Category: Wearables

  • Garmin Fenix 8 Beta Released with Stable Version Coming Soon

    Garmin Fenix 8 Beta Released with Stable Version Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Garmin beta 13.31 update is being released for Fenix 8 AMOLED, Fenix 8 Solar, Fenix E, and Enduro 3 smartwatches, with a focus on rapid improvements.
    2. Bug fixes include resolving issues with the passcode feature and access to the smart trainer options menu.
    3. New features activated in this update include ECG and Dive functionalities, along with a new Passcode tool for enhanced security.
    4. Enhancements also comprise strength workouts in Garmin Run Coach and Cycling Coach plans, and a new QWERTY Keyboard Layout with predictive text.
    5. The update is being delivered over-the-air (OTA) in a phased rollout, and users can manually check for updates in their device settings.


    The Garmin beta 13.31 update is currently being released for the Fenix 8 AMOLED, Fenix 8 Solar, Fenix E, and Enduro 3 smartwatches. In the last week alone, Garmin has pushed out four updates in this 13.xx testing phase, showing their commitment to rapid improvements.

    Bug Fixes Included

    The new beta version 13.31 includes two crucial bug fixes related to the new passcode feature. One fix addresses a problem where Garmin Connect Mobile was not leaving the blocked state as intended. The other fix ensures that the device’s Passcode lock doesn’t disrupt the Wi-Fi syncing process. Additionally, a bug that was preventing users from accessing the smart trainer options menu has also been corrected.

    New Features and Enhancements

    According to the release notes, the ECG and Dive features are now activated. This suggests that Garmin is optimistic about making this update stable soon, which would allow all users with Fenix 8, Fenix E, and Enduro 3 smartwatches (currently priced at $833.99 on Amazon) to enjoy these new features. The full change log since the last official update, version 12.38, shows the introduction of the Passcode tool for enhanced security, along with the inclusion of strength workouts in the Garmin Run Coach and Garmin Cycling Coach plans. A new QWERTY Keyboard Layout that supports predictive text has also been added, and improvements have been made to the Body Battery and Training Readiness features.

    Update Availability

    This update is being delivered over-the-air (OTA), and Garmin has noted that it is a phased rollout. Unfortunately, they haven’t specified what percentage of users should have received it by now. However, users eager to get the update can manually check for it by navigating to Menu > System > Software Update > Check for Updates.

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  • Casio DW-6900TR Limited Edition Watches Available in the UK

    Casio DW-6900TR Limited Edition Watches Available in the UK

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio DW-6900TR watches celebrate the 30th anniversary of the DW-6900 model and come in three colors: black, red, and yellow.
    2. The watch features a shock-resistant design, bio-resin case, 200-meter water resistance, and a fully automated calendar.
    3. It includes functions such as a countdown timer, multifunctional alarm, and stopwatch, with an accuracy of within 15 seconds per month.
    4. Battery life is estimated at five years, and it has an LED backlight that displays “Since 1995” when activated.
    5. The watches are priced at £99.90 in the UK, with early purchasers receiving complimentary stickers. Availability in other regions is still uncertain.


    The new Casio DW-6900TR watches have hit the market in the UK. This special edition timepiece marks the 30th anniversary of the DW-6900 model and is available in three shades: the black DW-6900TR-1ER, the red DW-6900TR-4ER, and the yellow DW-6900TR-9ER. Earlier this year, details about this collection were leaked, and it officially debuted in Japan just a few weeks ago.

    Features and Specifications

    The DW-6900TR is a robust digital watch designed to resist shocks, featuring a bio-resin case and a water resistance rating of 200 meters. It offers the time in both 12-hour and 24-hour formats, as well as the current date and day of the week. The calendar function is fully automated, and the watch boasts an impressive accuracy of within 15 seconds per month. It comes with useful tools like a countdown timer, a multifunctional alarm, and a stopwatch.

    Battery Life and Illumination

    Casio estimates that the battery life of the DW-6900TR will last around five years. It also includes an LED backlight that can be turned on using a prominent central button, making it easier to read in low-light conditions. When lit, the display reveals the phrase “Since 1995,” celebrating the original DW-6900’s launch year.

    You can purchase the Casio DW-6900TR-1ER, DW-6900TR-4ER, and DW-6900TR-9ER models in the UK for a price of £99.90. Additionally, customers who order early will receive complimentary stickers, which will be added to your cart at checkout. Currently, it’s uncertain if or when these watches will become available in other regions, such as the US, Australia, or the Netherlands.

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  • Casio G-Shock Fine Metallic: New Digital and Hybrid Watches US Launch

    Casio G-Shock Fine Metallic: New Digital and Hybrid Watches US Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio has launched two new watches in the Fine Metallic series: GM2100YMG-9A9 and GM5600YM-8A8.
    2. The GM2100YMG-9A9 features a gold watch face and retains specifications like 200 m water resistance and a three-year battery life.
    3. The GM5600YM-8A8 has a metallic grey bezel and shares features such as LED backlight and five-year battery life.
    4. Both watches offer functional features including stopwatches, countdown timers, and multiple alarms.
    5. Pricing for the GM2100YMG-9A9 is $300 and GM5600YM-8A8 is $240, with availability expanding to European markets soon.


    Casio has introduced two new watches in its Fine Metallic series in the United States: the GM2100YMG-9A9 and the GM5600YM-8A8. These timepieces were seen earlier this month on the Casio G-Shock Singapore site and are now beginning to launch in other countries around the globe. They join the recently unveiled models GM5600YMG-8, GM5600YM-9, GM2100YMG-8A, and GM2100YM-9A.

    Similar Features, Different Looks

    The GM2100YMG-9A9 closely resembles the GM2100YMG-9A hybrid model, featuring a gold stainless steel bezel along with a coordinated resin case and Tough Silicone strap. The notable change is that the GM2100YMG-9A9 sports a gold watch face instead of a black one, and the inset digital display features a light background with dark figures. Its specifications remain unchanged, offering support for 31 time zones, 200 m water resistance, and an estimated battery life of three years. Additionally, it includes a stopwatch, a countdown timer, and five daily alarms.

    Digital Design with a Twist

    Similarly, the GM5600YM-8A8 is nearly the same as the GM5600YM-8 digital model. Both watches come with a silver stainless steel bezel and matching casing and strap. However, the GM5600YM-8A8 has a metallic grey bezel around its digital display, which also has a light background with dark figures. Once again, these watches share identical features, including an LED backlight and an estimated battery life of five years along with 200 m water resistance. They also feature flash alerts, a multi-function alarm, a countdown timer, and a stopwatch.

    You can purchase the Casio G-Shock G-Steel Fine Metallic GM2100YMG-9A9 and GM5600YM-8A8 watches for $300 and $240, respectively. Listings in European countries such as France suggest that these models will soon be available in that market too, priced at €299 and €239; they are currently marked as “Coming soon,” though no specific release date has been disclosed.

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  • Garmin Fenix 6 and 6 Pro Get Release Candidate Update Tease

    Garmin Fenix 6 and 6 Pro Get Release Candidate Update Tease

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released Beta Version 28.00 for Fenix 6 and Fenix 6 Pro smartwatches, moving from Beta Version 27.77.
    2. About 30% of beta testers will receive the new update, but users can manually check for it via the device menu.
    3. Beta Version 28.00 is a Release Candidate build, likely to be the final beta version before the stable update.
    4. The release of the stable update depends on the absence of critical issues or unresolved bugs.
    5. Upcoming updates are planned for multiple Garmin smartwatch models, including Enduro, Marq, Quatix 6, and Tactix Delta.


    A few weeks ago, Garmin provided an update for the Fenix 6 and Fenix 6 Pro (current price: $369.99 – renewed on Amazon). At that time, we noted that the company was slowly making progress toward a new stable update after launching System Software 27.00 in May 2024.

    New Beta Update Released

    Garmin has now moved from Beta Version 27.77 to Beta Version 28.00, which is expected to reach about 30% of beta testers by the time this is published. If you want to bypass the phased rollout, you can manually check for the update by going to the Menu, then System, and selecting Software Update before clicking on ‘Check for Updates’.

    Important Information About Beta Version

    Garmin emphasizes that Beta Version 28.00 is a Release Candidate build. This means it should be what the company intends to release as the next stable update. In simpler terms, Beta Version 28.00 is likely the last version in this beta development phase. However, this will depend on whether Garmin finds any ‘critical issues’, like unresolved bugs. Currently, Garmin aims to introduce the following updates to the Enduro, Fenix 6, Fenix 6 Pro, Marq, Quatix 6, and Tactix Delta smartwatches that are using stable software.

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  • OnePlus Watch 3 Launch Deals and Discounts Available Now

    OnePlus Watch 3 Launch Deals and Discounts Available Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. The OnePlus Watch 3 is launched at $329 in the US, £319 in the UK, and €349 in Europe, with an introductory $30 discount available.
    2. Users can apply coupon code TIME1010 for the discount and benefit from 50% off on accessories when bought with the watch.
    3. The smartwatch features a Snapdragon W5 SoC, a 1.5-inch LTPO AMOLED display, and comes in Emerald Titanium and Obsidian Titanium color variants.
    4. Health monitoring capabilities include an eight-channel heart rate sensor, 16-channel SpO2, and a new 60-second Check-In feature for various health metrics.
    5. The watch has a 631mAh battery that lasts up to 120 hours on a full charge.


    OnePlus Watch 3 is now officially launched in various regions including the US, UK, and Europe, with prices set at $329, £319, and €349, respectively. To entice buyers, OnePlus is providing several introductory offers and discounts for those keen on trying out this latest smartwatch. A special $30 discount is available, bringing the price down to $300.

    Understanding the OnePlus Watch 3 Deal

    The OnePlus Watch 3 comes equipped with a rotating crown, designed to wow customers with its enhanced features and the new WearOS 5. Users can apply the coupon code TIME1010 to receive a $30 discount. In addition to this, the Chinese tech company is also providing a generous 50% off on accessories when purchased alongside the watch.

    Interestingly, you can snag a OnePlus Watch Charging Base for just $19.99, which is a 33% discount. Additionally, the OnePlus Watch Strap is priced at $19.99, and the OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro are available for $39.99.

    Purchase Options

    Users can explore add-on bundles below the main product for even more exciting savings. The OnePlus Watch 3 features a Snapdragon W5 SoC along with BES 2800 chipsets. It boasts a large over 1.5-inch LTPO AMOLED display that shines with over 2200 nits brightness, encased in a stainless steel body, and is topped with a rotating crown bezel. The smartwatch comes in two color variants: Emerald Titanium and Obsidian Titanium.

    Health and Performance Features

    Focusing on health monitoring while maintaining a sleek design, this smartwatch includes an eight-channel heart rate sensor, 16-channel SpO2, and a fresh vascular health test. Notably, there’s a new 60-second Check-In feature that measures heart rate, blood oxygen, wrist temperature, vascular health, and sleep quality metrics. With a fully charged 631mAh battery, the watch can last for up to 120 hours of use.

  • Oppo Watch X2 Health Features Revealed Before February 20 Launch

    Oppo Watch X2 Health Features Revealed Before February 20 Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. OnePlus has launched its Watch 3, which is a rebranded version of Oppo’s upcoming Watch X2.
    2. Both smartwatches are expected to have similar health monitoring features, including ECG, heart rate tracking, and blood oxygen sensors.
    3. The Watch X2 will include advanced health tools like a hypertension risk assessment and comprehensive sleep health monitoring.
    4. It features a 1.5-inch Ultra-Bright Diamond Display, dual-frequency GPS, and a battery life of up to two weeks in power-saving mode.
    5. The Watch X2 will be officially launched on February 20 in China, alongside the Find N5 smartphone.


    OnePlus has recently unveiled its much-awaited Watch 3 in the global market. Meanwhile, Oppo is all set to introduce its Watch X2 in an event in China tomorrow.

    Similar Features Expected

    The OnePlus Watch 3 is being described as a rebranded version of the soon-to-be-released Watch X2. The two devices share a strikingly similar design and are anticipated to offer comparable features. Oppo has already shared a variety of details about the Watch X2 on Weibo, and they have just disclosed some important specifications.

    Key Specifications Teased

    As per the latest teasers, the upcoming watch is likely to include ECG electrodes, an 8-channel heart rate monitor, a blood oxygen sensor with 16 channels, and a wrist temperature sensor. The device will provide a 60-second health check, similar to the Watch 3, which evaluates 14 essential indicators and sends alerts for any irregularities.

    In addition, the Watch X2 will feature a passive hypertension risk assessment tool that evaluates potential high blood pressure risks after a week of continuous usage. For monitoring sleep health, the smartwatch will provide sleep scoring, apnea detection, heart rate tracking, and temperature monitoring. Its heart health capabilities encompass ECG, heart rate, blood oxygen tracking, vascular elasticity analysis, and assessments of blood pressure. It also keeps tabs on physical and mental wellness by examining important behaviors and weekly health trends.

    Additional Features and Design

    In terms of other specifications, the watch will come equipped with dual-frequency all-constellation GPS, ensuring precise outdoor tracking and navigation. It boasts a battery life of 26 hours with GPS active and 24 hours for navigation. Oppo is introducing its new Glacier Battery that can last up to two weeks in power-saving mode, five days in full smart mode, and 16 days in extended mode.

    The Watch X2 features a 1.5-inch Ultra-Bright Diamond Display that can reach a peak brightness of 2200 nits, making it easy to see outside. The design incorporates a round dial with a titanium bezel and a pyramid-textured rotating crown for simpler navigation.

    The smartwatch will be available in a 46mm size, supporting eSIM, and will have a 648mAh battery with 10W fast charging capabilities, NFC, and 5ATM water resistance with an IP68 rating. Oppo has announced three color choices: Azure Peak Blue, Obsidian Black, and Desert Silver Moon.

    Launch Event Details

    The Watch X2 is set to launch alongside the Find N5 on February 20 (tomorrow) at 19:00 in China.

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  • New Casio Fine Metallic G-Shock Watches Now in the US

    New Casio Fine Metallic G-Shock Watches Now in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio has released four new G-Shock G-Steel Fine Metallic watches in the US: GM5600YMG-8, GM5600YM-9, GM2100YMG-8A, and GM2100YM-9A.
    2. The GM5600 series features a metal bezel, silicone band, 200-meter water resistance, and a battery life of around five years.
    3. The GM2100 series combines stainless steel and resin, also offering 200-meter water resistance, but with a shorter battery life of about three years.
    4. Both series include features like a stopwatch, countdown timer, alarms, and LED backlight for visibility.
    5. Pricing for the new watches starts at $240 for the GM5600YM-8 and goes up to $300 for the GM2100YMG-9A.


    Casio has introduced four new G-Shock G-Steel Fine Metallic watches in the US: the GM5600YMG-8, GM5600YM-9, GM2100YMG-8A, and GM2100YM-9A. These watches were released earlier in January in Japan and Europe, and they are set to be available for purchase in the UK soon.

    Features of the GM5600 Series

    The GM5600YMG-8 and GM5600YM-9 come with a metal bezel and a silicone band that looks metallic. These shock-resistant digital timepieces are water-resistant up to 200 meters and are designed to last around five years on a single battery. They include features like a 1/100-second stopwatch, a 24-hour countdown timer, and a multifunctional alarm. Additionally, there’s an LED backlight that makes it easier to read the watch face in dim conditions. The GM5600YMG-8 has a dark display with light numbers set in a silver case, while the GM5600YM-9 has a gold finish with a classic light display featuring dark numbers.

    The GM2100 Series Overview

    The GM2100YMG-8A and GM2100YM-9A are hybrid models that mix stainless steel and resin. These watches also boast shock resistance and are water-resistant to 200 meters. However, the battery life for the GM2100 models is a bit shorter, lasting about three years. They offer the same stopwatch, countdown timer, and five daily alarms. Moreover, they include support for 31 world time zones, a dual LED backlight, and a hand shift function. The GM2100YMG-8A is entirely silver, while the GM2100YM-9A has a gold finish paired with a black watch face.

    Pricing Details

    You can now find these Casio G-Shock G-Steel Fine Metallic watches in the US, with prices starting at $240 for the GM5600YM-8. The GM2100YM-8A is priced a bit higher at $260, while the GM5600YMG-9 is available for $280, and the GM2100YMG-9A can be purchased for $300.

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  • Amazfit Active 2 Launches in Europe: €99 Smartwatch with 10-Day Battery

    Amazfit Active 2 Launches in Europe: €99 Smartwatch with 10-Day Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit Active 2 smartwatch is now available in Europe, expanding from its initial launch in North America.
    2. It features a stylish design with a stainless steel frame and a bright 1.32-inch AMOLED display, available in standard and premium versions.
    3. The watch includes advanced technology such as the BioTracker 6.0 PPG biosensor for heart rate and blood oxygen monitoring, and supports various winter sports.
    4. It offers over 160 sports modes, automatic strength-training detection, offline maps, and health features like a daily Readiness score and menstrual cycle insights.
    5. Pricing starts at €99 for the standard model and €129 for the premium model, with no current plans for launches in other regions.


    Amazfit has broadened the reach of its Active 2 smartwatch to Europe, following its initial launch in North America. This device merges a stylish design with tools for health and fitness tracking, appealing to both casual users and serious fitness fans.

    Design and Display Features

    The Active 2 showcases a stainless steel frame and boasts a 1.32-inch AMOLED screen that shines at a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, making it easy to see in daylight. There are two versions: a standard model that comes with red or black silicone bands, and a premium version that includes a black leather strap, a red silicone strap, along with sapphire glass for added screen protection.

    Technology and Sensors

    Equipped with Amazfit’s BioTracker 6.0 PPG biosensor, the watch enhances heart rate and blood oxygen monitoring, along with upgraded algorithms for sleep tracking. New features also consist of a barometer for tracking altitude and support for skiing and other winter sports. The battery is advertised to last for 10 days under regular usage. Thanks to Zepp Flow, Android users can use voice controls to respond to messages by text or voice.

    Tracking Fitness and Health

    With over 160 sports modes, the watch accommodates activities such as HYROX races and automatically detects strength-training workouts (including reps, sets, and rest times). It also comes with offline maps that provide turn-by-turn navigation, supported by five satellite systems. Health features include a daily Readiness score that evaluates physical and mental recovery, HRV tracking, and integration with Wild.AI for insights into menstrual cycles.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Amazfit Active 2 is now on sale in Europe, with the standard model priced at €99 (around $100 in the US) and the premium model at €129 (approximately $130 in the US). There hasn’t been any confirmation about future launches in other regions just yet.

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  • Premium Metal G-Shock GM-110s Release Leak: Coming Soon?

    Premium Metal G-Shock GM-110s Release Leak: Coming Soon?

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio is set to launch new full-metal G-Shock models, GM-110D-8A and GM-110BD-1A9, featuring shiny metallic designs.
    2. The GM-110D-8A has a silver dial, while the GM-110BD-1A9 combines gold and black tones, both with forged stainless-steel bezels and bracelets.
    3. Expected features include shock resistance, 200-meter water resistance, mineral glass crystal, world time, stopwatch, countdown timer, alarms, LED backlight, and a three-year battery life.
    4. Pricing is anticipated at ¥60,500 (approximately $399) for the GM-110D-8A and ¥69,300 (around $457) for the GM-110BD-1A9.
    5. Casio also released three new Master of G series watches with specialized features for aviation, mud resistance, and outdoor navigation.


    It seems that Casio is preparing to launch some new full-metal G-Shock watches that might be coming out soon. Pictures shared by Instagram user @geesgshock reveal two models, GM-110D-8A and GM-110BD-1A9, both featuring shiny metallic designs.

    Watch Designs

    The GM-110D-8A showcases a silver dial, while the GM-110BD-1A9 combines gold and black tones. Both watches come with forged stainless-steel bezels and bracelets. The leaked images show the familiar analog-digital hybrid display that the GM-110 series is known for. The bracelets are designed with a fold-over clasp that includes a push-button release for convenience.

    Features and Specifications

    Although we are waiting for official specifications to be announced, it’s likely these new models will carry over features from past GM-110s. These features probably include shock resistance, the ability to withstand water up to 200 meters, a mineral glass crystal, world time, a stopwatch, countdown timer, alarms, an LED backlight, and a battery life of about three years.

    Pricing Information

    The leaker has also disclosed pricing for these watches. The GM-110D-8A is expected to cost ¥60,500 (around $399), while the GM-110BD-1A9 is likely to be priced at ¥69,300 (approximately $457). Even though Casio has yet to officially confirm these models, the credibility of the leaker indicates that this information is probably accurate.

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  • Huawei Band 10 Design Leaked: New Images Revealed

    Huawei Band 10 Design Leaked: New Images Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Huawei Band 10 has been officially announced, targeting budget-conscious consumers.
    2. It will be available in six colors: black, white, blue, yellow, purple, and pink, and resembles the previous Band 9 model.
    3. The design features a brushed casing finish and a more streamlined display shape, with a yellow strap offering better airflow.
    4. Specific features of the Band 10 are still unknown, but it may include health monitoring and smart functionalities similar to the Band 9.
    5. The expected launch date is around March or April, with an unclear price point, but the Band 9 is currently priced at $56.90/€44.00.


    The Huawei Band 10 has been officially announced. For detailed specs on this latest wearable, check out the rest of the article.

    New Leaks Surface

    Recently, fresh images of the Huawei Band 10 have emerged. Earlier in the year, a trustworthy source, Fixed focus digital, hinted that this device would be ideal for budget-conscious consumers.

    The images, shared by leaker Ruige Plays Digital on Weibo, show that the new device will come in six different colors: black, white, blue, yellow, purple, and pink. It looks quite similar to the Band 9, featuring the same side button and two different strap designs; notably, the yellow strap has additional holes for better airflow. Nevertheless, the Band 10’s casing appears to have a brushed finish instead of a shiny one, and its display has a more streamlined shape.

    Features Still Unknown

    Details about the features of the Huawei Band 10 are not yet available. Just to remind you, the Band 9 boasts a 1.47-inch AMOLED screen with an Always-On Display (AOD) mode and smart brightness settings. It works with both iOS and Android systems and allows users to monitor health metrics like heart rate and SpO2 levels, in addition to sleep quality. Other functionalities include stress management, cycle tracking, and personalized fitness regimes. Moreover, the device can last up to nine days under normal usage.

    Previous speculations suggest that the Huawei Band 10 might be launched in March or April. There are also whispers that it will be released alongside new ARC ear-hook headphones. The price for the Huawei Band 10 is still unclear. For reference, the Huawei Band 9 is currently listed on Amazon for $56.90/€44.00.

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