Category: Wearables

  • Apple Watch Sales Drop 19% as Huawei and Xiaomi Gain Market Share

    Apple Watch Sales Drop 19% as Huawei and Xiaomi Gain Market Share

    Key Takeaways

    1. The worldwide smartwatch industry declined by 7% in 2024, with Apple experiencing the largest drop at 19%.
    2. Apple still leads the market with a 22% share, followed by Huawei (13%), Samsung (9%), Xiaomi (8%), and Imoo (6%).
    3. Xiaomi achieved significant growth of 135% due to the popularity of its Xiaomi Watch S1 and budget-friendly Redmi smartwatches.
    4. Samsung recorded a modest growth of 3% driven by its Galaxy Watch series.
    5. China has become the largest smartwatch market, accounting for 25% of sales, while single-digit growth is expected for the sector in 2025.

    According to recent figures from Counterpoint Research, the worldwide smartwatch industry experienced a decline of 7% in 2024. Apple faced the largest drop, with sales plummeting 19% compared to 2023. This downturn is largely attributed to a decrease in demand within the US market, mainly because the anticipated Apple Watch Ultra 3 has not been released, and the Apple Watch Series 10 has seen only minor updates.

    Market Shares and Competitors

    Despite this setback, Apple continues to lead the market with a share of 22%. Following Apple, Huawei holds 13%, Samsung has 9%, Xiaomi stands at 8%, and Imoo, which operates mainly in Asia, captures 6%. Notably, Xiaomi emerged as the biggest winner, boasting a remarkable growth of 135% largely driven by the popularity of the Xiaomi Watch S1 and its budget-friendly Redmi smartwatches. Huawei also saw benefits from the expanding Chinese market, managing to sell 35% more smartwatches than the previous year.

    Growth Trends and Market Dynamics

    Samsung recorded a modest growth of 3% thanks to their Galaxy Watch7, Galaxy Watch Ultra, and Galaxy Watch FE. China has now surpassed India to become the leading market globally, accounting for 25% of all smartwatch sales, while India follows closely with 23%. North America holds 22% of the market, and Europe has a share of 15%. Looking ahead, Counterpoint Research anticipates that the smartwatch sector will see single-digit growth percentages in 2025.

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    Apple Watch Sales Drop 19% as Huawei and Xiaomi Gain Market Share
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  • Garmin Instinct 3 Now Available in Your Watch Your Way Program

    Garmin Instinct 3 Now Available in Your Watch Your Way Program

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Garmin Instinct 3 smartwatch is part of the Your Watch Your Way program in the U.S., offering customization options at purchase.
    2. Currently, customization for the Instinct 3 is limited to a standard AMOLED 50mm case with a Black Bezel; no personalization for the Solar version is available.
    3. There are 37 different strap choices available, including colorful silicone, nylon, and a Chestnut Leather Band, with prices ranging from $499.99 to $649.99.
    4. Base models of the Instinct 3 start at $499.99, and all orders ship within four to seven business days as they are made to order.
    5. Other Garmin smartwatches available for customization through the program include the Fenix 8, Venu 3, Vivoactive 5, Lily 2, Vivomove, and Instinct 2; no updates on availability in other countries yet.

    The Garmin Instinct 3 smartwatch has been recently added to the brand’s Your Watch Your Way program in the United States. This model, which debuted at the beginning of the year, comes in two versions: the standard and the Solar, along with the Instinct E.

    Customization Options

    The Your Watch Your Way initiative allows users to customize their smartwatch right when they buy it. Although typically you can change the color, metal, and bands, the customization choices for the Instinct 3 are currently limited. As of now, the only available case is the regular AMOLED 50mm with a Black Bezel, just like the standard retail versions. Also, personalization for the Instinct 3 Solar isn’t an option at this moment.

    Variety of Straps

    On the bright side, there’s a good selection of straps with a total of 37 different choices. You can find many colorful bands made from silicone or nylon, alongside a Chestnut Leather Band; prices range from $499.99 to $649.99. Just to remind you, the base models of the watch begin at $499.99 on Amazon. It remains uncertain if or when Garmin will introduce more personalization options for the Instinct 3.

    Garmin specifies that orders will ship within four to seven business days since each product is made to order. Other smartwatches that can be customized through the Your Watch Your Way program include the Fenix 8, Venu 3, Vivoactive 5, Lily 2, Vivomove, and Instinct 2. There is no information available about when the Instinct 3 smartwatch might be included in the Your Watch Your Way program in other countries like the UK or the Netherlands.

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    Garmin Instinct 3 Now Available in Your Watch Your Way Program

     

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  • Tissot PRC 100 Solar: New Solar Movement with 14-Month Power Reserve

    Tissot PRC 100 Solar: New Solar Movement with 14-Month Power Reserve

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tissot has expanded its solar collection with the new PRC 100 Solar watch, available in silver, blue, and all-black versions.
    2. The watch features the innovative Lightmaster Solar Quartz movement, capable of running for up to 14 months on a full charge and powered by both natural and artificial light.
    3. The design includes a 39 mm stainless steel case, a dodecagonal bezel, a screw-down crown, and a date window, with Super-LumiNova-coated markers for visibility in low light.
    4. The PRC 100 Solar offers durability with a sapphire crystal, 100 meters of water resistance, and strap options in stainless steel or leather.
    5. Priced at $495, the watch will also have smaller 34 mm variants, including two-tone and yellow gold PVD models, released later this year.

    Tissot, the renowned watchmaker from Switzerland, has broadened its solar collection by introducing a new solar-powered Tissot PRC 100 Solar watch. This collection includes three options: a silver, a blue, and an all-black version that features a matching black dial and bracelet. For those who may not be familiar, PRC is short for “Precise, Robust, and Classic.”

    Innovative Movement

    The standout feature of the new PRC 100 Solar is its Lightmaster Solar Quartz movement. According to Tissot, this movement can efficiently absorb both natural and artificial light thanks to honeycomb-structured solar cells placed beneath a sapphire crystal. The Lightmaster caliber F06.615 quartz movement can operate for up to 14 months on a full charge. Tissot also mentions that just ten minutes of exposure to natural light can power the watch for an entire day.

    Sleek Design

    In terms of design, Tissot has opted for a straightforward yet unique look. The PRC 100 comes with a 39 mm stainless steel case featuring a dodecagonal bezel, a screw-down crown located on the right side, and a date window at the 3 o’clock mark. Its classic silver, blue, and black dials are embellished with Super-LumiNova-coated baton hour markers and hands, ensuring visibility even in dim lighting. The watch has a thickness of 9.22 mm (0.36 inches) and weighs only 62 grams (0.13 lbs), which is notably lighter than Casio’s Duro MDV-106 that weighs 92 grams (0.20 lbs).

    Durability and Options

    Additionally, this timepiece is topped with a sapphire crystal, providing protection against scratches and impacts. The Tissot PRC 100 Solar is designed with 100 meters (10 bar) of water resistance, making it suitable for regular water exposure. Customers can choose between two strap options: a stainless steel bracelet or a leather strap.

    The Tissot PRC 100 Solar is currently available for $495 on Tissot’s official website and authorized retailers. Moreover, Tissot has announced that smaller 34 mm variants, including a two-tone model and a full yellow gold PVD option, will be released later this year.

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    Tissot PRC 100 Solar: New Solar Movement with 14-Month Power Reserve

     

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  • Fitbit Smartwatch with Blood Pressure Monitor and Dual Sensor

    Fitbit Smartwatch with Blood Pressure Monitor and Dual Sensor

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fitbit is now owned by Google (Alphabet) but continues to develop new sensor technology for its wearables.
    2. The recent patent outlines a combination of optical measurement and traditional pressure measurement for enhanced blood pressure readings.
    3. The new wearable may apply pressure to the skin to improve measurement accuracy.
    4. Competing smartwatches, like the Samsung Galaxy Watch and Huawei Watch D, already use different methods for blood pressure monitoring.
    5. Fitbit is focusing on enhancing its products with new features and technologies despite the competitive market.

    Fitbit is now a part of Google, or more precisely, Alphabet. Despite this change in ownership, the company is still developing a fresh sensor for its wearable devices, as shown in a recent patent filing. However, just because a new technology has been officially patented doesn’t guarantee that it will end up in a smartwatch or any product that you can buy. It’s also expected that Fitbit is looking into new features to enhance its main products.

    New Sensor Technology

    The patent in question doesn’t just cover a single sensor; it outlines a mix of different measurement techniques. This combination is intended to enhance the accuracy and dependability of the readings. Fitbit intends to merge two existing methods for measuring blood pressure in wearables and smartwatches: optical measurement and traditional pressure measurement that listens to the heartbeat sounds. The patent even details how the wearable might exert pressure on the skin itself.

    Current Market Comparisons

    Both techniques for measuring blood pressure are already present in the smartwatch industry. For instance, certain Samsung Galaxy Watches (starting at $229 on Amazon) can optically gauge blood pressure, but this requires it to be calibrated with a specific blood pressure monitor. In contrast, the Huawei Watch D uses an inflatable cuff that is quite similar to a typical wrist blood pressure monitor. This device listens for the Korotkoff sounds in relation to the external pressure applied to blood vessels, which allows it to determine the familiar systolic and diastolic values.

    In conclusion, Fitbit is actively pursuing advancements in its wearable technology, as evidenced by its latest patent, while the competition continues to offer various methods for blood pressure monitoring.

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  • Mibro GS Active 2: A Strong Competitor to Garmin Forerunner

    Mibro GS Active 2: A Strong Competitor to Garmin Forerunner

    Key Takeaways

    1. Mibro has launched the GS Active 2 smartwatch, designed specifically for runners, alongside two other models in the GS series at MWC 2025.
    2. The GS Active 2 will closely resemble its predecessor, the GS Active, featuring dual-frequency GNSS for route tracking and access to training plans.
    3. Key features include the SeekBeats Motion Algorithm for measuring VO2 Max and training metrics, 5 ATM water resistance, a 20-day battery life, and a bright AMOLED display.
    4. The smartwatch will be available in three color combinations: gray/black, silver/white, and lilac/lilac, with pricing still undisclosed but expected to be affordable.
    5. The GS Active 2 may compete with the Garmin Forerunner 165, but full specifications and accuracy details are yet to be released.

    Mibro has introduced the GS Active 2 smartwatch tailored for runners. This new device is among three fresh wearables in the GS series, set to appear along with the GS Explorer S and GS Pro 2 at MWC 2025. It will also join the GS Explorer, which was released last October.

    Similarities with Previous Model

    Sources suggest that the Mibro GS Active 2 will bear a strong resemblance to its predecessor, the GS Active. Currently, it’s known that the new version will include dual-frequency GNSS to help track running routes, and users will have access to training plans directly from the smartwatch. Additional features are expected to encompass basic health tracking metrics and notifications from a paired smartphone.

    Expected Features

    The original GS Active’s tools might be present in this updated model too. One of the notable features is the SeekBeats Motion Algorithm, which measures VO2 Max, recovery time, and training efficiency. Moreover, it comes with a 5 ATM water resistance rating, a remarkable battery life of 20 days, and an AMOLED display with a peak brightness of 1,000 nits. Given these characteristics, the GS Active 2 may compete with the Garmin Forerunner 165 smartwatch. Still, the exact accuracy and full specifications of the Mibro model are yet to be revealed.

    Color Options and Pricing

    The smartwatch will be available in three color combinations: gray/black, silver/white, and lilac/lilac. Mibro has not disclosed the price of the GS Active 2 smartwatch yet. However, considering the feature set, it is expected to be one of the more affordable options in the Mibro GS collection. The original GS Active watch is currently priced at $83.00/€89.99 on Amazon DE.

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  • Ray-Ban Meta Glasses: Coperni Limited Edition for $549

    Ray-Ban Meta Glasses: Coperni Limited Edition for $549

    Key Takeaways

    1. Collaboration Launch: Meta, Ray-Ban, and Coperni unveiled the Ray-Ban Meta x Coperni Limited Edition glasses at Paris Fashion Week as part of Coperni’s Fall Winter 25 collection.

    2. Exclusive Design: The glasses feature iconic Wayfarer frames in transparent black, grey mirrored lenses, and the Coperni logo on the temple tips, priced at $549.

    3. Limited Production: Only 3,600 pairs of the limited edition glasses will be made available for purchase.

    4. Global Availability: The glasses can be purchased online in select countries, including the US, UK, and several European nations.

    5. Smart Technology: The glasses include integrated cameras for video capture, audio streaming, Live AI, Live Translation, and celebrity voice options.

    Meta, Ray-Ban, and the fashion label Coperni from Paris have teamed up to create a special edition of the Ray-Ban Meta Glasses. This new smart glasses design was revealed during Paris Fashion Week last weekend and is part of Coperni’s Fall Winter 25 fashion collection.

    Exclusive Design Features

    Named the Ray-Ban Meta x Coperni Limited Edition glasses, they feature the iconic Ray-Ban Wayfarer frames, which are currently listed on Amazon for $329. These frames come in a transparent black color, allowing users to view the internal components of the smart glasses. Additionally, they come with grey mirrored lenses and display Coperni’s logo on the tips of the temples.

    Limited Availability

    As stated in an official press release, there will be a total of only 3,600 pairs of the Ray-Ban Meta x Coperni Limited Edition glasses produced. These glasses are now available for purchase on the websites of Coperni, Meta, and Ray-Ban for the price of $549. They can be bought in a few countries including Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Spain, Sweden, the US, and the UK.

    Smart Features

    The Ray-Ban Meta glasses are designed with smart technology, featuring integrated cameras that capture video from the wearer’s perspective. They also allow users to stream audio from various platforms like Spotify, support Live AI and Live Translation, and provide the option to hear celebrity voices, including those of Dame Judi Dench, John Cena, Awkwafina, and Keegan-Michael Key.

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  • Garmin Certifies New Device Amid Forerunner 975 Release Rumors

    Garmin Certifies New Device Amid Forerunner 975 Release Rumors

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released the Forerunner 265 and 965 models in 2023, following the Forerunner 255 and 955.
    2. A new Forerunner model, identified as ‘A04968’, has been approved by the FCC, indicating a potential launch before summer 2024.
    3. Speculation suggests that A04968 could be the Forerunner 975, following the trend of releasing new models in March.
    4. A04968 may not support Garmin Pay, which is surprising for a new model in the Forerunner series.
    5. An announcement for A04968 is expected in the coming months, generating anticipation among users.

    The Forerunner 265 and Forerunner 965 (curr. $589.95 on Amazon) have been in the market for a bit. Garmin unveiled these models in 2023, following the earlier release of the Forerunner 255 and Forerunner 955. Considering that the company has refreshed its Approach, Descent, Enduro, Fenix, and Instinct ranges recently, it seems like the Forerunner series is due for a similar update.

    New Model Buzz

    Recently, an entry with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has caught the attention of many, hinting that Garmin might be working on a new Forerunner model. This listing is for ‘A04968’, which the FCC approved in December 2024. While the details about A04968 are somewhat limited, it suggests that Garmin is aiming to launch this device before summer arrives.

    Speculation on the 975

    Since Garmin has put out two generations of Forerunner smartwatches in March, the5krunner speculates that A04968 could be linked to the Forerunner 975. However, it seems A04968 does not include support for Garmin Pay, which one would expect to see in a newer Forerunner watch. Regardless, we are probably only a couple of months away from Garmin revealing A04968 in some form.

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    Garmin Certifies New Device Amid Forerunner 975 Release RumorsGarmin Certifies New Device Amid Forerunner 975 Release RumorsGarmin Certifies New Device Amid Forerunner 975 Release Rumors
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  • Synseer HealthBuds: ANC Earbuds with Health Monitoring Features

    Synseer HealthBuds: ANC Earbuds with Health Monitoring Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. HealthBuds use infrasonic and ultrasonic sound technologies for more accurate heart and hearing health monitoring compared to traditional devices like smartwatches.
    2. The earbuds are priced at $399 with a $25 monthly subscription, and will officially launch in late summer 2025, pending regulatory approvals.
    3. HealthBuds are compatible with both Android and Apple smartphones.
    4. They provide active noise-cancellation and superior sound quality while tracking health metrics during phone calls.
    5. Interested individuals can meet Synseer at the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival for more information.

    Synseer has introduced the HealthBuds, a pair of active noise-cancelling earbuds that come with health monitoring capabilities.

    Innovative Monitoring Technology

    Differing from smartwatches that rely on optical techniques to track heart activity, the HealthBuds employ infrasonic and ultrasonic sound technologies to identify changes in the ear that correspond to heartbeats. The brand claims that this technology offers more accurate heart health readings than other monitoring gadgets, though it doesn’t specify which devices it refers to (like smartwatches). In addition to heart health, these earbuds also monitor hearing health. They are designed to deliver superior sound quality along with effective noise cancellation. The HealthBuds keep track of your health even during phone calls.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Synseer HealthBuds can be preordered for $399, with a monthly subscription fee of $25 (usually $799 with a $30 subscription fee). The launch is expected towards the end of summer 2025, subject to FDA and other regulatory approvals, and an AI health coach will follow this release. Both Android and Apple smartphones will be compatible with the earbuds.

    Additional Information

    For those keen on learning more about the Synseer earbuds, they can register to meet the company at the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival.

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  • Xiaomi Watch 3 Pro Leaks: Fast-Charging Premium Smartwatch

    Xiaomi Watch 3 Pro Leaks: Fast-Charging Premium Smartwatch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi has launched the Watch S4 internationally, but rumors suggest a more advanced device is in development.
    2. The new device may have eSIM support and could be a successor to the premium Watch 2 Pro or an early version of the Watch S5.
    3. The model number of the rumored device is similar to the S4, indicating it might just be an upgraded version rather than a completely new model.
    4. The upcoming Xiaomi Watch is expected to support fast charging, potentially using a 10W accessory.
    5. The smartwatch may launch alongside a new tablet with a large OLED display and a second-generation clamshell foldable smartphone.

    Xiaomi has recently launched the Watch S4 internationally, but there are rumors of an even more advanced device in development.

    Possible Successor to Watch 2 Pro

    The new device is expected to feature eSIM support, as indicated by its 3C certification. It could potentially be a successor to the premium Watch 2 Pro, which is currently priced at $269.99 on Amazon. Alternatively, it might be an early version of the Watch S5.

    Similar Model Numbers Raise Questions

    Interestingly, the model number from the recent leak, M2426W1, is quite close to that of the S4, which is M2424W1. This similarity hints that the upcoming model could simply be an upgraded version of the S4 rather than an entirely new device.

    Fast Charging Capabilities

    Regardless of its exact identity, the new Xiaomi Watch is thought to support fast charging. It might use a 10 watt (W, or 5V/2A) accessory called M2249ACD1, which is more powerful than the 7.5W charging capability found in its competitor, the OnePlus Watch 3.

    Xiaomi’s upcoming smartwatch could debut alongside its next tablet, which is rumored to feature a large OLED display, as well as the company’s second-generation clamshell foldable smartphone.

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    Xiaomi Watch 3 Pro Leaks: Fast-Charging Premium Smartwatch
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  • Black Shark Unveils Affordable Competitor to Samsung Galaxy Ring

    Black Shark Unveils Affordable Competitor to Samsung Galaxy Ring

    Key Takeaways

    1. Competitive Pricing: The Black Shark Ring 2 is priced at CNY 749 (about $103), making it a budget-friendly alternative to the Samsung Galaxy Ring.

    2. Weight Reduction: The new version weighs only 4 grams, improving comfort compared to the original Black Shark Ring, which weighed 5.4 grams.

    3. Enhanced Battery Life: The Black Shark Ring 2 offers up to 10 days of battery life on a full charge, with a total runtime of up to 90 days when using the charging box.

    4. New Control Features: It introduces gesture control, allowing users to switch videos by shaking their fingers, enhancing user interaction.

    5. Improved Health Tracking: The smart ring includes continuous heart rate monitoring, real-time sleep tracking, accurate blood oxygen measurement, and various workout modes like walking, cycling, and running.

    Samsung’s Galaxy Ring now faces competition from a new Chinese device, the Black Shark Ring 2. At a price of CNY 749, which is about $103, this budget-friendly smart ring is claimed to have several enhancements over its first version. Notably, it has a lighter build.

    Weight Reduction for Comfort

    The original Black Shark Ring weighed 5.4 grams, but the latest version boasts a weight of just 4 grams. While it’s still not as light as the Galaxy Ring, this weight decrease is a positive development, as it should enhance comfort for users. Another significant improvement is in the battery performance.

    Enhanced Battery Life

    The first-generation model could manage up to 5 days on a full charge, whereas the Black Shark Ring 2 is reported to last up to 10 days. With the inclusion of a charging box, the total runtime could reach as much as 90 days.

    New Control Features

    In addition to the extended battery life, the Black Shark Ring 2 introduces gesture control, a feature absent in the previous model. Although details about this feature remain vague, it’s suggested that users can switch videos by “shaking their fingers.”

    Moreover, the new smart ring is expected to provide better health tracking. According to the company, it offers continuous heart rate monitoring, real-time sleep tracking, and accurate blood oxygen measurement. For fitness enthusiasts, it includes various workout modes like walking, cycling, and running.

    Notable Specifications

    Some additional features of the Black Shark Ring 2 are its IP68 rating, all-day step tracking, sizes ranging from 7 to 12, and compatibility with both Android and iOS systems. There has been no announcement regarding its global release, and the first-generation model has yet to make its international appearance.

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    Black Shark Unveils Affordable Competitor to Samsung Galaxy RingBlack Shark Unveils Affordable Competitor to Samsung Galaxy RingBlack Shark Unveils Affordable Competitor to Samsung Galaxy RingBlack Shark Unveils Affordable Competitor to Samsung Galaxy Ring
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