a specific release date yet, interested buyers can register for email alerts when the watch is available for purchase.

    Design and Features

    The G-Shock GMC-B2100Y-1A features a full-metal chronograph with an octagonal bezel. Both the bezel and casing are constructed from stainless steel, while a resin component sits between the bezel and case to improve shock resistance. Additionally, the watch sports a textured silicone strap. It measures 51.3 x 46.3 x 12.4 mm (~2.0 x 1.8 x 0.5 inches) and has a weight of 108 g (~3.8 oz).

    Smart Functionality

    This watch from the 2100 series includes Bluetooth capability, providing users with automatic time updates when paired with a smartphone. The Home City time swap feature allows for quick changes between two time zones. Other functionalities consist of a daily alarm, countdown timer, and a 1-second stopwatch. It also boasts Tough Solar charging and a white LED backlight.

    Casio has not yet revealed any intentions to offer the G-Shock GMC-B2100Y-1A in additional European nations or the United States.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Meta Smartwatch Expected to Launch at September Connect Event

    Meta Smartwatch Expected to Launch at September Connect Event

    Key Takeaways

    1. Meta has been developing a smartwatch for over four years, facing multiple setbacks but may unveil it in September.
    2. The company has partnered with Huaqin, a Chinese ODM, to help bring the smartwatch to market.
    3. The smartwatch is expected to be showcased at the Meta Connect event on September 17th, focusing on AI and wearable technologies.
    4. Key features may include cameras, health tracking, fitness functionalities, and messaging options, but it will not use Wear OS.
    5. Meta is also developing a gesture-controlled wristband using sEMG technology, though its inclusion in the smartwatch is uncertain.

    Meta, the company formerly known as Facebook, has been working on a smartwatch for over four years now. The journey has not been smooth, with the project facing numerous setbacks, including multiple cancellations and restarts. Nonetheless, it appears that this time the smartwatch may actually launch, with a possible unveiling in September if everything goes as planned.

    Development Partners

    Currently, the name of the Meta smartwatch remains a mystery. However, a report from DigiTimes Asia indicates that progress is being made. It mentions that Meta has teamed up with Huaqin, a Chinese original design manufacturer (ODM) that has previously collaborated with brands like Samsung, Xiaomi, and Huawei on smartwatches and smartphones. This partnership is seen as a positive step towards bringing the Meta smartwatch to market.

    Upcoming Event

    Regarding the timeline for the reveal, the report states that it could be shown off during the Meta Connect event in September. This two-day event is set to take place from the 17th and will highlight the newest advances in AI, wearables, metaverse technologies, and much more.

    Features and Tech

    Details about the Meta smartwatch are still quite limited. It is expected to feature a couple of cameras, health tracking and fitness functionalities, along with messaging options. Rumors suggest that it will not operate on Wear OS, but instead will utilize a customized version of Android. Furthermore, Meta is also developing a wristband or bracelet that would let users control a computer through gestures. This device employs surface electromyography (sEMG), which interprets electrical signals from muscle movements to recognize intended actions.

    At this stage, it’s not clear how far along the development of this wristband is, making it difficult to determine if it will be showcased at the Meta Connect event. Additionally, it remains uncertain whether this technology will be included in the Meta smartwatch, though it seems rather improbable.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • New Casio GMA-P2100PC Watches with Unique Display Launching in Europe

    New Casio GMA-P2100PC Watches with Unique Display Launching in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio is launching the G-Shock GMA-P2100PC Series in Europe, with models already available in the US and Japan.
    2. The series includes three models: GMA-P2100PC-1A (black case, purple dial), GMA-P2100PC-4A (pink case, white dial), and GMA-P2100PC-7A (white case, pink dial), all retailing for €109.
    3. The watches feature a unique polarized dial that changes color based on viewing angle and a matte textured resin bezel.
    4. Functional specifications include world time support for 31 time zones, a stopwatch, countdown timer, and up to five daily alarms.
    5. The watches have a size of 46 x 40.2 x 11.2 mm, weigh 40 g, and are water-resistant up to 20 bar.

    Casio is set to introduce the G-Shock GMA-P2100PC Series watches to Europe in the near future. The models GMA-P2100PC-1A, GMA-P2100PC-4A, and GMA-P2100PC-7A are already available in markets like the US and Japan.

    Availability in Europe

    These G-Shocks have been listed on the brand’s online platforms in various countries such as the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany. The GMA-P2100PC-1A features a black case with a purple dial, the GMA-P2100PC-4A comes with a pink case and a white dial, and the GMA-P2100PC-7A boasts a white case with a pink dial. Each watch is expected to retail for €109 when launched in this area in August 2025. Although Casio hasn’t shared a specific release date, interested customers can sign up for notifications via email.

    Unique Design Features

    These G-Shock GMA-P2100 watches showcase a unique polarized dial that changes color depending on the angle from which it is viewed. They also feature a matte textured resin bezel, along with a resin case and strap. These shock-resistant watches measure 46 x 40.2 x 11.2 mm (~1.8 x 1.6 x 0.4 inches) and weigh 40 g (~1.4 oz), with water resistance up to 20 bar.

    Functional Specifications

    Some of the key features include world time support across 31 time zones, a stopwatch that measures to 1/100th of a second, and a countdown timer with a range of 24 hours. Users can set up to five daily alarms and receive hourly signals. Additional features comprise a dual LED backlight and a hand shift function, ensuring that the digital display remains readable at all times. It remains uncertain whether or when these Casio G-Shock GMA-P2100PC watches will be available in the UK.

    Source:
    Link

    New Casio GMA-P2100PC Watches with Unique Display Launching in Europe

     

    Tags: , ,