Category: Wearables

March 8, 2024
Google Pixel Watch 3: Ultra-WideBand Connectivity for Enhanced Watch Unlock
Google’s Pixel Watch 3 has been a subject of recent speculation within the tech community. Reports suggest that the upcoming wearable device will introduce enhancements to its Watch Unlock feature, offering additional functionality and potential use cases, thanks to the incorporation of Ultra-WideBand (UWB) connectivity. While the original and second-generation Pixel Watches can currently be unlocked through a Bluetooth-linked smartphone, this new upgrade aims to elevate the unlocking experience.
Enhanced Watch Unlock Feature with UWB Connectivity
9to5Google has delved into the latest version of the Play Services app and uncovered references pointing towards an enhancement in Watch Unlock capabilities through UWB connectivity. The code discovered indicates the potential integration of ‘UWB ranging’, although it's noted that UWB may not be universally available, leading Google to deactivate this feature in regions where the connectivity protocol is unsupported.
The notification users will receive states, “You can still use Watch Unlock but may experience a slight delay and less accuracy,” hinting at Google's efforts to optimize smartwatch unlocking using ultra-wideband technology for faster and more precise interactions between the watch and a paired phone. It's essential that both devices are equipped with the necessary hardware for this functionality, with UWB support currently available in devices like the Pixel 6 Pro and later models, but not in the standard variants or the Pixel Watch.
Potential Applications of UWB Connectivity
Beyond improving the unlocking process for the Pixel Watch 3, UWB connectivity opens up possibilities for utilizing the technology in various scenarios such as digital car keys, smart home controls, and smart door locks. This advancement signifies a broader scope for the Pixel Watch 3 in terms of inter-device communication and seamless integration with other smart technologies.
Recent reports have also hinted at the introduction of a larger 45mm size variant for the Pixel Watch 3, complementing the existing 41mm model. This expansion in size options suggests Google’s commitment to providing users with a diverse range of choices when it comes to selecting their preferred wearable device.
Tags: Pixel Watch 3, Smartwatch technology, UWB connectivity
March 7, 2024
JBL Wave Flex TWS Sale in India: Special Price of Rs 2799 ($34)
The JBL Wave Flex has recently made its debut in the Indian market after being officially revealed in the region last month. Let’s delve into the details regarding the Wave Flex’s specifications, pricing, and more.
JBL Wave Flex TWS Pricing and Availability
The JBL Flex TWS earbuds are now available for a special introductory price of 2,799 INR in India, equivalent to around 34 US Dollars. Interested buyers can make their purchase through the brand’s official website or Amazon India. The earbuds come in two color choices: Black and White variants.
JBL Wave Flex Specs
The newest addition to JBL’s lineup showcases a semi-in-ear design featuring a stem. These earbuds are equipped with 23mm audio drivers and utilize Bluetooth 5.2 for connectivity. Weighing a mere 7.6 grams each, the JBL Wave Flex offers both comfort and portability. With a full charge, these earbuds can deliver up to 8 hours of playtime, while the charging case extends the battery life to 24 hours. Even a quick 10-minute charge provides an extra 2 hours of playback time.
Advanced Features
The JBL Wave Flex boasts an IP54 rating, ensuring resistance to water and dust. It incorporates features like Smart Ambient, enhancing users’ awareness of their surroundings. The hands-free functionality simplifies media switching, and users can personalize their experience using the JBL Headphones app.
Tags: JBL Wave Flex TWS, Specs and Pricing, truly wireless earbuds
March 7, 2024
Crossbeats Everest Smartwatch: Titanium Frame, 1.43″ AMOLED Display & BT Calling Launch
Crossbeats recently introduced the Everest Smartwatch, a robust and feature-rich device blending a Titanium finish with an aluminum frame to boost durability against dust, shock, and moisture.
Crossbeats Everest Smartwatch Specifications & Features
The smartwatch boasts a 1.43-inch AMOLED display, delivering vivid visuals at 466×466 pixels resolution and a brightness level of 850 nits. Offering a variety of over 200 customizable watch faces, it caters to individual style preferences.
Fitness-Centric Design and Health Monitoring
Tailored for fitness enthusiasts, the Everest Smartwatch incorporates more than 100 sports modes. It integrates an advanced biosensor chipset for precise health monitoring, including tracking blood pressure, blood oxygen levels, sleep patterns, heart rate, and more.
Battery Life and Connectivity
With a 320mAh battery, the smartwatch supports up to 7 days of continuous use and can last up to 30 days on standby. Featuring Bluetooth v5.3, it enables functionalities like Bluetooth calling, remote camera control, and music playback. The IP68 rating ensures water and dust resistance, while supporting smart features like voice assistance and phone finding.
Pricing & Availability
The Crossbeats Everest Smartwatch is priced at Rs. 1,999 ($24) and is available in black and green colors. Customers can purchase it from Crossbeats’ official website, Amazon.in, and Flipkart.com.
Tags: Fitness Tracking, Smartwatch
March 7, 2024
FDA Approves First OTC Glucose Monitor Dexcom Stelo System – Smartphone Pairing
A significant advancement in diabetes management was achieved on March 6th following the FDA's approval of Dexcom's Stelo glucose biosensor system. This innovative technology, a pioneering creation, permits non-insulin-dependent diabetes individuals or those prone to the condition to conduct blood sugar monitoring without the need for a prescription.
Revolutionary Glucose Monitoring System
The Stelo system diverges from traditional methods by employing a wearable sensor and a smartphone application to provide continuous glucose level monitoring, showcasing readings every quarter of an hour. Each sensor boasts a lifespan of up to 15 days before necessitating replacement, offering a durable and user-friendly solution.
FDA's Acknowledgment of Significance
The FDA underscored the importance of this approval, accentuating its capability to enhance the accessibility of blood sugar monitoring and enable individuals to oversee their health conveniently within their residences.
Striving Towards Non-Invasive Monitoring
While Stelo signifies a notable advancement, the ultimate aim in diabetes management remains non-invasive blood glucose monitoring. Although this technology was initially intended for the Apple Watch, current constraints have hindered its realization. Additionally, the FDA warns against unapproved non-invasive alternatives, pointing out their lack of reliability.
Despite the absence of non-invasive choices presently, Dexcom's Stelo stands as a substantial leap in diabetes management, providing a practical and attainable option for numerous individuals. The future of blood sugar monitoring holds the potential for further innovative and non-invasive methodologies.
Tags: FDA approval
March 6, 2024
CORSECA Soundwave & Skybeats TWS Earbuds Launched in India with Albatross Bluetooth Speaker
JUST CORSECA recently unveiled a duo of fresh offerings in their audio lineup, introducing two new sets of True Wireless (TWS) Earbuds named Soundwave and Skybeats, along with a Bluetooth Speaker called Albatross.
Soundwave TWS Earbuds
The Soundwave TWS Earbuds arrive packed with a range of impressive features geared towards enhancing audio clarity and immersion. Boasting six microphones, these earbuds ensure crystal clear voice transmission during calls. They also incorporate Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) technologies to effectively drown out ambient noise, allowing users to concentrate on their calls or music. Equipped with a 13mm HIFI driver, these earbuds aim to deliver a premium audio experience. Users can enjoy up to 40 hours of playback time with the assistance of the charging case. Additionally, a game mode is included for gamers, reducing latency to 40ms to ensure seamless audio synchronization. These earbuds are designed to be water-resistant (IPX4) and utilize Bluetooth 5.3 for a stable connection.
Skybeats TWS Earbuds
The Skybeats TWS Earbuds offer similar functionalities to the Soundwave model but are even lighter, enhancing comfort during extended wear. Featuring four microphones for enhanced call clarity, these earbuds also incorporate ANC and ENC technologies for noise cancellation. With a 10mm HIFI driver, users can expect quality music output. Offering up to 40 hours of music playback time, a game mode for low latency, water resistance (IPX4), and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, these earbuds cater to a diverse range of user needs.
Albatross Bluetooth Speaker
The Albatross Bluetooth Speaker packs a punch with its 20W output, delivering powerful sound performance. Providing multiple connectivity options such as Bluetooth, USB, AUX, FM, and TF Card, this speaker is versatile for various audio sources. Featuring RGB lights for added fun and ambiance, especially suitable for party environments, the speaker includes a built-in microphone and promises up to 4 hours of playback time on a single charge, courtesy of its 1800mAh battery.
Pricing & Availability
JUST CORSECA has ensured affordability with its pricing for these products. The Soundwave TWS Earbuds are priced at Rs. 1,599, the Skybeats TWS Earbuds at Rs. 1,399, and the Albatross Bluetooth Speaker at Rs. 2,299. These products are available in a range of colors and can be purchased through JUST CORSECA’s website, online platforms, and physical stores.
Tags: Bluetooth Speakers, TWS earbuds
March 6, 2024
Itel Icon 2 Smartwatch: 1.83″ HD Display, Bluetooth Calling & 100 Sports Modes – INR 1,099
itel has officially introduced the Icon 2 smartwatch in the Indian market, catering to those seeking an economical yet feature-rich smartwatch option.
Specifications of the Icon 2
The Icon 2 boasts a 1.83-inch HD display renowned for its clarity and brightness of 550 nits, shielded by durable 2.5D curved glass. It is designed to withstand water and dust, carrying an IP68 rating, ensuring suitability for daily use.
Features and Functionalities
Designed for user convenience, the smartwatch incorporates a rotatable crown to simplify navigation across its various functions. Health and fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the offering of over 100 sports modes, continuous monitoring of heart rate and SpO2 levels, sleep tracking, and specialized features for female health management, making it a versatile choice for diverse users.
With Bluetooth v5.3 support, the Icon 2 guarantees seamless connectivity, facilitating Bluetooth calls and easy access to contacts. Moreover, it comes equipped with smart utilities such as an AI voice assistant, camera controls, and music playback management, enhancing its daily usability.
Customization and Variants
The Icon 2 provides ample customization options with a selection of over 150 watch faces, enabling users to personalize their device to match their unique style. Available in Black, Blue, and Rose Gold variants, it includes an additional strap, offering enhanced value and personalization possibilities.
Pricing and Availability
Priced at Rs 1,099, the Icon 2 smartwatch is exclusively available for purchase on Amazon India.
Tags: Affordable Alternative, Itel Icon 2, Smartwatch
March 5, 2024
Google Pixel March Feature Drop: Call Screening, Fitness Upgrades & More
Google has unveiled its latest Pixel Feature Drop for March, aiming to boost productivity and health tracking capabilities across Pixel phones, the first-generation Pixel Watch, and the wider Pixel ecosystem. This update introduces significant enhancements that users will find beneficial.
Enhanced Call Screening and Productivity
Pixel phone users will now enjoy an improved Call Screening feature. If a call that is being screened remains silent, a new "hello" prompt will prompt the caller to speak, encouraging them to state their purpose for contacting you. Moreover, Google Assistant can now ask callers to hold on if you opt not to answer immediately.
Stunning Visuals and Search Feature
A notable addition is the ability to share vibrant 10-bit HDR videos directly on Instagram Reels and upload gorgeous Ultra HDR photos to your Instagram feed from your Pixel phone. Additionally, the convenient "Circle to Search" feature that allows seamless searching without switching apps is extending to Pixel 7 and 7 Pro, making it easier to find desired content instantly.
Fitness Boost for Pixel Watch
The first-generation Pixel Watch is receiving a fitness upgrade with features previously exclusive to the second generation. These include Pace Training for specific pace training, Heart Zone Training for heart rate zone monitoring, and a revamped user interface for improved workout data visualization.
Mindfulness and Navigation Features
Users can now find moments of tranquility with the Fitbit Relax app, now accessible on the first-gen Pixel Watch, guiding users through breathing exercises directly on their wrist. Moreover, enhance your city navigation experience with Google Maps on your Pixel Watch, offering real-time departure times, diverse transit options, and compass-enabled map guidance.
Portfolio Enhancements and Connectivity
The Pixel portfolio is also receiving enhancements. During video calls on Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, or Pixel 5a (and newer phones), users can now selectively share specific app content with app screen sharing to maintain privacy while sharing relevant information. Furthermore, connecting previously used devices to your new Pixel phone or tablet is now simplified through the "Connected Devices" settings page, with Fast Pair facilitating connections with Bluetooth accessories.
Document Markups and Gboard Voice Toolbar
Users can now annotate documents and assignments directly on their Pixel device using their finger or stylus with Google Docs markups. This feature offers various tools like pen colors and highlighters for individual and collaborative work. Additionally, the new Gboard voice toolbar on Pixel Tablet streamlines the keyboard into a toolbar when activated, optimizing screen space and enhancing multitasking capabilities.
These updates are set to roll out to Pixel devices over the following weeks.
Tags: Google Assistant, Pixel Phones, Pixel Watch 3
March 5, 2024
Skullcandy EcoBuds True Wireless Earbuds: 8-Hour Single-Charge Playback
Skullcandy has entered the realm of environmentally conscious audio solutions with the introduction of its latest offering, the EcoBuds True Wireless earbuds. These earbuds are designed with a focus on sustainability, featuring a composition that includes 65% certified recycled plastics, a reduction of heavy metals by 57%, and a 50% lower carbon footprint when compared to similar products in the market.
Eco-Friendly Design Choices
One prominent aspect of the EcoBuds is their composition, which consists of 65% recycled plastics, as highlighted by Skullcandy. However, in a bid to reduce their environmental impact, Skullcandy has made a notable decision to forgo the conventional charging case that is typically included with wireless earbuds. This decision was driven by the recognition that lithium-ion battery packs, commonly found in such cases, significantly contribute to the overall environmental footprint of these devices.
Impressive Performance and Accessibility
Despite the absence of a dedicated charging case, the EcoBuds manage to deliver a commendable eight hours of playback on a single charge. Additionally, they offer the convenience of being rechargeable via a smartphone, USB-C port, or any standard outlet, ensuring ease of use for consumers.
Affordable Pricing and Future Prospects
Remaining true to its reputation for offering budget-friendly products, Skullcandy has priced the EcoBuds at a competitive $40. Currently available in the "Glacier" color variant, a blend of white and blue hues, it remains uncertain whether additional color choices will be introduced in the future. These initiatives by Skullcandy serve as benchmarks for other industry players to emulate, encouraging the adoption of strategies that can influence the trajectory of the market. In a landscape characterized by significant challenges related to electronic waste disposal, Skullcandy's eco-conscious endeavors represent a refreshing departure, particularly if the EcoBuds manage to deliver performance levels comparable to other popular True Wireless earbuds that come at a higher price point.
Tags: Urban sustainability
March 5, 2024
TCL RayNeo X2 AR Glasses Launches on Indiegogo with Early Bird Offers
TCL has unveiled its RayNeo X2 AR Glasses featuring a full-color MicroLED optical waveguide, now accessible globally through the Indiegogo crowdfunding platform. These innovative binocular AR glasses from RayNeo introduce enhanced capabilities by integrating large language model AI with augmented reality, marking a significant advancement in consumer-grade AR products.
Fusion of AR and AI
RayNeo CEO, Howie Li, emphasizes that the RayNeo X2 AR Glasses, powered by multimodal AI, represent a groundbreaking fusion of AR and AI technologies. This global launch signifies a pivotal moment in the evolution of AR, liberating AI from traditional text-based interfaces and embracing large language models alongside advanced spatial computing. The company is enthusiastic about sharing this cutting-edge technology worldwide, showcasing the seamless synergy between AR and AI.
Immersive Features
The RayNeo X2 AR Glasses boast cutting-edge head-up displays that project a 3D avatar of an AI assistant directly into the user’s field of vision. This integration of AI into real-world experiences allows for intuitive interactions, where the AI comprehends spoken inquiries and responds in a human-like manner. Serving as a hands-free AI assistant, these glasses leverage spatial computing to enhance visual, auditory, and sensory experiences for users.
Advanced Capabilities
Equipped with a 16MP high-resolution camera, precise microphones, and 6-degree-of-freedom tracking, the RayNeo X2 fosters a seamless connection with the user’s surroundings for an unparalleled experience. Utilizing object recognition technology, the device adeptly identifies visuals and items, functioning as a comprehensive AI-powered resource. Supported by RayNeo AI Studio, a global AI platform tailored for AR glasses, users can engage in multimodal recognition and real-time data sourcing, facilitating the creation of intelligent AI agents through natural language interfaces.
The RayNeo X2 AR Glasses deliver a brightness of up to 1,500 nits, ensuring optimal viewing experiences day or night. Powered by the Snapdragon XR2 Platform, this device offers enhanced functionality and performance for users seeking an immersive AR experience.
Pricing & Availability
The Indiegogo campaign for the RayNeo X2 AR Glasses commenced on February 27, 2024, with Super Early Bird backers able to secure the gadget for $649, a limited offer for early supporters. The standard retail price for the device stands at $899. Shipping of orders is slated to begin this month, as confirmed by the company.
Tags: Augmented Reality Glasses, Multimodal AI
March 5, 2024
Apple Introduces Colorful Watch Bands & iPhone Cases in New Spring Lineup
Spring is here, and Apple is marking the season by introducing a burst of color to its Apple Watch and iPhone accessories. Revealing its latest offerings today, Apple presents a charming array of vibrant hues across its well-loved Apple Watch bands and silicone iPhone cases.
Expanded Color Palette and Collection
This year's spring lineup exceeds expectations, with a notable 11 fresh Apple Watch bands and an impressive 13 new additions to the luxurious Hermes band collection. The assortment of colors is notably bolder this season, offering a wide selection to choose from.
Vibrant Selection for Apple Watch and iPhone
The revamped collection for Apple Watch features a playful color palette, with styles like Sport Loop, Braided Solo Loop, and Solo Loop receiving updates in spring-inspired shades such as Soft Mint, Ocean Blue, Sunshine, Light Blue, and Raspberry. These lively choices provide a fashionable means to customize your Apple Watch and enhance your spring ensembles.
The new iPhone cases, made from Apple's signature silicone material, mirror the lively colors of the Apple Watch bands. This seamless coordination of colors enables users to achieve a cohesive and chic appearance for both their iPhone and Apple Watch, ideal for infusing a touch of springtime charm into their daily tech essentials.
Prices for the latest Apple Watch bands remain consistent, starting at $49 for Sport Loop and Solo Loop bands, and $99 for Braided Solo Loop bands. The Hermes bands, known for their luxury appeal, maintain a premium price point at $349 each. While Apple has embraced the spring theme with its Watch bands and iPhone cases, there have been no updates to the popular FineWoven options for either device at this time.
Tags: Apple Watch Bands, iPhone Cases