Category: Wearables

  • Xiaomi’s HyperOS Unveils Design of Apple AirTag Competitor

    Xiaomi’s HyperOS Unveils Design of Apple AirTag Competitor

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi is developing a competitor to the Apple AirTag called the “Xiaomi Tag,” with an imminent release suggested.
    2. The tracker features an oval design with a built-in keychain loop for easy attachment.
    3. Two model variants are planned: one with ultrawideband technology and one without, both using a CR2032 battery.
    4. The Xiaomi Tag may be limited to the Chinese market initially, with potential for international release later.
    5. An official announcement for the Xiaomi Tag is expected soon, possibly after the launch of the Redmi Turbo 5 series.

    Recent information leaks indicate that Xiaomi is developing a competitor to the Apple AirTag, with a report from early December 2025 suggesting that its official release might be imminent. Although the company has introduced various new products since then, the “Xiaomi Tag” has yet to be formally showcased at any of their recent launch events.

    Design Insights

    In the latest HyperOS codebase, some details and design aspects of the tracker have been uncovered. Notably shared by @kacskrz, the design renders included in the code imply the tracker will have an oval form and come with a built-in keychain loop for easy attachment.

    Model Variants

    The codebase also mentions two versions of the tracker: one equipped with ultrawideband technology and another that does not have this feature. Both models appear to share a similar design and will operate using a CR2032 battery, which is the same type used in devices like the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 2 (currently priced at $21.73 on Amazon).

    Market Availability

    A rather unfortunate aspect is that the code hints at the Xiaomi Tag being limited to the Chinese market, as it only includes references to CN models. Nevertheless, this does not completely rule out the possibility of an international launch following the release in China.

    While the exact launch date for this Xiaomi tracking device is still uncertain, the fact that it has appeared in the HyperOS codebase suggests that we might see an official announcement soon. This could potentially occur after the launch event for the Redmi Turbo 5 series.

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  • Citizen Unveils New Blue Chronograph with Caliber B620 Eco-Drive

    Citizen Unveils New Blue Chronograph with Caliber B620 Eco-Drive

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Model Launch: Citizen is introducing the Chrono Racing CA4716-50L as part of its Eco-Drive collection, featuring a motor racing-inspired design.

    2. Eco-Drive Technology: The watch utilizes Caliber B620 Eco-Drive movement, converting light into energy with a power reserve of about 9 months on a full charge.

    3. Mid-Range Dimensions: The watch has a diameter of 39.5 mm and a thickness of 12.3 mm, making it more versatile than larger chronographs typically used in racing.

    4. Functional Features: It includes a 1/5-second chronograph, a 24-hour sub-dial, and a date window, along with warnings for insufficient charge and overcharging protection.

    5. Durability and Pricing: The CA4716-50L features a mineral crystal and is water-resistant up to 10 ATM (100 meters), retailing for S$523.20 (~$411.08 USD) in Singapore.

    Citizen is launching a new Chrono Racing CA4716-50L model as part of its Eco-Drive collection. This watch boasts a design inspired by motor racing and integrates well-known solar-quartz technology. With a diameter of 39.5 mm and a thickness of 12.3 mm, the stainless steel case is crafted for a mid-range profile, making it more adaptable compared to the larger sizes typically seen in aviation or racing chronographs. The standout feature of this model is its dial design, which showcases a rich blue background with vertical stripes and a layout of three sub-dials.

    Performance and Features

    The CA4716-50L is powered by the Caliber B620 Eco-Drive movement. This light-powered mechanism transforms both natural and artificial light into energy, allowing it to maintain a power reserve of about 9 months on a full charge under normal usage conditions. The movement includes a 1/5-second chronograph that can track up to 60 minutes, a 24-hour sub-dial to distinguish between AM and PM, along with a date window located between the 4 and 5 o’clock markers. Furthermore, the B620 features a warning for insufficient charge and a function to prevent overcharging.

    Technical Details

    In terms of construction, the watch is equipped with a mineral crystal for the dial window. Although mineral glass offers higher resistance to impacts compared to sapphire, it still has a greater vulnerability to surface scratches, especially in racing or everyday wear situations. The CA4716-50L is rated for water resistance up to 10 ATM (100 meters), making it appropriate for swimming and other surface water activities. Additionally, the watch comes with a matching stainless steel bracelet that features a secure closure. In Singapore, this model retails for S$523.20, which is roughly $411.08 USD. On certain third-party European platforms like Larrabe, the watch is available for 219 euros.

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  • Garmin Resolves Smartwatch HRV Issue in Latest Beta Update

    Garmin Resolves Smartwatch HRV Issue in Latest Beta Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released beta update 21.18 for Fenix 8, Fenix E, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8 smartwatches.
    2. The update includes two new bug fixes: one for the Garmin Messenger app and another for the heart rate variability (HRV) chart.
    3. The update has been rolled out over the air (OTA) to about 50% of users, with no timeline for full rollout.
    4. During beta testing, ECG, Dive, and Aviation features are unavailable.
    5. A stable version of the 21.xx software is expected to include a feature allowing users to disable navigation guidance until needed.

    Garmin has released a new beta update, version 21.18, for its Fenix 8, Fenix E, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8 smartwatches. This update comes just a week after the last one in the 21.xx testing series, which was version 21.17. The previous update fixed four issues, including a bug related to GPS navigation.

    New Bug Fixes

    The beta version 21.18 introduces two additional bug fixes for the Fenix 8 and its related models. The first fix addresses an issue with the Garmin Messenger app, where users were facing delays when trying to scroll through longer message threads. The second fix solves a problem with the heart rate variability (HRV) chart, which could crash when users interacted with it.

    Update Rollout

    As per a recent update on the Garmin forum, this version has been rolled out over the air (OTA) to about 50% of users who own these smartwatches. It is still uncertain when this rollout will reach 100%. As always during beta testing, the ECG, Dive, and Aviation features are not available. It is also not known when a stable version of the 21.xx software will be available for all users of the Fenix 8 (AMOLED 47mm Orange currently priced at $1,099.99 on Amazon), Fenix E, Enduro 3, and Tactix 8. This stable version is anticipated to include a new option allowing users to disable navigation guidance until a turn is necessary.

    Garmin is continuously working to enhance the user experience with its devices, and this latest beta update is a step in that direction.

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  • Apple Watch More Accurately Detects Atrial Fibrillation Than Check-ups

    Apple Watch More Accurately Detects Atrial Fibrillation Than Check-ups

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Apple Watch can effectively detect atrial fibrillation, particularly in individuals aged over 65 with a higher stroke risk.
    2. In a study of 437 participants, 9.6% using the Apple Watch had atrial fibrillation detected, compared to 2.3% in the control group after six months.
    3. The smartwatch utilizes ECG and PPG technology, improving the chances of detecting irregular heartbeats that may go unnoticed.
    4. The Apple Watch was successful in identifying asymptomatic cases of atrial fibrillation.
    5. Nearly half of the alerts generated by the watch were false positives, leading to potential anxiety and unnecessary doctor visits.

    A recent research indicates that the Apple Watch can effectively identify atrial fibrillation. The randomized trial involved participants aged over 65 who had a higher stroke risk, comparing the standard treatment in the Netherlands with the use of an Apple Watch. It’s worth mentioning that the sample size was limited to 437 individuals, with an average age of 75. A different cohort structure might bring about varying results, but the fundamental conclusions would likely stay consistent.

    Study Findings

    The research focused on atrial fibrillation detection over a six-month timeframe. The Apple Watch was compared to the standard treatment in the Netherlands, which typically involves a visit to a healthcare professional or GP. The findings revealed that after six months, 9.6% of those utilizing the Apple Watch had atrial fibrillation detected, in contrast to just 2.3% in the control group, marking a statistically significant difference.

    Technology Used

    The smartwatch employed its ECG function and PPG sensor in this study. The outcomes are not particularly surprising, since atrial fibrillation doesn’t always manifest continuously and might go unnoticed by those experiencing it. While a smartwatch might not catch a single episode as often as a doctor would, the chances of recognizing such an episode over time are significantly improved since wearables are typically worn for many hours each day. Therefore, the likelihood of detecting atrial fibrillation during a standard medical check-up can be quite low. Additionally, the Apple Watch was successful in identifying asymptomatic atrial fibrillation cases.

    Limitations of Detection

    Nonetheless, the results also highlight that the Apple Watch isn’t always precise: nearly half of the alerts generated were false positives. As noted in a previous discussion about the Apple Watch’s blood pressure monitoring feature, these alerts don’t carry any serious consequences, apart from potential anxiety and wasted time during doctor visits.

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  • Garmin Launches Stable Update with Music App Fix

    Garmin Launches Stable Update with Music App Fix

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released system software version 8.04 for Approach S44 and S50 smartwatches.
    2. The update includes four bug fixes, particularly for the PlaysLike mode on the S50.
    3. It resolves issues with PlaysLike distance from connected rangefinders for all users.
    4. The update corrects inaccuracies related to hole and par information on various courses.
    5. Users can install the update via the Garmin Golf app or Garmin Express.

    Garmin has released an update for the Approach S44 and S50 golf smartwatches, now on system software version 8.04. This new version comes about three months after the previous update, version 7.16, which addressed issues related to activity data handling.

    Bug Fixes Included

    With the introduction of system software 8.04, Garmin has included four additional bug fixes for both the Approach S44 and S50 devices. One fix focuses on the PlaysLike mode that S50 users reported issues with, specifically regarding the toggle feature on the hazards and layups screen not functioning properly. Another fix relates to all users, solving a problem with the PlaysLike distance that was being received from a connected rangefinder.

    Additional Improvements

    Garmin has also corrected a bug that could lead to incorrect information about hole and par for various courses. Furthermore, the update resolves an issue where users were unable to change the volume in the music app on their Approach smartwatches.

    In a recent communication on the Garmin forum, a company spokesperson confirmed that system software version 8.04 is now accessible to all users of the Approach S44 and S50 smartwatches (currently priced at $399.99 on Amazon). Users can install this update either through the Garmin Golf app or using Garmin Express.

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  • New Casio G-Shock Watch with Colorful Display Launching Soon

    New Casio G-Shock Watch with Colorful Display Launching Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock x Hardies NYC DW-6900HH-5 watch will be available in Europe starting February 2026, priced at €149.00.
    2. Availability is exclusive to members of Casio ID, which can be accessed by creating a free account.
    3. The watch features a brown design with a chocolate resin casing and strap, and a double-H monogram pattern on the face.
    4. It includes functions like flash alerts, an alarm, a stopwatch, a timer, and an LED backlight; it’s shock-resistant and waterproof to 20 bar.
    5. The watch is powered by a CR2016 battery, expected to last around five years.

    The Casio G-Shock x Hardies NYC DW-6900HH-5 timepiece is set to arrive in Europe soon. This special edition watch, created in partnership with the skate and streetwear label, just made its debut in the United States.

    Availability in Europe

    Recently, Casio has made the G-Shock x Hardies NYC watch available at some of its European online stores. In locations like the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany, the DW-6900HH-5 will hit the shelves in February 2026, priced at €149.00. It’s important to highlight that it will be available solely for members of Casio ID; you can create a free account on the brand’s site. If you’re interested in getting a notification when this watch is available, just click the black “Coming soon” button on the product page.

    Design Features

    This G-Shock x Hardies NYC watch showcases a striking brown design with a chocolate resin casing and strap. The same brown color is present on the watch face, which boasts a double-H monogram pattern. Additionally, there are several purple and pink highlights throughout, including a purple background on the digital display. The brand’s fist logo is engraved on the metal case back, and the watch comes packaged in a unique box.

    Specs and Functions

    The DW-6900 is a digital timepiece featuring triple circle graphics at the top of the face, along with a larger digital display below. It includes functionalities such as flash alerts, hourly time signals, an alarm, a stopwatch, and a timer. An LED backlight is also available to light up the display at the touch of a button. This shock-resistant watch is waterproof to 20 bar and is expected to last around five years on a CR2016 battery.

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  • New Garmin Smartwatch Feature Now Available in Beta Update

    New Garmin Smartwatch Feature Now Available in Beta Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released beta update 16.16 for vivoactive 6, Venu 4, and Venu X1 smartwatches, just ten days after update 16.14.
    2. The new Garmin Connect+ nutrition logging feature allows users to monitor nutritional information by scanning food items.
    3. Access to the nutrition logging feature requires a Garmin Connect+ subscription, which costs $6.99 per month.
    4. Users can view detailed reports and AI-generated insights about their diet’s impact on health.
    5. Beta version 16.16 can be downloaded by eligible users through their smartwatch settings, but the release date for a stable version is still unknown.

    Garmin has unveiled a fresh beta update for the vivoactive 6, Venu 4, and Venu X1 smartwatches. This new beta version, 16.16, comes about ten days after the previous testing version, 16.14. The earlier update improved Garmin Connect Mobile (GCM) Translations to version 3.40.

    New Nutrition Logging Feature

    With the release of beta version 16.16, users of the Garmin Venu X1, Venu 4, and vivoactive 6 smartwatches now have access to an innovative Garmin Connect+ nutrition logging feature. This feature was first revealed in early January 2026. It allows users to monitor nutritional information, including calories and macros, by scanning food items via the brand’s app. Users can also see daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly reports, along with AI-generated insights into how their diet impacts their health.

    Subscription Requirement

    It should be noted that since this is a Connect+ feature, it’s only available to those who have a Garmin Connect+ subscription, which costs $6.99 per month. However, some tests conducted by the5krunner and DC Rainmaker have pointed out various problems with this feature.

    How to Download

    For users of the Garmin Venu 4, Venu X1, and vivoactive 6 smartwatch (currently priced at $299.99 on Amazon) who are part of the beta program, they can download beta version 16.16 by navigating to Main menu > Settings > System > Software Update > Check For Updates. It’s still uncertain when a stable version of software 16.xx, which should come with more new features, will be available to all users.

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  • Amazfit Smartwatch Update Adds New Metrics for More Users

    Amazfit Smartwatch Update Adds New Metrics for More Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit T-Rex 3 smartwatch received a new update, version 4.3.8.4, shortly after version 4.3.8.2 was paused.
    2. The update includes a bug fix for daily activity calorie calculations.
    3. New metrics for Outdoor Running and Trail Running, such as Equivalent Pace and Average Equivalent Pace, have been added.
    4. Enhanced compatibility with speed sensors, cadence sensors, and power meters for Indoor Cycling, as well as support for Stryd sensors for HYROX Race.
    5. Users can now record voice memos during workouts, and improvements were made to the Terrain Map and workout track page.

    A fresh update has been released for the Amazfit T-Rex 3 smartwatch. The version 4.3.8.4 update comes a few weeks after the initial software version 4.3.8.2 was rolled out. However, it seems that the distribution of the earlier version was put on hold.

    Minor Changes in Update

    When compared to version 4.3.8.2, there’s just one adjustment in version 4.3.8.4. This adjustment is a bug fix that addresses a problem with the calculation of daily activity calories. For those who missed out on the 4.3.8.2 release, this update introduces a broader range of new features.

    New Features Introduced

    The change log posted on the Amazfit T-Rex 3/3 Pro Facebook group mentions two new metrics for Outdoor Running and Trail Running: Equivalent Pace and Average Equivalent Pace. Additionally, there are workout-specific enhancements such as compatibility with speed sensors, cadence sensors, and power meters for Indoor Cycling, as well as support for Stryd sensors for HYROX Race.

    With this update, Amazfit T-Rex 3 users can now record voice memos while working out, and both the Terrain Map and workout track page have been enhanced. The full change log for software version 4.3.8.4 is provided below. It’s not clear when this new update will be fully available. Once it’s ready for you, you can install the update for the Amazfit T-Rex 3 (currently $249.99 at Amazon) through the Zepp app.

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  • New Limited Edition Casio G-Shock Collaboration Watches Release

    New Limited Edition Casio G-Shock Collaboration Watches Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Limited Edition Watches: Two new Casio G-Shock DW-5600X models were launched in Hong Kong, celebrating the upcoming film Back to the Past.

    2. Character-Inspired Designs: The Xiang Shaolong Edition features bronze accents, while the King of Qin Edition has metallic red and silver highlights, both showcasing unique design elements.

    3. Durable Features: The watches are known for their shock resistance, water resistance up to 200 meters, and a battery life of approximately five years.

    4. Functional Specs: They come with features like a countdown timer, stopwatch, flash alerts, and a Super Illuminator LED backlight for visibility.

    5. Exclusive Availability: Only 180 units of each model will be available, with fans in Hong Kong encouraged to enter a contest for a chance to win one.

    Two new limited edition Casio G-Shock collaboration timepieces have made their debut in Hong Kong. The DW-5600X watches commemorate the upcoming 2025 film Back to the Past, which serves as a sequel to the 2001 television series A Step Into the Past.

    Unique Designs Inspired by Characters

    The Casio G-Shock x Back to the Past watches feature mainly black designs influenced by two characters from the film. The Xiang Shaolong Edition DW-5600X showcases bronze accents on the strap, which has a delicate brushstroke pattern. Meanwhile, the King of Qin Edition DW-5600X combines metallic red and silver highlights, featuring a geometric border. Each watch is equipped with a resin case and strap, showcasing a dark digital display at its core.

    Impressive Specs and Features

    Casio’s G-Shock DW-5600 model is known for its shock resistance, boasting a water resistance of up to 200 meters and an estimated battery life of five years. Users can take advantage of features like a countdown timer and a stopwatch accurate to 1/100th of a second. Additionally, the digital watch includes flash alerts, hourly time signals, and a multi-function alarm. The display is versatile, allowing users to view the time in either 12 or 24-hour formats, and the Super Illuminator LED backlight enhances visibility in low-light conditions.

    Limited Availability and Competition

    These timepieces were officially announced in a recent social media update by the production company One Cool Film. The post revealed that only 180 units of each watch are available, emphasizing that fans “won’t find these on the high street” (translated by DeepL). Instead, fans in Hong Kong have the chance to participate in a contest, which is outlined on Facebook, to win one of these exclusive watches.

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  • New Casio G-Shock Compass Watch Launching Soon in the UK

    New Casio G-Shock Compass Watch Launching Soon in the UK

    Key Takeaways

    1. The G-Shock GWG-B1000TLC-1A is priced at £779 in the UK and will launch in February 2026.
    2. The watch is inspired by the Dakar Rally and developed in collaboration with Team Land Cruiser Toyota Auto Body.
    3. It features a black color scheme, ion-plated metal body, and sand-textured resin strap, with gold and vibrant accents.
    4. Key functionalities include radio control (Multiband 6), solar power, Bluetooth connectivity, and a triple sensor for temperature, altitude, and pressure.
    5. Availability in other European countries or North America is uncertain, but there are hints of a broader market release soon.

    Casio has announced the pricing for the new G-Shock GWG-B1000TLC-1A watch in the UK. This model, known as the Master of G Mudmaster, is a result of a collaboration with Team Land Cruiser Toyota Auto Body (TLC). The design is said to be “inspired by the demanding nighttime stages of the Dakar Rally.”

    Pricing and Release Information

    We previously learned that the G-Shock GWG-B1000TLC-1A would be launched in Japan in February 2026 at a price of ¥140,800 (approximately $889). Now, a listing on the UK online store has confirmed its arrival in the UK in February as well, with an RRP of £779.00. The exact launch date remains unknown, but interested buyers can click the “available soon – sign up now” button on the product page to get email alerts.

    Features and Specifications

    The Casio G-Shock GWG-B1000TLC-1A sports a black color scheme, featuring an ion-plated metal body and a sand-textured resin strap that matches it well. Notable details include a gold-colored metal band loop and vibrant accents on the black dial. This model is radio-controlled (Multiband 6) and solar-powered, offering automatic time updates through Bluetooth connectivity. It comes equipped with a triple sensor to monitor temperature, altitude, and barometric pressure, along with a compass function that has a specific Location Indicator. Additionally, the hybrid watch supports world time, featuring three analog hands and a smaller digital display for the date.

    Future Availability

    It remains uncertain if or when the Casio G-Shock x Team Land Cruiser Toyota Auto Body GWG-B1000TLC-1A will be available in other European nations or North America. However, a section on the brand’s international website hints that it might be introduced to a broader market soon.

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