Category: Wearables

  • 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.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • 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.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Casio Green Face Series Watches Now Available for Purchase

    Casio Green Face Series Watches Now Available for Purchase

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Green Face Series: Casio has launched the Green Face series featuring three stylish and affordable watches with vibrant green shades.

    2. Affordable Option: The Casio W-218HD-3AV is the cheapest model at £29, offering a square design, 7-year battery life, and water resistance up to 50 meters.

    3. Sporty Design: The MRW-210H-3BV, priced at £39, is an analog watch with a sporty look, featuring a unique green dial and water resistance up to 100 meters.

    4. Feature-Rich Selection: The Casio AEQ-110W-3A2V is the most expensive at £50, offering a variety of features including a 10-year battery life and the ability to store contact records.

    5. Global Availability: Pricing and release dates for the US and other regions have not yet been announced, but more information is expected soon.


    After showing up quietly on Casio’s global site earlier this month, the new Green Face series is now officially available for purchase. This collection features three stylish and affordable watches that provide practical functions in unique yet classic Casio styles, each highlighted by vibrant green shades.

    Affordable Options

    The Casio W-218HD-3AV is the cheapest of the group, priced at £29. It has a traditional square design with a green-tinted negative display (white text on a black background) and a stainless steel wristband with a triple-fold clasp. The battery can last for 7 years using a CR2016 coin cell, and it offers water resistance up to 50 meters. Notably, the W-218HD-3AV is the only model in this series that features an LED light.

    Sporty Design

    The MRW-210H-3BV is an analog watch with a sporty, ocean-inspired look, showcasing a unique green dial and a rotating unidirectional bezel for timing purposes. This watch includes a useful day and date display and has a battery life of up to 3 years with an SR927SW cell. Constructed from resin for both the case and band, there are no details about shock resistance, but it does provide water resistance up to 100 meters. The Casio MRW-210H-3BV is available for £39 and can be bought directly from the Casio UK online store.

    Feature-Rich Selection

    At £50, the Casio AEQ-110W-3A2V (A158WA-1 currently priced at $29.95 on Amazon) is the priciest and most feature-rich choice among the three. This digital-analog watch showcases a large dial with deep green colors and a two-hand analog display, along with two digital sub-dials for showing hours, minutes, seconds, am/pm, month, date, and day. It offers an impressive battery life of up to 10 years on a CR2025 battery and includes Casio’s Telememo feature, allowing users to save up to 30 records of names and phone numbers right on the watch. Additional features consist of world time for 30 cities, three daily alarms, an hourly chime, a countdown timer, a 1/100-second stopwatch, and an auto-calendar.

    Casio has yet to announce pricing or release dates for the US and other regions, but we anticipate more information from the company shortly.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Garmin Beta Update: New Notification Delay Feature for Smartwatches

    Garmin Beta Update: New Notification Delay Feature for Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released beta version 16.28 for Venu X1, Venu 4, and vivoactive 6 smartwatches.
    2. New features include additional alarm sounds and the option to postpone notifications until after exercise.
    3. The Garmin Connect Mobile Translations app has been updated to version 3.50.
    4. Bug fixes address unexpected reboots, device resets during indoor cycling courses, and blank screens when accessing the music player.
    5. Venu X1 users can now save adjustments to structured repeats for interval workouts, and the pace feature is more responsive.


    Garmin has released beta version 16.28 for its Venu X1, Venu 4, and vivoactive 6 smartwatches. This new update comes after the beta version 16.16, which was made available in January 2026 and introduced the Garmin Connect+ nutrition logging feature.

    Updated Features

    The changelog (see screenshot below) outlines numerous updates, though some were part of earlier versions. The beta version 16.28 brings additional alarm sounds and introduces the option to postpone notifications until after an exercise, thanks to its integration into the stage menu. Additionally, the Garmin Connect Mobile Translations app has been updated to version 3.50.

    Bug Fixes

    The Venu X1, Venu 4, and vivoactive 6 smartwatches are also getting a fix that should stop the device from rebooting unexpectedly when starting an activity or at other moments. Garmin has addressed issues related to device resets while loading indoor cycling courses, as well as a blank screen that appears when users try to access the music player during workouts. Only for Venu X1 users (currently priced at $599.99 on Amazon Marketplace), there is now the ability to save adjustments to structured repeats for upcoming interval workouts, and the pace feature is reported to be more responsive.

    How to Update

    If you are a member of the Beta Program and own a Venu X1, Venu 4, or vivoactive 6 smartwatch, you can download the version 16.28 update by navigating to the Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Casio G-Shock MIP LCD Watches Now Widely Available in the US

    Casio G-Shock MIP LCD Watches Now Widely Available in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock GMWBZ5000D-1, GMWBZ5000BD-1, and GMWBZ5000GD-9 watches are now more widely available in the US since their debut in November 2025.
    2. Pricing: GMWBZ5000D-1 is $660, GMWBZ5000BD-1 is $720 (currently out of stock), and GMWBZ5000GD-9 is $720, available at select stores.
    3. Design: GMWBZ5000D-1 has a silver finish, GMWBZ5000BD-1 features a black ion-plated case with gold accents, and GMWBZ5000GD-9 is gold ion-plated with black details.
    4. Features: All models are water-resistant up to 200 meters, equipped with radio control, Bluetooth, and Tough Solar charging for extended battery life.
    5. Functionality: Users can access dual time zones, alarms, timers, stopwatches, and a digital display with an LED backlight for easy reading.


    The Casio G-Shock GMWBZ5000D-1, GMWBZ5000BD-1, and GMWBZ5000GD-9 watches are now more accessible across the US. These three models made their debut in November 2025 and have been sold at select jewelers throughout the country since then.

    Pricing and Availability

    Currently, you can find the Casio G-Shock GMWBZ5000D-1 available for $660 on the brand’s online store in the US, while the G-Shock GMWBZ5000GD-9 is priced at $720. Both models can also be purchased at the G-Shock Soho Store in New York and certain department stores. However, the GMWBZ5000BD-1 is listed on the official website at an RRP of $720 but is not in stock at the moment.

    Design and Features

    The G-Shock GMWBZ5000D-1 showcases a silver finish with a black MIP LCD display. The GMWBZ5000BD-1 features the same type of display, but it has a black ion-plated case and strap, complemented by gold accents. Meanwhile, the GMWBZ5000GD-9 is a stunning gold ion-plated watch with black details and a light background display. Each model is crafted with a stainless steel case and band, providing a water resistance of up to 200 meters.

    Advanced Functions

    These G-Shock models come equipped with impressive features such as radio control (Multiband 6), Bluetooth connectivity for linking with smartphones, and Tough Solar charging to ensure longer battery life. Users can effortlessly toggle between two pre-selected time zones and utilize handy tools like alarms, timers, and stopwatches. The digital display conveniently shows both time and date information and is also equipped with an LED backlight for easy reading. These watches have been available in various European markets, including the UK and Germany, for a while now.

    Casio’s

    Source:
    Link


     

  • New Polar Smartwatch Leaks Ahead of Global Release

    New Polar Smartwatch Leaks Ahead of Global Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Polar is reportedly developing a new smartwatch named ‘Street X’, as indicated by FCC documents.
    2. The current market includes Polar’s Grit X2, priced at $743, which was launched in October.
    3. The design of the Street X resembles the Vantage M, released in late 2024.
    4. The Street X will be available in Night Black with a silicone watch band and a one-size-fits-all approach.
    5. There is no official pricing or launch date yet, but the FCC listing suggests a global release may be imminent.


    Early signs suggest that Polar is working on a new smartwatch, as seen in documents from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Usually, the FCC keeps details about upcoming gadgets under wraps, but they have shared quite a bit of information regarding Polar’s latest smartwatch.

    Context of the Current Market

    To give you some background, the Grit X2 was launched in the US in October and is currently priced at $743 on Amazon. It seems that Polar is gearing up to release a new smartwatch named ‘Street X’. This upcoming device is also linked to the model number ‘6J’.

    Design Similarities

    From the image provided, the Street X looks similar to the Vantage M, which was released towards the end of 2024. The FCC has disclosed that Polar plans to offer the Street X in a Night Black color along with a silicone watch band. Additionally, it appears that the company is adopting a one-size-fits-all approach, as indicated by the S-L sizing mentioned in a mockup of the retail packaging. Unfortunately, there’s no information available about the pricing or when it will be available. However, the smartwatch showing up on the FCC’s radar suggests that a worldwide launch might be on the horizon.

    FCC via Gadgets & Wearables

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Huawei Introduces Diabetes Risk Study for Smartwatches

    Huawei Introduces Diabetes Risk Study for Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei launched a non-invasive blood glucose monitoring feature called Diabetes Risk Study for smartwatches at the World Health Expo Dubai 2026.
    2. The feature uses photoplethysmography (PPG) technology to analyze data points and assess diabetes risk rather than directly measuring blood sugar levels.
    3. Users must wear the smartwatch for 3 to 14 days to receive a risk rating of Low, Medium, or High; medium or high ratings suggest consulting a healthcare professional.
    4. The Diabetes Risk Study is currently available on the Watch GT 6 Pro, priced at €315.95, but not yet included in recent software updates.
    5. Huawei plans to extend this feature to other smartwatches in the near future.


    Huawei has introduced a new feature related to blood glucose for its smartwatches. This health monitoring tool was revealed at the World Health Expo Dubai 2026 and has been actively shared on the company’s social media platforms.

    How It Works

    The non-invasive blood glucose monitoring feature from Huawei is named Diabetes Risk Study. Instead of directly measuring blood sugar levels like traditional continuous glucose monitors, it utilizes the smartwatch’s photoplethysmography (PPG) technology in combination with other sensors. This approach is designed to identify potential indicators of diabetes or prediabetes by analyzing different data points. Research indicates a connection between resting heart rate and diabetes, which supports this method.

    Usage Requirements

    To use the Diabetes Risk Study, smartwatch users need to wear their device consistently for a period of three to fourteen days. After the smartwatch collects enough data, it will provide a risk rating of Low, Medium, or High. For those with Medium or High ratings, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for additional evaluation and guidance.

    Availability and Pricing

    As per Huawei’s post on Instagram, the Diabetes Risk Study feature is currently available on the Watch GT 6 Pro smartwatch, which is priced at €315.95 on Amazon DE. However, this feature has not yet been included in the change log for any software updates to this watch, the last of which was updated in December 2025. Moreover, it is anticipated that this tool will be available on other Huawei smartwatches in the near future.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Amazfit Active 3 Leak: Bigger Battery for New Smartwatch

    Amazfit Active 3 Leak: Bigger Battery for New Smartwatch

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit Active 3 Premium smartwatch has been spotted in the Zepp app code and FCC filings, indicating its upcoming release.
    2. The device is identified as model A2559 and features Bluetooth 5.3 and a 500 mAh battery.
    3. The battery capacity is larger than the Amazfit Active 2, which has a 270 mAh battery, providing longer usage time.
    4. The packaging suggests the smartwatch will be available globally, with multiple languages and certification marks.
    5. The exact launch date for the Amazfit Active 3 Premium is still unknown, but fans hope it will be released in the coming months.


    The Amazfit Active 3 Premium smartwatch has been seen again. Even though the company hasn’t officially confirmed this device, it was recently found in the code of the Zepp app version 10.0.5.

    New Discoveries in the Filing

    Now, the Amazfit Active 3 Premium has made another appearance, this time in a filing with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States. The documents mention it as model A2559, and a sketch of the product’s packaging (see screenshot below) verifies the name “Amazfit Active 3 Premium.”

    Key Features and Specs

    This sketch also shows that the Amazfit Active 3 Premium will have Bluetooth 5.3 and a 500 mAh battery. To give some context, the 2025 Active 2 Round and Premium models feature a 270 mAh battery, which offers about 10 days of usage under normal conditions. The newer Active Max currently costs $169.99 on Amazon and has a bigger 658 mAh battery, boasting an impressive estimated runtime of 25 days.

    The packaging for the Amazfit Active 3 Premium shows multiple languages and certification marks, indicating it will be released globally. As is typical, the Active 3 Premium will also include a strap and a charging puck. It’s still unclear when the Amazfit Active 3 Premium smartwatch will actually be launched, but some fans are hoping it will happen within the next few months.

    FCC, Gadgets & Wearables

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Pebblebee Clip 5 Launches Two Limited Edition Colors

    Pebblebee Clip 5 Launches Two Limited Edition Colors

    Key Takeaways

    1. Pebblebee Clip 5 introduces a limited edition color initiative called Evercolor, releasing two new shades every 12 weeks.
    2. The first Evercolor shades were Emerald Storm and Amethyst Purple, now replaced by the new colors Subzero and Hot Coral.
    3. The Pebblebee Clip 5 is priced at $34.99, featuring the same specs as the standard Graphite option, including a Bluetooth range of 500 feet.
    4. The Clip 5 includes a safety feature called Alert, which sends the user’s location via SMS when activated, with a premium version available for live sharing.
    5. Pebblebee is currently offering a discount on the Alert Live subscription, making it $19.99 annually instead of the regular $24.99.


    When the Pebblebee Clip 5 was introduced last November, it was announced that two new limited edition colors would be released every 12 weeks. This initiative, known as Evercolor, will ensure that these colors are never seen again and will be made available in small amounts for a short time only.

    New Color Launch

    The first Evercolor shades were Emerald Storm and Amethyst Purple, marketed under the name Gemfire. Now, Pebblebee has phased out these colors and has brought in fresh options.

    Fresh Styles

    The latest colors, named Subzero and Hot Coral, are grouped together as Freeze Frame. Pebblebee claims that these shades are inspired by temperature and how they create memories for individuals. The new colors can be purchased now for $34.99, which is the same price as the standard Graphite option. Other than the color, all features remain unchanged.

    The Pebblebee Clip 5 can be affixed to items like luggage, bags, and keys. It comes with an IP66 rating for dust and water resistance, a Bluetooth range of 500 feet, and includes bright LEDs along with a loud sound alert. Additionally, it has a rechargeable battery that can last up to a year on a single charge. However, it does not have ultra-wideband (UWB) technology like the Apple AirTag 2, which is available on Amazon for $29.99.

    Safety Features

    Besides tracking items, the Clip 5 also serves as a safety device thanks to a feature called Alert. When the user quickly presses the button on the Clip 5, it produces a loud noise and the LEDs start flashing. It also sends the user’s location via SMS to a designated friend or family member.

    While the Alert feature is free, Pebblebee provides a premium option for $2.99 per month or $24.99 annually. This version, known as Alert Live, allows for live location sharing and increases the number of contacts to five. Currently, Pebblebee is offering a discount on the yearly subscription, so users can get it for just $19.99.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Garmin Launches Major Update for Recent LTE Smartwatch

    Garmin Launches Major Update for Recent LTE Smartwatch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin launched Software Version 16.23 for the Bounce 2 LTE smartwatch, improving functionality from the previous version 5.12.
    2. The update is being released worldwide and can be downloaded via the Garmin Jr. app, with about 50% of devices having received it so far.
    3. New features include additional activity animations and options for alarm sounds.
    4. The update addresses translation and predictive text issues, as well as fixing a bug related to incorrect multiplier values on daily activity records.
    5. Garmin mentions various other bug fixes and enhancements, though details are not provided.


    Garmin has just launched a new stable version for one of its latest LTE smartwatches. To summarize, the firm rolled out Software Version 5.12 to the Bounce 2 (currently priced at $254.96 on Amazon) toward the end of last year. However, unlike many of its other smartwatches, they do not offer beta updates.

    New Update Available

    The same smartwatch has now been upgraded to Software Version 16.23, moving up several software revisions. This update is being released worldwide and can be downloaded through the Garmin Jr. app. Right now, Garmin estimates that about 50% of Bounce 2 smartwatches have received the new update. For those devices that have been updated, Garmin reports the addition of more activity animations and options for alarm sounds.

    Improvements and Fixes

    In addition, Software Version 16.23 includes solutions for existing translation and predictive text problems. Garmin also mentions that this new version fixes a bug that displayed incorrect multiplier values on the Most Daily Active Minutes record. As usual, the company notes that there are ‘various’ other bug fixes and enhancements included, but doesn’t go into detail about them. For more information, be sure to check Garmin’s forum post.

    Garmin

    Source:
    Link