Category: Wearables

  • Garmin and Apple Smartwatches: New Health Features Coming Soon?

    Garmin and Apple Smartwatches: New Health Features Coming Soon?

    Key Takeaways

    1. Heart deceleration capacity is a key metric for assessing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
    2. Heart rate can be easily measured with budget smartwatches or manually, but heart rate variability requires more detailed tracking.
    3. High temporal resolution is crucial for evaluating heart deceleration capacity and understanding autonomic control of the cardiovascular system.
    4. A recent study suggests that a five-minute ECG with automated analysis may effectively estimate mortality risk, potentially enhancing smartwatch health monitoring.
    5. Future upgrades could enable existing smartwatches to measure deceleration capacity, pending software developments and without hardware restrictions.

    Some time ago, we discussed ‘heart deceleration capacity’ in an article regarding the Honor Watch GS 5. This metric helps gauge the likelihood of cardiovascular diseases. You can break down this aspect gradually, starting with heart rate, which is fairly straightforward to measure. It can be done by budget-friendly smartwatch models or even just your finger and a smartwatch. Heart rate variability is a bit trickier and can’t be measured by hand. To find this variability, it’s not just about counting heartbeats in a set time; you need to track the intervals between beats, or more specifically, pulse beats, with a high level of time detail.

    Importance of High Temporal Resolution

    To assess the heart’s deceleration capacity, high temporal resolution is also essential. Deceleration capacity indicates how much the heart rate can drop from one beat to the next. This statistic can offer insight into the autonomic control of the cardiovascular system and overall fitness levels. A study published in 2024 reveals that a five-minute ECG, paired with fully automated analysis, might be enough to estimate mortality risk. This feature could enhance current health monitoring options on smartwatches, but it remains uncertain if Garmin and Apple will implement it. This capability could potentially be added through a software upgrade, as there shouldn’t be hardware restrictions, especially in smartwatches that have ECG or advanced optical sensors. At this moment, we can’t precisely determine how accurate the Honor Watch GS 5’s measurements are.

    Future Prospects

    Alexander Steger and colleagues from Honor have highlighted several points in their research.

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  • Garmin Update Makes Many Smartwatches Nearly Unusable

    Garmin Update Makes Many Smartwatches Nearly Unusable

    Key Takeaways

    1. Significant issues reported with Garmin Forerunner models after software update 27.09, affecting functionalities.
    2. Sleep tracking, step counting, and heart rate monitoring have become unreliable or non-functional on the Forerunner 165.
    3. Restarting devices may help but is not a guaranteed fix for the problems experienced.
    4. Community frustration is high, with many users expressing disappointment and seeking a resolution from Garmin.
    5. Garmin has acknowledged the issues but has not yet announced a firmware update to address them.

    Several users have experienced significant issues with multiple Garmin Forerunner models after a recent software update. Following the installation of software version 27.09, many people have reported serious problems with their Garmin Forerunner 165, Forerunner 265, and Forerunner 965 (which you can find here on Amazon). These aren’t just small bugs; these issues drastically limit the watches’ functionalities, severely impacting many of their smart features. It’s hard to determine how widespread these problems are, as some users claim they didn’t encounter any issues with the new software. Restarting the devices seems to help in some situations, but it’s not a guaranteed fix. One user on Reddit mentioned experiencing lag after the update.

    Sleep Tracking Issues

    A particular post highlights that the Garmin Forerunner 165 has stopped tracking sleep data, making it impossible for users to assess both the quality and length of their sleep. The step counter has ceased to function, and heart rate monitoring has become either unreliable or completely erratic. Even though the Forerunner 165 is not entirely unusable, it seems to have lost a significant portion of its smartwatch features. For instance, without reliable heart rate data, users cannot accurately monitor their workouts. Garmin has been made aware of these problems, but an official solution, like a firmware update, has not been announced yet. Those preparing for races may find these issues particularly challenging compared to casual users.

    Community Feedback

    In discussions on Reddit, many users have shared their frustrations regarding these updates. While some have found workarounds, the overall sentiment is one of disappointment. The lack of timely communication from Garmin has also added to the dissatisfaction. Users are eager for a resolution that restores their watches to full functionality so they can use them without worries. It seems the updates have turned their once reliable devices into sources of stress.

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  • G-Shock DW-5600 Ghost in The Shell Watch Unveiled Before Launch

    G-Shock DW-5600 Ghost in The Shell Watch Unveiled Before Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio is launching a G-Shock DW-5600 watch inspired by the “Ghost in the Shell” series in March in Japan.
    2. The watch features electric turquoise lettering and an LED backlight that reveals Major Motoko Kusanagi’s silhouette.
    3. The retail price is set at ¥15,400 (approximately $105 USD), with limited availability details currently known.
    4. The watch will come in special packaging, including a collector’s box featuring The Major’s portrait and the series logo.
    5. Availability outside Japan is uncertain, so check it out if you’re visiting Tokyo in March.

    Casio is diving into the world of cyberpunk nostalgia with its new G-Shock DW-5600 x Ghost in the Shell watch. This collaboration is set to debut in March in Japan, paying tribute to the iconic manga and anime series with a unique twist on the classic square design.

    Design Features

    The timepiece is based on the sturdy DW-5600 model, showcasing electric turquoise lettering on the bezel that reflects the cybernetic theme of the franchise. The most intriguing feature, however, lies in the dial; activating the LED backlight reveals a shadow of the lead character, Major Motoko Kusanagi, who appears to float behind the time display.

    Pricing and Availability

    Currently, information is limited. The watch has appeared on the official Ghost in the Shell Exhibition website, but Casio has not yet made an official announcement. It will be available for a very affordable price of ¥15,400 (around $105 USD) and is expected to hit shelves in March.

    The G-Shock DW-5600 x Ghost in the Shell will come in special packaging, including a white collector’s box that features a striking portrait of The Major along with the official Ghost in the Shell logo.

    Final Thoughts

    If you’re visiting Tokyo in March, don’t miss the chance to check out the exhibition and possibly grab one of these watches. It remains uncertain when or if the watch will be available in other regions.

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Adaptive Brightness Feature: User Questions Answered

    Garmin Smartwatch Adaptive Brightness Feature: User Questions Answered

    Key Takeaways

    1. Users of the Garmin Fenix 8 AMOLED smartwatch are unhappy with the automatic brightness feature, finding it difficult to read at the lowest setting.
    2. The device has an ambient light sensor that adjusts brightness but many users feel the minimum brightness is still too high.
    3. Garmin’s initial response indicated they would investigate, but later stated the brightness behavior is intentional and there would be no changes.
    4. Some users have suggested changing data and accent colors to improve visibility in low-light conditions.
    5. Users are encouraged to contact Garmin support to collectively voice concerns in hopes of prompting a change in brightness settings.

    Users of the Garmin Fenix 8 AMOLED have raised several concerns about the smartwatch’s automatic brightness feature. This topic has been a point of conversation in the brand’s forum for quite a while, and a Garmin representative has provided some insight into the company’s position.

    Forum Discussions

    In a post on the Garmin forum, which has seen over 20,000 views and gained more than 130 comments, users of the Fenix 8 AMOLED smartwatch are sharing their troubles related to the brightness settings. To give some background, this device comes with a built-in ambient light sensor that is designed to automatically adjust the display brightness in dim lighting conditions. Garmin claims that this feature is meant to prevent the screen from being “blindingly bright” in low-light situations.

    User Concerns

    Despite this, numerous Fenix 8 owners have reported that the lowest brightness setting makes the screen difficult to read. A smaller segment of users has expressed that the minimum brightness level is still too high for their liking. The key issue is that Garmin does not provide an option for users to adjust this minimum brightness to better fit their personal preferences.

    In the initial response from Garmin on the forum, it seemed that their engineers were eager to look deeper into this matter. However, weeks later, a company representative stated that they had “determined this behaviour is by design,” leaving no solution for the complaints from users. A few customers have suggested alternatives, such as changing the data and accent colors to white, which might help enhance visibility when the watch is in low-light mode.

    Seeking Solutions

    Some users have urged other Fenix 8 AMOLED (43 mm curr. $1,099.99 at Amazon) owners to reach out to Garmin’s support team. They believe that if enough users voice their concerns, it might persuade the company to introduce a new brightness setting option. It is still uncertain if Garmin will take any steps to resolve this issue.

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  • New Casio G-Shock Semi-Transparent Watches Launched in the UK

    New Casio G-Shock Semi-Transparent Watches Launched in the UK

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio launched three new G-Shock GA-2100 watches in the UK, inspired by nightlife and “smoke-tinged light.”
    2. Each model features a sleek black dial with neon accents and a uniquely colored semi-transparent resin case: GA-2100K-1A (gray/turquoise), GA-2100K-2A (blue/orange), GA-2100K-5A (brown/red).
    3. The watches include features like world time, date display, countdown timer, stopwatch, five alarms, and are shock resistant with 200 meters of water resistance.
    4. Each model is priced at £109.00, with a 20% student discount and free delivery available in the UK.
    5. The watches are available for purchase online and at a physical store in London, with plans for wider distribution across Europe.

    Casio has introduced three fresh G-Shock GA-2100 watches in the UK. This latest collection draws inspiration from nightlife, aiming to capture the essence of “smoke-tinged light” and laser beams. The available models are the GA-2100K-1A, GA-2100K-2A, and GA-2100K-5A.

    Design Features

    Each of the Casio G-Shock GA-2100K hybrid watches boasts a sleek black dial, complemented by a dark digital display. Neon accents are seen in the hands, outer ring, and G-Shock logo. Moreover, every version comes with a uniquely colored semi-transparent resin case and strap. Specifically, the GA-2100K-1A features a gray design with turquoise highlights, the GA-2100K-2A comes in blue with orange highlights, while the GA-2100K-5A showcases a brown look with red highlights.

    Functional Specifications

    The G-Shock GA-2100 supports world time and has two analog hands that are designed to only gain or lose 15 seconds each month. Users can check the date on the smaller digital screen, which also includes a day of the week indicator positioned at 9 o’clock. This model is equipped with various functions such as a countdown timer, a stopwatch, five alarms, and hourly time signals. Additionally, it is shock resistant due to its Carbon Core Guard structure and offers water resistance up to 200 meters.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Casio G-Shock GA-2100K-1A, GA-2100K-2A, and GA-2100K-5A are now available for purchase at the brand’s UK online store, each priced at £109.00. Students can benefit from a 20% discount on these watches, and there is an option for free delivery within two to four working days. An announcement on Instagram also indicates that these models can be found in the brand’s physical store located in London. Moreover, they will soon be introduced more extensively across Europe.

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  • Casio M-Edition Launch: Inspired by Leica M Camera Design

    Casio M-Edition Launch: Inspired by Leica M Camera Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio M-Edition watch is a collaboration between PPP Cameras and Casio, inspired by the AE-1200WH series and Leica M cameras.
    2. Unique design features include a round dial with a red window and a leather strap that mimics the Leica M’s leather covering.
    3. The watch is available in silver and black, with the black version featuring a negative display that may affect visibility in low light.
    4. Functionality includes handling four time zones, five alarms, a stopwatch, a timer, and water resistance up to 10 ATM.
    5. The Casio M-Edition is priced at £150 and available for purchase at PPP Cameras, with shipping options to other European countries.

    The British retailer PPP Cameras has teamed up with the famous Japanese brand to create the Casio M-Edition. This watch is reportedly inspired by the Casio AE-1200WH series, which starts at $46 on Amazon, but features several design modifications influenced by the Leica M rangefinder cameras.

    Unique Design Features

    One of the most striking aspects of the watch is its round dial in the top left corner, which is shielded by a red window instead of a clear one. This red circle clearly echoes the Leica logo. The LED that lights up the dial shines red as well, which PPP Cameras explains is a tribute to the LEDs found in the light meters of vintage Leica M cameras. In addition, the leather strap of the watch is designed to mimic the leather covering of the Leica M, although it opts for a smoother surface rather than the more textured leather that is characteristic of Leica products.

    Versatile Functionality

    The Casio M-Edition comes in both silver and black options, with the black variant featuring a negative display that presents white numbers against a black backdrop. While this design choice is aesthetically pleasing, it may hinder visibility in lower light situations. The watch is equipped to handle four time zones, five alarms, a stopwatch, and a timer. Moreover, it boasts a water resistance of up to 10 ATM, and its battery is claimed to have a lifespan of ten years.

    The Casio M-Edition is available for purchase at PPP Cameras in the UK, with a price tag of £150. The retailer also offers shipping to various other European nations, though this may incur additional shipping and import costs.

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  • Garmin Update: Support for Latest Chronograph Release Now Live

    Garmin Update: Support for Latest Chronograph Release Now Live

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released a new beta update (Beta Version 13.15) for its Instinct Crossover AMOLED smartwatches, but it has the same changelog as the previous version.
    2. A new stable update (System Software 12.26) has been launched, which is a return to version 12.xx instead of continuing with the 13.xx beta series.
    3. The stable update includes only one bug fix and adds support for the Garmin Xero C2 chronograph.
    4. The update allows all Instinct 3 series smartwatches, including the Instinct E, to manage and show data from the Xero C2.
    5. About 50% of the Instinct 3 series smartwatches have received the OTA notification for System Software 12.26.

    Earlier today, we shared news that Garmin has released a new beta update for smartwatches such as the Instinct Crossover AMOLED. This build, known as Beta Version 13.15, is quite puzzling since it carries the same changelog as the previous one. While we wait for more information regarding this beta update, Garmin has discreetly launched a new stable update for the same lineup of smartwatches.

    A Noteworthy Catch

    Yet, there’s a twist that might surprise those anticipating a significant stable release. To give some background, Garmin began the version 13.xx development over a month ago with the first Beta Version 13.08. Even though the company has rolled out several beta builds since then, it has now returned to version 12.xx for the newest stable update for the Instinct 3 and similar models.

    Details of the Update

    This time around, Garmin has introduced System Software 12.26, which includes just one bug fix. More precisely, this update brings support for Garmin’s latest Xero C2 chronograph. After updating, all smartwatches in the Instinct 3 series will be capable of managing and showing data collected from the Xero C2, including the more affordable Instinct E (currently priced at $199.99 on Amazon). At present, Garmin estimates that roughly 50% of these smartwatches have received a notification to download System Software 12.26 as an over-the-air (OTA) update.

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  • Casio Mudmaster G-Shock: Desert Moonlight & Dakar Rally Edition

    Casio Mudmaster G-Shock: Desert Moonlight & Dakar Rally Edition

    Key Takeaways

    1. Unique Collaboration: Casio partnered with Team Land Cruiser Toyota Auto Body to create the GWG-B1000TLC-1AJR watch, inspired by the Dakar Rally.

    2. Distinctive Design: The watch features a moonlit desert theme with a black urethane strap and gold ion-plated stainless steel, reflecting the challenging night driving conditions.

    3. Adventure-Ready Features: Equipped with Triple Sensor technology, the watch measures altitude, barometric pressure, temperature, and includes compass navigation.

    4. Exceptional Durability: The GWG-B1000TLC-1 is shockproof, dustproof, mudproof, and features a carbon-reinforced resin case for maximum protection.

    5. Smart Connectivity and Functionality: Offers solar charging, Bluetooth connectivity, Multiband 6 time adjustments, and standard features like world time and a stopwatch.

    Casio has partnered with Team Land Cruiser Toyota Auto Body to launch a unique watch called the GWG-B1000TLC-1AJR. This special version of the Master of G Mudmaster is designed to look like it can handle anything, from the apocalypse to the toughest rally races in the world.

    A Design That Stands Out

    The GWG-B1000TLC-1A draws its inspiration from the challenging night driving conditions of the Dakar Rally. Its design features a moonlit desert theme, with a black urethane strap that has a pattern resembling sand or dust. The gold ion-plated stainless steel ring around the band symbolizes a full moon shining over the sandy landscape.

    Features for Adventure

    Casio notes that the multi-color dial design takes cues from the GPS systems used in the team’s Dakar Rally Land Cruisers. The vibrant red, blue, and yellow accents reflect the colors found in the vehicle information displays. This color scheme is carried over to the watch’s two small hands and the second hand, enhancing visibility at night and providing a stark contrast against the black dial.

    The GWG-B1000TLC-1AJR is equipped with Casio’s Triple Sensor technology, which lets you measure altitude, barometric pressure, and temperature, along with compass navigation features. It also includes a built-in location indicator to guide you to a preset destination, as well as a small dot-matrix display for showing time, date, sensor readings, and direction.

    Built to Last

    As you might expect from a Mudmaster, the GWG-B1000TLC-1 boasts remarkable durability. It is shockproof, dustproof, mudproof, and resistant to vibrations. The watch features a carbon-reinforced resin case that protects the internal module and a screw-lock crown that prevents dust and mud from getting inside.

    Additional features of this watch include solar charging, Multiband 6 radio-controlled time adjustments, the ability to connect to your smartphone using the Casio app via Bluetooth, a bright double LED backlight, and standard timekeeping functions like world time, a stopwatch, and an auto calendar.

    The G-Shock GWG-B1000TLC-1A x Team Land Cruiser Toyota Auto Body (what a long name!) will first be available in Japan. It is priced at ￥140,800 (around $889) and is set to be released in February. Based on previous collaborations with TLC, this watch is likely to reach international markets, including the US and Europe, in due time.

    Casio Japan

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  • Casio Edifice Sospensione Honda Collaboration Watch Launch in Europe

    Casio Edifice Sospensione Honda Collaboration Watch Launch in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio Edifice-Honda collaboration watch, ECB-2300HR-1A, will be available in Europe for €399.00, with a release expected in March 2026.
    2. The watch celebrates 30 years since Honda’s first F1 victory in 1965, featuring a unique white, black, and red color scheme and a Championship White leather strap.
    3. The ECB-2300HR-1A includes a sapphire crystal and is water-resistant up to 100 meters.
    4. This hybrid model features two analog hands, keeps accurate time within 15 seconds monthly, and has displays for date and day of the week.
    5. Additional features include world time, a stopwatch, five alarms, a countdown timer, Tough Solar charging, and Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone integration.

    Casio has added the upcoming Edifice-Honda collaboration watch, the ECB-2300HR-1A, to its online stores across several European nations. This hybrid model was unveiled in October 2025 and is expected to be available in Japan by March 2026.

    Special Edition Confirmed for Europe

    Casio has now confirmed that the ECB-2300HR-1A special edition watch will also be available in Europe. On the brand’s websites in countries such as the Netherlands, France, and Germany, the collaboration model is listed with a retail price of €399.00. Although it is marked for a March 2026 release, no specific launch date has been shared. Interested buyers are encouraged to sign up for email notifications by clicking the black “coming soon” button on the product page.

    Unique Design Celebrating a Milestone

    The Casio Edifice Sospensione ECB-2300HR-1A showcases a striking white, black, and red color scheme, commemorating 30 years since Honda’s inaugural F1 victory in 1965 at the Mexican Grand Prix with the RA272. The watch’s bezel and leather strap feature a color named Championship White, reflecting the car’s body. Additionally, the gold-colored 60-minute marker serves as a tribute to the win, while the phrase ‘Veni, Vidi, Vici’ is engraved on the band loop. This model comes equipped with a sapphire crystal and is water-resistant up to 100 meters.

    Features of the Hybrid Model

    The Edifice ECB-2300 is a hybrid timepiece that boasts two analog hands, maintaining accuracy within 15 seconds each month. At the lower right corner of the watch face, two small displays provide information like the date and day of the week. This model offers world time capabilities, alongside features such as a 1/100th second stopwatch, five daily alarms, a countdown timer, and hourly time signals. Furthermore, it includes Tough Solar charging, and Bluetooth connectivity enhances its functionality through Smartphone Link, allowing for automatic time updates.

    It remains uncertain whether or when the Casio Edifice-Honda Sospensione ECB-2300HR-1A watch will be available in other regions like the United States.

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  • Garmin Rolls Out New OTA Update for Multiple Smartwatches

    Garmin Rolls Out New OTA Update for Multiple Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released a new update for the Instinct 3 series and related smartwatches, including the Instinct Crossover AMOLED.
    2. The latest update, Beta Version 13.15, follows the previous Beta Version 13.14, which aimed to fix issues with a new activity feature.
    3. The update will be delivered over-the-air (OTA) in phases to smartwatches enrolled in the Beta Program.
    4. The changelog for Beta Version 13.15 appears to be identical to Beta Version 13.14, leaving new features unclear.
    5. Garmin is also working on stable updates for the Fenix 7 series while continuing developments for the Instinct 3 series.

    Garmin has started to release a new update for the Instinct 3 and related smartwatches like the Instinct Crossover AMOLED (currently priced at $649 on Amazon). While the Fenix 7 series has just received a stable update today, Garmin is still working on recent beta developments for the Instinct 3 series.

    Update Overview

    To summarize, Garmin rolled out Beta Version 13.14 to its upper mid-range smartwatches just a little over a week ago. This third v13.xx update claimed to fix some problems with a new activity that was causing troubles in the latest builds. Now, it has come back with Beta Version 13.15, which is being released across the Instinct E and Instinct 3 Tactical, along with the Instinct 3 and Instinct Crossover AMOLED.

    Update Process

    This update, known as an over-the-air (OTA) update, will be delivered to smartwatches enrolled in the Beta Program in phases. Sadly, it appears that Garmin has duplicated the changelog from Beta Version 13.14. Therefore, it’s not clear at this moment what new features or enhancements Beta Version 13.15 introduces. We will make sure to update the article if there are any changes in the future.

    Garmin’s

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