Category: Wearables

  • Garmin Vivoactive 6 Specs and Pricing Ahead of Launch Rumors

    Garmin Vivoactive 6 Specs and Pricing Ahead of Launch Rumors

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Vivoactive 6 will have a 1.2-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels, similar to the Vivoactive 5.
    2. It is expected to be thinner than the Vivoactive 5, measuring 10.9 mm.
    3. The smartwatch will feature 8 GB of internal storage and support BeiDou and QZSS location services.
    4. New features will include Garmin Share, animated workouts, and additional running metrics.
    5. The anticipated price is around €329 (~$355) in Europe and about $300 in North America.

    Hardly any time has gone by since a Reddit user disclosed some early information about the Vivoactive 6 and a possible new Forerunner smartwatch. Yet, new details about the Vivoactive 6 have come to light just ahead of its expected launch in less than a month.

    Display and Specs

    The Vivoactive 6 is expected to feature an AMOLED display with a diagonal measurement of 1.2 inches and a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels with a density of 325 PPI. In simpler terms, the screen on Garmin’s next Vivoactive will be identical in size and resolution to the one on the Vivoactive 5 (currently priced at $179.95 for refurbished units on Amazon). Unfortunately, it is still unclear if the display will be larger this time around.

    Design and Features

    Reportedly, the Vivoactive 6 will be a bit thinner than the previous model, measuring at 10.9 mm. This new smartwatch is anticipated to come with 8 GB of internal storage and will support BeiDou and QZSS location services. Additionally, Fitness Tracker Test has noted that the Vivoactive 6 will include features like Garmin Share, animated workouts, and running metrics, which were lacking in its predecessor. The website also mentions that the Vivoactive 6 will be priced at €329 (~$355) in Europe, while it is expected to cost around $300 in North America.

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  • Amazfit Bip 6 Launch: Major Upgrades Over Bip 5 for Under $80

    Amazfit Bip 6 Launch: Major Upgrades Over Bip 5 for Under $80

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit Bip 6 is priced at $79.99, cheaper than the Bip 5, which was $89.99.
    2. It features a 1.97-inch AMOLED display, upgraded from the Bip 5’s 1.91-inch TFT display, with a peak brightness of 2,000 nits.
    3. The Bip 6 has a battery life of up to 14 days, compared to 10 days with the Bip 5, powered by a 340 mAh battery.
    4. It includes the latest BioTracker 6.0 heart rate sensor, supporting heart rate variability (HRV) monitoring and dual-band GNSS.
    5. The watch has a lightweight aluminium alloy frame, weighs 27.9 g, is rated at 5 ATM for water resistance, and offers various watch faces and health tracking features.

    Amazfit has just unveiled the Bip 6, which has been the subject of several leaks over the past month. To put things in perspective, the Bip 6 comes around 18 months after the release of the Bip 5, which Amazfit originally priced at $89.99.

    Pricing and Variants

    In contrast, the Bip 6 is being offered at $79.99, and it comes in a variety of finishes including Black, Charcoal, Red, and Stone. Although the Bip 6 is cheaper than the Bip 5, it’s not merely a budget-friendly option. Amazfit has made enhancements in multiple areas.

    Display and Features

    For instance, they have upgraded from a 1.91-inch TFT display in the Bip 5 to a 1.97-inch AMOLED screen in the Bip 6. This new display is expected to offer more vivid colors and significantly higher brightness, reaching a peak of 2,000 nits, compared to the Bip 5’s 450 nits.

    Battery Life and Sensors

    Additionally, the Bip 6 features an impressive battery life of up to 14 days, powered by a 340 mAh battery, surpassing the 10 days seen with the Bip 5. The new model also incorporates Amazfit’s latest BioTracker 6.0 heart rate sensor, which includes support for heart rate variability (HRV) monitoring, along with dual-band GNSS and offline map capabilities.

    Design and Usability

    All of these enhancements are housed in a lightweight aluminium alloy frame, weighing just 27.9 g and rated at 5 ATM for water resistance. As always, Amazfit has included a wide array of watch faces, exercise modes, and health tracking applications. For additional information, you can visit Amazfit’s official website.

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    Amazfit Bip 6 Launch: Major Upgrades Over Bip 5 for Under $80Amazfit Bip 6 Launch: Major Upgrades Over Bip 5 for Under $80Amazfit Bip 6 Launch: Major Upgrades Over Bip 5 for Under $80Amazfit Bip 6 Launch: Major Upgrades Over Bip 5 for Under $80

     

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  • Garmin Updates Older Flagship Smartwatches After Nearly a Year

    Garmin Updates Older Flagship Smartwatches After Nearly a Year

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released System Software 28.02 for the Fenix 6 and Fenix 6 Pro smartwatches.
    2. The update is available worldwide and follows nearly a year after System Software 27.00.
    3. System Software 28.02 includes only eight changes, with no new features introduced.
    4. The primary focus of the update is on fixing bugs rather than adding new functionalities.
    5. The update may also be available for other models like Enduro, Marq, and Tactix Delta, but notifications for availability may take time.

    Garmin has begun to release a new stable update for the Fenix 6 and Fenix 6 Pro (currently priced at $369.99 – renewed on Amazon), which is now accessible worldwide. To give some background, it’s been nearly a year since the company launched System Software 27.00 for these smartwatches.

    Previous Updates

    As we mentioned last May, System Software 27.00 fixed numerous bugs while also introducing a handful of new features. However, the latest update, System Software 28.02, brings significantly fewer modifications. In a post on a forum, Garmin mentions that this new update has only eight changes compared to System Software 27.00. Furthermore, none of the updates can be classified as new features.

    Focus on Bug Fixes

    Garmin has once again concentrated on addressing bugs. It’s important to highlight that System Software 28.02 should also be available for download on the Enduro, Marq, and Tactix Delta smartwatches. Do keep in mind that it may take some time for Garmin to send out notifications to all eligible smartwatches regarding the availability of System Software 28.02. Below is the complete changelog for the update:

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  • Elon Musk Announces Neuralink Brain Implant Trial for Blind in 2025

    Elon Musk Announces Neuralink Brain Implant Trial for Blind in 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. Elon Musk’s Neuralink aims to implant a brain-computer interface (BCI) called Blindsight in a blind person by the end of 2025 to enable low-resolution vision.
    2. Neuralink has secured patents for Blindsight, as well as for initial implants named Telepathy and a trademark called Telekinesis.
    3. The Blindsight BCI uses tiny electrodes in the visual cortex to activate neurons, generating visuals that the brain interprets as sight, initially in low resolution.
    4. The visuals provided by Blindsight will be similar to 8-bit graphics, with future potential enhancements for better imagery and additional wavelengths like infrared and ultraviolet.
    5. Human trials for the Telepathy chip are ongoing, and 2025 could mark the first instance of the Blindsight implant restoring vision for a person.

    Elon Musk has assured his supporters that by the end of 2025, his brain-computer interface (BCI) company Neuralink will implant a chip in a blind person, enabling them to see, albeit in low resolution.

    Blindsight and Patents

    The new BCI is named Blindsight, and Neuralink has already secured a patent for this name. They also have patents for their initial implant designed for paraplegics, called Telepathy, and a new trademark known as Telekinesis. The patent for the term Telekinesis seems to be used similarly to Telepathy, based on the details outlined in the USPTO filing.

    How It Works

    The Blindsight BCI functions by placing a patented array of tiny electrodes in the visual cortex area, activating neurons to generate visuals that the brain interprets as sight, although it’s in low resolution at the beginning.

    Graphics Quality

    So, how low are these visuals? Musk has said that Blindsight will provide images akin to 8-bit graphics, resembling those from classic Atari games available on Amazon. However, Neuralink aims to enhance the imagery in the future. Musk emphasized, “To manage expectations, the initial vision will be low resolution, similar to Atari graphics, but it has the potential to surpass natural vision and allow you to see in infrared, ultraviolet, or even radar wavelengths.” This statement was made when the FDA awarded the Blindsight implant a Breakthrough Device Designation in September, which clears the way for human trials.

    Progress with Monkeys

    On stage, Musk confirmed that Blindsight has been successfully implanted in monkeys for several years. He reiterated that this new brain chip could ultimately provide “superhuman” vision.

    Human Trials

    The Telepathy chip is currently being tested on three human subjects with spinal cord injuries or ALS. The year 2025 might be significant as it could be the first instance when the Blindsight BCI implant restores some level of vision for a person.

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  • Amazfit Active 2 Update: Enhanced Smart Readiness Score

    Amazfit Active 2 Update: Enhanced Smart Readiness Score

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new firmware update for Amazfit Active 2 is version 6.0.12.3, which is a 13.49MB file and is being released gradually in various countries, including the US and Germany.
    2. The readiness score feature is now ‘smarter’ and aligns better with users’ sleep patterns.
    3. The always-on display has been improved to be brighter for better visibility in sunny conditions.
    4. Workout notifications have been enhanced to deliver content directly to users instead of appearing as alerts.
    5. A new meditation application has been added to the smartwatch, and users have reported improved step counting accuracy.

    Amazfit Active 2 smartwatch owners are begining to notice a fresh update. This comes after the previous version 6.0.8.4, which added local music storage to the device. The new firmware, version 6.0.12.3, is a 13.49MB file and is being released to users gradually. Reports of this update have emerged from customers in various countries, like the US and Germany.

    Improvements Noted

    The change log for version 6.0.12.3 lists four key enhancements. The readiness score has become ‘smarter’, aligning better with your sleep patterns. While many users are hopeful about this update, the early feedback doesn’t seem to indicate significant changes. Another enhancement is that the always-on display is brighter now, making it easier to see the screen in sunny conditions. Additionally, workout notifications have been improved, delivering content directly to users instead of popping up as alerts. Lastly, a meditation application has been introduced to the Amazfit Active 2 smartwatch, currently priced at $99.99 on Amazon.

    User Feedback

    One notable change that users have pointed out, which isn’t included in the release notes, is the improvement in step counting accuracy. It seems that a previous issue with the step counting algorithm has been resolved with this update. Once the update is accessible to you, it can be downloaded through the Zepp app. To initiate the process, navigate to Profile > My Devices > Amazfit Active 2 > System Update.

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  • New Garmin Smartwatch Leaks and Forerunner 975 Release Rumors

    New Garmin Smartwatch Leaks and Forerunner 975 Release Rumors

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is preparing to launch the Forerunner 975 later this year, following the refresh of its Enduro and Fenix series.
    2. A new Vivoactive smartwatch, the Vivoactive 6, is in development and expected to be released next month.
    3. The Vivoactive 6 will come in four color options and feature new silicone bands.
    4. Key features of the Vivoactive 6 include an accelerometer, compass, gyroscope, and several advanced running metrics, but it will not have altimeter or ECG support.
    5. The Vivoactive 6 will use Garmin’s Elevate V5 heart rate sensor and feature a redesigned main hardware button resembling a digital crown for improved comfort.

    It looks like Garmin is getting ready to update one of its well-liked smartwatch lines. Just to summarize, the company refreshed its Enduro and Fenix series last year, introducing the Enduro 3, Fenix E, and Fenix 8. Recently, there have been hints that Garmin might be setting things in motion for the release of the Forerunner 975.

    New Developments on the Forerunner 975

    In this regard, new reports have surfaced indicating that the Forerunner 975 could be launched later this year. Meanwhile, there is evidence suggesting that a new Vivoactive smartwatch is already well into its development phase. For context, the Vivoactive 5 (currently priced at $179.95 for refurbished models on Amazon) has been available for more than a year and a half. This device is exclusively offered in a 42 mm case size and features a vivid circular AMOLED display, providing up to 11 days of battery life, along with various functionalities found in Garmin’s pricier models.

    Features of the Upcoming Vivoactive 6

    If the recent leak is correct, then Garmin plans to release a successor in four different color options, each accompanied by matching silicone bands. The Vivoactive 6 is reported to include an accelerometer, compass, and gyroscope, but will not support altimeter or electrocardiogram (ECG) features. Instead, it is expected to include functions such as Ground Contact Time, Vertical Oscillation, Pace Pro, Running Power, and VO2 Max.

    It seems that Garmin has integrated the Vivoactive 6 with its Elevate V5 heart rate sensor array. Furthermore, it appears that Garmin has altered its main hardware button to look more like a digital crown. This change seems to be for comfort, as the button doesn’t seem to have any new features added. According to reports, the Vivoactive 6 is set to be launched next month, although a specific release date has not been disclosed yet.

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    New Garmin Smartwatch Leaks and Forerunner 975 Release RumorsNew Garmin Smartwatch Leaks and Forerunner 975 Release Rumors

     

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  • Fitbit Users: New Deadline for Account Transfers Announced

    Fitbit Users: New Deadline for Account Transfers Announced

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fitbit users now have until February 2, 2026, to convert their accounts to Google accounts, an extension from the previous 2025 deadline.
    2. All Fitbit devices are now available exclusively through the Google store, and the Fitbit website has been taken down.
    3. Users must switch accounts to retain access to the Fitbit platform and avoid losing historical data.
    4. The account conversion can be done through the Fitbit app, with options to merge with an existing Google account or create a new one.
    5. Many users have expressed concerns about data privacy and potential use for targeted advertisements, despite Google’s assurance that Fitbit data will not be used for ads.

    Fitbit has extended the timeline for its smartwatch and fitness tracker users to transition their accounts. Many users received an email from Fitbit stating they now have until February 2, 2026, to convert their Fitbit account into a Google account. This change is an extension from the previous deadline set for 2025.

    Background on the Transition

    Google took over Fitbit in early 2021 and has since made several adjustments to simplify its smartwatch offerings. All Fitbit devices, including the Charge 6 (curr. $119.95 at Amazon), are now available exclusively through the Google store, and the Fitbit website has been taken down. The recent message from Google emphasized that this account switch applies to everyone, even those already using a Gmail account for Fitbit. Users who do not make the switch will lose access to the Fitbit platform, and their historical data will also be erased after the February 2 deadline.

    How to Switch Your Account

    To convert your Fitbit account to a Google account, you can do this through the Fitbit app. There’s a specific setting to move your Fitbit data to your Google Account. Users might need to update their app before they can carry out this process. Google also highlights that users have the option to download or delete their Fitbit data at any time before the deadline. While you can merge your Fitbit account with an existing Google account, there’s also the option to create a new account if you prefer not to link your data.

    User Reactions and Concerns

    On Reddit, numerous users have voiced their displeasure and anger regarding this change, feeling as though they’re being pressured to share their data with Google. Some have raised worries that their data might be utilized for targeted advertisements. In a previous statement, Google clarified that Fitbit data isn’t connected to ads. It remains uncertain if there will be any advantages to transferring your data before the February 2026 deadline, as there don’t seem to be any immediate changes.

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  • Casio Pro Trek PRW-6900TFS: Topographic Strap & Triple Sensor Tech

    Casio Pro Trek PRW-6900TFS: Topographic Strap & Triple Sensor Tech

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio has partnered with the Chinese brand The Free Spirits to launch a special edition of the Pro Trek PRW-6900TFS, featuring two models: PRW-6900TFS-1PRB and PRW-6900TFS-1PRT.
    2. The watch design includes a dark grey casing with bright orange markers and a busy dial, plus a digital display that matches the color scheme.
    3. Each model comes with two strap options: a khaki resin strap and a bi-color flame-retardant leather strap with a topographic design.
    4. The 1PRT edition includes a co-branded camping tent (limited to 100 pieces), while the 1PRB version features a compact tent bag (900 units available).
    5. Both models have the same features as the original PRW-6900, with a retail price of ¥6,490 (about $894) for 1PRT and ¥3,690 (about $508) for 1PRB, available only in China.

    Casio has joined forces with the Chinese outdoor brand The Free Spirits to introduce a special edition of the Pro Trek PRW-6900TFS. This partnership marks a unique first for both the collaboration and the way it’s packaged. There will be two different models available: the PRW-6900TFS-1PRB and PRW-6900TFS-1PRT, as noted by @morgan_gshock on Instagram. Both versions are built on the PRW-6900 platform and come in specially designed gift boxes that include extra straps and co-branded camping items.

    Watch Design

    The watch features a dark grey casing and dial, with bright orange markers and hands that really pop, even if the dial seems a bit too busy. The orange digital display fits nicely with the overall color scheme.

    Straps and Accessories

    Both models come with two types of straps. The first one is a sleek, khaki resin strap, while the second is a unique bi-color flame-retardant leather strap that showcases a topographic design—this strap is a real highlight in terms of visual appeal.

    The 1PRT edition includes a co-branded camping tent, and only 100 pieces will be made available. On the other hand, the 1PRB model replaces the tent with a compact tent bag, and there will be 900 units of this variant. Both options come with a quick-release strap tool and special packaging as well.

    Features and Pricing

    Functionality is the same as the original PRW-6900: the watch includes Casio’s third-generation Triple Sensor technology, featuring a digital compass, barometer, altimeter, and thermometer. There’s no solar power or GPS included, but for an analog-digital hybrid with sensors, that’s pretty standard.

    In China, the retail price is set at ¥6,490 (around $894) for the 1PRT edition with the tent and ¥3,690 (about $508) for the 1PRB version that comes with the bag. Currently, it looks like this release will only be available in China, with no updates about international sales.

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  • New Galaxy Watch 8 Models Revealed in Firmware Leak

    New Galaxy Watch 8 Models Revealed in Firmware Leak

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy Watch 8 is expected to be released in 2025, alongside Samsung’s foldable smartphones.
    2. Recent firmware leaks reveal model numbers for the Galaxy Watch 8, confirming its development status.
    3. Model numbers include Bluetooth versions SM-L320 and SM-L330, and US LTE models SM-L325U and SM-L335U.
    4. Anticipated improvements include advanced health sensors and AI-enabled tracking features, building on the Galaxy Watch 7’s capabilities.
    5. The launch is likely to coincide with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7, expected around July or August 2025.

    Samsung is gearing up for its yearly smartwatch update, and recent information strongly suggests that the Galaxy Watch 8 is on its way, set to be released in 2025. After the launch of the Galaxy Watch 7 and Watch Ultra in mid-2024, the company is likely to reveal its next series of devices together with its foldable smartphones around July or August. A recent leak of firmware has provided a solid clue about what to expect.

    Firmware Leak Reveals Model Numbers

    An X user known as @theonecid has uncovered a test firmware that lists the model numbers for the Galaxy Watch 8. The Bluetooth versions are identified as SM-L320 and SM-L330, associated with firmware versions L320XXU0AYC4/L320OXM0AYC4. Meanwhile, the US LTE models are noted as SM-L325U and SM-L335U, linked to firmware versions L325USQU0AYC6/L325UOYM0AYC. These align with Samsung’s usual naming convention—similar to SM-L310 and SM-L315 for the Watch 7—suggesting that these details are indeed credible.

    Expectations for the Galaxy Watch 8

    Although specific specifications are still unclear, this leak indicates that Samsung is nearing completion of the Galaxy Watch 8 models. With the Galaxy Watch 7 introducing enhanced health sensors and AI-enabled wellness and sleep tracking, there are high hopes that the Watch 8 will build on these features. Will we see more advanced fitness tracking capabilities or a more refined design? Additional information is likely to emerge as the launch date approaches.

    Anticipated Improvements and Launch Timing

    The improvements made last year were well received, merging state-of-the-art health-tracking tools with intuitive AI functionalities. The upcoming Watch 8 is expected to enhance these elements, potentially aligning its introduction with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 launches. So far, this firmware leak serves as an intriguing preview, hinting at another remarkable smartwatch from a brand that excels in the wearable market.

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Paywall Sparks Huge Backlash from Users

    Garmin Smartwatch Paywall Sparks Huge Backlash from Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin Connect is the main platform for data from Garmin wearables and smartwatches.
    2. Garmin has launched Garmin Connect+, a premium subscription service costing about $7 a month or $70 annually for extra features.
    3. Many Garmin smartwatch owners are dissatisfied and feel misled about the new subscription model.
    4. Users argue they have already paid for software support through the high cost of Garmin devices, some exceeding $1,000.
    5. Garmin previously stated they would not charge users for their data, and free features will remain free.

    Garmin Connect is the platform where data from the brand’s wearables and smartwatches come together. The company has introduced Garmin Connect+, a premium subscription service that allows users to unlock extra features for about $7 a month or $70 annually. They are also promoting AI tools that promise to offer users more in-depth insights.

    User Reactions

    Despite this new offering, many Garmin smartwatch owners have expressed their dissatisfaction. On Reddit, there are several discussions where users share their frustrations after spending their hard-earned cash on Garmin devices. Some users have pointed out an implied agreement that Garmin has not made clear.

    Pricing and Value Concerns

    These consumers argue that they have already covered the costs of software support when they purchased one of Garmin’s rather pricey smartwatches. For instance, certain models of the Fenix 8 are priced over $1,000, making them some of the priciest options available, rivaling traditional luxury watches.

    Previous Commitments

    Additionally, some users recall earlier comments from Garmin’s representatives. In 2022, Phil McClendon, who has since left the company, mentioned that Garmin would not charge users for their data in the future. This statement still holds, as Garmin has clarified in a recent video that features previously offered for free will continue to be free.

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