Category: Wearables

  • OnePlus Watch 3 Now Available in the US with 50% Price Increase

    OnePlus Watch 3 Now Available in the US with 50% Price Increase

    Key Takeaways

    1. The OnePlus Watch 3 was delayed due to a typo and is now priced at $499.99, up from the original $329.99.
    2. The price increase of $170 has not been officially explained by OnePlus, but rumors suggest it may be linked to US tariffs.
    3. In Europe and the UK, the OnePlus Watch 3 is available at lower prices (€299 and £269, respectively) and includes free gifts with purchase.
    4. US buyers do not receive the same promotional gifts when purchasing the OnePlus Watch 3.
    5. Despite its features, the OnePlus Watch 3 faces strong competition in the market, while the OnePlus Watch 2 is available for $209.99.


    The OnePlus Watch 3 launched in February and was meant to be available for purchase later that month. However, a typo found on the watch’s underside led OnePlus to delay its release. Now, the smartwatch can be bought, but it comes with a significantly higher price than initially announced.

    Price Increase Details

    According to OnePlus’s official site, the OnePlus Watch 3 is priced at $499.99, a jump from the original price of $329.99, resulting in a $170 increase. OnePlus has not commented on this price hike, but a spokesperson reportedly told The Verge, “We don’t have any additional comment to share at this time.”

    Speculations on Price Changes

    There are rumors suggesting that the price increase of the OnePlus Watch 3 is related to tariffs set by US President Donald Trump. This theory seems plausible, especially since the price in other regions has not changed. In Europe, it sells for €299 (down from €349), and in the UK, it’s available at a reduced price of £269 from a launch price of £319.

    Gifts Included in Other Regions

    Both the UK and Europe not only get the watch for less than its launch price, but they also receive free gifts with their purchase of the OnePlus Watch 3. Buyers can choose from several gifts like the Nord Buds 3 Pro, a OnePlus Watch Charging Base, or a OnePlus Watch strap. Unfortunately, these offers are not available in the US.

    At a price of $499.99, the OnePlus Watch faces a tough market despite its many features, which include a brighter display, a 5-day battery life, and new health tracking options. Luckily, the OnePlus Watch 2 remains a solid choice and competes well against many alternatives. It is currently listed on Amazon for $209.99.

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  • Oppo Watch X2 Mini: Compact Smartwatch with 1,000 Nit Display

    Oppo Watch X2 Mini: Compact Smartwatch with 1,000 Nit Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Watch X2 Mini has a smaller 43 mm case and a redesigned layout compared to the 47 mm Watch X2.
    2. It features a 1.5-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels and a peak brightness of 1,000 nits.
    3. The smartwatch is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 chipset, allowing for up to 7 days of battery life, though intensive use can reduce this to 1.5 days.
    4. The Watch X2 Mini includes GPS and an accurate heart rate sensor, but lacks ECG functionality.
    5. Pricing for the Watch X2 Mini starts at CNY 1,799 (~$247) in China, with a premium 18k gold version costing up to CNY 2,099 (~$288).


    The Watch X2 Mini has been unveiled alongside the Pad 4 Pro, Find X8 Ultra, and Find X8s series during a major product launch event held by Oppo in China. To summarize, Oppo introduced the Watch X2 with a 47 mm size back in February, following OnePlus’s launch of its own successor to the Watch 2, which is currently priced at $245 on Amazon.

    Design Changes

    In contrast, the Watch X2 Mini features a smaller 43 mm case that includes a slight redesign. According to the promotional images shared by the company, Oppo has removed the quasi-crown guard that was seen on the Watch X2. Instead, the digital crown and a single physical button are positioned prominently away from the compact body, similar to the layout found on many other smartwatches.

    Display and Performance

    The Watch X2 Mini is designed to be mainly operated through its AMOLED display, which spans 1.5 inches with a native resolution of 466 x 466 pixels and can achieve a peak brightness of 1,000 nits. The device is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 chipset, along with a BES2800BP low-power chipset that allows for up to 7 days of battery life thanks to the 354 mAh battery. However, it’s important to note that Oppo’s official estimates indicate a reduction to just 1.5 days of battery when the smartwatch is used intensively.

    Battery Life and Features

    Even so, it appears that the Watch X2 Mini won’t require daily charging. While it lacks ECG functionality, it does include an integrated GPS module and what Oppo claims to be a very accurate heart rate sensor. The starting price for Oppo’s latest smartwatch is CNY 1,799 (~$247) in China, reaching up to CNY 2,099 (~$288) for the more luxurious 18k gold version. Like all of Oppo’s releases today, it remains uncertain if the Watch X2 Mini will see a global launch.

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  • Vivo Watch 5 Launching Soon: 22 Days Battery Life Smartwatch

    Vivo Watch 5 Launching Soon: 22 Days Battery Life Smartwatch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Oppo has launched the Watch X2 Mini, a smaller version of its Watch X2 smartwatch.
    2. Vivo will announce its new smartwatch, Watch 5, on April 21, along with other devices like the X200 Ultra.
    3. The Watch 5 is expected to improve battery life from 16 days in the Watch 3 to 22 days.
    4. Vivo’s Watch 5 will feature a 30-second ‘rapid risk assessment’ for heart health and blood pressure monitoring.
    5. The Watch 5 will use Vivo’s ‘Blue River’ operating system instead of the usual Wear OS.


    Oppo has launched the Watch X2 Mini, a compact version of its current Watch X2 smartwatch. Meanwhile, Vivo is set to unveil its own smartwatch soon, with an official announcement planned for April 21. This event will also showcase the X200 Ultra, X200s, Pad5 Pro, among other gadgets. Until then, Vivo has provided some insights on how the upcoming Watch 5 will be different from the current Watch 3 model.

    Battery Life Improvements

    The new Watch 5 is rumored to have a battery life that extends from 16 days, as seen in the Watch 3, to 22 days. This enhancement is likely due to Vivo’s unique ‘Blue River’ operating system, which replaces the usual Wear OS. If this holds true, the Watch 5 will exceed the battery longevity of competitors like the Xiaomi Watch S3, which is currently priced at $149.99 on Amazon.

    Health Features and Monitoring

    Additionally, Vivo plans to introduce a 30-second ‘rapid risk assessment’ feature in the Watch 5, which includes arrhythmia analysis and heart health monitoring. The smartwatch will also come with blood pressure tracking and what Vivo calls ‘professional’ AI running guidance. While the complete specifications for the Watch 5 will be disclosed on April 21, it’s likely that Vivo will share more information in the lead-up to the launch.

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  • Casio GM2100TTTR-8A Hybrid Watch with Metal Bezel Now in US

    Casio GM2100TTTR-8A Hybrid Watch with Metal Bezel Now in US

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio has launched the One OK Rock collaboration watch, GM2100TTTR-8A, in the US, celebrating the band’s 20th anniversary.
    2. The watch features an octagonal stainless steel bezel, a black dial with cherry blossom design, and a matte white semi-transparent strap.
    3. Notable features include world time for 48 cities, a fully automatic calendar until 2099, multiple alarms, and a countdown timer.
    4. The watch is water-resistant up to 200m and has an estimated battery life of three years.
    5. Priced at $300 in the US, it is available online, but availability in other regions like Europe is still uncertain.


    Casio has introduced the One OK Rock collaboration watch, the GM2100TTTR-8A, in the United States. There were recent speculations that this timepiece might make its debut in this region. This special edition watch marks the band’s 20th anniversary and was originally released in Japan on April 10th, where it has already gained a lot of fans.

    Design and Features

    The G-Shock GM2100TTTR-8A, referred to as the GM-2100TTTR-8A in other places, features an octagonal stainless steel bezel that encircles a black dial adorned with a cherry blossom design. Accompanying this is a matte white semi-transparent strap. This hybrid watch comes with a small digital display and a subdial; the latter showcases a katana, a traditional Japanese sword, which indicates the day of the week.

    Specifications

    Among its features, the watch includes world time for 48 cities and a fully automatic calendar that runs through to the year 2099, along with options for 12 or 24-hour displays. There’s also a stopwatch that measures to 1/100th of a second, five daily alarms, and a countdown timer that works within a 24-hour range. A dual LED backlight ensures visibility in dim conditions. Additionally, this watch boasts a water resistance of up to 200m and has an estimated battery life of three years using two SR726W batteries.

    Pricing and Availability

    As anticipated, the Casio One OK Rock G-Shock GM2100TTTR-8A watch can now be purchased in the US for $300. This price point is higher compared to similar models such as the GM2100-1A (currently priced at $171.90 on Amazon). The watch is also available on the Casio online store in countries including Singapore, Taiwan, and the Philippines. However, it remains uncertain if or when this product will be available in other regions like Europe.

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  • Casio G-Shock GA-V01 Watch Launching Soon in More Countries

    Casio G-Shock GA-V01 Watch Launching Soon in More Countries

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock GA-V01 will soon be available in the European market, with confirmation for the UK release.
    2. The watch features a unique design with a 58.2 mm case, a magnetically attached Shock Release Hand, and shock-absorbing bumpers.
    3. Key features include a countdown timer, date and weekday display, five daily alarms, and a stopwatch that measures up to 1/100th of a second.
    4. The GA-V01 is water-resistant up to 200 m (656 ft) and has an estimated battery life of 10 years.
    5. Pricing is set at €129 in the Netherlands and £119 in the UK, with no confirmed price for North America yet.


    The Casio G-Shock GA-V01 is set to hit the European market very soon. This latest model made its debut in February and has already been confirmed for release in the UK. In March, models showcased the GA-V01 during the FW25 event for the fashion brand Ottolinger. Referring to this fashion event, the G-Shock France Instagram account recently mentioned, “the GA-V01 is coming soon, I promise”.

    Anticipated Rollout Across Europe

    There are expectations that the GA-V01 will be available in several EU nations. However, the company hasn’t officially confirmed this or provided a specific launch date. The watch sports a unique design, featuring a sizable case that measures 58.2 mm (about 2.3 inches) at its widest point. It includes an innovative magnetically attached Shock Release Hand along with shock-absorbing bumpers. Additional features comprise a countdown timer with a 24-hour range, a display for date and weekday, five alarms that can be set daily, and a stopwatch that measures up to 1/100th of a second. Also, the watch is water-resistant up to 200 m (approximately 656 ft) and boasts an impressive estimated battery life of 10 years.

    Pricing and Availability Information

    Casio has not disclosed the price of the G-Shock GA-V01 for European markets yet. However, it is available at a retailer in the Netherlands, Auer.lu, for €129, with their product page indicating it is “Coming Soon.” In the UK, the retail price will be set at £119 upon launch. It’s still unclear if or when it might be released in North America.

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  • Tuseno Shellback V2: Lume-Coated Bezel & 200m Water Resistance

    Tuseno Shellback V2: Lume-Coated Bezel & 200m Water Resistance

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Tuseno Shellback V2 features a new Sellita SW200-1 movement with a 41-hour power reserve and improved accuracy of –20/+7 seconds daily.
    2. The watch has a 40 mm stainless steel casing, a lune-coated unidirectional bezel, and is available in four dial colors: yellow, black, blue, and white.
    3. The hands and hour markers are coated with Super-LumiNova for enhanced visibility in low light, and a double-domed sapphire crystal protects the dial.
    4. It includes a stainless steel flat-link bracelet with a diver clasp, but lacks micro-adjustment.
    5. The Shellback V2 offers 200 meters of water resistance and is available for pre-order at $749, with a $100 discount and a complimentary rubber strap.


    Tuseno has introduced the second-generation Shellback V2 watch, bringing notable enhancements compared to the first version. This new mechanical watch has received a caliber upgrade and now comes in more color choices. Specifically, the Shellback V2 is equipped with the new Sellita SW200-1 movement, which offers a power reserve of 41 hours.

    Movement Features

    As per the company, this automatic movement ensures accuracy within a range of –20/+7 seconds daily. The updated Sellita movement operates at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour), includes 26 jewels, and allows for adjustments in three positions, which is an improvement over the previous model. The watch has a sandwich-style design, featuring a 40 mm stainless steel casing and a lume-coated unidirectional bezel that rotates 120°.

    Dial and Protection

    The Tuseno Shellback V2 is available with dials in yellow, black, blue, and white, showcasing a date window located at the 6 o’clock mark. Its hands and hour markers are plated in dark grey and coated with Super-LumiNova, which glows in a light blue hue for enhanced visibility in low-light environments. Additionally, a double-domed sapphire crystal sits atop the dial, offering protection against scratches and impacts.

    Bracelet and Water Resistance

    The watch comes with a stainless steel flat-link bracelet, measuring 20 mm wide, featuring polished chamfers and a diver clasp. However, it does not provide micro-adjustment on the clasp. The V2 is designed for aquatic activities, boasting a water resistance of 200 meters (20 bar), making it an ideal companion for water adventures.

    You can pre-order the Tuseno Shellback V2 in striking yellow-black, timeless white-black, stealthy DLC-white, and retro black-gilt color schemes through Tuseno’s official website for $749. As part of the launch promotion, the brand is also offering a $100 discount along with a complimentary black rubber strap.

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  • Amazfit Smartwatch Update: Sleep Bug Fix Now Available

    Amazfit Smartwatch Update: Sleep Bug Fix Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra smartwatch will receive an update, version 9.6.1.2, which is 9.45MB in size, focusing on optimizations and bug fixes.
    2. The update improves the running tracking algorithm and fixes issues with inaccurate distance measurements and sleep data syncing with the Zepp app.
    3. Zepp Flow 1.7.0 is also being rolled out, introducing smarter notification replies, better weather forecasts, health advice, and music controls.
    4. The specific new features for the T-Rex Ultra from Zepp Flow 1.7.0 have not been officially confirmed.
    5. The availability date for firmware version 9.6.1.2 and Zepp Flow 1.7.0 is currently unknown, and users can check for updates through the Zepp app.


    The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra smartwatch is set to get a fresh update, known as version 9.6.1.2. A user reported on Facebook that this update is 9.45MB in size, bringing a variety of optimizations and bug fixes for the device.

    Improvements in Performance

    According to the release notes, version 9.6.1.2 makes enhancements to the running tracking algorithm. Zepp Health mentioned that it has resolved issues with inaccurate distance measurements that could happen under certain conditions. Additionally, they have addressed a problem where sleep data collected by the smartwatch wasn’t syncing properly with the Zepp app.

    New Features Coming Soon

    Moreover, it seems like Zepp Flow 1.7.0 is being rolled out to the Amazfit T-Rex Ultra as well. This version of the Zepp AI assistant was first released in November for Balance smartwatch users. For this specific model, Zepp Flow 1.7.0 introduced smarter notification replies for Android users, better weather forecasts, and added features like health advice and music controls. However, Zepp Health has not yet officially confirmed which new features the T-Rex Ultra will receive.

    Availability of Updates

    It remains uncertain when firmware version 9.6.1.2 and Zepp Flow 1.7.0 will be available to all Amazfit T-Rex Ultra smartwatch users (currently priced at $349.99 on Amazon). To download this update, you can go to the Zepp app and navigate to Profile > Amazfit T-Rex Ultra > System Update.

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  • Garmin Fenix 7 Beta Update Enhances Sleep Tracking Features

    Garmin Fenix 7 Beta Update Enhances Sleep Tracking Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released beta version 21.06 for the Fenix 7 and other smartwatches shortly after beta version 21.05.
    2. The update includes improvements to the breathing variations page in sleep analysis and various user interface fixes.
    3. A persistent bug causing watches to restart repeatedly remains unresolved in this update.
    4. Users have reported issues with Garmin Coach training plans and missing glance features after updating to version 21.06.
    5. The update is available for several models, including Fenix 7 and Epix 2, but not for Tactix 7 or Marq Aviator Gen 2.


    Garmin has put out a new beta update for the Fenix 7 and some of its other smartwatches. This beta version 21.06 was released just a few days after beta version 21.05, which included several bug fixes for these devices.

    Improvements in User Interface

    As per the change log for beta version 21.06, this update brings enhancements to the breathing variations page that is part of sleep analysis. In addition, there are various fixes related to the user interface (UI), but no extra details are given on those changes.

    Ongoing Issues

    Sadly, a bug that makes these watches restart repeatedly seems to still be present in this update. Users began to notice this problem after they installed beta version 21.04 on different watch models. It has been occurring during running sessions, Garmin Coach workouts, or when turning off the device. Furthermore, after updating to version 21.06, some users have reported problems with Garmin Coach training plans and missing glance features.

    Availability of the Update

    The Garmin beta version 21.06 is now accessible for the Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro (47mm Solar Sapphire curr. $639 at Amazon), Epix 2, Epix 2 Pro, Enduro 2, Quatix 2, and Marq Gen 2 smartwatches; however, the company has indicated that this update does not apply to the Tactix 7 or Marq Aviator Gen 2. If you’re interested, you can sign up for the Garmin beta program on the Garmin Connect website.

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  • Casio G-Shock GBX-100: Smart Sync & Skeleton Design Coming Soon

    Casio G-Shock GBX-100: Smart Sync & Skeleton Design Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new G-Shock GBX-100 edition features a surf-oriented design with a skeleton look, suitable for summer vibes.
    2. It includes essential surfing tools like tide graphs, moon phases, and sunrise/sunset timings, accessible via Bluetooth.
    3. The design will have a transparent case and strap, moving away from traditional solid colors, while keeping the same internal features.
    4. The expected price in Japan is approximately ¥27,500 (~$190), with a release timeframe set for June.
    5. International availability details are not confirmed, but G-Shock typically launches new models in broader markets shortly after the Japan debut.


    The G-Shock GBX-100 series by Casio is about to welcome a fresh edition, and this one is more suited for beach vibes, at least in terms of looks. A new surf-oriented digital watch model is expected to drop this summer, featuring a skeleton design, according to the well-known Japanese blog, Great G-Shock World.

    Surfing Features

    The GBX-100 has been promoted as an essential tool for surfers, offering features such as tide graphs, moon phases, and sunrise/sunset timings, all retrieved via Bluetooth from a vast database of over 3,000 coastal sites. It boasts a high-contrast MIP LCD for better visibility under bright conditions and incorporates standard G-Lide features like impressive 20-bar water resistance and a robust resin case.

    Design Changes

    Sources indicate that the new version won’t significantly change the internal features – it will still maintain the same tide-tracking interface and probably stick to the GBX-100TT-2JF foundation. Instead, it will replace the traditional solid colors with a transparent case and strap, a style G-Shock usually reserves for special summer editions like the recently unveiled GA-2100BM collection. This design is likely to catch the eye of seasonal buyers looking for something sleek, relaxed, and a bit different from the usual solid two-tone styles that the series is known for.

    Pricing and Availability

    For similar models, the current cost in Japan is approximately ¥27,500 (~$190), and although there are no confirmed details about international availability yet, G-Shock often launches these models in broader markets within weeks of their debut in Japan. Currently, the expected release timeframe is June.

    Keep an eye out for more information when Casio makes the announcement official.

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  • Redmi Watch Move Launching in India on April 21: Key Specs Leaked

    Redmi Watch Move Launching in India on April 21: Key Specs Leaked

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Redmi Watch Move will launch in India on April 21, priced under ₹4,000, targeting fitness enthusiasts.
    2. It features a 2.07-inch AMOLED display with a peak brightness of 1500 nits, claimed to be the brightest in its budget range.
    3. The smartwatch includes Bluetooth calling, dual microphones for noise reduction, over 100 sports modes, and five satellite positioning systems for accurate tracking.
    4. Battery life is rated at 14 days, and it operates on HyperOS, though details about software updates are unclear.
    5. The Watch Move introduces a rotating crown for navigation, differing from last year’s models, and sales will begin on platforms like Amazon and Mi.com after the launch.


    Xiaomi’s sub-brand Redmi is set to unveil its latest smartwatch, the Watch Move, in India on April 21, with a price tag of under ₹4,000. Aimed at fitness lovers, it boasts a 2.07-inch AMOLED display that matches the global Redmi Watch 5 in size. It shines with a peak brightness of 1500 nits, which Xiaomi asserts is the brightest available in its budget range. Leaked images reveal a square design featuring a rotating crown for easy navigation, along with silicone straps available in black, blue, white, and silver/gray, topped off with a sleek curved screen.

    Features and Performance

    The Watch Move includes Bluetooth calling capabilities, enhanced by dual microphones for better noise reduction. It also offers over 100 sports modes and integrates five satellite positioning systems (GNSS) to ensure precise outdoor tracking. Xiaomi claims a remarkable 98.5% accuracy in activity tracking and a battery life of 14 days, which is shorter than the 24 days offered by the Watch 5, but still quite competitive. The smartwatch operates on HyperOS, although details regarding potential software updates remain vague.

    Comparison to Previous Models

    In contrast to last year’s models, the Watch 5 Active (₹2,799) and Watch 5 Lite (₹3,499), the new Watch Move introduces a rotating crown instead of just a single button, a hallmark typically found in high-end watches. Following its launch on April 21, sales are expected to commence on platforms such as Amazon and Mi.com. Further details regarding final pricing, available colors, and specific features of HyperOS will be revealed as the launch date approaches.

    Additional Releases

    On a separate note, Redmi has begun taking pre-orders for its Buds 7S wireless earbuds on JD.com in China. These earbuds are priced at 199 Yuan (~$27) and come equipped with a dual-driver configuration (12.4mm titanium-coated and 5.5mm ceramic), along with SoundID audio customization, spatial audio, and dual-mode active noise cancellation.