Category: Wearables

  • Pongbot Aura AI: Adaptive Training for Tennis, Padel & Pickleball

    Pongbot Aura AI: Adaptive Training for Tennis, Padel & Pickleball

    Key Takeaway

    – Aura and Aura S offer personalized on-court coaching for tennis, padel, and pickleball with a large drill library controllable via smartwatch.
    – Aura S includes a dual-camera Spotter for personalized feedback and can function as an AI referee/scorekeeper when mounted near the net.
    – Battery and capacity allow up to 5 hours of ball-launching; 7 kg, portable on-court unit with ~4500 mAh battery and substantial ball capacity.

    Pongbot has opened its Kickstarter campaign for the Aura multi-sport training robots, which can provide individual training sessions and coaching for tennis, padel, and pickleball players.

    The Pongbot Aura robot has a Super Early Bird price as low as $499, while the Aura S robot has a price as low as $699. Both models weigh around 7 kg (15 lbs.) and measure 457 x 376 x 430 mm (18.0 x 14.8 x 16.9 in.) for convenient transportation to the courts.

    Specifications and capacity

    Pongbot says they hold 100 pickleballs or 120 tennis/padel balls and can launch balls for up to 5 hours thanks to a 4500 mAh rechargeable battery. The training robots come with a vast library of training drills, which can be controlled from a smartwatch. Backhand drives, slices, and more can be drilled at the user’s convenience, without the need to pay for a coach.

    Features and analytics

    The Aura S adds a dual-camera Spotter module that allows the robot to analyze your returns, then provide customized feedback. The Spotter module can also be detached and mounted near the net to act as an AI referee and scorekeeper while live streaming matches. An upcoming Mobile Base can be docked under the Aura S to allow the robot to move across the court, enabling more realistic practice returning short balls.

    Limitations and current capabilities

    The machine currently does not retrieve returned balls left on the court. This is a notable limitation for continuous practice without manual collection. The product notes emphasize training control via a smartwatch interface and the potential for future enhancements with the Mobile Base.

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  • Oura Ring 5: 40% Smaller Body, Up to 9 Days Battery Life

    Oura Ring 5: 40% Smaller Body, Up to 9 Days Battery Life

    Key Takeaway

    – Higher comfort and durability: 2.28 mm thickness, up to 40% more compact, made of titanium, water-resistant to 100 meters.
    – Longer battery life and improved sensors: 6–9 days; heart rate accuracy ~99%, sleep detection ~95%.
    – 50+ health metrics with advanced tracking: sleep phases, workouts, active calories, daily form, personalized goals, skin temperature, cycle and stress tracking, cardiovascular age.
    – New features via software in Ring 5 (also available on Ring 3/4) with pre-orders starting; multiple color/finish options and price tiers.
    – Subscription required for most features: $5.99/mo or $69.99/yr.

    Oura Ring 5 Overview

    The Oura Ring 5 replaces the Oura Ring 4 ($349 on Amazon) and, with a thickness of 2.28 millimetres, is up to 40 percent more compact than its predecessor, making it even more comfortable to wear. The battery life is increased to six to nine days and the sensors are said to work even more precisely.

    Performance and Build

    According to Oura, the heart rate sensor detects the pulse with 99 percent accuracy, while sleep should be detected with 95 percent precision. The Oura Ring 5 is made of titanium and is water-resistant to a depth of 100 meters, so it can also be worn for swimming. The basic functionality does not change, because while Oura introduces new software features, these are also available on the Oura Ring 3 and 4.

    Health Metrics and Tracking

    The Oura Ring 5 provides over 50 health metrics. The Smart Ring is capable of sleep phase tracking and can provide bedtime recommendations. The ring automatically recognizes workouts from cycling to basketball, measures the active calories burned, evaluates daily form and creates personalized activity goals. In combination with the integrated skin temperature sensor, cycle and stress tracking as well as an assessment of cardiovascular age are also possible.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Oura Ring 5 can now be pre-ordered at the manufacturer’s online store. The version in black or silver with a glossy finish costs $399, while matt black, brushed silver, gold and rose gold each cost $499. A subscription is required to use most of the features, which costs $5.99 per month or $69.99 per year.

     


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  • Casio Rainbow Glass Watch Debuts in XG Collection

    Casio Rainbow Glass Watch Debuts in XG Collection

    Key Takeaway

    – Collaboration: Casio G-Shock teams up with XG for two XG-branded models featuring XG logos on dial, strap, and case back.
    – Models and design:
    – GMA-S110XG-4A: bright pink analog-digital with shimmering face, 90s marble resin, color-shifting dial, world time, 1/1000s stopwatch, five daily alarms.
    – GM-S5600XG-1: rainbow-deposited glass, black resin casing/strap, digital display, 1/100s stopwatch, timer, multifunction alarm.
    – Specifications: both models are shock resistant, magnetically resistant, and water resistant to 200 m.
    – Release details: Japan release on June 12; prices ¥25,300 (~$159) for GMA-S110XG-4A and ¥36,300 (~$228) for GM-S5600XG-1; international release and pricing TBA.

    Casio has announced a new collaboration with XG. The Japanese watchmaker has worked with the “X-pop” band to create two G-Shock watches, which will be released in various markets worldwide. Both models feature the XG logo on the dial, strap and case back.

    Bright pink hybrid G-Shock joins the lineup

    In this paragraph the writer shifts to a casual, somewhat conversational tone, noting the GMA-S110XG-4A as a bright pink analog-digital hybrid. The description highlights shimmering elements on the face and a 90s-inspired marble effect resin casing and strap. The claim that the polarized dial subtly changes color with wrist movement adds a touch of whimsy, though it may read as marketing flourish to some readers. The paragraph keeps a slightly informal cadence to contrast with the technical details that follow, and it maintains a focus on the visual and tactile characteristics that define this model.

    Key specs and capabilities

    The text then lists functional features such as world time, a 1/1000th second stopwatch, and five daily alarms, presenting a practical view of what the wearer can expect from the GMA-S110XG-4A. The inclusion of shock resistance, magnetic resistance, and 200 meter water resistance rounds out the core capabilities, giving potential buyers a compact summary of durability and versatility in a single breath, with a straightforward, almost checklist-like delivery.

    Colorful resin and digital center display

    Next, the GM-S5600XG-1 is described with emphasis on its rainbow deposition glass and a contrasting black resin casing and strap. The centerpiece is a rectangular digital display with a black background, offering a bold visual contrast that stands out against the colorful glass. The paragraph conveys a sense of modern, edgy styling while noting practical features like a stopwatch precise to 1/100th second, a timer, and a multifunctional alarm, reinforcing the blend of style and utility that defines this model. The tone remains confident and slightly punchy, underscoring the distinctive aesthetic choices.

    Durability and water resistance details

    The final technical note reiterates that both watches share the same 200 m water resistance as their pink sibling, tying the two models together through a common benchmark of robustness. This sentence functions as a practical reassurance about performance in wet environments, exercising a concise, no-nonsense voice to complement the earlier design-forward description, and keeps the emphasis on reliability as a core selling point.

    Release timing and pricing in Japan

    In Japan, the Casio G-Shock x XG collection will be released on June 12th. The GMA-S110XG-4A will retail for ¥25,300 (~$159), while the GM-S5600XG-1 is more expensive at ¥36,300 (~$228). The notes acknowledge that it is unclear when these models will be released in other markets, and at what price, leaving readers with a sense of anticipation for international availability while presenting concrete local pricing where known. The paragraph uses a pragmatic tone to bridge the specific market details and the broader global context.

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  • Amazfit Helio Strap 2: FCC Filing Signals Fitbit Air Rival Release

    Amazfit Helio Strap 2: FCC Filing Signals Fitbit Air Rival Release

    Key Takeaway

    – Zepp Health is filing for a screenless Bluetooth Low Energy wearable under model A2671, widely expected to be the Amazfit Helio Strap 2, with a likely 2H 2026 release window.
    – The device relies on BLE only (no Wi‑Fi or cellular) and uses a 230 mAh battery, with a rectangular module and rear optical sensor array.
    – Conceptually similar to the first-gen Helio and Google’s Fitbit Air, it will likely be a price-competitive, screenless fitness tracker that processes metrics via a paired smartphone.
    – Official details on algorithms or companion app features are pending, but hardware design appears largely unchanged and software updates could improve performance to match rivals.

    FCC filings hint at Zepp Health’s A2671 device, a screenless Bluetooth Low Energy sensor that may become the Amazfit Helio Strap 2. The document trails out that the hardware footprint and prior roadmap strongly point to this conclusion, with a 180-day confidentiality request on internal photos aligning with a late-2026 launch window.

    Introduction to the upcoming device

    The article notes that basic fitness trackers are catching on this year, driven by the Whoop band and the OG Helio Strap whose renewed variant sits around $90 on Amazon. Google’s new entry, the $99 Fitbit Air, is highlighted as a screenless monitor that doesn’t hide core data behind a paid tier. If Zepp Health keeps its pricing habits, this new module might appear as a plain competitor to Google’s current hardware.

    Summary of the specs and what they mean

    Public FCC filings indicate Bluetooth Low Energy-only connectivity, with no Wi-Fi or cellular radios. The battery is rated at 230 mAh, a figure that matches the existing Helio generation. The regulatory label’s placement suggests a rectangular module with rounded corners and a rear optical sensor array, keeping a familiar form factor for users who’ve seen the prior model.

    What to expect in features and software

    At this moment, official confirmation about algorithm updates or new companion app features remains elusive. Visually, the device appears largely unchanged from the previous Helio strap, but modest software tweaks could help it better rival the Fitbit Air in real-world performance and metrics processing.

    Conclusion and regulatory context

    The latest FCC documentation, cited by Gadgets and Wearables, anchors the rumor with hardware specifics and expected release timing, while leaving room for subtle firmware adjustments and app enhancements beyond the bare metal.


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  • Casio Square Digital Display Watches Coming Soon Worldwide

    Casio Square Digital Display Watches Coming Soon Worldwide

    Key Takeaway

    – Casio expanding rollout of W-738H in Europe, with EU release planned in June 2026.
    – New variants: W-738H-1AV (black) and W-738H-3AV (khaki) priced at €49.90 in the EU.
    – Features: square digital display, LED backlight, dual time, 1/100th second stopwatch, daily alarm, countdown timer, and vibration alerts.

    Casio has officially confirmed that its new W-738H watches will shortly be rolled out more widely across Europe. These two digital watches were both released in the UK earlier in May 2026.

    Casio W-738H European rollout details

    Casio’s W-738H is a square faced digital watch with a dedicated button to activate an LED backlight. This model supports dual time and has tools like a 1/100th second stopwatch, a daily alarm and a countdown timer. Plus, the watch offers vibration alerts linked to these functions, with a tight-fitting strap ensuring that these can be felt on your wrist. This is a mid-size model, measuring 47.0 x 42.8 x 13.5 mm (~1.85 x 1.69 x 0.53 inches).

    Specific models and EU pricing

    Now, at the Casio store in countries like the Netherlands, France and Spain, the company has listed the new W-738H-1AV (black casing/strap, silver bezel) and W-738H-3AV (khaki casing/strap, metallic black bezel) watches. In the EU, this model will retail for €49.90, as leaked by retailer David et Philly.

    Release timeline and sign-up

    The Casio W-738H-1AV and W-738H-3AV watches are expected to be released in countries across the European Union in June 2026. Prospective customers can join a mailing list to be notified of the launch of these products. You can do this via the black “sign up” button on the product page.

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Update Adds Eight New Features

    Garmin Smartwatch Update Adds Eight New Features

    Key Takeaway

    – Adds a new golf performance glance for Venu X1 and enables marking putts with the Green View map, plus support for multiple coordinate input formats.
    – Enables Venu X1 to connect with Approach CT1 Golf Club Trackers and introduces quick-access silent mode and swipe-up access for the keyboard layout menu.
    – Outdoor Maps+ layers can be viewed via QR codes, and users can navigate to a previously marked Last MOB (Man Overboard) point.

    Garmin’s software update details

    Garmin’s new software version 17.33 is rolling out to the Venu X1 smartwatch. Similar updates are currently rolling out to other wearables in the brand’s range, like the Forerunner 570, the Forerunner 970, the Venu 4 and the vivoactive 6. The release notes for Garmin software version 17.33 state that it adds a new golf performance glance to the Venu X1. Another new golf-related feature is linked to the Green View map, allowing users to mark a putt. Plus, the smartwatch now supports several position formats for entering coordinates.

    New features and compatibility

    Users of the Garmin Venu X1 smartwatch can now connect it to the brand’s Approach CT1 Golf Club Trackers (curr. $99.99). Other new features include a quick access silent mode and swipe up access for the keyboard layout menu. On top of this, the descriptions of layers on Outdoor Maps+ can now be viewed via QR codes, and users gain the option to navigate to a Last MOB (Man Overboard) point which you have previously marked.

    Availability and install notes

    The Garmin software version 17.33 was announced in an official forum post. You can find a screenshot of the release notes below. Users of the Garmin Venu X1 smartwatch should automatically install it when it is connected to Garmin Connect Mobile or Garmin Express. Alternatively, you can manually download the software from the watch’s settings. However, it is worth noting that the update is currently only available for around 20% of users.

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    • Casio Debuts Four Metal Band Watches in Europe

      Casio Debuts Four Metal Band Watches in Europe

      Key Takeaway

      – Four new MQ-24 analog watches released in Europe (UK, NL, FR; earlier spotted in Singapore) with silver or gold-tone cases and metal-look resin bodies.
      – Models: MQ-24DA-1A (black dial), MQ-24DA-2A (blue dial), MQ-24DA-3A (green dial) in silver; MQ-24GA-1A (black dial) in gold.
      – Prices: silver-toned models £35 each; gold-toned model £55; EU pricing €39.90 for MQ-24D series.
      – Specs: sunray dial, 3 hands, ~38.8 × 34.9 × 7.8 mm, self-adjusting stainless steel strap, ~3-year battery life, water resistant for everyday use; US release date unclear.

      Casio has released four new MQ-24 watches in Europe

      Casio has released four new MQ-24 watches in Europe. These analog timepieces with metallic casing and straps were first spotted on the brand’s official website in Singapore in April 2026.

      Available models and pricing

      Now, you can buy the MQ-24DA-1A (black dial, silver case/strap), MQ-24DA-2A (blue dial, silver case/strap), MQ-24DA-3A (green dial, silver case/strap) and MQ-24GA-1A (black dial, gold case/strap) at the Casio store in the UK. While the three silver tone MQ-24D watches are priced at £35 each, the golden colored MQ-24G has a higher RRP of £55.

      Upcoming releases and EU pricing

      The MQ-24DA-1A and MQ-24DA-2A timepieces will shortly be released in other European countries, such as the Netherlands and France. In the EU, the MQ-24D series watches are priced at €39.90.

      Watch specs and features

      The Casio MQ-24 is a sunray dial analog watch with three hands, remaining accurate to within 20 seconds each month. Each has a metal look resin casing, measuring 38.8 x 34.9 x 7.8 mm (~1.53 x 1.37 x 0.31 inches), and comes with a self-adjusting stainless steel strap. Plus, it has an estimated battery life of three years and is marketed as water resistant for everyday use. Whether or when these new Casio MQ-24 series watches will be released in the US is unclear.

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    • Oura Ring 5 Launches Thursday: World’s Smallest Smart Ring

      Oura Ring 5 Launches Thursday: World’s Smallest Smart Ring

      Key Takeaway

      – Oura Ring 5 emphasizes compact size and comfort, boasting a smaller form factor with improved sensor sizing for potentially more precise data, plus a one-week battery life and 100-meter water resistance.
      – Prices start at €429 (up to €529 depending on color/finish); a €5.99/month subscription is required to access most features and over 50 health metrics.
      – Launch: officially unveiled May 28 with deliveries beginning June 4; includes USB-C charging and a dock, with a separate charging case sold separately.

      Leak confirms details about the Oura Ring 5

      After a leak recently revealed many details about the Oura Ring 5, Winfuture confirms this leak and provides a range of new information and images. The Oura Ring 5 is to be officially unveiled on Thursday, May 28, with deliveries expected to begin on June 4. The cheapest version of the ring will cost €429, which is €30 more than the list price of the Oura Ring 4 ($349 on Amazon).

      Pricing and color options

      Depending on the color, the ring will cost up to €529 and will be available in silver, black, gold or rose gold with a polished finish, or in silver or black with a matte finish. To use most of the features, a subscription must also be taken out, which costs €5.99 per month. The leaked marketing material advertises the Oura Ring 5 as the “world’s smallest smart ring” – the more compact body is primarily intended to make it more comfortable to wear.

      Battery life and waterproofing

      The battery life increases to one week. The ring is waterproof to a depth of 100 meters. If you take out a subscription, the Oura Ring 5 gives you access to over 50 health metrics, including sleep and workout tracking, a pedometer, round-the-clock heart rate monitoring, stress and cycle tracking and a “symptom radar” that is supposed to be able to detect the first signs of illness at an early stage.

      Included accessories and sensors

      Oura Ring 5 apparently comes with a dock for charging and a USB-C cable, but if you want a charging case for charging while traveling, you will have to buy this separately. Judging by the pictures, the built-in heart rate, SpO2 and skin temperature sensors are larger and could therefore provide more precise data, but Oura is unlikely to be using completely new sensors.

      Winfuture


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    • AMOLED NFC Smartwatch with IP68 — Only $23 Deal

      AMOLED NFC Smartwatch with IP68 — Only $23 Deal

      Key Takeaway

      – Very low price for a smartwatch with seemingly strong specs (AMOLED display, blood oxygen, blood pressure, NFC, IP68, Bluetooth 5.4) at about $23, but reliability is questionable.
      – Limited confidence in software and features: unclear language support, likely unreliable health measurements, and contactless payments may not work outside China.
      – Potential caveats: shipping/import fees may apply; uncertain warranty/updates; best as a backup, tinkering device, or budget quick-browse option rather than a trusted health/fitness watch.

      Overview of the Valdus VD40 Pro on Alibaba

      Most smartwatch buyers are likely to spend hundreds of dollars on their new watch, even though there are much cheaper devices in this category on the market. Those who do not have high expectations and are mainly looking for a wearable with a decent screen may even find that a budget of $23 is enough.

      Pricing and Availability

      The Chinese online marketplace Alibaba is currently selling the Valdus VD40 Pro, a surprisingly good-looking smartwatch with a 1.43-inch AMOLED display, for just $23. Potential shipping and import fees may still apply in some cases. Three different color variants are available at that price, and one apparently even ships with a stainless-steel strap. The watch case appears to be made from a zinc alloy.

      Specs and Features Versus Price

      The advertised specs and features also read surprisingly well given the price. In addition to blood oxygen and blood pressure sensors, NFC, an IP68 rating, Bluetooth 5.4 and a voice assistant are allegedly included. However, how reliable and usable these functions ultimately are is highly questionable, especially from a software perspective.

      Practical Considerations

      For example, it is not known which languages the pre-installed OS supports. Contactless payments are also unlikely to work outside of China. Bargain hunters should ultimately be aware that the health features of the Valdus VD40 Pro are most likely not trustworthy. However, as a backup watch or a gadget for tinkering, this very cheap smartwatch may still be suitable.

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    • Xiaomi Announces Global Pricing for 3 New Smartwatches with 21-Day Battery

      Xiaomi Announces Global Pricing for 3 New Smartwatches with 21-Day Battery

      Key Takeaway

      – Xiaomi confirms global pricing and availability for three new wearables: Smart Band 10, Smart Band 10 Pro (with NFC), and Watch S5 46 mm for the Eurozone.
      – Smart Band 10 priced at €99.99 with Black, Silver, and Pink options; NFC-enabled Smart Band 10 Pro variant at €119.99 in Black, Silver, and Pearl White.
      – Watch S5 46 mm priced at €219.99 with battery life up to 21 days; available in Black, Green, Grey, and Blue.

      Xiaomi is hosting a global launch event on May 28. Currently, the company is actively teasing the Xiaomi 17T and Xiaomi 17T Pro across social media. At the same time, the company has quietly released the Poco Pad C1 internationally. Also, the Smart Band 10 Pro and the Redmi Headphones Neo are already available in Japan.

      Price reveal and colors

      On top of that, Xiaomi has quietly confirmed global pricing information for three new wearable releases. As the screenshots below show, one of these is the Smart Band 10 Pro. The cheapest of the three, the Smart Band 10 will reach the Eurozone for €99.99 with a choice between Black, Silver and Pink colours. The note tho is that the 10 Pro carries NFC in the same market, yet the basic 10 may not have it.

      NFC variant details and eurozone availability

      The Smart Band 10 Pro is set to be available in the same market with NFC capabilities too, unlike the Smart Band 9 Pro (curr. $89 on Amazon). However, this will be available as a dedicated variant priced at €119.99 in the Eurozone. Based on Xiaomi’s early listings, the Eurozone will receive three Smart Band 10 Pro NFC variants in Black, Silver and Pearl White finishes. This shows a wider selection for buyers who want digital wallets or contactless payments on their wrist.

      • €99.99 Smart Band 10 with Black, Silver, Pink
      • €119.99 Smart Band 10 Pro NFC variant in Black, Silver, Pearl White

      Watch S5 and finish options

      Additionally, the Watch S5 46 mm will be joining these two Smart Bands as well. The most expensive of the three at €219.99, the Watch S5 46 mm features a brighter display than both Smart Band 10 Pro variants while delivering up to 21 days of battery life too. Xiaomi plans to sell its new smartwatch in the Eurozone with Black, Green, Grey and Blue finishes.


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