Category: Wearables

  • Casio Launches Limited Edition Full-Metal G-SHOCK GMC-B2100ZE-1A

    Casio Launches Limited Edition Full-Metal G-SHOCK GMC-B2100ZE-1A

    Casio has recently listed the GMC-B2100ZE-1A on its website. This model, as previously mentioned in reports, is a full-metal chronograph created to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Casio Watch series. The G-SHOCK watch is crafted from stainless steel and features a black ion-plated case and band. It offers a water resistance of up to 200 meters and is shock-resistant, showcasing the traditional durability that G-SHOCK is known for, all wrapped in a sophisticated black and gold color scheme.

    Features and Connectivity

    This timepiece is equipped with Casio’s renowned Tough Solar technology. It also comes with Bluetooth connectivity, enabling users to connect it to the CASIO WATCHES app, which provides access to extra features such as automatic time adjustment, world time for as many as 300 cities, and a phone finder function. Additionally, the watch includes a full auto-calendar extending to 2099, a countdown timer, a daily alarm, and an LED light with afterglow capabilities.

    Special Edition and Design

    In honor of the 50th anniversary, the GMC-B2100ZE-1A features a commemorative case back along with special eco-friendly packaging. The design on the case back and the engraving of “50th Anniversary” on the link are thoughtful touches that highlight the brand’s commitment to quality. This limited-edition model has a weight of 171 grams and dimensions of 51.3 × 46.3 × 12.4 mm.

    The watch is currently available for purchase at select retailers, with the official pricing set to be revealed shortly. According to G-Central, a price of around $930 is very likely. Collectors and enthusiasts of the G-SHOCK series will likely view this commemorative model as a valuable addition to their collections.


    Image 1
    Image 1
    Image 1
  • Polar Vantage M3 GPS Smartwatch with ECG Now Available

    Polar Vantage M3 GPS Smartwatch with ECG Now Available

    Polar has introduced its Vantage M3 smartwatch, which is made specifically for athletes who engage in various sports. This latest mid-range model brings several enhancements compared to the Vantage M2. Notably, the M3 features a 1.28-inch AMOLED touchscreen, reflecting Polar’s shift away from MIP displays.

    Display and Protection

    The AMOLED screen offers a sharp 325 ppi pixel density and can reach a brightness of up to 1,500 nits, all while being safeguarded by Gorilla Glass. Another significant improvement in the Vantage M3 is the upgraded optical heart rate sensor, now utilizing a fourth-generation component. This sensor allows for enhanced health tracking, including monitoring blood oxygen levels and skin temperature, along with ECG capabilities; however, it does not support atrial fibrillation detection. Similar to other models, the watch can track over 150 different sports, introducing new functionalities such as Hill Splitter, Walking/Running/Cycling Test, and Vertical Speed metrics.

    Enhanced Features

    The Vantage M3 also includes dual-band GPS, which comes with offline color maps and offers visual or audio turn-by-turn directions. Like the previous version, this smartwatch can last for up to seven days in standard mode, or around 30 hours when using GPS. It charges through a USB-C connection, and the battery is replaceable. Furthermore, the device is waterproof to a depth of 50 m (approximately 164 ft) and boasts 32 GB of storage. The Polar Vantage M3 is offered in two colors: Night Black and Greige Sand, with a price tag of $399/£349/€399. Although it is listed on Amazon and can be bought, it is currently out of stock.

    Conclusion

    To sum it up, Polar’s new Vantage M3 smartwatch is a solid option for multi-sport enthusiasts, featuring a range of updates that enhance its usability and tracking capabilities. With its sleek design and robust features, it’s worth considering for those looking to improve their athletic performance.

  • Amazfit Smartwatch Update: New Optimizations and Bug Fixes

    Amazfit Smartwatch Update: New Optimizations and Bug Fixes

    Amazfit Balance smartwatch users have seen a new update today. The latest software version, 3.22.9.1, is the third in this line, coming after version 3.22.8.1 and the very first version 3.22.7.1. While the main features such as Zepp Flow read aloud notifications and the Hyrox Race activity remain unchanged, the update includes various enhancements and bug fixes.

    Notification Center Improvements

    In comparison to version 3.22.7.1, this new version 3.22.9.1 enhances the Notification Center, offering more detailed pages like the Morning Update. Additionally, the sports record display page has been revamped to provide a better user experience. The Zepp OS team has also worked on fixing issues related to irregularities in health data and swimming activity logs. Furthermore, a problem where users couldn’t restart the Balance device has been addressed.

    Ongoing Notification Issues

    Despite these improvements, some issues continue to affect notifications from apps such as Telegram, where users see the end of the message instead of the start. An Amazfit representative commented on this problem on Reddit, indicating that it may be fixed through an OTA update coming this November.

    Update Rollout Process

    Amazfit typically releases software updates for the Amazfit Balance smartwatch in stages. There’s no clear timeline yet for when all users will get this update. Once it’s accessible, you can download software version 3.22.9.1 directly from the Zepp App by navigating to Profile > My Devices > Amazfit Balance > System Update.

    u/nurkamol via Reddit

  • Customizable Stretchable Circuits for Your Skin by SkinLink

    Customizable Stretchable Circuits for Your Skin by SkinLink

    Researchers at Cornell University’s Hybrid Body Lab have launched SkinLink, which is a toolkit that enables the creation of customizable and reconfigurable interfaces that can be placed directly on the skin. This innovation streamlines the process of designing circuits right onto a person’s skin. Unlike older methods that make it hard to modify circuits after they’ve been made, SkinLink allows for real-time adjustments, enabling users to alter the circuit designs while they are still on their skin.

    Components of SkinLink

    The system is made up of small, flexible printed circuit boards (FPCBs) and stretchy connectors, which makes the circuits light and able to move with the body. This innovative design opens up a range of applications, including biometric sensing and body-centric interactions. For instance, these circuits can be utilized for ongoing health monitoring or for unique wearable designs—think of them as circuit tattoos.

    Focus on Comfort and Wearability

    A major highlight of SkinLink is its emphasis on wearability. As previously noted, the circuits adapt well to the body’s natural movements and contours, ensuring that comfort is not sacrificed. SkinLink incorporates flexible and stretchable materials that are simple to adjust or move during the process of prototyping. This flexibility is especially beneficial for areas like joints or other non-flat body surfaces where movement is frequent—places where traditional circuits are more likely to fail.

    Study Results and Applications

    A study involving 14 participants has shown that SkinLink is significantly quicker and more versatile than older techniques. Four specific case studies highlighted its potential in areas such as special effects makeup and wearable technology, demonstrating that both novices and professionals can effectively utilize this toolkit.

    Hybrid Body Lab (Cornell University Research) via EurekAlert


    Image 1
    Image 1
  • Casio AE-1200WHL-5AV Watch Now Available with Leather Band

    Casio AE-1200WHL-5AV Watch Now Available with Leather Band

    Casio has introduced a new version of its well-known AE-1200WH series, now featuring a leather band, called the AE-1200WHL-5AV. This watch, celebrated for its strength and practical features, now presents a more stylish and refined appearance.

    Key Features Retained

    The AE-1200WHL-5AV keeps the hallmark traits of the series, such as a water resistance of up to 100 meters and an estimated battery life of around 10 years. It also includes a distinctive display that has a world map indicator and a subdial showing the home time across all modes.

    Elegant Design with Comfort

    With the addition of the leather band, the watch gains a sophisticated element while still providing the same comfy fit and lightweight feel as the older resin and stainless steel models. It weighs in at just 39 grams, making it perfect for daily wear.

    Updated Face Design

    Alongside the new band, the AE-1200WHL-5AV sports a slightly altered face with refreshed labels. The labels for “Alarm,” “WR,” and “Chrono” have been shifted below the LCD display, and the “10-Year Battery” label has found a new home beneath the hands subdial.

    Comprehensive Features List

    The Casio AE-1200WHL-5AV comes packed with features, such as world time covering 31 time zones and daylight saving options, a stopwatch that measures with 1/100-second precision, a countdown timer ranging from 1 second to 24 hours, and 5 alarms (daily or one-off) along with an hourly chime. It also includes an LED light with adjustable brightness, a full auto-calendar extending to the year 2099, a choice between 12 or 24-hour formats, and the same 100-meter water resistance. Moreover, you can track the time in four different cities with its multi-time capability.

    Release and Pricing Info

    The AE-1200WHL-5AV is set to launch in Asia (excluding Japan) in October 2024, with a price tag of S$65 in Singapore. Details on pricing for other parts of the world are still not available.

  • Casio G-Shock GMB2100SD-1A Full Metal Watch Available in USA

    Casio G-Shock GMB2100SD-1A Full Metal Watch Available in USA

    The Casio G-Shock GMB2100SD-1A Full Metal watch has recently launched in the US. Initially, this new model was available for pre-order in Japan, and now multiple third-party sellers in North America have it listed for purchase.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can now find the G-Shock GMB2100SD-1A for $550 at Arizona Fine Time. This retailer, based in the US, offers shipping to various countries around the globe. Additionally, the watch is also listed at Saltzman’s Watches and Smyth Jewelers for the same price. However, it remains unclear when customers in the US will be able to buy this model directly from Casio. In other regions, the model is available on the brand’s official site in New Zealand, carrying a retail price of NZ$999.00, but it is not yet ready for purchase.

    Design and Features

    The Casio G-Shock GMB2100SD-1A shares similarities with the previous GM-B2100D-1A, featuring a hybrid analog-digital display. The primary distinction between these two models lies in their color schemes; the newer version showcases a darker gray background paired with lighter silver details, such as the watch hands and hour markers. This contrast improves readability compared to the older version, especially in low-light conditions, aided by an LED light. Moreover, the watch is equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, which allows users to access features and controls through the Casio Watches app, along with an impressive battery life of up to seven months due to solar charging. It remains uncertain when the Casio G-Shock GMB2100SD-1A Full Metal watch will be made available in additional markets.

    Conclusion

    Casio NZ, G-Central, and Arizona Fine Time are among the retailers offering this exciting new model. As the watch gains attention, fans are eagerly awaiting its wider release.

  • Garmin Firmware Update: Enhanced GPS Features for Wearables

    Garmin Firmware Update: Enhanced GPS Features for Wearables

    The Garmin Vivosmart 5 fitness tracker is getting an update. Originally launched in 2022, it serves as a simpler option compared to the brand’s more advanced smartwatches. Now, it is receiving firmware version 3.25, which comes with a single notable change.

    Improved Connected GPS Feature

    Garmin has announced that the Connected GPS functionality has been enhanced. This feature enables the Vivosmart 5 to utilize GPS information from a linked smartphone, allowing users to monitor various aspects of their walks, runs, or bike rides, including their speed and location. Sadly, the company hasn’t shared more details on how customers will notice these improvements. This update is smaller compared to version 3.24, which was released two months ago and included three fixes for bugs related to alarms, strength activities, and sleep scores.

    Update Availability

    According to a post on the Garmin forum, this update is now available for all users. The post also encourages users to report any issues in a different forum thread. So far, it seems that there have been no problems reported by customers. Users can download the Garmin Vivosmart 5 fitness tracker firmware version 3.25 either on their phones using the Garmin Connect Mobile app or on their PCs via Garmin Express.

  • Withings BPM Pro 2: Next-Gen Blood Pressure Monitor Unveiled

    Withings BPM Pro 2: Next-Gen Blood Pressure Monitor Unveiled

    Withings has unveiled the BPM Pro 2, a new blood pressure monitor that is portable and cellular. It’s mainly made for people to use at home but will also be offered to health professionals for patient care. The company claims this device is the first of its kind, calling it a next-gen model that tracks multiple health metrics and provides better tools for remote patient monitoring.

    Features and Functionality

    The BPM Pro 2 measures both heart rate and blood pressure. Withings is also highlighting the option to connect a 1-lead ECG, which can help identify atrial fibrillation, but this feature is still pending FDA approval. Users can see their measurements on a built-in LCD color display and have the option to share this information with their healthcare provider. Additional features include alerts recommending users to retake a measurement if the initial result is abnormal, plus an on-screen guide to help users follow best practices for accurate blood pressure readings.

    Patient Insights and Launch Information

    Furthermore, the new Patient Insights feature lets healthcare providers gather more information from patients through a questionnaire that can be answered on the integrated display. Withings indicates that these questions might cover aspects like sleep habits, symptoms, and medication schedules, which will provide more context to the biometric data collected. The Withings BPM Pro 2 is expected to hit the market this coming November. However, it seems the company is still waiting for FDA approval; any delays in this process could result in a postponed release. Since the Withings BPM Pro 2 won’t be available for personal purchase, it’s worth looking at the Withings BPM Connect, which is currently priced at $99.95 on Amazon.

    Withings, Healthcare Dive, Gadgets & Wearables.

  • Casio MR-G MRGB2100D-1A Premium Watch with Bluetooth Launch

    Casio MR-G MRGB2100D-1A Premium Watch with Bluetooth Launch

    The Casio MR-G MRGB2100D-1A watch has launched in the United States. This silver version made its debut in the UK back in September, after much speculation throughout the year. It joins other recent additions to the B2100 series, including the Galápagos-themed G-Shock GA-B2100CD and the G-Shock Full Metal GM-B2100SD.

    Premium Materials

    This watch showcases high-quality materials, featuring a sturdy titanium alloy case and a bezel made from Cobarion alloy, which is claimed to be much tougher than titanium and offers a finish similar to platinum. The face of the watch is safeguarded by sapphire crystal glass, which includes an anti-reflective coating, and it comes equipped with a titanium band. Even though the design presents an analog face, it has the capability to connect to your smartphone through Bluetooth. This connection enables various functions via the Casio Watches app, including automatic time updates, display of watch status, and a tool to locate your phone.

    Impressive Features

    Among its many features, the watch boasts an LED light known as the Super Illuminator, a full auto-calendar that extends to the year 2099, and automatic hand home position correction. Additionally, it is reported to be water-resistant up to 200 meters (about 650 feet) and supports Tough Solar charging that can last up to 5 months with normal use. You can purchase the Casio MRGB2100D-1A smartwatch for $4,200 or £3,700. There is no information available regarding its release in other regions.

    Casio

  • Samsung Galaxy Ring Launched in India at Rs 38,999: Colors & Sizes

    Samsung Galaxy Ring Launched in India at Rs 38,999: Colors & Sizes

    Samsung has launched its new smart ring, the Galaxy Ring, in India after a week of pre-reservations. This article will cover the smart ring’s price, available colors, sizing options, and its main features.

    Pricing Details

    The Galaxy Ring is available for a price of Rs 38,999 (~$465) in India. Customers can choose from three stunning colors: Titanium Black, Titanium Silver, and Titanium Gold. There are nine different sizes available, ranging from 5 to 13, so there’s a great fit for everyone. The smart ring can be purchased directly from Samsung India’s website.

    Features of the Galaxy Ring

    This stylish smart ring is made with a sleek titanium finish, proving that modern technology can be both elegant and functional. Its sturdy titanium construction ensures it stays looking good even with daily use. The ring comes with a wireless charging cradle that features an LED light around the multi-purpose button, indicating the battery level. Plus, it’s designed for easy wireless charging, making it user-friendly.

    One of the unique aspects of the Galaxy Ring is its AI-driven energy score. This feature helps users gauge their activity levels by considering factors like sleep, heart rate, and previous activities. The score guides users on whether to keep moving or take a break. Moreover, the ring includes cycle tracking and skin temperature analysis, which can help predict fertile periods and manage menstrual cycles efficiently.

    Size and Durability

    The Galaxy Ring offers in-depth wellness insights by continuously tracking movement, sleep quality, and heart rate, creating a well-rounded view of the user’s health. It’s built to endure everyday use, boasting water resistance up to 100 meters, making it appropriate for swimming and other activities. Additionally, it provides customized motivational messages and training advice tailored to the user’s activity levels, acting as a personal fitness coach.

    Furthermore, when combined with the Samsung Health app, the Galaxy Ring keeps tabs on overall sleep patterns and provides insights and coaching to enhance sleep quality. It holds an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, allowing it to withstand 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes; however, it’s not recommended for diving or high-pressure water activities.

    *

    Image 1
    Image 1
    Image 1
    Image 1