Category: Wearables

  • Garmin Integration Coming Soon to Select Smartwatches

    Garmin Integration Coming Soon to Select Smartwatches

    Key Takeaway

    1. Garmin has integrated with the FDA-cleared fertility app Natural Cycles, allowing automatic sharing of skin temperature data via compatible Garmin smartwatches.
    2. The integration helps users track fertility, conception, or perimenopause symptoms using body temperature data and other metrics.
    3. Available in select countries and supported on specific Garmin models, including Fenix 8, Forerunner 570 & 970, Venu 4, and Venu X1.
    4. Launch promotion includes 10% discounts on Garmin smartwatches and the Natural Cycles Annual Plan.

    New compatibility hint for Garmin users

    Garmin has recently revealled a partnership with the popular fertility tracking app, Natural Cycles. This app, also called NC°, has been legally recognized as a class II medical device by the FDA in the USA. The main goal is to assist folks in either planning pregnancy or avoiding it by using body temperature and other metrics to check daily fertility levels. Also, it’s helpful for understanding the symptoms linked to perimenopause, making it a versatile tool for many women’s health journeys.

    How the System Works

    The new integration allows Garmin smartwatch users to automatically share their overnight skin temperature data directly with the NC° app. That means less manual input and more seamless tracking for users trying to monitor their fertility patterns. The feature works only in certain countries, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, the EU, Norway, Singapore, Switzerland, the UK, and the US. It is this geographical limitation that users need to keep in mind, as it is not supported everywhere.

    Devices Compatibility & Offers

    The integration is currently compatible with a select few Garmin smartwatches. These models are the Fenix 8, Forerunner 570, Forerunner 970, Venu 4, and Venu X1. At the time of announcement, the price for these devices was around $699.99, but it varies based on retailer and region. To encourage adoption, Garmin and Natural Cycles are offering a promotional deal—10% off on selected Garmin smartwatches and an additional 10% discount on the NC° Annual Plan, which normally costs $134.99 per year. This special is a neat opportunity for users to get more value for their money while enhancing their health tracking options.

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  • Apple Sets Strict Rules for iPhone Features on Garmin Fenix 8 and Other Smartwatches

    Apple Sets Strict Rules for iPhone Features on Garmin Fenix 8 and Other Smartwatches

    Key Takeaway

    1. Apple’s opposition to EU regulations on the iOS ecosystem has been challenged, with concerns about user security and privacy seen as unpersuasive.
    2. Following the Digital Markets Act, Apple is preparing to enable “Notification Forwarding” with iOS 26.5, allowing smartwatches to access push notifications.
    3. Apple’s new developer license agreement restricts notification data use, prohibiting advertising, AI training, location monitoring, data transfer, and content modification.
    4. The update enables users of certain smartwatches (e.g., Garmin Fenix 8, Huawei Watch GT 6) to receive richer notifications, including images and videos, and reply to messages directly from their devices.

    Apple’s Recent Moves Against the EU’s Digital Markets Act

    Just a few month ago, apple made a statement to try and sway public opinion against the european union’s new regulations, claiming they were protecting user privacy and security. Despite their effort, they did not succeed. Many found that claims about safeguarding users’ data were more about keeping control over their ecosystem than genuine concern.

    What Does the Digital Markets Act Mean for Smartwatches?

    This new law requires apple to open up certain functionalities to other brands. From now on, smartwatch makers will have access to push notifications and live updates, making cross-device compatibility a reality. Apple, after releasing iOS 26.3, is expected to fully enable this feature with iOS 26.5, under a new developer license agreement which emphasizes user data privacy.

    Protection of User Data and Privacy Guidelines

    • Prohibits usage of push notification data for advertisements
    • Ban on using data for training artificial intelligence models
    • Cannot monitor or track user’s location through notifications
    • Data transfer to other devices or apps is not allowed
    • Notification content can only be altered in layout, not content
    • Data must stay on local devices, not stored on servers
    • Encrypted data can only be decrypted on the device itself

    Possible Benefits for Users with Third-Party Devices

    If Notification Forwarding works as it should, users of smartwatches like Garmin Fenix 8 ($1,199), Huawei Watch GT 6, or Pebble Round 2 could finally get richer notifications. This includes images, videos, and even replying to messages directly from their watch, greatly enhancing the usability and freedom of choice in wearable devices.

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  • Casio Announces Slim Digital Display Watches Release

    Casio Announces Slim Digital Display Watches Release

    Key Takeaway

    1. Casio will release three new Vintage AQ-240E hybrid watches with distinct dial colors in April 2026, featuring a square dial with rounded edges and a slim, lightweight design.
    2. These watches support dual time zones, have multiple features including alarms, stopwatch, automatic calendar, and support both 12/24-hour formats with water resistance for daily use.
    3. Launch prices are around $96 in Vietnam and €59.50 in France, with expected availability in Japan first, then later in Vietnam and other regions.

    Casio to Introduce New Vintage AQ-240E Watches in 2026

    In the upcoming spring of 2026, Casio plans to launch a trio of vintage styled hybrid watches called the AQ-240E series. These watches feature a unique square dial with softly rounded borders, encased in a shiny chrome-plated resin material giving them a classy yet modern look. They’re designed to appeal to both traditional and tech-savvy users.

    Design and Colors

    The three models coming out are the AQ-240E-2A, with a light blue sunburst dial; the AQ-240E-4A, sporting a matte orange finish; and the AQ-240E-7A2, which has a matte off-white face. They are compact and slim, with dimensions of approximately 40.9 x 35.8 x 8.1 mm and a weight of 51 grams, making them quite lightweight on the wrist. The digital component is a tiny display positioned at 6 o’clock, complemented by two traditional analog hands, blending digital and analog features seamlessly.

    Features of the AQ-240E

    These watches operate using Casio’s Module 5154, supporting functions like dual time zone tracking, daily alarms, hourly chimes, and a precise 1/100th second stopwatch. The user can switch between 12-hour and 24-hour time formats, and the calendar automatically adjusts itself for date changes. They’re said to be water resistant suitable for daily wear, and the battery life is projected to last up to two years without replacement.

    Pricing and Release Info

    According to Vietnamese based seller Bello, the launch will happen in Japan within April 2026. These models are expected to become available in Vietnam later, with an estimated retail price around 2,520,000 VND (about $96). Meanwhile, French retailer David et Philly has listed these models with a slated release date in May 2026, with a suggested retail price of €59.50. Interestingly, this same pricing aligns with existing older models like the Casio AQ-240E-7A (which is similar to the Casio DE).

    Overall, Casio’s new vintage AQ-240E lineup looks promising for those looking for stylish yet functional hybrid watches that blend classic design with modern technology, and they are expected to hit markets soon with attractive prices.

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  • Rollme’s $39.99 Smartwatch with 100-Day Battery Life

    Rollme’s $39.99 Smartwatch with 100-Day Battery Life

    Key Takeaway

    1. The PowerX offers impressive battery life with over 100 days of standby time due to its large 1,100 mAh battery and low-power processor.
    2. It features a unique dual-light torch system with adjustable brightness, red/white LEDs, and emergency SOS alarm, setting it apart from typical budget smartwatches.
    3. The device has a 53 mm rugged-looking case rated at 5 ATM water resistance, though without confirmed military-grade shock resistance standards.

    Announcement of Rollme PowerX

    Rollme just launch the PowerX, a budget friendly smartwatch that appeals to the entry level market at just $39.99. This watch packs some quite impressive specs that are surprisingly good for such a low price. It comes with a huge battery, normal health features, and a special built-in dual-light torch system, which is not very common with watches in this price range.

    Battery Life and Performance

    The 1,100 mAh battrey is one of the main selling points, with the company claiming it can last over 100 days on standby. For a device this size, that is a really big capacity, but bear in mind that the processor used is the basic 8773EWE, a low-power chip that is quite common in budget smartwatches. In real life, with Bluetooth 5.2 turned on, expect the actual usage time to be less than the 100 days claimed, but still quite decent for such an affordable watch.

    Design and Durability

    The PowerX has a 53 millimeter case made from a mixture of zinc alloy and plastic. Though it is described as “military-grade,” there’s no solid proof from official MIL-STD testing to support how durable or shock resistant it really is. It’s rated at 5 ATM, which means it can handle surface swimming without issues but probably wont survive intense underwater pressures or high-impact activities.

    Special Features: The Dual-Light Torch

    What sets this watch apart is its unique dual-light torch, equipped with white and red LED lights. The brightness can be adjusted, and it even features a strobe mode useful for emergencies. Along with that, it includes a SOS alarm that sounds when needed. Instead of relying on screen brightness for lighting, the physical torch might be handy especially for outdoor use, making it more functional during outdoor adventures.

    Display and Health Monitoring

    The smartwatch sports a 1.53-inch display with a resolution of 360 x 360 pixels. The built-in HX3918 sensor monitors health metrics like blood oxygen levels and sleep patterns. The device is available via the official Rollme store, and a promotion offers a stainless steel strap for the first 100 customers. Ultimately, whether the PowerX is worth it depends on how these features perform in daily life, which can only be truly known after using the device for some time, not just from the specs sheet.


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  • Citizen Promaster Dive: Bigger, Bolder, Now Available in the US

    Citizen Promaster Dive: Bigger, Bolder, Now Available in the US

    Key Takeaway

    1. The BN0167-09W is a larger, 44mm dive watch featuring a structural ink dial that shifts hues between blue, teal, and purple.
    2. It has a traditional 44mm stainless steel case, with design elements like pronounced crown guards and a grippy bezel.
    3. The watch uses Eco-Drive technology, with no battery replacement needed, and is ISO-rated for 200m water resistance.
    4. Limited to 8,700 units worldwide, offering a higher production run for easier availability.
    5. It features a color-matched bezel and strap with luminous markers and a date window, emphasizing functionality and aesthetics.

    Introduction to the New Citizen Promaster Dive Watch

    Citizen is back with another interesting dive watch, expanding their special edition lineup. Following the sea-inspired EO2023 series, they now introduce the BN0167-09W, which is available in the US. This watch was initially released in Canada and China just last week. It costs around $495, the same as the EO2023-00W, but features a look and feel that is quite different. Notably, this model is larger, measuring 44mm, and comes with a color-coordinated unidirectional bezel and matching strap, making it stand out among other dive watches.

    Design and Size Differences

    Unlike the more compact and stealthy design of its predecessor, this BN0167-09W reverts back to classic dive watch proportions. It features a robust 44mm stainless steel case that gives an imposing presence on the wrist. The watch has a utilitarian style with big, protective crown guards and a textured bezel edge, which are practical for diving purposes. Its size and build aim at those who prefer a traditional, substantial diver’s watch that feels solid and reliable.

    Dial Technology and Visual Appeal

    The dial on the BN0167-09W is the star of this model. Citizen uses a new type of structural ink technology to create a unique, pigment-free surface. This special technique causes the dial’s colors to change when it catches the light, shifting through shades of deep blue, teal, and flashes of purple depending on the viewing angle. The overall tone is cooler compared to the warmer shades of the earlier EO2023-00W. A white chapter ring surrounds the dial, increasing contrast and making it easier to read, even in tough conditions.

    Color Coordination and Additional Features

    The teal-colored unidirectional bezel perfectly matches the strap, which is made of BENEBiOL polyurethane, adding a splash of color to the otherwise silver body of the watch. These elements not only add to it’s aesthetic appeal but also enhance usability. The watch includes lume-filled indices and boldhands, and a date window positioned at 3 o’clock, all of which promote a highly functional and practical design for divers and everyday wearers alike.

    Movement, Durability and Price

    This timepiece is powered by the Eco-Drive Caliber E168, same as the limited-edition rose-gold model. This means that it harnesses any natural or artificial light to stay charged, removing the hassle of changing batteries. The watch is ISO-compliant and offers water resistance up to 200 meters, fitting for serious diving expeditions. It’s also more available, with a production run of 8,700 units globally, which is significantly larger than the 3,400 units of the EO2023-00W, possibly making it easier to find.

    Availability and Warranty

    The Citizen Promaster Dive BN0167-09W can be bought from Citizen’s online store directly. It comes with a standard 5-year limited warranty and a 30-day return period, giving buyers some peace of mind with their purchase. Overall, this new limited-edition model combines distinctive aesthetics, reliable technology, and practical features, making it an attractive option for fans of professional dive watches.


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  • Oppo Watch X3 Mini in Three Stylish Colors Revealed

    Oppo Watch X3 Mini in Three Stylish Colors Revealed

    Key Takeaway

    1. The Oppo Watch X3 Mini will be available in three colors: High-gloss Gold, Mocha Brown, and Starlight Silver, with interchangeable 18mm straps.
    2. The smartwatch appears to target women, featuring functions like Menstrual Cycle Exercise Guidance based on hormonal levels.
    3. It is scheduled for release in April, alongside other Oppo products like the Oppo Ear Clips and Oppo K15 Pro.

    Introduction of the Oppo Watch X3 Mini

    Recently, a leak showed us the design of the Oppo Watch X3 Mini, and now Oppo itself has shared official images of this device. The photos not only give us a clearer look at the small size of this smartwatch but also show us the variety of colors it will come in.

    Color Options and Design

    According to the images shared on Weibo, the Oppo Watch X3 Mini will be available in three different colors. This is a step up from the Oppo Watch X2 Mini, which was only released in two colors. The new smartwatch will feature High-gloss Gold, Mocha Brown, and Starlight Silver, each with distinctly different straps. All straps are 18mm quick-release types, so they can easily swapped with either original or third-party bands.

    Target Audience and Feature Highlights

    For those who prefer a smaller smartwatch, the Oppo Watch X3 Mini should meet your needs. Oppo seems to target women in particular with this device. They even posted about a feature called Menstrual Cycle Exercise Guidance, which, according to translation, is designed to give exercise recommendations based on hormonal levels.

    Features and Special Functions

    • The watch will suggest exercises tailored to hormonal changes.
    • It includes access to fat-burning workouts shown by top fitness influencers.
    • This indicates a focus on health, fitness, and personalized guidance.

    Release Information and Additional Devices

    The Oppo Watch X3 Mini is set to be released in April. Besides this smartwatch, Oppo is also planning to launch other products such as the Oppo Ear Clips and the Oppo K15 Pro. Fans of the brand can expect a busy year ahead with new tech and accessories.

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  • New Citizen Tsuyosa Limited Edition Watch: Katana Hand & Blue Dial

    New Citizen Tsuyosa Limited Edition Watch: Katana Hand & Blue Dial

    Key Takeaways

    1. Limited Edition Release: The Citizen Tsuyosa watch is a limited edition created in partnership with French artist seconde/seconde/, with only 3,600 pieces available worldwide.

    2. Unique Design Features: The watch features a vibrant blue sunburst dial and a pixel-art katana minute hand, enhancing its artistic appeal.

    3. Thoughtful Details: The watch includes playful elements like “cut” marks on the clasp and a meaningful message on the caseback, adding to its storytelling.

    4. Practical Specifications: The 40mm stainless steel case is designed for comfort and practicality, with features like a sapphire crystal, luminous hands, and a 50-meter water resistance rating.

    5. Mechanical Movement: It is powered by Citizen’s automatic Caliber 8210 movement, offering hacking seconds, manual winding, and a power reserve of about 42 hours.

    After a week of mysterious hints, Citizen has finally revealed its new limited-edition Tsuyosa watch, made in partnership with French artist seconde/seconde/. This stunning automatic timepiece showcases a captivating blue sunburst dial and a minute hand that draws inspiration from a Japanese katana sword. Only 3,600 pieces will be sold worldwide.

    A Bold Design

    The dial is where seconde/seconde/’s creative vision shines through. Crafted in a vibrant sunburst blue, the dial reflects light in an engaging way. The standout feature is the pixel-art katana minute hand that appears to slice through the face, with the hour markers seemingly cut by the sword itself.

    Attention to Detail

    This playful motif continues on the bracelet clasp, which has engraved “cut” marks, and on the exhibition caseback, which carries a message from seconde/seconde/: “Being smaller has never stopped Minutes from slicing Hours into pieces.” This adds depth to the watch’s storytelling aspect.

    Practical and Stylish

    The watch maintains the Tsuyosa’s user-friendly dimensions, placed within a 40mm silver-tone stainless steel case, featuring an integrated three-link bracelet. It weighs 136 grams and accommodates wrist sizes from 145mm to 208mm, thanks to its push-button folding clasp. A sapphire crystal shields the dial, and a magnified date window at 3 o’clock, along with luminous hands and markers, ensures it remains practical for daily use. The water resistance is rated at 50 meters, making it ideal for everyday wear but not for deep water activities.

    Inside, you will find Citizen’s automatic Caliber 8210, a robust mechanical movement that includes hacking seconds, manual winding, and a power reserve of about 42 hours. Operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour, the movement is visible through the transparent caseback, highlighting the watch’s mechanical charm.

    The Citizen Tsuyosa x seconde/seconde (NJ0157-81L) comes in custom packaging designed by artist Romaric André, which features katana cut marks. With only 3,600 units available globally, this watch can be purchased at select Citizen retailers and online stores across the US, Japan, Europe, Asia, and Oceania for $495 / ￥73,700 / €449.

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  • Global Launch: Smartwatch with Advanced Marathon Mode Alternatives

    Global Launch: Smartwatch with Advanced Marathon Mode Alternatives

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei will launch the Watch GT Runner 2 on February 26, alongside other devices like the Band 11 Pro and FreeBuds Pro 5.
    2. Teaser videos indicate that the Watch GT Runner 2 is a successor to the original model, competing with Garmin’s popular smartwatches.
    3. Developed in partnership with Eliud Kipchoge, the smartwatch includes an ‘intelligent marathon mode’ for training assistance.
    4. The Watch GT Runner 2 features Huawei’s TruSense technology, monitoring over sixty health and fitness metrics.
    5. The smartwatch will utilize the Sunflower positioning system for tracking routes and activities; global pricing details are not yet available.

    Huawei has announced that it will be launching the Watch GT Runner 2 this month. The company has stated that the Watch GT Runner 2 will be featured among numerous new products that it plans to showcase on February 26. At this moment, the smartwatch is anticipated to be released globally alongside several other devices, such as the Band 11 Pro, FreeBuds Pro 5, Mate 80 Pro, and the MatePad Mini tablet.

    Teaser Videos Surface

    Meanwhile, Huawei has started to release teaser videos related to the Watch GT Runner 2 on YouTube. These videos, which can be seen below, present the new smartwatch as a direct successor to the original Watch GT Runner, albeit five years later. Consequently, the Watch GT Runner 2 is expected to compete against popular Garmin smartwatches favored by runners, such as the Fenix 8 or the Forerunner 970, which retails for $749.99 on Amazon.

    Notable Features

    Like its predecessor, the Watch GT Runner 2 has been developed in partnership with Eliud Kipchoge, and it seems to have several key enhancements compared to recent Huawei smartwatches. For example, Huawei has hinted at the addition of an ‘intelligent marathon mode.’ This feature, aimed at training, is said to assist users in preparing more effectively for long-distance races.

    Furthermore, the Watch GT Runner 2 is expected to utilize Huawei’s TruSense technology. Already integrated into several Huawei smartwatches, TruSense is capable of monitoring over sixty health and fitness metrics to offer diverse health insights. Additionally, the smartwatch will benefit from the company’s Sunflower positioning system for tracking routes and activities. Huawei plans to market the Watch GT Runner 2 on a global scale, but the pricing details are still not available for now.

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  • Casio Launches New Oceanus Manta Bluetooth Watch in the US

    Casio Launches New Oceanus Manta Bluetooth Watch in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Oceanus Manta OCWS7000CN1A is priced at $2,200 and is limited to 1,600 pieces globally.
    2. The watch features a sleek black design with a matte textured dial and a hand-cut sapphire glass bezel.
    3. It is made from titanium and is water resistant up to 100 meters.
    4. The OCWS7000CN1A includes Bluetooth technology for automatic time adjustment and a phone finder.
    5. Additional features include radio control (Multiband 6), a simple date display, and Tough Solar charging.

    A new watch from Casio, the Oceanus Manta S7000 Series, has just hit the US market: the OCWS7000CN1A. First launched in Japan in 2025, this Calm Night series model arrives alongside the pricier OCWSG1000CN1A.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Oceanus Manta OCWS7000CN1A is available for purchase on Casio’s online store in the US, with a price tag of $2,200. It’s important to mention that the product page indicates only 10 units are left in stock, highlighting the limited production; there are just 1,600 pieces distributed globally.

    Design Features

    This watch features a sleek black design, with a matte textured dial and a hand-cut sapphire glass bezel that gleams blue under certain lighting. Both the casing and strap are crafted from titanium, and the watch is designed to be water resistant up to 100 meters.

    Smart Capabilities

    The Casio OCWS7000CN1A comes equipped with Bluetooth technology, offering features like automatic time adjustment and a phone finder when paired with your smartphone. It also boasts radio control (Multiband 6) along with three analog hands. The watch face includes a simple date display, plus inset dials for a second timezone and the day of the week. Additional functions include a stopwatch, an auto hand home position feature, and Tough Solar charging.

    Casio has not yet shared any details about launching the Oceanus Manta OCWS7000CN1A in European markets, including Germany.

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  • Citizen Launches Series 8 Automatic Watch with Anti-Magnetic Caliber 9051

    Citizen Launches Series 8 Automatic Watch with Anti-Magnetic Caliber 9051

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Citizen NB6084-50A is a new variant in the Series 8 collection, featuring a two-tone design with brushed stainless steel and yellow gold plating.
    2. The watch showcases a unique dial with a textured Japanese checkered pattern and a view of Tokyo’s skyline, enhanced by golden hands and indices.
    3. It is powered by the Caliber 9051 automatic movement, with a frequency of 28,800 vph and a 42-hour power reserve, designed to resist high magnetic fields.
    4. The NB6084-50A will launch in March 2026 with a retail price of $1,350 USD, fitting between standard steel and fully gold-plated models.
    5. The watch features a sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating for improved visibility.

    Following the announcement about the smaller Series 8 collection in Japan, Citizen Europe has revealed a new variant (thanks to @plus9time’s scoop), the NB6084-50A. This model joins the already mentioned pistachio green, yellow-gold, and forged carbon styles. With this addition, the global launch of the 39.3 mm design is now complete. The NB6084-50A showcases a two-tone design, combining a brushed stainless steel case with yellow gold plating on the bezel and center links of the bracelet. The case thickness remains at 10.4 mm, just like its siblings.

    Unique Dial Design

    The dial features the new signature textured pattern of the series—a classic Japanese checkered design that incorporates a view of Tokyo’s skyline. For this reference, a white dial serves as the base, complemented by golden hands and indices to harmonize with the two-tone look. The watch face is safeguarded by a sapphire crystal that has an anti-reflective coating, enhancing visibility. While other models tend to focus on single-tone or complete gold finishes, the NB6084-50A presents itself as a blend of traditional dress watch and sporty style.

    Solid Mechanical Performance

    Internally, the watch is driven by the Caliber 9051, an automatic movement with a frequency of 28,800 vph (4Hz) and a power reserve of 42 hours. This movement is specifically designed to withstand high magnetic fields (16,000 A/m). Because of this feature, the watch (along with others in this collection) can keep an accuracy of −10 to +20 seconds daily, even when near common electronic devices. The NB6084-50A is set to launch in March 2026, with an expected retail price of $1,350 USD, positioning it between the standard steel models and the fully gold-plated options.

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