Category: Wearables

February 17, 2025

Casio Unveils New G-Shock GA-V01 Series with Bold Design

Key Takeaways

1. Radical Design Change: The G-Shock GA-V01 series features a bold, sci-fi-inspired design with 3D hour markers and an alien-like LCD display.

2. Unique Appeal: The design may divide long-time G-Shock fans, but it showcases the creative efforts of chief designer Mr. Hamakami to attract a different audience.

3. Classic Features: Despite its unconventional look, the GA-V01 retains standard G-Shock features like 10-year battery life, shock resistance, and water resistance up to 200 meters.

4. Launch Details: The GA-V01 series will first launch in China on February 21, with pricing ranging from approximately $136 to $150.

5. Future Availability: The watches are expected to be available in Japan and other international markets later, though specific details have not been announced.

After many leaks and hints, Casio has finally launched the G-Shock GA-V01 series, which features four unique watches: GA-V01-1A, GA-V01-2A, GA-V01-8A, and GA-V01-8A.

A Bold New Look

The G-Shock GA-V01 series marks one of the most radical design changes the brand has seen. This is not your average utilitarian G-Shock; it resembles something out of a sci-fi cartoon. The watch showcases 3D hour markers that appear to float above the display, along with an LCD section that looks like alien eyes. It’s also quite large, measuring 58.2mm in width and 19.6mm in thickness, weighing in at 74 grams.

Unique Appeal

Fans who have been loyal to G-Shock for years are likely to have mixed feelings about the GA-V01’s design, but it’s clear that a lot of effort went into creating this unique aesthetic. Mr. Hamakami, the chief designer behind the GA-V01, attended the launch event to share details about the creative journey that resulted in one of the most daring designs the brand has ever made. It seems this watch isn’t aimed at the usual G-Shock audience, which might be part of what makes it so interesting.

Classic Features Remain

Despite its unconventional design, the GA-V01 still holds all the standard features you’d expect from a G-Shock. It boasts a 10-year battery life (even if it’s not solar-powered), a shock-resistant body, water resistance up to 200 meters, and a resin band that ensures the classic G-Shock toughness. Additionally, it comes equipped with an Auto Dual LED light, World Time for 48 cities, a 1/100-second stopwatch, a countdown timer, and the ability to set five daily alarms.

Launch Details

The new series will first be available in China, with shipping set to begin on February 21. The GA-V01-1A (Black), GA-V01-9A (Lime Green), and GA-V01-2A (Purple) will retail for CNY 990 (approximately $136), while the GA-V01-8A (Silver) will cost CNY 1,090 (around $150). These watches are expected to reach Japan and other international markets in the future, though the company hasn’t provided any further details at this time.

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Tags: Casio, G-Shock GA-V01
February 17, 2025

Amazfit T-Rex 3 Smartwatch Update: New App Available Now

Key Takeaways

1. The Amazfit T-Rex 3 smartwatch has received a new update (version 3.5.4.8) in 2025, following the previous update (version 3.4.4.7) in January.
2. Users reported increased battery drain, possibly due to the new always-on heart rate monitoring feature.
3. The update introduces a Ski machine workout option, enhanced Fishing activity tracking, and improved Strength training features.
4. A new Audio Control app allows users to manage music from their smartphones directly from the smartwatch.
5. Users can now display route checkpoints on the watch when importing tracks through the Zepp app, but there is no fix yet for the battery drain issue.

The Amazfit T-Rex 3 smartwatch has gotten a new update, now at version 3.5.4.8. This marks the second update of 2025 for this device, following the earlier version 3.4.4.7 that was released in January. Soon after the update, many users reported a quicker-than-usual battery drain, which many think might be due to the new heart rate monitoring feature that’s always on.

New Features in Update

With the latest software version 3.5.4.8, there’s a new Ski machine workout option added for the T-Rex 3 users. This new feature can track different metrics, including distance and stroke rate. The Fishing activity now shows the GPS location of the fishing rod on the workout log, which helps users find the best places to fish. Additionally, Strength training has seen enhancements, making it more user-friendly to adjust during rest times.

Additional Improvements

As per the changelog, a new Audio Control app has been introduced, allowing users to manage music played from their connected smartphones directly from their wrist. When importing a route track through the Zepp app, users can now select to display checkpoints right on the watch. Furthermore, Amazfit claims to have fine-tuned its notification system for a smoother experience during workouts. Still, there’s no word yet on a fix for the battery drain problem that has been troubling some users.

This update is a 13.47 MB download and can be accessed through the Zepp app by navigating to Profile > Amazfit T-Rex 3 > System Update. The Amazfit T-Rex 3 smartwatch is currently available in three colors, including the newly introduced Haze Grey, with a price tag of $279.99 on Amazon.

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Tags: Amazfit T-Rex 3, software update
February 17, 2025

Garmin Forerunner Update: Heart Rate Bug Fix in New Beta Version

Key Takeaways

1. Garmin released Public Beta Version 22.21 for several Forerunner smartwatches, focusing on bug fixes.
2. Key fixes include corrections to the maximum heart rate field during swim rest and issues with the race calendar countdown timer.
3. Some users have reported problems with incorrectly labeled Body Battery events and editing glances.
4. Ongoing issues include unexpected battery drain that remains a concern for some users.
5. The update is available to beta program members, who can download it through Garmin Connect settings.

Garmin has just released the Public Beta Version 22.21 update for its Forerunner smartwatches which includes the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965 models (curr. $588.04 at Amazon). This update comes shortly after version 22.18, which introduced features like passcode support and new custom workouts specifically for the Stair Stepper profile.

Focus on Bug Fixes

The main purpose of Version 22.21 is to address a number of bugs found in these devices. The change log mentions that a problem with the maximum heart rate field during swim rest has been fixed. Garmin has also tackled issues related to the set count on the edit reps page, the race calendar countdown timer, and icons in the notification glance tap-in. The release notes conclude by stating that there are several other minor fixes and improvements, yet they do not elaborate on these.

User Feedback and Concerns

However, some users have already reported a few potential problems with this update. Garmin is looking into complaints about incorrectly labeled Body Battery events, and a few users are experiencing difficulties in editing glances. The issue of unexpected battery drain also seems to remain an ongoing problem.

How to Access the Update

In a post on the Garmin Forum, a representative mentioned that Public Beta Version 22.21 is now accessible to all users who are part of the company’s beta testing program. If you’re a member, you can easily download the update by navigating to Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates. People interested in joining the beta program can do so through Garmin Connect.

Source:
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Tags: Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Garmin
February 17, 2025

Casio G-Shock Mudmaster GG-B100X Leak: Step Counter & Carbon Bezel

Key Takeaways

1. Casio is developing a new high-end Mudmaster model called the GG-B100X, featuring a forged carbon bezel.
2. The watch is expected to retain the quad sensor features of its predecessor, including a compass, altimeter/barometer, thermometer, and step counter.
3. Solar charging may be introduced in this model, following the trend set by the GWG-2000.
4. Users have raised concerns about screen reflectivity, suggesting potential upgrades to the LCD for better contrast or an anti-reflective layer.
5. The GG-B100X aims to bridge the gap between the budget-friendly GG-1000 and luxury GWG-2000 models.

Post the unveiling of Casio’s Master of G series, which includes three new timepieces, a fresh leak has emerged indicating that Casio is developing an enhanced version of the Mudmaster, named the GG-B100X. The “X” at the end often signifies a high-end model, and according to the leaker @geesgshock on Instagram, this watch is expected to feature a bezel made of forged carbon. This material is recognized for its strength and lightness, making it a significant improvement over the regular GG-B100.

Specifications and Features

Although official information is limited, it’s anticipated that this watch will keep the quad sensor features found in its predecessor, such as a compass, altimeter/barometer, thermometer, and a step counter. Should Casio stick to the pattern established by the GWG-2000, we might see the introduction of solar charging in this collection for the first time.

User Concerns and Improvements

Some users of the Mudmaster on Instagram have expressed worries about the reflectivity of the screen, so there’s a chance that we could see an upgraded LCD with enhanced contrast or an anti-reflective layer. The GG-B100 series is positioned between the more budget-friendly GG-1000 and the luxury GWG-2000, and this upgrade could bring it closer to the higher end of the range.

While this information is still a leak, the potential use of forged carbon suggests that Casio is enhancing its material and design approach. We can expect more information to emerge in the next few months if an official announcement is indeed forthcoming.

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Tags: Casio
February 16, 2025

UNA Watch: Modular Smartwatch with Easy Repair and Modern Tech

Key Takeaways

1. The UNA Watch offers high repairability and upgradability due to its modular design, unlike many affordable smartwatches.
2. Users can easily access internal components by removing just four screws, allowing for straightforward repairs and upgrades.
3. The modular system combines multiple functions into single modules, enhancing efficiency and reducing complexity.
4. Key specifications include a 1.2-inch MIP display, heart rate and blood oxygen tracking, 4 GB of storage, and a 280 mAh battery.
5. Priced at $335, the UNA Watch aims to provide a user-friendly experience with pre-order discounts available.

There are many affordable smartwatches available today. These small electronic devices often have low repairability, which means even small problems or a worn-out battery can make them unusable. However, the UNA Watch stands out by offering not just repairability, but also upgradability due to its clever modular design.

Easy Access to Internals

Unlike other watches that use interchangeable modules on the strap, the UNA Watch allows users to easily reach its inner components. By removing four screws from the watch case, users can access different modules that are held in place by screws instead of glue. These modules include the main unit, the display, the battery, and components for wireless communication and health tracking. It’s interesting to note that the modular system combines several functions into one module. For instance, instead of having a separate processor module, the UNA core combines the processor with a haptic feedback system, while the UNA link 2 merges a GNSS chip and an accelerometer.

Specifications and Features

As per the official specifications, the UNA Watch is set to have a 1.2-inch MIP display with a resolution of 240 x 240. It will also be capable of tracking heart rate and blood oxygen levels, come with 4 GB of eMMC storage, and a 280 mAh battery. Similar to most contemporary smartwatches, it will support notifications and control audio playback. The UNA Watch is priced at $335, but customers who reserve one now can take advantage of a preorder discount.

A Smartwatch for the Future

In a sea of budget-friendly smartwatches, the UNA Watch aims to be different by being user-friendly in terms of repairs and upgrades. With its innovative design, it seeks to provide a better experience for its users, making it a compelling choice for those looking for a reliable smartwatch option.

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Tags: Modular Design
February 16, 2025

Casio Launches G-Shock Master of G Watches with Heart Rate Monitor

Key Takeaways

1. Casio launched three new Master of G watches: Gravitymaster, Mudman, and Rangeman, featuring a distinctive ‘Caution Yellow’ design.
2. Gravitymaster is priced at ¥44,550 (~$297) and includes Bluetooth, dual-time functionality, and solar charging.
3. Mudman costs ¥58,410 (~$389) and features Triple Sensor technology with an altimeter, barometer, compass, and mud-resistant design.
4. Rangeman is the most advanced option at ¥66,330 (~$442), offering GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and six sensors for real-time data.
5. These watches are available for purchase in Japan and will soon be available in the US, UK, and other markets.

Casio has unveiled three new watches from its Master of G series, showcasing a striking ‘Caution Yellow’ design nearly a month after their initial reveal. The models include the Gravitymaster GR-B300RY-1A9JF, Mudman GW-9500MRY-1A9JF, and Rangeman GPR-H1000RY-1A9JR. These timepieces are now ready for purchase in Japan and are engineered for tough conditions, featuring advanced sensors and durability for long-term use.

Pricing and Features of the Gravitymaster

With a price tag of ¥44,550 (~$297), the Gravitymaster is tailored for aviation and travel enthusiasts. It comes with Bluetooth for syncing time, a dual-time feature, and solar charging to reduce battery worries. The lightweight resin bezel ensures comfort, and the shock-resistant design guarantees its toughness. Plus, it has a bright LED backlight, making it easy to read in dark settings.

The Mudman’s Toughness

The Mudman GW-9500MRY-1A9JF is priced at ¥58,410 (~$389) and is perfect for harsh environments. It boasts Triple Sensor technology that includes an altimeter, barometer, and compass, along with radio-controlled timekeeping for precise time adjustments. Its dual-layer LCD display enhances visibility, and its mud-resistant build keeps out dirt and water effectively.

Features of the Rangeman

At a cost of ¥66,330 (~$442), the Rangeman GPR-H1000RY-1A9JR stands out as the most feature-rich option. It offers GPS tracking, a heart rate monitor, and VO2 max measurement capabilities. The watch is equipped with six sensors that provide real-time data on altitude, air pressure, acceleration, and temperature. The MIP LCD display is designed for outdoor use, while the solar-assisted charging significantly prolongs battery life.

These Master of G watches can be found on platforms like Yahoo! Shopping, Amazon Japan, and Rakuten. Due to Casio’s history of limited production, there may not be many available. The watches are anticipated to reach markets in the US, UK, and other areas shortly.

Source:
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Tags: Casio, Gravitymaster GR-B300RY-1A9JF
February 16, 2025

CheckMag Exoskeleton: Automatic Suiting for Effortless Walking

Key Takeaways

1. The WalkON Suit F1 assists individuals with extreme paraplegia and allows for self-dressing, enhancing user independence.
2. It won a gold medal at the 2024 Cybathlon, showcasing advanced capabilities in navigating various tasks and obstacles.
3. Significant technological advancements include improved motor output density and AI-driven features for obstacle detection and balance.
4. The suit’s unique ‘frontal docking method’ enables users to summon and wear it independently from their wheelchairs.
5. The WalkON Suit F1 represents a major step in wearable robotics, promising to improve daily life and independence for users.

Since 2015, Professor Kyoungchul Kong and his research group have been working on the WalkON Suit to assist individuals experiencing the most extreme forms of paraplegia, classified under the ASIA Impairment Scale–A. The project kicked off with WalkON Suit 1 in 2016 and made significant progress with WalkON Suit 4 in 2020, reaching walking speeds of 3.2 km/h, which is similar to natural walking speeds. Now, with the introduction of the WalkON Suit F1, they have not only tackled the issue of users putting it on by themselves but have also gained international fame.

Achievements in Competitions

The WalkON Suit F1 clinched a gold medal at the 2024 Cybathlon, a global event that highlights assistive technologies designed for individuals with disabilities. Under the guidance of Seunghwan Kim, the suit conquered all tasks in a remarkable time of 6 minutes and 41 seconds. The course required skills like sidestepping around chairs, carrying boxes, and even preparing food. The suit’s AI-driven obstacle detection and self-docking features were key to its success, enabling smooth movement in challenging settings. This victory marked the second time the team secured a gold medal, having won during the 2020 Cybathlon as well.

Advanced Technological Features

The WalkON Suit F1 is filled with cutting-edge technology. Engineers from KAIST, in partnership with Angel Robotics, have managed to double the output density of the motor and reducer modules, as well as triple the performance of the motor driver controls compared to earlier versions. The AI and visual recognition systems help the suit effectively identify and navigate obstacles, while an AI board supports neural network functions. Additionally, the suit can assess and maintain it’s center of gravity, allowing it to stay upright even when pushed. These capabilities enable users to walk without using a cane, granting them exceptional freedom of movement.

Unique Design and User Independence

What makes the WalkON Suit F1 particularly unique is it’s capacity to walk toward the user and fit itself perfectly using a ‘frontal docking method.’ This breakthrough allows individuals to summon the suit from their wheelchairs, and importantly, to wear the suit independently without needing any help, offering a genuine feeling of autonomy in their ability to move around.

Winning a gold medal for the second time at Cybathlon 2024 solidifies the WalkON Suit F1’s status as a pioneer in wearable robotics. As these devices become more widely available, they hold the potential to revolutionize daily life for countless individuals, fostering greater independence at home, in the workplace, and beyond.

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February 16, 2025

Wandercraft Atalante X Exoskeleton Boosts Walking After Stroke

Key Takeaways

1. Wandercraft’s Atalante X exoskeleton showed improvements in walking for a 64-year-old stroke survivor after just one month of use.
2. Strokes are a leading cause of death in the US, and survivors often face long-lasting effects like paralysis, making early rehabilitation crucial.
3. The exoskeleton reduces fall risks, allowing rehabilitation to focus on improving muscle control and walking abilities.
4. Significant improvements in stride length and walking speed were observed even seven years post-stroke, contrary to typical rehabilitation expectations.
5. Individuals with spinal cord injuries can participate in Wandercraft’s new clinical trial, promoting mobility and independence.

Wandercraft has shared findings from their recent research indicating improvements in walking after just a month of using the Atalante X exoskeleton. The study focused on a 64-year-old woman who experienced paralysis on her left side due to a stroke that occurred seven years prior.

Impact of Stroke in the US

According to the CDC, strokes are responsible for 1 in 6 deaths in America. Those who survive often face long-lasting effects like paralysis. To achieve meaningful recovery, rehabilitation usually needs to start within the first six months after a stroke; after a year, the chances of recovery diminish significantly. Traditional rehab poses challenges for patients, including the high risk of falls due to poor muscle control, which makes it tough for therapists to keep patients stable during sessions.

The Role of the Exoskeleton

The Wandercraft exoskeleton, powered by Nvidia technology, is a self-balancing device designed for patients to navigate freely without the fear of falling. This innovation significantly reduces fall risks, allowing the focus of rehabilitation to shift towards enhancing muscle control and walking abilities instead of merely maintaining balance.

Positive Results Seven Years After Stroke

In the case of the 64-year-old participant, both her stride length and walking speed improved, while the difference in movement between her right (non-paralyzed) and left (paralyzed) sides lessened. Notably, these improvements occurred seven years after her stroke, a time when physical therapists typically would not expect further progress in rehabilitation.

Individuals in the US who are eager to take part in Wandercraft’s new clinical trial involving the exoskeleton for people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) can reach out through [email protected]. Even if there’s no physical improvement, those with disabilities using the Wandercraft exoskeleton can still enjoy walking around the city, just like Kevin Piette did while carrying the 2024 Olympics torch.

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February 16, 2025

Garmin Tactix 8: Advanced Tactical Smartwatch for Rucking & Diving

Key Takeaways

1. Durability and Sizes: Available in 47mm and 51mm, the Tactix 8 meets military durability standards and is water-resistant up to 40 meters.

2. New Activity Profiles: Features specific profiles for rucking and diving, enhancing tracking for outdoor activities and offering essential data for divers.

3. Communication Features: Includes a built-in speaker and microphone for calls and voice command control when paired with a smartphone.

4. Advanced Navigation: Preloaded with TopoActive maps, improved GPS accuracy, and customizable map layers, plus round-trip routing for better navigation.

5. Tactical and Health Options: Offers Stealth Mode and NVG compatibility for tactical use, along with comprehensive fitness and health tracking tools.

Garmin has launched the Tactix 8, a durable smartwatch made for use on land, in the air, and now even at sea. This newest version comes with fresh features aimed at military users, outdoor lovers, and divers.

Sizes and Durability

The Tactix 8 is available in sizes of 47mm and 51mm, meeting military standards (MIL-STD-810) for heat, shock, and water resistance. It has a 40-meter diving capacity with buttons that are leakproof for underwater activities. The battery life has seen enhancements, with the AMOLED display on the 47mm model lasting up to 16 days in smartwatch mode, and the solar-powered 51mm version lasting up to 48 days.

New Capabilities

This smartwatch includes specific profiles for rucking and diving activities. The rucking feature allows users to enter pack weight for more precise exertion tracking, which can also apply to hiking and trail running. For diving, the watch supports both scuba and apnea activities, offering necessary data and navigation tools, with its 40-meter dive rating ensuring dependable performance underwater.

Communication and Control

Equipped with a built-in speaker and microphone, users can make calls directly from the watch when it’s paired with a smartphone. Voice commands provide hands-free control over different functions.

Navigation and Mapping

The Tactix 8 comes preloaded with TopoActive maps and offers an optional Outdoor Maps+ subscription for enhanced mapping detail. With SatIQ and multi-band GPS, positioning accuracy is improved. A new map interface allows users to customize map layers, and round-trip routing assists in navigation.

Tactical Options

Stealth Mode allows the watch to turn off wireless communication while still tracking distance and biometric data, making it handy for operations in sensitive locations. The Night Vision Goggle (NVG) mode dims the display to work with night vision devices. Additionally, a multi-LED flashlight with both white and green light options is built in.

Fitness and Health Tracking

The smartwatch features training tools like strength training plans, real-time stamina tracking, and various sports applications. Health monitoring capabilities include Pulse Ox, Body Battery, sleep tracking, and compatibility with ECG apps.

Ballistics and Aviation Features

The Tactix 8 is equipped with the Applied Ballistics Ultralight solver, while the Tactix 8 Elite features the AB Elite solver. Aviation capabilities include Direct-to-navigation, access to aviation weather data, and Jumpmaster functionality for airborne operations.

Cost and Launch Date

The Tactix 8 smartwatch from Garmin will be available for purchase on Garmin.com starting February 21. The price for the 47mm AMOLED version is $1,299.99, while both the 51mm AMOLED and the 51mm solar models retail for $1,399 each. The Solar SB Elite variant, which comes with the Applied Ballistics Elite Solver, is priced at $1,599.

Source:
Link

Tags: Garmin Tactix 8, rugged smartwatch
February 15, 2025

ProWatch X Launches in India: AMOLED Display & Heart Rate Tracking

Key Takeaways

1. Advanced Display: ProWatch X features a 1.43-inch circular AMOLED display with a high resolution of 466×466 pixels and Always On Display capability.

2. Health Tracking Features: It includes various health monitoring tools such as SpO2 monitoring, VO2 Max measurements, and heart rate tracking powered by an HX3960 PPG sensor.

3. Battery Life: The smartwatch offers up to 10 days of usage on a full charge, but this reduces to 5 hours with Bluetooth Calling and 17 hours with GPS on.

4. Affordable Pricing: The ProWatch X is launched at an introductory price of 4,499 INR, with a pre-order discount of 1,000 INR available until February 18.

5. Design and Customization: The watch has a lightweight aluminum alloy body, three strap options (Silicone, Nylon, Metal), and over 110 customizable watch faces for personalization.

Lava’s smartwatch brand, ProWatch, has unveiled a new wearable device in India. The latest addition, ProWatch X, is being touted as their most advanced smartwatch yet. It comes with impressive specifications and features while maintaining an affordable price, so here’s what you need to know.

ProWatch X: Specs and Features

The newly introduced ProWatch X boasts a 1.43-inch circular AMOLED display with a resolution of 466×466 pixels and a pixel density of 326ppi. It is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, offers a 30Hz refresh rate, and includes an Always On Display feature with a peak brightness of 500 nits. ProWatch has aimed for a more upscale design with this model, featuring a lightweight aluminum alloy body that has been sandblasted for a modern touch. Additionally, it offers over 110 customizable watch faces, allowing users to personalize their experience.

ProWatch X

This smartwatch can be paired with three different strap options: Silicone, Nylon, and Metal. Inside, the ProWatch X is powered by a dual-core Advanced Actions ATD3085C chipset, complemented by an HX3960 PPG sensor that enhances health tracking capabilities. It includes various health monitoring features such as SpO2 monitoring, VO2 Max measurements, and heart rate tracking. With a full battery charge, it promises up to 10 days of usage, but this drops to just 5 hours when using Bluetooth Calling and 17 hours with GPS turned on. Other key features include an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, AQI monitoring, gesture controls, Find My Phone, breathing exercises, and smart sleep tracking.

Pricing and Availability

The ProWatch X has been launched with three strap variants at an introductory price of 4,499 INR. It comes with a 2-year warranty, and pre-orders start today, running until February 18. Customers who place a pre-order can enjoy a discount of 1,000 INR from the bank, while the first sale will take place exclusively on Flipkart on February 21. This launch follows closely behind the introduction of the ProWatch V1 in the same region just a month earlier.

Tags: Lava, Smartwatch