Category: Wearables

  • PebbleOS Core Time 2 & Core 2 Duo Smartwatches with E-Paper Displays

    PebbleOS Core Time 2 & Core 2 Duo Smartwatches with E-Paper Displays

    Key Takeaways

    1. Pebble has launched two new smartwatches, the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2, featuring the open-source PebbleOS and e-paper displays.
    2. The Core 2 Duo has a 1.26-inch display, 30-day battery life, step and sleep tracking, and is made of polycarbonate with IPX8 water resistance.
    3. The Core Time 2 offers a larger 1.5-inch touchscreen display, 200×228 resolution, and a more premium design with a metallic frame and buttons.
    4. Both models provide access to over 10,000 Pebble apps and include health tracking features like heart rate, step, and sleep tracking.
    5. Pre-orders are available for both models, with the Core 2 Duo priced at $149 and shipping in July 2025, while the Core Time 2 is priced at $225 and shipping in December 2025.

    Pebble smartwatches were anticipated to return with the previously announced PebbleOS. Now, PebbleOS has launched two new smartwatches featuring their signature e-paper displays, named the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2. Let’s take a closer look at them.

    Core 2 Duo

    Eric Migicovsky, the Pebble smartwatch founder, has just revealed these watches from the Core series. The first one is the Core 2 Duo, which keeps the original Pebble design and operates on the open-source PebbleOS. It boasts a 1.26-inch black and white e-paper display and includes access to over 10,000 Pebble apps along with various watch faces. The watch is made with polycarbonate, ensuring it has IPX8 water resistance.

    This model features a microphone and can track your steps as well as your sleep cycle. One of the standout features of Pebble’s e-paper watches has always been their long-lasting batteries, and the Core 2 Duo takes this to the next level with an impressive 30-day battery life, a significant upgrade from the 7-day life of the Pebble 2. It operates on the Nordic nRF52840 BLE chipset and comes with more reliable buttons. Additionally, the Core 2 Duo includes a speaker, barometer, and compass.

    Core Time 2

    The Core Time 2 seems to be the more upscale option out of the two newly introduced models. Eric even referred to it as his “dream watch.” It features a taller 1.5-inch e-paper display with 46-bit colors, a higher resolution of 200×228, and supports touchscreen functionality. This model also provides various watch faces and access to over 10,000 Pebble apps. For a more premium feel, the smartwatch is constructed with a metallic frame and buttons, and it also has an IPX8 rating for water resistance.

    The Core Time 2 is available in two colors, black and white. Besides the extensive 30-day battery life, this model offers heart rate, step, and sleep tracking as well. It also includes a microphone, speaker, and a linear resonance actuator. The device is designed with a standard 22mm strap. Both models use the PebbleOS platform, which includes essential fitness tracking features.

    Pricing and Availability

    Both smartwatches can be pre-ordered at store.rePebble.com. However, inventory is limited, so production quantities are also constrained. Migicovsky recommended that buyers place pre-orders since sign-ups have already surpassed the available units. Pre-orders are fully refundable until shipping. The Core 2 Duo is priced at 149 US Dollars, scheduled to ship in July 2025. In contrast, the Core Time 2 is set to ship in December 2025 with a price tag of 225 US Dollars.

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  • Atari 2600 My Play Watch: Retro Games & Fitness Tracker Arrives

    Atari 2600 My Play Watch: Retro Games & Fitness Tracker Arrives

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Atari 2600 My Play Watch is now available for pre-order in the U.S. for $79.99, inspired by the classic 1977 Atari 2600 console.
    2. It features a 2.02-inch TFT color touchscreen, MyPlayWatch OS, and a design that includes a metal bezel and Atari-themed elements.
    3. The watch tracks health metrics like heart rate, steps, and calories, but does not connect to smartphones or the internet.
    4. It comes pre-loaded with four classic games: Centipede, Missile Command, Pon, and Super Breakout, and is IP68 rated for dust and water resistance.
    5. Pre-orders include the watch and three interchangeable Atari-themed bands, with shipping expected by June 10th, but international shipping is not available.

    Atari has launched the 2600 My Play Watch, which is currently open for pre-order in the United States. This watch is inspired by the classic Atari 2600 home video game console that came out in 1977. It includes standard features like tracking health metrics and lets users enjoy arcade games right on their wrists.

    Specs and Design

    The Atari 2600 My Play Watch features a 2.02-inch TFT color touchscreen and operates on MyPlayWatch OS. The screen is framed by a metal bezel, with a red rotating crown and a button that mimics the look of an Atari 2600 controller. Additionally, the watch incorporates iconic sound effects for alarms and timers, a nostalgic touch for fans of the original console. Users can personalize their watch with various graphics and three changeable bands that reflect Atari 2600 themes.

    Features and Connectivity

    Marketed as a Selective Tech watch, it offers a more straightforward feature set, which means “without the data tracking and distractions.” This implies that there’s no Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, so users won’t receive notifications from their smartphones, and the watch won’t get any updates. On a daily basis, you can track your heart rate, steps taken, and calories burned. The device comes pre-loaded with four classic games: Centipede, Missile Command, Pon, and Super Breakout. Furthermore, the watch is IP68 rated, making it resistant to dust and water, and it charges wirelessly.

    Pricing and Availability

    Currently, you can pre-order the Atari 2600 My Play Watch in the US for $79.99. Every order includes the watch itself and three interchangeable bands, all scheduled to be shipped to customers by June 10th. Sadly, Atari does not provide international shipping for this watch. It remains uncertain if or when this product will be accessible to buyers in other regions.

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  • Casio MRW230H Diver-Style Watches Now Available in the US

    Casio MRW230H Diver-Style Watches Now Available in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio has launched the MRW230H series of affordable diver-inspired analog watches in the US, priced at $35.95.
    2. The series includes three models: MRW230H-1E1V (black dial), MRW230H-1E2V (red and blue bezel), and MRW230H-1E3V (green bezel), all featuring easy-to-read dials.
    3. Each watch has a water resistance rating of 100 meters, suitable for everyday water activities, but not for diving.
    4. The watches have a lightweight design (34 grams) with a 47.9mm resin and aluminum case, quartz movement, and a battery life of three years.
    5. The MRW230H series offers a practical and uncomplicated watch option that resembles a dive watch, now available through Casio’s website and various retailers.

    Casio has just released the MRW230H series in the United States. Initially announced in February, this fresh range of affordable, diver-inspired analog timepieces includes three distinct models, all equipped with a rotating bezel and a straightforward, easy-to-read dial. Priced at $35.95, these watches offer a budget-friendly option for anyone seeking a stylish and functional design without spending too much money.

    Model Features

    The MRW230H-1E1V showcases a timeless black dial complemented by white details, while the MRW230H-1E2V boasts a vibrant red and blue bezel that adds a striking contrast. The final model, MRW230H-1E3V, features a green bezel but maintains the same overall design. Although they mimic a diver’s watch style, these timepieces have a water resistance rating of 100 meters, making them suitable for everyday water activities but not for actual diving.

    Build and Specifications

    Each model comes with a 47.9mm case made of resin and aluminum, accompanied by a resin strap and a resin glass cover. Weighing only 34 grams, they are ideal for extended wear. Inside, the series runs on a quartz movement with a battery life of three years (SR626SW), and they also include a day and date display. The bezel can rotate but is designed for timing rather than being unidirectional, making it more of a general timing tool rather than a precise diving accessory.

    At a price below $40, the MRW230H series addresses an important niche in Casio’s offerings—a practical, uncomplicated analog watch that resembles a dive watch yet retains the ease of use for daily wear. These models can now be found for sale in the US through Casio’s official website as well as various retailers.

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  • Zepp Health Updates Amazfit Balance to Fix Sleep Issues

    Zepp Health Updates Amazfit Balance to Fix Sleep Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Zepp Health has released version 3.25.12.3 of the Amazfit Balance smartwatch, addressing issues from the previous update (3.25.11.1).
    2. The new update fixes missing sleep data reported by users after upgrading to version 3.25.11.1.
    3. Users are encouraged to skip version 3.25.11.1 and directly update to version 3.25.12.3 for improved features.
    4. The smartwatch now supports the DJI Osmo Action Bluetooth remote control for recording videos with workout data.
    5. Users can check for the update through the Zepp Health app, but some are still waiting for the rollout to complete.

    Zepp Health has launched a new update for the Amazfit Balance smartwatch, now at version 3.25.12.3. This update comes just a few weeks after the previous version, 3.25.11.1, also known as the Balance OTA 8.1 update, which started being delivered to users. The earlier version aimed to enhance algorithms for sleep detection, waking detection, and step counting, along with improvements to the Morning Update feature.

    Fixes for Sleep Data

    Some users reported missing sleep data following the installation of version 3.25.11.1. The change log for version 3.25.12.3 indicates that this new release addresses the missing sleep data issue that affected those who upgraded to version 3.25.11.1. Users still on older software are advised to skip version 3.25.11.1 and directly update to this latest version to benefit from all the new features. In addition to improvements in sleep tracking and step counting, the Balance smartwatch, currently priced at $149.99 on Amazon, now also supports the DJI Osmo Action Bluetooth remote control, which can be downloaded from the App Store. This feature enables users to record videos while showing workout data, like speed or route.

    User Reports and Availability

    Many users around the world have shared on Reddit that they have successfully received this latest update, although numerous others mentioned that they are still waiting for version 3.25.12.3. Zepp Health has not yet provided details on when this staged rollout will be completed. To download the update, Balance smartwatch users should navigate to Profile > My Devices > Amazfit Balance > System Update within the Zepp Health app.

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  • Garmin Fenix 6 Beta Update Fixes Map Issues

    Garmin Fenix 6 Beta Update Fixes Map Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released beta version 28.02 for Fenix 6 Pro smartwatches, now reaching 50% of eligible users.
    2. The update includes a minor bug fix related to the popularity heatmap feature for running and cycling routes.
    3. Version 28.01, the previous beta update, fixed a music controls widget issue across several Garmin smartwatch models.
    4. Users can download the beta update by connecting to Wi-Fi and navigating through the watch’s system menu.
    5. The term “release candidate” indicates that a public version of the software may be available soon for all Garmin Fenix 6 users.

    A new public beta update is being rolled out for the Garmin Fenix 6 Pro smartwatches. Beta version 28.02 has already reached 50% of eligible users, as noted in a recent update on the Garmin forum. This update is quite minor and includes just one bug fix.

    Bug Fixes Included

    The changelog mentions that Garmin has addressed a “possible issue” related to the popularity heatmap, a feature that displays users’ preferred running and cycling routes in their area. The release notes indicate that users faced difficulties with this feature while routing and drawing maps.

    Previous Update Details

    Version 28.02 comes shortly after the last beta release, version 28.01, which fixed a problem that caused the music controls widget to unexpectedly close. That update was applicable to a wider range of watches, such as the Fenix 6, Marq, Enduro (currently priced at $349.99 on Amazon), Quatix 6, and Tactix Delta smartwatches.

    How to Download the Update

    To download the beta version 28.02 update on your Garmin Fenix 6 Pro smartwatch, connect via Wi-Fi and navigate to Menu > System > Software Update > Check For Updates. The company refers to this as a “release candidate,” suggesting that a public version of the software could soon be available for everyone using the Garmin Fenix 6 and similar smartwatches.

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    Garmin Fenix 6 Beta Update Fixes Map Issues

     

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  • Core Time 2: $225 Spiritual Successor to Pebble Time 2

    Core Time 2: $225 Spiritual Successor to Pebble Time 2

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Core Time 2 is a premium smartwatch running on PebbleOS, continuing the legacy of the Pebble Time 2 from 2016.
    2. It features a 1.5-inch 64-color e-paper screen with a flat glass lens and is compatible with existing PebbleOS apps and watchfaces.
    3. The watch supports touch input and includes four metal buttons for control, with a design that allows for interactive watch complications.
    4. It offers health tracking features like a heart rate monitor, sleep tracking, and a pedometer, and boasts a battery life of up to 30 days.
    5. The Core Time 2 is priced at $225, available in black and white, with limited quantities and expected shipping in December 2025.

    The Core Time 2 has been unveiled as the premium smartwatch running on PebbleOS by Core Devices, a company started by Eric Migicovsky. The Core 2 Duo is another model released alongside it. This new device can be seen as a continuation of the Pebble Time 2 from 2016.

    Display Features

    With a 1.5-inch (200 x 228) 64-color e-paper screen, the Core Time 2 features a flat glass lens to minimize glare, contrasting with the curved glass used in the Pebble Time series. It will be compatible with the multitude of apps and watchfaces created for PebbleOS; however, these will show a border due to the larger screen size of the Core Time 2. Developers are expected to address this issue through updates to their apps and watchfaces.

    User Interaction

    The display is encased in a metal frame and supports touch input, which is different from the Core 2 Duo model. A press release states that the touch capability will enable watch complications that can be tapped to access related apps, similar to what is offered on the Apple Watch Series 10 (currently priced at $329 on Amazon).

    Design and Specifications

    There are four metal buttons for controlling the watch, and it comes with 22mm straps, much like the Core 2 Duo. The smartwatch will also be water-resistant upon release, with specifications aiming for an IPX8 rating.

    The Core Time 2 is equipped with a heart rate monitor, sleep tracking, and a pedometer. Additionally, it includes a microphone, speaker, and a linear resonance actuator. Interestingly, the spec sheet does not mention a barometer or compass, both of which are features of the Core 2 Duo. The battery life is expected to last up to 30 days and can be charged using a standard Pebble charger.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Core Time 2 will retail for $225 and will be available in black and white, with a potential third color option. A companion app will be available for both Android and iOS devices. This smartwatch will be exclusively sold through the rePebble store and will be produced in limited quantities, with shipping expected to start in December 2025.

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  • Core 2 Duo: $149 PebbleOS Smartwatch with 30-Day Battery Life

    Core 2 Duo: $149 PebbleOS Smartwatch with 30-Day Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. Core Devices has launched two new smartwatches, the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2, following the public release of PebbleOS.
    2. The new watches do not carry the Pebble brand name, as Google likely owns that trademark.
    3. The Core 2 Duo is inspired by the Pebble 2 and features a 1.26-inch monochrome ePaper display, step and sleep tracking, and supports thousands of Pebble apps and watchfaces.
    4. Key improvements in the Core 2 Duo include a speaker, upgraded Bluetooth chip, and additional sensors like a barometer and electronic compass.
    5. The Core 2 Duo is priced at $149, available for pre-order, and will ship in July, but will not be sold in retail stores.

    After almost two months since Google opened up PebbleOS to the public, the first smartwatches powered by this operating system have finally been unveiled. These new devices, called the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2, come from a new company named Core Devices, which was started by Eric Migicovsky, the original creator of Pebble before it was acquired by Fitbit.

    Not Pebble-branded Watches

    It’s crucial to understand that these watches don’t carry the Pebble name, as that brand is likely still owned by Google. However, many people may still call them Pebble watches, which could contribute to their popularity in the market.

    Core 2 Duo Specifications

    The Core 2 Duo is the more affordable option between the two (for details on the Core Time 2, you can look elsewhere), and it is inspired by the Pebble 2 that launched in 2016. It features a 1.26-inch (144 x 168) monochrome ePaper display encased in a polycarbonate body, complete with plastic buttons on the side. The watch comes with a 22mm strap, though it doesn’t specify what material that strap is made of.

    In addition to step and sleep tracking, which were available on the Pebble 2, the Core 2 Duo supports thousands of apps and watchfaces that were created for the Pebble ecosystem. Improvements over the Pebble 2 include a speaker, a Nordic nRF52840 Bluetooth LE chip, a stronger but quieter linear resonance actuator instead of a traditional vibrating motor, a barometer, and an electronic compass.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can get the Core 2 Duo in Black and White for $149. Pre-orders are already open, and the watches are set to ship in July. Unfortunately, they will be sold in limited amounts and won’t be available in retail stores, which means pre-ordering is the only way to secure one of these devices.

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  • Garmin Enhances Voice Assistant in Latest Smartwatch Update

    Garmin Enhances Voice Assistant in Latest Smartwatch Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released a stable software update version 13.19 for Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches.
    2. The update improves the user experience for Android users with better Voice Assistant integration, allowing interaction with Bixby and Google Assistant.
    3. A fix for a timer issue that prevented dismissing messages has been included in the update.
    4. GCM Translations have been updated from version 2.25 to 2.26, although benefits are not specified.
    5. This update follows version 13.17, which added a passcode security feature and improved energy level tracking.

    The Garmin Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches are now getting a new stable software update: version 13.19. Last week, two beta versions (13.18 and 13.19) were made available for eligible users.

    Improvements for Android Users

    According to the release notes for the live software version 13.19, Garmin has made improvements to the user experience for Android users when using a Voice Assistant. This allows users to interact with Bixby or Google Assistant through their smartwatch for tasks such as making calls or sending messages. Moreover, an issue with the timer’s repeat option that prevented messages from being dismissed has been fixed.

    GCM Translations Update

    Additionally, there is an update for GCM Translations for Venu 3 and 3s users, which goes from version 2.25 to 2.26. Sadly, Garmin does not specify how this change will benefit users. The update is currently available for at least 50% of users with the Venu 3, Venu 3s, and vivoactive 5 smartwatches (prices start at $225.66 on Amazon). To manually install version 13.19, go to Main Menu > Settings > System > Software Update.

    Previous Updates

    This minor update comes after the release of software version 13.17 in February, which introduced a new passcode security feature, Body Battery TrueUp for better energy level tracking, and support for the HRM 200 chest strap heart rate monitor.

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    Garmin Enhances Voice Assistant in Latest Smartwatch Update
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  • Casio Bright Metallic Dial Watches Coming Soon to the UK

    Casio Bright Metallic Dial Watches Coming Soon to the UK

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio GA-2100BM Bright Metallic Dial Series includes three models: sky blue (GA-2100BM-7A2), rose gold (GA-2100BM-7A5), and silver (GA-2100BM-7A8).
    2. Each watch features an octagonal bezel, a translucent band, and shiny metallic details; they also have a small digital display and dual LED backlight.
    3. The watches offer functionalities like world time zones, a Hand Shift feature, a 24-hour countdown timer, five daily alarms, and a stopwatch with 1/100th of a second accuracy.
    4. The models are priced at £109 in the UK and are marked as “Coming Soon” on the G-Shock UK online store; they will debut in Japan in April for ¥19,800 (about $132).
    5. Availability in other regions, including the US or EU, is currently uncertain.

    The Casio GA-2100BM Bright Metallic Dial Series watches are headed to the UK soon. This collection features three models: the GA-2100BM-7A2 (in sky blue), the GA-2100BM-7A5 (rose gold), and the GA-2100BM-7A8 (silver). Every model showcases an octagonal bezel, complemented by a translucent band and shiny metallic details.

    Features and Functionality

    Casio’s GA-2100BM watches are hybrids that come with a small digital display for showing details like the date. They are equipped with a dual LED backlight, which helps in easily reading the watch face when the light is dim. Users have the option to select from various world time zones, available in both 12-hour and 24-hour formats. Moreover, there is a Hand Shift feature that can be activated by a button to prevent the hands from covering the display. Additional functionalities include a countdown timer that spans 24 hours, five daily alarms, and a stopwatch accurate to 1/100th of a second. These watches also boast a water resistance of 200m and an estimated battery life of three years.

    Pricing and Availability

    The GA-2100BM-7A2, GA-2100BM-7A5, and GA-2100BM-7A8 models are marked as “Coming Soon” on the G-Shock UK online store, with a price tag of £109. This matches the cost of other Skeleton CasiOaks, such as the GA-2100SKE-7A. These timepieces are also anticipated to debut in Japan this April, where they will be priced at ¥19,800 (about $132). It remains uncertain if or when these watches will be available in other regions, including the US or EU.

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    Casio Bright Metallic Dial Watches Coming Soon to the UK
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  • boAt Storm Infinity Launch in India: 1.82″ Display & 15-Day Battery

    boAt Storm Infinity Launch in India: 1.82″ Display & 15-Day Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. Launch Date: The boAt Storm Infinity smartwatch will be launched in India on March 25, 2025.
    2. Battery Life: It features a large 550mAh battery, providing up to 15 days of battery life with ASAP fast charging.
    3. Display and Design: The smartwatch has a tall 1.82-inch display and comes in eight different strap colors.
    4. Bluetooth Calling: It supports Bluetooth calling and includes various health tracking features.
    5. Additional Launches: boAt is also releasing the boAt Nivana Crystl TWS earbuds on March 21, 2025, along with other recent smartwatch launches.

    boAt has revealed the launch date for its new smartwatch in India. The boAt Storm Infinity will be officially introduced next week, with a teaser that highlights some important features of this smart device. Here are the details you need to know.

    Launch Date of boAt Storm Infinity in India

    The teaser for the upcoming smartwatch was posted on Amazon India, marking March 25, 2025, as its launch date. It also gives some key specifications. The Amazon page for boAt Storm Infinity currently has a “Notify Me” button, but it does confirm the smartwatch will have an impressive battery life of up to 15 days, thanks to its large 550mAh battery. This model comes with ASAP fast charging, which claims to provide 15 days of use after just one hour of charging.

    Features of boAt Storm Infinity Smartwatch

    But that’s not the end of it; the boAt Storm Infinity features a tall 1.82-inch display and offers eight different strap colors. Customers will enjoy Bluetooth calling, a sleek design, and a variety of health tracking features. Unfortunately, that’s all the information available so far. Nonetheless, it’s confirmed that the launch will take place on March 25, accessible through the brand’s official website and Amazon India. Stay tuned for more updates as we cover the launch of Storm Infinity.

    Additional Product Launches

    In other news, this teaser comes just as boAt is set to launch the boAt Nivana Crystl TWS earbuds in India on March 21. Earlier in February, the company also introduced the boAt Ultima Prime and Ember, which are two budget-friendly smartwatches that come with AMOLED displays, along with the boAt Nirvana x Dhruv Kapoor ‘Flaming Hearts’ Audio line.

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