Category: Wearables

March 3, 2025

Preorder New Casio Vintage A1100GV Stainless Steel Watches Now

Key Takeaways

1. Casio has launched the A1100GGV-8JF (silver) and A1100GV-9JF (gold) watches for preorder in Japan, part of the premium Vintage collection.
2. The design features a retro digital display, brushed metal case, and bracelet, creating a unified and modern look.
3. The watches are inspired by the iconic 52QS-14B CasioTron from the 1970s, known for its popularity.
4. Although not labeled as limited editions, preorders may sell out before the official launch in March 2025.
5. The compact dimensions of the watches are 40 × 35 × 9.1 mm, making them lightweight and comfortable to wear.

Casio has made its A1100GGV-8JF (silver) and A1100GV-9JF (gold) watches available for preorder in Japan. This follows their earlier leaks back in February. These watches are part of the premium Vintage collection and offer a stylish, full-metal design inspired by the iconic 52QS-14B CasioTron from the 1970s, a timepiece that enjoys considerable admiration.

Design Features

The A1100GV series maintains the classic retro digital display but adds a brushed metal case and bracelet that provide a more unified, monochromatic finish. The reflective dial enhances its modern appeal, and the compact dimensions of 40 × 35 × 9.1 mm ensure it’s quite light on the wrist.

Availability and Preorder Notes

Although Casio hasn’t labeled these watches as a limited edition, the A1100GV series is categorized as part of the brand’s higher-end Vintage line. This suggests that preorders may run out before the official launch set for March 2025. If you’re interested in securing a piece of Casio’s nostalgic digital legacy, now could be the perfect moment to act.

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March 2, 2025

Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro Launches at MWC 2025: Availability Update

Key Takeaways

1. Launch and Pricing: Xiaomi’s Smart Band 9 Pro is available in a new Cream White color, priced at €79.90 (approximately $94.93).

2. Display Enhancements: The display features a peak brightness of 1,200 nits, improving visibility in various lighting conditions.

3. Health and Fitness Tracking: The device includes improved health monitoring with a new AFE chip for more accurate blood oxygen and heart rate readings, along with over 150 sports modes and a 5 ATM water resistance rating.

4. Battery Life: Users can expect up to 21 days of battery life in regular mode and up to 10 days with the “Always On Display” mode.

5. Additional Features: The Smart Band 9 Pro offers music control, improved vibration feedback from a new linear motor, and a stylish design.

Xiaomi recently launched the Smart Band 9 Pro, first in China and later in markets like the UK, Japan, and parts of the EU late last year. Now, the wearable is available in a new Cream White color, priced at €79.90 (which is about $94.93 on Amazon). This makes it a budget-friendly option for those looking for a smartwatch packed with features.

Display Improvements

The Smart Band 9 Pro comes with a few enhancements compared to the earlier model. One major upgrade is the display, which has a peak brightness of 1,200 nits. This improvement allows for better visibility in various lighting situations.

Health Monitoring and Fitness Tracking

While the screen size remains unchanged at 1.74 inches and it still utilizes an AMOLED panel with a 60 Hz refresh rate, Xiaomi asserts that the health tracking capabilities have improved. The new AFE chip is said to provide more accurate readings for blood oxygen levels and heart rate.

For those into fitness, the device offers over 150 sports modes. Additionally, Xiaomi claims that the GNSS five-satellite positioning system is 33% more reliable than the previous version. The Smart Band 9 Pro also features a 5 ATM water resistance rating, making it a suitable choice for swimmers.

Battery Life and Features

Battery life has also been enhanced, with Xiaomi stating that users can expect up to 21 days of usage in regular mode and up to 10 days with the “Always On Display” mode. Other impressive features include music control, a new linear motor for improved vibration feedback, and an attractive design.

Tags: Affordable Smartwatch, Smart Band 9 Pro, Xiaomi
March 2, 2025

Xiaomi Watch S4 Launches at MWC 2025: 1,500 Nit AMOLED, 15 Days Battery

Key Takeaways

1. The Xiaomi Watch S4 features a 1.43-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels and a peak brightness of 1,500 nits.
2. The smartwatch offers accurate health monitoring, measuring heart rate and blood oxygen levels with 98.2% accuracy compared to professional equipment.
3. It includes HyperOS 2.0, allowing a battery life of up to 5 days with always-on display or 15 days without it.
4. The starting price for the Watch S4 is €159.99 (about $166), which is €10 more than the previous Watch S3.
5. The Watch S4 aims to attract users with its advanced features and competitive pricing in the modular smartwatch market.

The Watch S4 represents Xiaomi’s newest effort in the modular smartwatch arena. After its initial launch in China last October, the Watch S4 is now available globally, coinciding with the release of the Xiaomi 15 series smartphones and Pad 7 tablets, among other gadgets.

Display and Features

Xiaomi claims that the Watch S4 takes over from the Watch S3, featuring a 1.43-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels, a refresh rate of 60 Hz, and a peak brightness of 1,500 nits (HBM). This smartwatch is also capable of accurately measuring heart rate and blood oxygen levels, achieving an accuracy of 98.2% when compared to professional equipment. Furthermore, Xiaomi highlights that with HyperOS 2.0, the battery can last up to 5 days with the always-on display mode active, or up to 15 days if this feature is turned off.

Pricing and Availability

The Watch S4 is priced starting at €159.99 (about $166) in Europe, or it can be obtained for free by pre-ordering the Xiaomi 15 with the 512 GB version. Consequently, this new smartwatch is €10 more costly than the previous Watch S3, which currently retails for $149.99 on Amazon. Nevertheless, it is also slightly lower in price than what was initially rumored before its release. For more information, please visit Xiaomi’s website.

Conclusion

Xiaomi’s Watch S4 adds some interesting features and improvements over its predecessor. With its competitive pricing and advanced technology, it aims to attract more users in the crowded smartwatch market.

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Tags: AMOLED display, Xiaomi Watch S4
March 2, 2025

Honor Watch 5 Ultra Launches at MWC 2025: Octagonal Design & ECG

Key Takeaways

1. Premium Build: The Honor Watch 5 Ultra features a grade 5 titanium case and sapphire crystal glass, enhancing its durability and style.

2. Unique Design: Its distinct octagonal design sets it apart from other high-end smartwatches, emphasizing a premium aesthetic.

3. Comprehensive Health Monitoring: The smartwatch includes features like Quick Health Scan for ECG readings, and tracks blood oxygen levels, sleep patterns, and heart rate.

4. Display and Battery: It boasts a 1.5-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 466×466 pixels, and a 480 mAh battery that lasts up to 15 days.

5. Customization and Features: Offers over 10,000 customizable watch faces, continuous health tracking, and a diving mode, with availability and pricing yet to be announced.

Honor has officially launched the Watch 5 Ultra at MWC 2025. This model is an upgraded version of the standard one, showcasing a more premium construction with a grade 5 titanium case and sapphire crystal glass. The smartwatch’s chassis is also designed to be water-resistant, boasting 5 ATM and IP68 ratings.

Unique Design Features

Yet, the quality of the build is not the only standout feature of the Honor Watch 5 Ultra. Its octagonal design sets it apart from other high-end smartwatches offered by the brand. There is a strong emphasis on health and fitness monitoring as well, making it a versatile option for users.

Health Monitoring Capabilities

Among its significant health tracking features is the Quick Health Scan, which can provide instant ECG readings. Honor asserts that the Watch 5 Ultra delivers precise information regarding blood oxygen levels, sleep patterns, and heart rate. For fitness enthusiasts, the smartwatch includes 100 sports modes and accommodates a variety of indoor and outdoor activities.

Display and Battery Life

Returning to the specifications and design, the Honor Watch 5 Ultra features a 1.5-inch AMOLED display. This screen has an 82.6 percent screen-to-body ratio, a resolution of 466×466 pixels, and a refresh rate of 60 Hz. A 480 mAh battery powers the device, promising up to 15 days of use under normal conditions. Furthermore, it supports both wireless and reverse charging (with the Anker Zolo wireless power bank priced at $24.99 on Amazon).

Additional Features and Availability

Other impressive features of the Honor Watch 5 Ultra include over 10,000 customizable watch faces, continuous health tracking, and a specialized diving mode. The pricing details for the smartwatch have yet to be disclosed, and the company has not announced when it will be available for sale. However, Honor has confirmed it will come with black and brown straps.

Tags: Health Tracking, Honor Watch 5 Ultra, Smartwatch
March 2, 2025

New Casio G-Shock x Bamford London Watch Collaboration Leaked

Key Takeaways

1. Casio’s G-Shock collaborations, especially with Bamford London, are highly popular and often sell out quickly.
2. The first collaboration in 2020 featured unique aqua blue accents and sold out in just three minutes.
3. The second collaboration in 2022 introduced a triple blue theme with a negative LCD display, continuing the trend of quick sell-outs.
4. Speculation surrounds the third collaboration, with possibilities for different G-Shock models, including the popular GA-2100.
5. Anticipation for the new release is high, with expectations for limited availability and strong demand upon its announcement.

Casio’s G-Shock collaborations have become highly sought-after timepieces in the watch market, frequently selling out in a matter of minutes. Their partnership with the luxury brand Bamford London has been especially fruitful in the past. Recently, a reliable source on Instagram (@morgan_gshock) hinted that the two brands may be gearing up to unveil their third collaboration, although specifics are still quite limited.

First Collaborations Success

Bamford’s initial partnership with Casio in 2020 resulted in the release of the Casio GW-M5610BWD20-1ER, which featured Bamford’s unique aqua blue accents. Its eye-catching design quickly made it a favorite among collectors, as it sold out in just three minutes. The following collaboration, the DW-6900BWD-1ER (2022), maintained this trend with the triple blue theme, showcasing three different shades of blue, a negative LCD display, and a custom blue EL backlight.

Anticipating the Next Model

As rumors circulate about a third watch, the key question arises: which G-Shock model will be the foundation for this new piece? Casio has a history of using the DW-5600 and DW-6900 for collaborations, but it wouldn’t be shocking to see a different model like the GA-2100 (“CasiOak”) as the base, especially given its recent surge in popularity.

The absence of official information leaves us guessing if Bamford will enhance past designs or create a fresh new look altogether. What is clear, however, is that if this upcoming release follows the pattern of its predecessors, it will probably be in high demand and offered in limited supplies. We should be on the lookout for an official announcement in the near future.

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Tags: G-SHOCK
March 1, 2025

Pre-Order Casio G-Shock Fire Package 2025 Special Edition Watches

Key Takeaways

1. Casio has launched its limited-edition G-Shock “Fire Package” collection for 2025, continuing a tradition since 2014.
2. The collection features two models: the AWG-M100FP-1A2JR (analog-digital) and GW-2320FP-1A2JR (fully digital), aimed at young individuals facing new challenges.
3. Pre-orders are available in Japan, with prices starting at 24,200 yen (~$162) and going up to 31,900 yen (~$213); international availability is uncertain.
4. Both watches include Tough Solar charging, Multi-band 6 time adjustment, 20 bar water resistance, and various standard features like alarms and world time.
5. The Fire Package series originally debuted in 2004, was revived in 2015, and has since become an annual release.

It’s that time of year again when Casio brings out its limited-edition G-Shock “Fire Package” watches. This tradition has been alive since 2014, with the Japanese watchmaker launching special themed AWG-M100 and 2300 series watches every first quarter of the year. Following this custom, Casio has now officially introduced the 2025 G-Shock Fire Package collection.

Latest Releases

This year’s set includes the analog-digital AWG-M100FP-1A2JR and the fully digital GW-2320FP-1A2JR models. The theme focuses on young people, freshmen, and “individuals who are embarking on new challenges in fresh areas,” which Casio claims is reflected in the black base color alongside cool blue highlights. The watches come packed in a unique box, seemingly created from eco-friendly materials. It’s unfortunate that Casio stopped using the classic trunk-style box last year.

Pre-Order Details

The G-Shock Fire Package 2025 edition can now be pre-ordered in Japan. The pricing starts at 24,200 yen (~$162) for the analog-digital GW-2320FP model and rises to 31,900 yen (~$213) for the fully digital AWG-M100FP watch. What about a worldwide launch? Typically, Fire Package watches are exclusive to Japan. Some previous models have made it to the US and UK, but the editions from 2023 and 2024 did not, so we shouldn’t expect much.

Features and Specifications

Both watches come with Tough Solar charging, Multi-band 6 radio-controlled time adjustment, 20 bar water resistance, an LED backlight, and are shock-resistant. They also have standard features like world time for 48 cities, 5 daily alarms, a fully automatic calendar, a stopwatch, and a countdown timer.

A Look Back

The Fire Package series has a fascinating background. It was first launched in 2004 with three hybrid analog-digital watches. However, there wasn’t another release for over ten years. Casio brought the series back in 2015 but with a new approach, offering only two models: the AWG-M100, an analog-digital hybrid, and the GW-M500, a fully digital watch. Since then, it has become an annual event.

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March 1, 2025

New Casio G-Shock GD-100: Limited Edition Suzuki Watch Launch

Key Takeaways

1. The third Suzuki Jimny x Casio G-Shock GD-100 watch is inspired by the Suzuki Jimny 4WD and will be available in a limited lottery of 1,000 units from April 9 to April 15, 2025.

2. The watch features a military-inspired color palette, enhanced visibility digital screen, and includes Jimny branding like the rhino logo and engraved case back.

3. Each watch comes in special edition packaging, including a metal canister with Jimny and Casio illustrations, and has G-Shock’s shock resistance and 200-meter water resistance.

4. The watch is priced at ¥26,400 ($175), with lottery winners notified on April 16, 2025, and deliveries expected by the end of April.

5. High demand is anticipated due to the popularity of previous Jimny x G-Shock models.

Casio and Suzuki are collaborating again to introduce the third iteration of the Suzuki Jimny x Casio G-Shock GD-100 watch. This latest model draws inspiration from Suzuki’s well-known Jimny 4WD, a compact, five-door SUV. It will be sold in a limited lottery of 1,000 units, with applications open from April 9 to April 15, 2025.

Design Features

The G-Shock GD-100 is the foundation for this unique edition, showcasing a military-inspired color palette that reflects the Jimny’s adventurous spirit. The digital screen is designed for better visibility, complemented by green and yellow details that enhance its tough look. Casio has cleverly included Jimny branding throughout the watch, featuring a custom backlight with the Jimny rhino logo, an engraved case back that reads Jimny x Suzuki, along with more branded touches on the strap.

Packaging and Specifications

Each watch is presented in special edition packaging, which includes a metal canister adorned with illustrations of the Jimny and Casio logos. The timepiece boasts G-Shock’s renowned shock resistance and is water-resistant up to 200 meters, making it a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

This is the third time that Suzuki has collaborated with Casio G-Shock. Previous Jimny-themed G-Shock models also utilized a limited-edition lottery system, showcasing designs that honored the Jimny’s off-road prowess. The set price for this watch is ¥26,400 ($175), and those selected in the lottery will be informed on April 16, 2025, with deliveries expected by the end of April.

Anticipated Demand

With the success of past Jimny x G-Shock models, there is a strong expectation that interest in this new edition will be high.

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Tags: limited edition watch
March 1, 2025

Xiaomi Watch S4 Prices on Amazon: Base Model €159.99

Key Takeaways

1. Pricing Information: The Xiaomi Watch S4 is expected to have an MSRP of €159.99 for black and silver models, with the ‘Rainbow’ model priced at €169.99 in Eurozone countries.

2. Global Launch: The global launch of the Xiaomi Watch S4 is anticipated at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 in Barcelona, following its initial launch in China in October 2024.

3. Display and Connectivity: The global version features a 1.43-inch AMOLED display (466 x 466 resolution) with a peak brightness of 2,220 nits, and supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.3, including Bluetooth calling.

4. Health and Navigation Features: The smartwatch includes health-tracking capabilities such as a heart rate monitor, accelerometer, and barometric altimeter, as well as GPS and other navigation systems like Beidou, Galileo, and GLONASS.

5. Battery Life and Compatibility: It has a 486 mAh battery lasting up to 15 days on a single charge and is compatible with Android 8.0 or higher and iOS 12.0 or above, but may lack the wrist gesture controls found in the Chinese version.

Multiple versions of the Xiaomi Watch S4 have been seen on Amazon in Dubai, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, showing different price ranges in these regions.

Pricing Details

From the early listings, the black and silver models of the Watch S4 are likely to have a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of €159.99 across most Eurozone countries. The ‘Rainbow’ model is priced a bit higher at €169.99.

Global Launch Expectation

The Xiaomi Watch S4 was launched in China in October 2024 alongside the Pad 7 Pro, Smart Band 9 Pro, Xiaomi 15, and Xiaomi 15 Pro. It is anticipated to have its global launch at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 event in Barcelona next week. Although Xiaomi has confirmed its attendance and plans to unveil new products globally, they have yet to share specific details regarding what will be announced.

Specifications of the Global Model

The global version of the Xiaomi Watch S4 is expected to come in colors like silver, black, and rainbow. It boasts a 1.43-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 466 x 466 and peaks brightness of 2,220 nits. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.3, and it supports Bluetooth calling through built-in microphones and speakers. This smartwatch includes health-tracking features like a heart rate monitor, accelerometer, and barometric altimeter. It also supports GPS, Beidou, Galileo, and GLONASS for navigation. The Watch S4 has NFC capabilities and is rated at 5 ATM for water resistance, making it suitable for short swims.

It is equipped with a 486 mAh Li-Po battery that can last up to 15 days on a single charge. The watch is compatible with smartphones that run Android 8.0 or higher and iOS 12.0 or above. However, the wrist gesture controls found in the Chinese version are not mentioned for the global version based on the leaked specifications.

Tags: Mobile World Congress 2025, Smartwatch, Xiaomi Watch S4
March 1, 2025

Casio G-Shock GW-5000HS: Solar Charging & Multi-Band 6 Now in US

Key Takeaways

1. Casio has launched the G-Shock GW-5000HS-1 and GW-5000HS-7 in the U.S., honoring the original G-Shock from 1983.
2. The GW-5000HS-7 features a clean white design, while the GW-5000HS-1 maintains the classic black look with an inverted display.
3. Both watches are made in Japan with durable materials, including a metal casing and a bio-based resin strap.
4. They include advanced features like Tough Solar power, Multi-band 6 timekeeping, and 200-meter water resistance.
5. The G-Shock GW-5000HS series is priced at $300 and is available on Casio’s website, with recent availability in the UK and Europe.

Casio has finally introduced the G-Shock GW-5000HS-1 and GW-5000HS-7 watches in the United States. These latest additions pay tribute to the original G-Shock, which debuted in 1983, keeping the classic face layout, the well-known brick pattern, the screw-lock case back, and the mode indicators that fans have cherished.

Striking Designs

Among the two, the G-Shock GW-5000HS-7 stands out with its clean white color and non-inverted display. It’s significant as it’s the very first non-black watch in the GW5000 series. On the other hand, the GW-5000HS-1 upholds the traditional black look and features an inverted LCD, giving it a more discreet appearance.

Quality Craftsmanship

Both of these timepieces are crafted at the Yamagata Casio factory in Japan, the birthplace of G-Shock. They come with a metal casing and a screw-lock back cover that has a DLC (diamond-like carbon) finish for extra resilience. Additionally, they include a rubber strap made from bio-based resin, making them eco-friendlier.

Advanced Features

The G-Shock GW-5000HS series is packed with cutting-edge features such as Tough Solar power, Multi-band 6 support for radio-controlled, precise timekeeping, and Super Illuminator LED lighting to enhance visibility in low light. They also offer 200-meter water resistance and standard watch functionalities like World Time for 31 time zones and 48 cities, a 24-hour countdown timer, five daily alarms with snooze, a full auto calendar, a 1/100-second stopwatch, and a battery level indicator.

You can now find the G-Shock GW-5000HS series on Casio’s website for the price of $300. Both models join the GW-5000U-1, which was released in 2021 and is now out of stock in the U.S. They have also recently become available in the UK and Europe.

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Tags: Casio
March 1, 2025

OnePlus Watch 3 Buyers Get Apology Letters for Issues

Key Takeaways

1. The OnePlus Watch 3 features a typo, saying “Maed in China” instead of “Made in China,” which led to a pause in sales.
2. OnePlus issued an apology and offered customers the choice to return the watch or keep it as a “limited edition” collectible.
3. The smartwatch is available for pre-order with a price of $329, and a coupon code can be used for a $30 discount.
4. It has a 1.5-inch LTPO AMOLED display, IP68 water and dust resistance, and meets MIL-STD-810H standards for durability.
5. Powered by the Snapdragon W5 processor, it offers 32GB of storage, runs on WearOS 5, and has a 613mAh battery for up to 5 days of use.

The OnePlus Watch 3 is the newest flagship smartwatch from the company. This watch attracted attention when well-known YouTuber MKBHD found a small typo on its backside. The engraving incorrectly says “Maed in China” instead of the correct “Made in China.”

Company Response to the Error

OnePlus recognized this small error on X and chose to pause new sales of the smartwatch. However, since not everyone follows social media, they took further action. A Reddit user shared that their OnePlus Watch 3 included a letter of apology. This letter informed customers that they could either return the item or keep it as a special “limited edition” collectible.

Apology from OnePlus

“Unfortunately, shortly after the OnePlus Watch 3 went on sale, we noticed a typo on the underside of the dial – ‘Meda in China’. Apologies!” – OnePlus

The OnePlus Watch 3 is available for pre-order, but delivery has been postponed until April. Its price is set at $329, but customers can use the coupon code “TIME1010” on the official OnePlus website to receive a $30 discount.

Features and Specifications

The Watch 3 boasts a 1.5-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a maximum brightness of 2,200 nits, ensuring good visibility in bright outdoor conditions. For durability, it has an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. Moreover, it is also compliant with MIL-STD-810H standards. Powered by the Snapdragon W5 along with a custom BE2800 co-processor, the Watch 3 comes equipped with 32GB of storage and operates on the WearOS 5 system. Its battery has a capacity of 613mAh, providing up to 5 days of use under normal conditions.

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Tags: Oneplus, OnePlus Watch 3, Smartwatch