Category: Wearables

  • NoxTi Tritium Keychain Glows for 25 Years Without Batteries

    NoxTi Tritium Keychain Glows for 25 Years Without Batteries

    Key Takeaway

    1. NoxTi is a rechargeable, battery-free titanium cylinder with a phosphorescent tritium core that glows for up to 12-25 years.
    2. The tritium core can be replaced or colored differently, with the device protecting it from water, extreme temperatures, and drops.
    3. Currently funded via Kickstarter, with a Super Early Bird price of $24.50 and potential retail price of $34.30, worldwide free shipping excluding taxes.
    4. As Xedge’s second crowdfunding project, the durability and long-term performance of NoxTi remain to be fully verified.

    Introduction of NoxTi

    At first look, NoxTi appears just like a small titanium tube, 45 millimeters long and weighs around 10.8 grams; you can wear it as a necklace or attach it to your keychain. The device features a pill-shaped window which glows softly, omitting the need for batteries. But don’t expect it to be as bright as a Nitecore Tini 3, which costs about $39. As for the light source, NoxTi utilizes phosphorescent tritium that has a half-life of approximately 12.3 years.

    Longevity and Customization

    The significance of the half-life is that, after twelve years, NoxTi still produces about half the original brightness. Even after 25 years, it reaches roughly a quarter of the initial glow. The tritium core isn’t permanent; it can be swapped out once it dims or if you fancy changing colors. Replacement cores come in various hues, such as green, yellow, blue, violet, turquoise, or red. The titanium shell safeguards the core from water, shocks, and temperature swings between -20 °C and +50 °C.

    Funding and Pricing

    This innovative accessory is being crowdfunded through Kickstarter. During the “Super Early Bird” phase, it costs around $24.50, but the anticipated retail price will increase to about $34.30. The creators offer worldwide free shipping, though you should remember that import taxes and customs duties are not included in the price. This makes it important to check your local import regulations before buying.

    Company Background and Future Prospects

    NoxTi is a project from Xedge, which has already gone through crowdfunding successfully with an EDC tool that was sent on time, despite some quality complaints from the backers. Issues like these are quite commonplace in crowdfunded projects, and only time will tell if NoxTi performs as long as claimed. Its track record hints at reliability, but consumers should stay cautious until user reviews are in.


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  • Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Hints at Upcoming Stable Release

    Garmin Smartwatch Beta Update Hints at Upcoming Stable Release

    Key Takeaway

    1. Beta version 26.09 for Garmin Fenix 7 and compatible smartwatches includes the enabling of the ECG feature.
    2. The update fixes various bugs, including issues with Power Manager text mismatches, Garmin Coach app shutdowns, and button navigation for the InReach Widget.
    3. The update is delivered OTA to eligible users, with a stable release of the 26.xx series anticipated soon.

    New Beta Version from Garmin for Fenix 7 Series

    Garmin has just launched beta version 26.09 for several of their high-end smartwatches including the Fenix 7, Epix, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and MARQ Gen 2. This update comes just a few weeks after they released the 26.07 update, which mainly focused on fixing bugs and improving overall performance.

    Significance of the ECG Feature

    What’s really interesting about the 26.09 update is that Garmin has now enable the ECG feature, which was previously disabled during beta phases. The ECG allows users to track their heart rhythm more accurately, indicating Garmin’s step toward a stable release of this new health monitoring feature. The update indicates that a more stable version of the software might soon be available for all smartwatches of this line.

    Details of the Change Log

    The changelog of this beta update mostly remains consistent with previous versions, aside from the major addition. Garmin has addressed several issues such as mismatched text in the Power Manager app and Garmin Connect, which could lead to unintended shutdowns when using Garmin Coach. Other bugs fixed include problems with the InReach Widget’s button navigation and irregularities in text display on the watch versus the app.

    OTA Rollout and Future Updates

    The update is being pushed over-the-air (OTA), which means compatible users will receive it automatically through their phones. While it’s unclear exactly when a final, stable version will be available for everyone, it seems Garmin is making steady progress towards that goal. Keep an eye out for the update to enhance your smartwatch’s features and stability.

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    • Casio Introduces New Solar-Powered Radio-Controlled Watches

      Casio Introduces New Solar-Powered Radio-Controlled Watches

      Key Takeaway

      1. Casio has introduced two new shock-resistant G-Shock Baby-G BGA-2800 Series watches with a blue color palette.
      2. The watches feature analog-digital displays, multi-band radio control, world time, and solar charging.
      3. They are water-resistant up to 100 meters and include functions like a stopwatch, timer, alarms, and LED backlight.
      4. The BGA-2800-2A2 has rose-gold accents with a navy strap, while the BGA-2800-7A3 features darker blue accents with a light blue bezel.
      5. In Japan, each watch is priced at ¥23,100 (~$145), with uncertain international availability.

      New G-Shock Baby-G BGA-2800 Around The Globe

      Casio has recently announced the release of two new watches in their Baby-G BGA-2800 series in Japan. These watches are designed to be shock resistant and feature a round dial with both analog hands and a set of three digital displays. Both models showcase a cool blue color scheme that appeals to many style lovers.

      Design and Color Options

      The first model, the BGA-2800-2A2, is quite eye-catching with its white dial complemented by rose-gold adornments. It has a navy blue resin case and strap, along with a matching translucent inner bezel. The second version, the BGA-2800-7A3, sports a completely white dial, casing, and strap, accented by dark blue details and a light blue translucent inner bezel. These contrasting color variants give buyers a range of choices according to their personal taste.

      Features and Technical Specs

      This G-Shock BGA-2800 series from Casio comes packed with advanced features. It is a radio-controlled watch compatible with Multi-Band 6, enabling precise timekeeping across multiple regions worldwide. It includes an automatic calendar, digital time displays showing date and week days, along with tools like a stopwatch, timer, and alarms. The watch also offers double LED backlight for easy reading in low light, Tough Solar functionality, and 100 meters of water resistance, making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling.

      Pricing and Market Availability

      In Japan, both watches are available for pre-order at a price of ¥23,100 which is roughly $145. It remains uncertain if these models will be launched in other markets worldwide. Currently, Casio is selling some Baby-G watches through its Amazon marketplace in the US, but the new BGA-2800 models haven’t been officially confirmed for international release yet.

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    • Casio Metal Watches with Heart Rate Sensor Now Available in the US

      Casio Metal Watches with Heart Rate Sensor Now Available in the US

      Key Takeaway

      1. The Casio G-Shock Move GMH5600 series features customizable high-resolution LCD displays and Bluetooth connectivity.
      2. These watches include health and activity tracking features like heart rate measurement, step counting, and activity logging with GPS integration.
      3. They are designed with durable materials, including a stainless-steel bezel, carbon fiber-reinforced resin casing, and water resistance up to 200 meters.
      4. The GMH5600 series offers extended battery life with solar charging and multiple advanced functionalities such as moon data, alarms, and time zone options.

      New Casio G-Shock Move GMH5600 Series Now Available

      Two fresh G-Shock Move models from Casio have hit the US market, bringing sporty and tech-savvy features like never before. These watches, part of the G-Squad lineup, were previously leaked earlier this year, but now you can actually get them in stores and online. The official launch happened in Japan back in March 2026, making it a recent addition to Casio’s popular G-Shock range.

      Pricing & Availability

      In the United States, the Casio G-Shock GMH5600-1, in classic black with silver accents, and the GMH5600-9, with a sleek black and gold finish, are both retailing at $385. You dont have to look far as these watches are available through Casio’s online store, and they are also found at their physical location in SoHo, New York. The price point makes them an attractive option for sports enthusiasts and tech lovers alike.

      Display & Customization Features

      The GMH5600 series watches come equipped with a negative memory-in-pixel (MIP) LCD display. This means a black background with light-colored figures for great visibility. The high-resolution screen can be customized using the Casio Watches app, offering users a personalized experience. When you need to check your stats or time, just press a button to activate the backlight, making it easiest to see in dark settings.

      Built for Active Lifestyle

      This watch isn’t just about telling time; its packed with fitness features. It includes an optical sensor for measuring heart rate, while an accelerometer tracks your steps throughout the day. Thanks to the Polar smartwatch library integration, you can analyze workout details like cardio load or check your sleep health. You can log up to 100 runs, with distances calculated via GPS from your linked smartphone. Other features include moon data, sunrise and sunset times, a stopwatch that counts a second, multiple alarms, and support for 38 different time zones.

      Design & Durability

      Casio’s latest G-Shock GMH5600 watches boast a sturdy stainless-steel bezel, with the GMH5600-9 sporting an ion-plated finish for extra durability and style. They are housed in a lightweight, yet robust, carbon fiber-reinforced resin case, and come with a resin strap for comfortable wear. Built to withstand shocks, these watches are water resistant up to 200 meters. They can be charged using a dedicated USB cable, and are optimized for solar power, especially when you’re outdoors. Casio claims the watch can operate around 35 hours with continuous heart rate readings, over a month in regular watch mode, or up to 11 months in power-saving mode.

      Global Release & Future Prospects

      While these stylish and functional G-Shock GMH5600 models are now out in the US, their availability in Europe or other parts of the world is still uncertain. Fans across different regions will have to wait and see if Casio plans a broader release soon.

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    • Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 May Miss Snapdragon Wear Elite in Some Regions

      Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 May Miss Snapdragon Wear Elite in Some Regions

      Key Takeaway

      1. The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 will have different models for the USA (5G capable with Snapdragon chip) and Europe (4G with Exynos chip).
      2. The US version is expected to feature the Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear Elite, offering better performance and modern connectivity features.
      3. The European version may have only minor upgrades with the Exynos W1000, possibly providing limited new features.

      Upcoming Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2

      Samsung’s Galaxy Watch Ultra was initially introduced back in July 2024, retailing at around $649, and didn’t see many updates till about 2025. Now, after two years, the brand is finally ready to drop a successor. But, there’s a catch, especially for folks in Europe, who might not find the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 as exciting as Americans do. That’s because some insider info from GalaxyClub points out that beta firmware for this new smartwatch has already been spotted on Samsung’s servers.

      Regional Models and Modem Differences

      It’s pretty interesting how Samsung numbers their models. The watch for the US is listed as SM-L716, whereas in Europe, the model is SM-L715F. Typically, models ending in a “5” are LTE-enabled, meaning they only support 4G networks, whereas those ending in a “6” are 5G compatible. What this suggests is that the US version of the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 will likely pack a Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear Elite processor with a built-in 5G modem. Meanwhile, the European version might stick with Samsung’s older Exynos W1000 chip with a 4G connection, making it less advanced.

      Specs and Performance Insights

      Both chips share similar CPU architecture, featuring an ARM Cortex-A78 performance core and four Cortex-A55 cores for efficiency. However, the Snapdragon Wear Elite pushes ahead with higher clock speeds and boasts support for current connectivity tech like Wi-Fi 6 and ultra-wideband (UWB). Qualcomm also claims better energy efficiency and GPU performance, which could make a noticeable difference in daily use. If Samsung opts to stick with the Exynos W1000 in Europe, don’t expect a huge leap forward—it may just be a modest upgrade from the previous model, leaving European users with less cutting-edge hardware.

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    • Casio G-Shock Watches with Interchangeable Accessories Launch 2026

      Casio G-Shock Watches with Interchangeable Accessories Launch 2026

      Key Takeaway

      1. The Casio G-Shock Baby-G+Plus BGA-15K watches feature four pastel colorways with shimmering dials and versatile accessories.
      2. They include three analog hands, a day-of-the-week display with various font styles, and are shock resistant with 100m water resistance.
      3. The watches offer 20 seconds per month accuracy, a three-year battery life, and are scheduled for global release following their April 2026 launch in Japan.

      New Stylish Wearable From Casio G-Shock Baby-G+Plus Line

      The latest addition to the Casio G-Shock Baby-G+Plus family, the BGA-15K, has launched in Japan and it seems it’s a huge deal with those who prefers both style and durability. These watches were initially shown to the world by retail store Bello in March 2026, revealing their main features and special designs. It’s approved that these timepieces are coming to other countries worldwide soon as well.

      Color Varieties and Design Details

      The BGA-15K models are cool because they comes in four pastel shades: one in blue/navy with purple accents, a sweet pink, a rich purple, and a clean white with mint green touches. These are not just ordinary watches, they also feature a shining dial, resin casing for a tough exterior, and two key accessories. People can wear it as a watch, attach it to a bag as a charm, or even use it as a keyring, making these more than just time tellers.

      Objestively Functional

      This watch has three big hands that show the time in an analog style and a special display showing the days of the week with seven different font styles making it more fun to look at. The dial includes Arabic numerals at 12 and 6 along with thick indexes for those who like bold designs. The shock resistant feature is one of the model’s main benefits, along with a precise timekeeping of 20 seconds per month, water resistance up to 100 meters, and a battery that lasts about three years before needing to be replaced.

      Pricing and Availability Details

      In Japan, the BGA-15K watches are priced at ¥12,100 which is roughly equivalent to $76. These are expected to hit stores later in April 2026. Also, the global presence of these models looks promising since they are already listed on the official international sites for Casio, hinting that people in other countries will soon have access to these stylish and durable watches. Fans of the brand can start looking out for the upcoming release as these models are likely to be available in many more markets soon.

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    • Garmin Launches Update with 25+ Features for Mid-Range Smartwatches

      Garmin Launches Update with 25+ Features for Mid-Range Smartwatches

      Key Takeaway

      1. Garmin is rolling out Beta Version 17.16 for the Forerunner 570 and 970, available only to enrolled beta testers who manually request the update.
      2. The update includes 28 changes for the Forerunner 570 (mostly bug fixes) and 5 improvements for the Forerunner 970.
      3. Both models now support a silent mode accessible via a shortcut, and users can control the Battery Manager app using voice commands.

      Latest Updates for Garmin Forerunner Models

      Garmin has begin a new phase in the development of its Forerunner series, specifically for the 570 and 970 models (now priced around $749). The company recently upgraded these models to Software Version 16.37, but now they are testing out a new Beta version 17.16. Interestingly, this update is only available if you actively request it, as Garmin hasn’t rolled it out to everyone automatically.

      How to Access the Beta Software

      If you’re interested in trying the new Beta Version 17.16, you’ll need to do it manually. First, make sure your device is enrolled in Garmin’s Beta Program. Then, on your watch, go to the Main Menu, tap Settings, then System, and finally Software Update. From there, select Check for Updates. Keep in mind, this process isn’t automatic; Garmin is only offering this pre-release version to those who ask for it.

      This beta release has a total of 28 changes focusing mainly on bug fixes, with the Forerunner 570 getting 21 of those, and the Forerunner 970 gaining 5 new updates too. One cool thing is both watches now support a silent mode that can be turned on via a button shortcut or through the control loop – making it easy to switch off sounds quickly.

      New Features and Improvements

      Another feature added is the ability to open the Battery Manager app using voice commands, which should help users manage their battery life more efficiently. Garmin has also included multiple improvements and bug fixes to enhance user experience and device stability.

      • 28 total changes for Forerunner 570 (21 bug fixes)
      • 5 additional improvements for Forerunner 970
      • Support for silent mode, quick access
      • Access Battery Manager via voice command

      Changelog Highlights

      The specific details of the updates are documented in the Garmin changelog sheets for both models, showing a focus on bug fixing and user-friendly features. Owners of the Forerunner 570 and 970 should consider enrolling in the Beta Program if they want to test the latest software updates first, keeping in mind that beta updates may contain bugs or incomplete features.

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    • Nothing CMF Watch Stops Access to CMF Watch Smartphone App

      Nothing CMF Watch Stops Access to CMF Watch Smartphone App

      Key Takeaway

      1. The CMF Watch app was removed from app stores, and future management will be via the Nothing X app starting July 19th, 2026.
      2. Users can transfer key health and activity data from the CMF Watch app to the Nothing X app, but some data will be lost during migration.
      3. Post-migration, the CMF Watch app account will be deactivated and the app can be deleted; the new app aims to offer a better user experience with higher ratings.

      The CMF Watch 3 Pro, priced at around $90, and previous smartwatches from the CMF line, which is a sub-brand under Nothing, used to connect with your iPhone or Android device through the CMF Watch application. Changes are now happening as Nothing officially announced, the app has been removed from both the App Store and Google Play Store on April 3rd. This move marks a significant shift in how users will interact with their devices.

      Transition to the Nothing X App

      Starting from July 19th, 2026, all versions of the CMF Watch will need to be paired and managed using the new Nothing X application. This app, which is free to download, is now the primary tool for users to control their smartwatches. Transfering data such as workout history, fitness goals, activity scores, sleep logs, heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and stress data will be possible through this app. Users will need to migrate their essential information from the old CMF Watch app to the new app for a seamless transition.

      Data Migration and User Experience

      However, some information will not make the jump, like weight, height, custom watch face settings, and cycle tracking details. When the migration is done, the old CMF Watch app account will be deactivated and the app can then be uninstalled from the device. To initiate this process, users must select the “Data Migration” option in the Nothing X app while their CMF Watch is connected to their smartphone. Despite the inconvenience of losing certain data, the overall user reviews show a notable improvement. The old CMF Watch app was rated 3.2 out of 5 stars, whereas the new Nothing X app boasts a higher rating of 4.4 stars, hinting at better overall user satisfaction with the new management system.


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    • Smart Glasses with Voice Assistant and Camera for Hands-Free Use

      Smart Glasses with Voice Assistant and Camera for Hands-Free Use

      Key Takeaway

      1. The Zeblaze Q01 smart glasses function primarily as a camera and headset, lacking a display for live data or AR functions.
      2. Features include photo and video capture with image stabilization, as well as conversation translation and meeting recording.
      3. Many intelligent functions require Bluetooth connection to a smartphone, and the device offers up to nine hours of music playback.
      4. The glasses are priced affordably at around $64 and support WiFi and multiple lens colors.

      Introduction to Zeblaze Q01

      Chinese company Zeblaze side with their reputation for smartwatches now explore in the realm of smart glasses with their latest product, the Zeblaze Q01. This model isn’t your typical AR glasses, since it doesnt have a screen. Instead, it’s more like a headset with a built-in camera, perfect for recording moments or capturing photos. It features a Sony IMX219 sensor that deliver high quality images and videos.

      Camera and Video Capabilities

      The Zeblaze Q01 is capable of taking high-res photos and recording videos at 1200p, which makes it suitable for athletes or vloggers who want to captures immersive footage. It’s equipped with image stabilization technology, both hardware and software, to enhance video clarity and reduce shaky footage. The design is simple yet functional, looking just like regular glasses but with advanced tech inside.

      Smart Functions Without a Display

      Even though it doesn’t have a screen, it still offers some smart features. Users can take pictures and analyze them right away, thanks to the device’s ability to instantly process captured images. It also supports conversation translation, aiding in multilingual interactions. Furthermore, this device allows recording and summarizing meetings, making it a multifunctional gadget for users on the go.

      Connectivity and Battery Life

      The device relies on Bluetooth to connect with smartphones because these smart functions don’t operate directly on the glasses. Its battery can last up to nine hours when playing music, which is quite impressive for such a small device. However, when recording videos, the recording is limited to about 50 minutes. WiFi capability is included, providing other connectivity options for users.

      Pricing and Availability

      Currently, the Zeblaze Q01 is listed at around $64 on Banggood. Customers can choose from different lens colors to customize their glasses. It’s an affordable option for those looking for a versatile wearable with camera features but not necessarily AR display capabilities.


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    • Casio MRW-230H Affordable Watches with Rotating Bezel Official

      Casio MRW-230H Affordable Watches with Rotating Bezel Official

      Key Takeaway

      1. Casio has officially listed the MRW-230H-1E4V and MRW-230H-2EV models on its global website, confirming previous retailer sightings.
      2. Both watches feature a lightweight resin case, 100-meter water resistance, and run on a standard quartz movement with a roughly three-year battery life.
      3. The main difference between the models is their color scheme: one with a black dial and orange accents, the other with a blue dial and yellow seconds hand.
      4. These models maintain similar specifications to earlier variants, with no hardware changes, and are priced approximately between $50 and $60.
      5. The watches are designed with straightforward analog displays, resin straps, and a case size of approximately 47.9 × 44.6 × 12.3 mm.

      Casio Introduces New Models on Global Platform

      Two new watches from Casio, the MRW-230H-1E4V and MRW-230H-2EV, have just officially appeared on the company’s international website, confirming earlier retail sightings. These watches previously made their appearances on retail listings through Bello, but now their presence on Casio’s main platform marks their official launch, which is quite exciting for lovers of affordable, rugged timepieces.

      Design & Features

      These watches are designed with a 47.9 × 44.6 × 12.3 mm case, which is pretty compact and designed to be lightweight at just 39 grams. The body of these watches is crafted from resin, complemented by an aluminum top ring on the rotating timer bezel. They are water resistant upto 100 meters, ensuring they are suitable for swimming, but not diving. They run on a dependable quartz movement with an accuracy of about ±20 seconds each month, equipped with an SR626SW battery that lasts for roughly three years.

      Display & Straps

      The display simple but effective: three analog hands along with a day-date window, protected by resin glass. They come with resin straps that can comfortably fit wrists from 145 mm to 215 mm. The simplicity and durability make them perfect for everyday wear without fuss.

      Color Options & Variants

      The key difference between the two models is in the aesthetic details. The MRW-230H-1E4V features a black dial with orange accents on the bezel and a matching seconds hand, giving it a bold look. Meanwhile, the MRW-230H-2EV comes with a blue dial and bezel with a yellow seconds hand, adding a splash of vibrant color to the lineup. Neither version boasts any hardware changes from previous models, only aesthetic differences which appeal to various style preferences.

      Market Availability & Pricing

      Launched earlier in 2025, the MRW-230H series has a similar design language across all variants. The new models expand the spectrum of color options without altering any technical specifications. These watches were previously listed with prices somewhere around the $50-$60 range in various regions, but the official website listing does not specify any pricing details. However, it confirms the model names and features across different markets, showing that Casio is planning a wide release for these watches.


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