Category: Wearables

  • Smalth Titanium Pro Smart Ring Launches with ECG and No Fees

    Smalth Titanium Pro Smart Ring Launches with ECG and No Fees

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Titanium Pro smart ring features built-in ECG monitoring for detailed heart rhythm analysis.
    2. It includes health tracking capabilities like continuous heart rate, SpO₂ monitoring, and comprehensive sleep tracking.
    3. The ring offers about 7 days of battery life, extendable to 30 days with its case, and tracks various activities.
    4. There are no subscription fees, and it maintains the same design as the original Titanium model, made from medical-grade titanium.
    5. The smart ring is available in six sizes and is currently priced at $128 on Smalth’s official website.

    Smalth has launched its latest smart ring, the Titanium Pro, adding to its Titanium lineup. The original Titanium was released last year, and now the Pro version comes with significant improvements. Specifically, the Titanium Pro features built-in ECG monitoring, which is claimed to provide a detailed analysis of heart rhythm.

    Health Tracking Features

    In addition to ECG monitoring, this smart ring includes various health tracking capabilities like continuous heart rate and SpO₂ monitoring. It also offers comprehensive sleep tracking, giving insights into sleep cycles, sleep stages, sleep score, and total sleep time. Similar to the standard variant, the Pro version can record a full week’s worth of health data without needing to connect via Bluetooth or an app.

    Battery Life and Activity Tracking

    The Titanium Pro is designed to deliver around 7 days of battery life under normal usage conditions, while its case can extend battery life up to 30 days. The wearable enables users to monitor a range of activities, such as running, cycling, walking, swimming, and more. All metrics can be accessed through the companion app. Although it may not provide as extensive data as other high-end rings, it still includes the essential wellness features at its price point.

    Design and Availability

    Notably, the smart ring comes without any subscription fees. It maintains the same design and size as the basic model, featuring a medical-grade titanium exterior that weighs approximately 2.7 grams (0.095 ounce) and has a width of 7.6 mm with a thickness of 2.3 mm (0.090 inch). Additionally, it boasts a water resistance rating of 10 ATM.

    Offered in a single black color option, users can select from six different ring sizes: 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13. It is currently available for purchase on Smalth’s official website for $128.

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  • How the ARCH Wearable Simulates Walking While Sitting

    How the ARCH Wearable Simulates Walking While Sitting

    Key Takeaways

    1. Increased sitting time can weaken leg muscles, highlighting the need for solutions to promote movement.
    2. The ARCH walking simulator mimics natural muscle movements to improve blood circulation in the legs.
    3. It uses microactuators and sensors to adapt to the user’s vital signs for effective movement.
    4. The device offers a force output of up to 3kg per actuator, providing gentle support for users.
    5. Priced at $594, the ARCH is sold as a single unit to accommodate various user needs and affordability.

    For a lot of people, sitting is just the way they do work or take it easy. While it’s not really bad for health, the amount of time spent sitting is going up. Because of this, leg muscles might not get enough exercise to keep them in good shape. Although it’s simple to stand up and stretch now and then, as a product engineer from ARCH mentioned, there are times when standing isn’t possible, like when you’re driving. This is where ARCH comes in: already backed on Kickstarter, ARCH wants to tackle this problem and others with the ARCH walking simulator.

    How It Works

    By activating the muscle group linked to the Achilles tendon, the ARCH walking simulator imitates natural muscle movements, helping to pump blood back to the heart and out from the user’s legs. The movement is created by a bunch of microactuators, which are managed by sensors that track the user’s vital signs, such as heart rate and tissue oxygen saturation (SpO2). The team claims that this setup allows for a closer match to the user’s circulatory rhythm and circulates blood more often than other products. When questioned about the force produced by the microactuators, the team mentioned they can provide up to 3kg of force per actuator. To give some context, a typical human thumb can exert about 5kg of force, so the actuators are on the gentler end of the force scale.

    Pricing and Availability

    Considering the team has included so much technology in a compact form, it’s not surprising that the ARCH is being launched at a special price of $594 for one unit. Since most people have two legs, it’s a bit strange that the ARCH is sold as a single unit. However, the team explained that this was a thoughtful decision, making it more affordable and versatile. Many tasks, like driving, often use leg muscles unevenly, so this design is also great for those who might have leg problems on just one side. With this kind of careful thought, it’s obvious that the ARCH team aims to create a product that can assist a diverse group of users. For more information, users can check out their complete campaign linked below.

    ARCH on Kickstarter

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  • Casio Launches New Digital Watch with Leather Straps in the US

    Casio Launches New Digital Watch with Leather Straps in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio Vintage LA680WEL-1 watch is now available in the US market, following its launch in Japan.
    2. It features a chrome-plated resin bezel and a black genuine leather strap with an embossed design.
    3. The watch is lightweight at 15 grams and has compact dimensions of 33.5 x 28.6 x 8.6 mm.
    4. Key functionalities include a digital display with 12/24-hour formats, automatic calendar, daily alarm, stopwatch, and amber LED backlight.
    5. The retail price for the Casio Vintage LA680WEL-1 is $54.95, with uncertain availability in European markets.

    The Casio Vintage LA680WEL-1 watch is now out in the US market. This stylish black and silver timepiece was recently introduced in Japan, where it was launched along with another variant in gray and silver, called the LA680WEL-8A2.

    Design and Specifications

    The new Casio Vintage LA680 series features a chrome-plated resin bezel in silver and a black genuine leather strap with a unique embossed design. Casio labels this model as “sophisticated,” and it is quite light, coming in at 15 grams (~0.5 ounces) and measuring 33.5 x 28.6 x 8.6 mm (~1.3 x 1.1 x 0.3 inches).

    Features and Functionality

    The Vintage LA680WEL-1 boasts a sleek digital display that shows time in either 12 or 24-hour formats along with the date and day of the week. Its calendar is automatic, ensuring it stays accurate to within 30 seconds per month. It includes useful features such as a daily alarm, hourly time signals, and a stopwatch that measures up to 1/100th of a second. Additionally, an amber LED backlight makes it easy to read the screen in low light, and it’s also designed to be water-resistant for everyday use.

    You can now purchase the Casio Vintage LA680WEL-1 watch from the brand’s online store for $54.95. The availability of this watch in European markets, like Germany, is still uncertain and remains to be seen.

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Update: Over 10 New Features for Users

    Garmin Smartwatch Update: Over 10 New Features for Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Garmin Forerunner 570 and 970 smartwatches received a stable software update (version 16.28) ending the 16.xx beta testing phase.
    2. The update introduces over ten new features, including glances for weight tracking, battery performance, favorite sports teams, and daily habit health impacts.
    3. New training plans for timed workouts, cardio, and strength training are added, along with extra settings for color filters and voice alerts.
    4. Smart notifications can now be paused during workouts, and the update fixes bugs related to indoor cycling, music player, and Wi-Fi uploads.
    5. The update is currently available to about 50% of users, with a full rollout expected soon; installation can be done via the smartwatch’s system settings.

    The Garmin Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches have just received a stable software update. This update, labeled version 16.28, marks the conclusion of the 16.xx beta testing phase that started back in December 2025.

    New Features Added

    With software version 16.28, users can expect over ten fresh features for their Garmin Forerunner devices. Among these enhancements, there are four new glances: one for weight tracking, another providing an overview of battery life and performance, one dedicated to your favorite sports teams, and a final glance that shows how your daily habits could be affecting your health. Additionally, the sleep glance now includes suggestions for optimal bedtime and wake time.

    Enhancements for Training

    Garmin has introduced a variety of new training plans specifically for timed workouts, cardio sessions, and strength training. Users will also find extra settings for color filters and voice alerts, along with a wider selection of alarm tones. Moreover, smart notifications can now be temporarily paused until after your workout, which is managed through the stage menu. This update also addresses bugs related to indoor cycling, the music player, and Wi-Fi uploads. You can see the full change log in the image below.

    Availability of the Update

    As per a post on the Garmin Forum, software version 16.28 is accessible to approximately 50% of users of the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 smartwatches (currently starting at $719.99 on Amazon). The rollout is expected to be completed shortly. To install this update, navigate to Main Menu > System > Software Update > Check For Updates.

    Garmin’s

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  • New Flexible Chip Boosts Speed and Efficiency for Smart Wearables

    New Flexible Chip Boosts Speed and Efficiency for Smart Wearables

    Key Takeaways

    1. FLEXI is a new series of flexible AI chips developed by researchers from Tsinghua University and Peking University, thinner than a human hair.

    2. The chips use a compute-in-memory design, allowing on-device data processing that reduces energy consumption to less than 1% of traditional silicon.

    3. FLEXI is made from low-temperature polycrystalline silicon on a flexible plastic substrate, enabling it to withstand over 40,000 bends and be folded down to a radius of one millimeter without performance loss.

    4. In trials, FLEXI demonstrated high accuracy in medical applications, detecting irregular heartbeats with 99.2% accuracy and monitoring physical activities with 97.4% accuracy.

    5. With production costs under $1 per unit, FLEXI has the potential to enable affordable smart textiles and AI-integrated clothing for widespread use.

    The future of smart wearables has faced challenges due to inflexible, energy-consuming chips. However, researchers from Tsinghua University and Peking University have developed a solution called FLEXI, a new series of flexible AI chips that are thinner than a single human hair.

    A New Approach to Processing

    This research, featured in the journal Nature, introduces a major shift in design: compute-in-memory. Unlike traditional wearables that need to send data to external processors or cloud systems, FLEXI can handle data directly on its own circuitry. The researchers claim that this on-device processing reduces the energy required for moving data between memory and processors, enabling the chip to use less than 1% of the energy consumed by regular silicon.

    Innovative Physical Design

    The design of the chip is also impressive. It is made from low-temperature polycrystalline silicon (LTPS) mounted on a flexible plastic substrate, allowing it to be stretched, twisted, and even crumpled. In tests, FLEXI endured over 40,000 bends and was able to fold down to a radius of just one millimeter without losing performance.

    Promising Medical Applications

    Trials conducted with volunteers revealed the chip’s potential in medical applications. FLEXI detected irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia) with an accuracy of 99.2% and monitored physical activities such as walking and cycling with a 97.4% accuracy.

    FLEXI is also aimed at wide-scale usage. With production costs expected to be under $1 per unit, this innovation could lead to smart textiles and AI-integrated clothing that are currently too expensive. While the research team plans to add more advanced sensors in the future, FLEXI is already a high-quality, low-energy option for the next wave of adaptable electronic devices.

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  • Garmin Announces Major Stable Update for High-End Smartwatches

    Garmin Announces Major Stable Update for High-End Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released Beta Version 21.24 for several smartwatch models, including Enduro 3 and Fenix series.
    2. The update included only one minor fix and did not activate the Aviation, Dive, and ECG features.
    3. Garmin plans to release at least one more beta update before moving to a stable software release.
    4. Beta Version 21.25 is now available to Beta Program participants, with the Aviation, Dive, and ECG features enabled.
    5. A stable release of System Software 21.25 is expected to roll out soon, possibly within the weekend.

    Earlier this week, Garmin released Beta Version 21.24 for its smartwatches, including the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, Fenix 8 Pro, and Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,399.99 on Amazon). In summary, this new beta didn’t add much compared to previous v21.xx updates.

    Minor Fixes

    As mentioned previously, Garmin stated that it only resolved one existing issue. Additionally, Beta Version 21.24 still has the Aviation, Dive, and ECG features turned off. This made it clear that Garmin plans to release at least one more beta update before moving the v21.xx development to its stable software release channel. It now appears that this transition is nearing.

    Upcoming Updates

    As is often the case, Garmin has not made this information public. However, the company is now providing Beta Version 21.25 to participants in the Beta Program, with the Aviation, Dive, and ECG features now enabled. The latest beta does not include any other alterations and is reportedly available for all eligible smartwatches. Essentially, we can expect Garmin to start rolling out System Software 21.25 in the coming days, likely as soon as this weekend. Below is a list of changes Garmin has shared with beta testers from System Software 20.29:

    Garmin’

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  • New Huawei Band 11 Pro Unveils Fresh Design and Features

    New Huawei Band 11 Pro Unveils Fresh Design and Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei is hosting an innovative product launch event in Madrid on February 26, ahead of MWC 2026.
    2. The company is expected to unveil the Mate 80 Pro, Watch GT Runner 2, and a new competitor for the iPad mini.
    3. A new fitness tracker, the Huawei Band 11 Pro, will also be introduced, featuring two finishes and various strap options.
    4. The Band 11 Pro will have a unique quick-release strap mechanism, though compatibility with the previous Band 10 is uncertain.
    5. Expected upgrades for the Band 11 Pro include a flatter display, rectangular body, improved battery life, heart rate and SpO2 sensors, and enhanced health monitoring software.

    A few days ago, Huawei called upon its fans to attend what it termed an ‘innovative product launch’ in Madrid. This event is set to happen on February 26, just about a week before MWC 2026. The company is anticipated to unveil the Mate 80 Pro and Watch GT Runner 2 on an international scale, along with a new competitor for the iPad mini (which is currently priced at $399 on Amazon).

    Exciting New Fitness Tracker

    In addition to the Watch GT Runner 2, it appears that a new fitness tracker will also make its debut at the same event. Huawei Central has uncovered images of the Huawei Band 11 Pro, which are shown below. The Band 11 Pro is expected to come in two finishes, featuring metallic options and a selection of either fabric or silicone straps.

    Design and Compatibility

    The official straps appear to employ a unique quick-release mechanism. However, it remains uncertain whether these will be compatible with the previous Band 10. The Band 11 Pro itself showcases several upgrades, including a flatter display and a more rectangular body. Sadly, the Huawei Health App leak hasn’t provided any technical details. It’s likely that Huawei’s upcoming Band will continue to feature heart rate and SpO2 sensors, alongside improved battery life and daily health monitoring software all within a lightweight design.

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  • New Citizen Promaster Navihawk with B620 Eco-Drive and Sapphire Crystal

    New Citizen Promaster Navihawk with B620 Eco-Drive and Sapphire Crystal

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Citizen Promaster Navihawk CA4664-60E features a more compact 40 mm stainless steel case, appealing to those seeking smaller aviation watches.
    2. The watch has a modern aesthetic with a black sunray dial and red highlights, along with a bi-directional slide-rule bezel for calculations.
    3. It is powered by the B620 Eco-Drive movement, offering a 270-day power reserve and 1/5-second chronograph function for up to 60 minutes.
    4. The CA4664-60E has a water resistance of 20-bar (200 meters), making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling, and includes a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal.
    5. This model is positioned competitively against Seiko’s Prospex Speedtimer series, offering superior water resistance and practical technical features at an accessible price point.

    The Citizen Promaster Navihawk CA4664-60E marks a shift for the brand towards smaller aviation watches. Unlike earlier Navihawk models that often exceeded 45 mm in size, this new version features a more compact 40 mm stainless steel case in a sleek black finish.

    Modern Aesthetic

    The watch’s dial showcases a striking black sunray effect complemented by vivid red highlights. It comes with a bi-directional slide-rule bezel that aids in calculations for fuel consumption and distances. This “midi-sized” design fills a notable gap in the market for pilot chronographs, offering essential features without overwhelming wrist sizes.

    Technical Features

    At the heart of the CA4664-60E lies the proprietary B620 Eco-Drive movement. This solar-powered engine boasts a power reserve of 270 days when fully charged. The chronograph function measures in 1/5-second intervals for up to 60 minutes and includes a 24-hour sub-dial to help track day and night. Additionally, the watch is protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating and has a water resistance of 20-bar (200 meters), making it suitable for activities like swimming and snorkeling.

    Competitive Landscape

    This launch follows closely behind Seiko’s Prospex Speedtimer series, which includes retail prices for models like the SSC961P1 (white), SSC963P1 (pink), and SSC965P1 (mint green) at $963.60 SGD. While Seiko’s V192 chronographs are inspired by vintage racing designs and come in a 39 mm size, the Citizen CA4664-60E offers a more practical technical design at a more accessible price point, especially with its superior water resistance compared to Seiko’s 100 m depth rating.

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  • Garmin Beta Update Resolves Smart Wake Alarm Issue

    Garmin Beta Update Resolves Smart Wake Alarm Issue

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released beta version 13.24 for Instinct 3, Instinct E, and Instinct Crossover smartwatches.
    2. The update fixes a bug in the Smart Wake alarm feature, improving its functionality related to sleep cycles.
    3. Previous beta version 13.23 addressed a crashing issue when heart rate data was transmitted.
    4. The update will automatically install when users connect their smartwatches to Garmin Connect Mobile or Garmin Express.
    5. The smartwatches are currently priced at $649.99 on Amazon.

    Another beta update has been released for the Garmin Instinct 3, Instinct E, and Instinct Crossover smartwatches. This beta version 13.24 has been made available to users around 24 hours after the last update, which was beta version 13.23.

    Updates and Fixes

    As mentioned in a post on the Garmin Forum, the latest beta version 13.24 fixes an issue related to the Smart Wake alarm. This feature is designed to help the Instinct 3 and similar smartwatches wake you at the best possible time according to your sleep cycle. Instead of having a fixed wake time, the Smart Wake alarm will trigger at some point within a 30-minute range. Garmin has addressed a bug that made users see a time frame for a regular alarm even when the Smart Wake feature was turned off.

    Previous Version Improvements

    It’s worth noting that the previous beta version 13.23 also included some fixes for these devices. This update dealt with a bug that could lead to the Instinct 3, Instinct E, and Instinct Crossover smartwatches (currently priced at $649.99 on Amazon) crashing unexpectedly when heart rate data was being transmitted.

    Automatic Updates

    Garmin has stated that beta version 13.24 has been rolled out to all users who are eligible for the update. It should automatically install on your Instinct 3 or any other related smartwatch the next time you connect it to Garmin Connect Mobile or Garmin Express.

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  • New Casio G-Shock Collaboration Watch with Pink Display in Europe

    New Casio G-Shock Collaboration Watch with Pink Display in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. The G-Shock x Hardies NYC collaboration watch is a limited edition model, DW-6900HH-5, now available in Europe after debuting in the US in January 2026.
    2. The watch is priced at €149 and is only available for Casio ID members, with stock running low in Europe.
    3. The design features a brown casing and strap with purple and gold highlights, and showcases the double H monogram pattern on the dial.
    4. Key features include time, date, day display, stopwatch, timer, alarm, automatic calendar, LED backlight, and water resistance up to 200 meters.
    5. There is currently no information on the availability of this model in the UK.

    Casio has introduced the G-Shock x Hardies NYC collaboration watch in Europe. This limited edition timepiece, created in partnership with the skate and streetwear brand, first made its debut in the US back in January 2026. At present, it is sold out on the brand’s online shop for that market.

    Availability in Europe

    Currently, you can find the G-Shock x Hardies NYC collaboration watch, model DW-6900HH-5, on the Casio online store in countries such as the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany for €149. However, this item is exclusively available for Casio ID members. Signing up for a free account on the brand’s website is a simple process. It’s important to mention that stock is running low in this area.

    Design Details

    The Casio G-Shock DW-6900HH-5 features a brown design with purple and gold highlights. It includes a deep brown resin casing and strap, showcasing the double H monogram pattern on the dial. The rectangular digital screen has a purple background with black numbers, and the brand’s iconic fist bolt logo is inscribed on the metal case back.

    Features and Functions

    The DW-6900 is a digital watch that displays the time, date, and day of the week on its lower digital screen. The triple graph located at the top of the face is compatible with the stopwatch function. Additionally, it includes a timer, alarm, and hourly time signals. Other specifications consist of an automatic calendar, an LED backlight, and a water resistance of up to 200 meters. There is no information available on when or if the Casio G-Shock x Hardies NYC DW-6900HH-5 will become available in the UK.

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