Category: Wearables

  • Samsung Galaxy Ring: Health Risks from Ear Infections to Finger Loss

    Samsung Galaxy Ring: Health Risks from Ear Infections to Finger Loss

    Key Takeaways

    1. In 2021, Samsung downplayed concerns about ear infections linked to the Galaxy Buds Pro and required customers seeking replacements to sign non-disclosure agreements.

    2. By 2023, Samsung acknowledged the issue related to nickel allergies but continued to sell the Galaxy Buds Pro without refunds or visible allergy warnings.

    3. A health hazard was reported in 2023 when a swollen battery in the Galaxy Ring caused severe pressure on a user’s finger, requiring emergency medical assistance for removal.

    4. Samsung claimed the battery swelling in the Galaxy Ring was due to a crack in the internal moulding and stated there is no wider safety risk despite the incident.

    5. Samsung has no plans to improve designs or implement safety measures for battery swelling, indicating a lack of prioritization for customer health and safety.

    History seems to be repeating itself once again. Back in 2021, we highlighted a significant issue with ear infections linked to the Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro. When we raised concerns, Samsung played down the severity of the situation. They suggested that impacted customers should reach out directly, but those seeking replacements were required to sign a non-disclosure agreement.

    Samsung’s Quiet Admission

    Fast forward to 2023, and Samsung has finally acknowledged the problem by creating a support page that mentions potential issues caused by a nickel allergy, which aligns with our earlier observations. Despite this, sales of the Galaxy Buds Pro continued unabated, customers didn’t receive refunds, and there’s still no allergy warning visible on the product page. In September, Daniel from the YouTube channel Zone of Tech shared troubling news about a health hazard tied to the Samsung Galaxy Ring.

    A Risky Design

    Daniel experienced a swollen battery in his Galaxy Ring, which caused intense pressure on his finger, making it impossible to remove. He ultimately had to go to an emergency room to get the ring off. The swelling of batteries can lead to fires, indicating that this incident could have escalated dangerously. Three months later, Samsung reached out to Zone of Tech with this statement:

    “Customer safety is our top priority. Samsung has communicated regularly with Daniel during our investigation. After an internal review and an examination by an independent agency, it was determined that the swelling of Daniel’s Galaxy Ring was due to a crack in the internal moulding, and that there is no wider safety risk with the product’s batteries. The Galaxy Ring is designed for daily use, emphasizing durability. Users can find customer care guides on our website: samsung.com/uk/support.”

    No Changes Ahead

    According to their findings, both internal and external reviews confirmed that the battery swelling was a result of damage in the inner housing. Samsung insists there are no significant safety hazards. For the company, it seems the issue is settled, with no plans to enhance design or implement measures to avoid similar occurrences in the future.

    It’s well-known that batteries inherently have a risk of swelling. However, in devices like smartphones or smartwatches, this risk doesn’t pose as immediate a threat as it does with a smart ring. To prevent issues, an open design like that of the Evie Ring could allow for easier removal if swelling occurs. Alternatively, an early warning system could alert users to battery swelling. Yet, history indicates that Samsung may not prioritize the health and well-being of its customers.

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  • PreVent Isaac: Measure Blood Sugar with Breath Analysis

    PreVent Isaac: Measure Blood Sugar with Breath Analysis

    Key Takeaways

    1. PreEvnt Isaac is a compact device designed to continuously monitor blood sugar levels without needles, ideal for people with diabetes or prediabetes.
    2. It measures blood sugar by analyzing breath for biomarkers like acetone, unlike traditional methods that use skin or blood.
    3. Clinical trials at Indiana University are currently assessing the device’s accuracy in patients aged 12 to 19 with type 1 diabetes, with plans to include type 2 diabetes patients later.
    4. Initial results from the trials are expected in the coming months, highlighting the need for validation before reliance on the device.
    5. Isaac syncs readings with a smartphone app for easy tracking and has a rechargeable battery lasting a full day.

    PreEvnt Isaac is a bit bigger than an Apple AirTag and aims to keep track of blood sugar levels continuously without any needles. PreEvnt claims that this device is ideal for individuals with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, as well as for those with prediabetes or anyone who wants to keep an eye on their blood sugar.

    Unique Measurement Method

    Unlike Apple, which checks blood sugar by observing changes in the skin or blood vessels, Isaac looks at the user’s breath to detect biomarkers like acetone, which often indicate rising blood sugar levels. The accuracy and effectiveness of PreEvnt Isaac in assessing blood sugar levels is currently being evaluated in a clinical trial at Indiana University Indianapolis.

    Ongoing Clinical Trials

    The study involves patients aged 12 to 19 with type 1 diabetes, comparing their results to those from standard continuous glucose monitors (CGMs). Eventually, the trial will be broadened to include individuals with type 2 diabetes. Initial findings are expected in the next few months. As always, it’s important to remember that these types of devices should not be seen as a dependable way to measure blood sugar levels until their accuracy is validated in clinical studies.

    If PreEvnt Isaac performs as the company claims, it could make measuring blood sugar levels a lot easier. Each reading is automatically synced with a smartphone app, making it simple to track blood sugar levels throughout the day. The battery of Isaac is meant to last a full day and can be charged using USB-C.

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  • Affordable Amazfit Smartwatches Getting New Features Soon

    Affordable Amazfit Smartwatches Getting New Features Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Zepp Health updates its Amazfit wearables several times a year, but updates are not on a set schedule and may introduce new features for older models.
    2. A recent software update added the BioCharge feature to Amazfit Active 2 and Bip 6, but many users are experiencing issues with its functionality.
    3. Amazfit has announced an upcoming software update in mid-February to fully implement the BioCharge feature for affected devices, with no additional features planned for this update.
    4. BioCharge replaces the Readiness Score and aims to provide insights into physical metrics for training and recovery.
    5. Community reactions on Reddit reflect concerns about potential limitations on functionality and differing views on the value of new features provided by Zepp Health.

    Zepp Health has a range of wearables under the Amazfit label, and they provide updates several times throughout the year, though these are not very frequent and don’t follow a set timetable. Occasionally, these updates introduce impressive new features to older models. Recently, a software update was launched that seemed to add the BioCharge feature to the Amazfit Active 2 and Amazfit Bip 6. However, many users have raised concerns about this update, as the new BioCharge function isn’t working correctly for everyone.

    Official Response from Amazfit

    Amazfit has officially addressed the BioCharge feature for the Amazfit Active 2 and Bip 6 on Reddit. They have indicated that another software update is anticipated in mid-February, which aims to fully implement BioCharge for all Active 2 and Bip 6 devices. When users inquired about additional features, a company representative clarified that this update will solely focus on the BioCharge function and that no other new features will be introduced. BioCharge takes the place of the Readiness Score and is intended to offer insights into physical metrics derived from various sensor data, which could be useful for training and recovery.

    Community Reactions

    In the Reddit thread mentioned earlier, a vibrant conversation is taking place regarding the company’s decision not to include features that could theoretically operate on these wearables. This has been interpreted by some as a sort of artificial limitation on functionality. Conversely, the new features that Zepp Health is providing, or has already provided, can also be seen as complimentary enhancements. After all, the wearable devices weren’t marketed with an open-ended guarantee of feature upgrades.

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  • New Casio G-Shock DW-5900 Watches Launching Soon in the UK

    New Casio G-Shock DW-5900 Watches Launching Soon in the UK

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Models: Casio is releasing two new G-Shock models, DW-5900UBB-1 and DW-5900U-1, in the UK, first showcased in Japan in January 2026.

    2. Updated Modules: The new models use the advanced 3536 module, replacing the older 3465 module found in earlier versions.

    3. Enhanced Backlights: The latest versions feature LED Super Illuminator backlights, improving visibility compared to the previous Electro-luminescent backlights.

    4. Distinct Designs: The DW-5900UBB-1 has an all-black design, while the DW-5900U-1 includes vibrant red, blue, and white accents, both with unique display contrasts.

    5. Durability and Features: Both models are shock-resistant, water-resistant up to 200m, have world time support, a stopwatch, multiple alarms, and a battery life of 10 years, priced at £80 RRP.

    Casio has revealed that the new G-Shock models, DW-5900UBB-1 and DW-5900U-1, will soon be available in the UK. These refreshed versions of previous watches were first shown in Japan at the beginning of January 2026.

    New Modules and Features

    The updated Casio DW-5900U watches come with advanced modules. Unlike the earlier models, DW-5900-1 and DW-5900BB-1 which feature the 3465 module, the new versions utilize the 3536 module. Additionally, they boast improved backlights; the latest versions are equipped with LED Super Illuminator instead of the previous Electro-luminescent backlights.

    Design and Appearance

    The Casio G-Shock DW-5900UBB-1 presents a sleek all-black design, featuring a resin case and strap. The main LCD display showcases a black background with light figures, while the Triple Graph maintains the conventional light background. On the other hand, the DW-5900U-1 also sports a black resin case and strap but includes vibrant red, blue, and white accents. The displays are inverted, with a lighter main display against a darker Triple Graph background.

    Functionality and Durability

    Features of the DW-5900 include world time support, a stopwatch, and multiple daily alarms. They are advertised as precise within 15 seconds per month, displaying the time, date, and day of the week on the larger display. These shock-resistant watches are also water-resistant up to 200m and are designed to last for 10 years using a CR2025 battery.

    At the Casio online shop in the UK, both the DW-5900UBB-1 and DW-5900U-1 watches are listed at £80 RRP. They are expected to launch later in January 2026, though a specific date has not been provided. Interested customers are encouraged to “sign up now” through a button on the product page to get an email alert when they become available. It remains uncertain when the Casio G-Shock DW-5900UBB-1 and DW-5900U-1 watches will be released in other parts of Europe or in the United States.

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  • Garmin Launches New Ultra-Thin Smartwatch Version

    Garmin Launches New Ultra-Thin Smartwatch Version

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has refreshed the Venu X1 with a new color option, ‘Soft Gold with Titanium Caseback’, and a nylon band named ‘French Grey’.
    2. The updated Venu X1 maintains the same features as the original models, including a 7.9 mm thickness, 8-day battery life, and 5 ATM water resistance.
    3. It features a 2-inch AMOLED display and weighs 40 g with the official band included.
    4. The Soft Gold model is priced at $699.99, which is $100 less than its original MSRP during the holiday season.
    5. Garmin’s strategy focuses on enhancing existing products rather than launching new devices, catering to loyal customers.

    Garmin has started the new year by refreshing its product line instead of launching a completely new device. The company has rolled out an update to the Venu X1, introducing a new colour option called ‘Soft Gold with Titanium Caseback’. Alongside this, Garmin has added a complementary nylon band, which is marketed under the name ‘French Grey’.

    Features Remain Consistent

    In terms of features, the updated version does not differ from the original black and green variants of the Venu X1 that were released in June 2025. This Soft Gold version retains a housing thickness of 7.9 mm. It offers a battery life of up to 8 days and comes with a 5 ATM water resistance rating, plus it includes a built-in flashlight. The smartwatch is equipped with a 2-inch AMOLED display, contributing to its total weight of 40 g, which includes the official band from Garmin.

    Pricing and Availability

    The new Soft Gold model is priced at $699.99, aligning it with the price points of its Black and Moss counterparts. This represents a $100 reduction from the smartwatch’s original MSRP, as the Venu X1 was available for $599.99 during the recent holiday season until just a few days ago. You can find the Soft Gold Venu X1 directly from Garmin or order it through other retailers like Amazon.

    Garmin’s updates reflects a strategy to enhance existing products rather than introduce entirely new ones, which may appeal to loyal customers looking for fresh options.

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  • Amazfit T-Rex 3 Update: New Metrics and Map Improvements Available

    Amazfit T-Rex 3 Update: New Metrics and Map Improvements Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Amazfit released software version 4.3.8.2 for the T-Rex 3 smartwatch, following Zepp OS 5.0 update.
    2. New metrics added include Equivalent Pace and Average Equivalent Pace for running activities, plus voice memo recording.
    3. Indoor cyclists can now use third-party speed, cadence sensors, and power meters; Stryd sensors work with HYROX Race.
    4. Improvements include enhancements to the Terrain Map app, workout tracking page, and performance of the altitude algorithm.
    5. The update is rolling out first in the US, Canada, and China, with plans for wider availability in the coming weeks.

    Amazfit has begun to release a new update for the T-Rex 3 smartwatch. The software version 4.3.8.2 follows approximately a month after the initial Zepp OS 5.0 update for the watch, which introduced the BioCharge energy level metrics and a new Rucking activity. Even though this update shares the same version number as the recent T-Rex 3 Pro update, there are several distinctions in their change logs.

    New Features Added

    Similar to the T-Rex 3 Pro update, the software version 4.3.8.2 introduces new metrics like Equivalent Pace and Average Equivalent Pace for Outdoor Running and Trail Running activities. There’s also a feature for recording voice memos during workouts, although it’s limited to some countries. Indoor cyclists can now integrate third-party speed sensors, cadence sensors, and power meters into their workouts. In addition, Stryd sensors are now compatible with HYROX Race activities.

    Improvements and Optimizations

    The software version 4.3.8.2 also includes enhancements for the Terrain Map app and the workout tracking page. According to the release notes, Advance up is now the default navigation view during activities, but users can customize this in the Workout settings. Other updates comprise improvements to the screenshot feature, the option to skip your daily Zepp Coach workout, and better performance for the altitude algorithm.

    You can check out the full change log, which has been shared on Reddit, in the screenshots below. The software version 4.3.8.2 is anticipated to roll out first to users in the US, Canada, and China. Over the coming weeks, it should be available to all Amazfit T-Rex 3 users (currently priced at $249.99 on Amazon), barring any major issues.

    u/gamefan5 via Reddit

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  • New Casio G-Shock Square Digital Watches Launching Worldwide

    New Casio G-Shock Square Digital Watches Launching Worldwide

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio launched two new G-Shock Baby-G+Plus BGD-10KH watches in Japan, themed for Valentine’s Day.
    2. The BGD-10KH-1 features a black design with pink details and a cream heart-shaped holder, while the BGD-10KH-7 has a cream design with dark pink highlights and a matching holder.
    3. Both models offer world time support for 29 time zones, a countdown timer, stopwatch, five daily alarms, and are water-resistant up to 100 meters.
    4. The watches feature a classic square digital display with a heart shape on the LCD when the backlight is activated.
    5. The pre-order price in Japan is ¥9,900 (approximately $63), with international availability expected but pricing details for other markets not yet disclosed.

    Casio has just launched two new G-Shock Baby-G+Plus BGD-10KH watches in Japan. These colorways, themed for Valentine’s Day, will also be available worldwide, adding to the three versions that were introduced back in November 2025.

    Design Features

    The Casio Baby-G+Plus BGD-10KH-1 features a black resin case and strap, complemented by light pink details on the button casing and the Baby-G logo. It includes a cream-colored heart-shaped holder that can transform the watch into a keyring or charm for a bag. Meanwhile, the BGD-10KH-7 comes in a cream color with dark pink highlights and includes a dark pink resin heart-shaped holder. Both models sport a classic square digital display with a light background and dark numbers. Additionally, a heart shape appears on the LCD when the LED backlight is activated.

    Functional Specifications

    These BGD-10 Series timepieces offer world time support, allowing users to select from 29 different time zones. The display can present time in both 12-hour and 24-hour formats, as well as show the month, date, and day of the week. They also include several handy features such as a countdown timer that lasts up to 24 hours, a stopwatch with a precision of 1/100th of a second, five daily alarms, and hourly time signals. Furthermore, the watches are water-resistant up to 100 meters and are expected to last around three years on a CR1616 battery.

    Pricing and Availability

    In Japan, the Casio Baby-G BGD-10KH-1 and BGD-10KH-7 watches are currently available for pre-order at ¥9,900 (approximately $63). Both models are listed as international releases on the brand’s global website, but additional information, including pricing in other markets, has not been disclosed yet.

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  • Samsung Issues Statement on Swollen Galaxy Ring Issue

    Samsung Issues Statement on Swollen Galaxy Ring Issue

    Key Takeaways

    1. A user experienced a swollen Galaxy Ring that required hospital care after it got stuck on their finger.
    2. Samsung investigated the issue and confirmed the swelling was due to a “crack in the internal moulding” without any broader safety risks.
    3. The company assured customers that there are no design flaws or safety threats associated with the Galaxy Ring.
    4. Samsung provided compensation to the affected user for their hotel and flight due to the incident.
    5. While the investigation concluded the cause of swelling, no explanation was given for the origin of the crack itself.

    Samsung has been looking into a case involving a swollen Galaxy Ring that resulted in a user needing hospital care after it got stuck on their finger. After more than three months, the company has released a statement regarding the bulging issue, though it didn’t provide many details. Nonetheless, they assured that there are no design flaws or safety threats related to the smart ring.

    The Incident

    For those who might not know, Daniel from Zone of Tech talked about this issue on X last September. The images showed that his Galaxy Ring was swollen from the inside, squeezing tightly around his finger. Unable to take it off, Daniel had to go to a hospital for removal, causing him to miss his flight. After the incident, Samsung compensated Daniel for his hotel stay and flight, and they took the ring for further examination.

    The Findings

    Now, after a significant time, Samsung has communicated with Daniel stating that the swelling in the Galaxy Ring was due to a “crack in the internal moulding.” They confirmed there is no broader safety risk related to the battery of the Galaxy Ring. Here’s what the company said:

    “Customer safety is our utmost priority. We have kept in touch with Daniel throughout our investigation. After examining the device and getting an assessment from an independent external agency, it was determined that the swelling was due to a crack in the internal moulding, and there is no general battery safety risk. The Galaxy Ring is made for daily use, with durability as a key focus. You can find customer care guides for all our devices at: samsung.com/uk/support.”

    No Explanation Provided

    According to the statement, both Samsung and the independent agency came to the same conclusion after their investigation. However, neither provided an explanation for the cause of the crack itself.

    Before the incident, Daniel had experienced some battery life problems, which a few other users also reported with their Galaxy Rings. When Samsung was made aware of these battery issues, they mentioned that users experiencing such problems should reach out directly, and they would be handled on a case-by-case basis.

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  • Suunto Smartwatches Upgrade: Enhanced Swimming and Running Features

    Suunto Smartwatches Upgrade: Enhanced Swimming and Running Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Firmware version 2.50.26 is being released for several Suunto smartwatch models, including Suunto Vertical.
    2. Users can now turn sensors on and off for specific sports modes and access new preset modes for duathlon and swim & run activities.
    3. The watch can automatically switch between sports in swim & run and triathlon modes without user action.
    4. Newly connected sensors activate automatically in the correct sports modes, and the map display is clearer.
    5. Weather information can now be received via Wi-Fi, and the altimeter provides more stable readings with refined ascent and descent calculations.

    Suunto is in the process of releasing an update (firmware version 2.50.26) for several of its smartwatch models, including the Suunto Vertical. This update is quite extensive and brings major enhancements for many types of athletes. The changelog indicates that users can now turn sensors on and off for specific sports modes, individually. Furthermore, there are new preset modes available for duathlon and swim & run activities. A notable addition is the feature that allows the watch to automatically switch between sports in the swim & run and triathlon modes. This means that the watch will transition to the next sport without requiring any action from the user. We think that this feature ought to be quite simple to add, since the movements recorded by a smartwatch during the transition phase are very different from those captured while swimming, biking, or running.

    Improvements and Features

    Suunto has also noted several enhancements in this update. Newly connected sensors are now automatically activated in the appropriate sports modes, and the map display’s data field is clearer than before. Users can now receive weather information via Wi-Fi in addition to Bluetooth. The altimeter now provides more stable readings, and the calculations for ascent and descent have been refined. Additionally, swimming in both indoor and outdoor pools delivers more precise readings.

    Comprehensive Changelog

    The changelog is quite detailed, so users can look forward to multiple bug fixes and additional performance improvements.

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  • RingConn Gen 3: Oura Alternative with Blood Pressure and Vibration

    RingConn Gen 3: Oura Alternative with Blood Pressure and Vibration

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new RingConn Gen 3 features a waterproof titanium body and comes in five colors: matte black, brushed silver, polished silver, royal gold, and polished rose gold.
    2. Available in US sizes 6 to 15, the ring can fit a wide range of users.
    3. It alerts users to potential high blood pressure based on heart rate, SpO2, accelerometer, and skin temperature data, rather than medical-grade measurements.
    4. The new model includes a vibration motor for haptic feedback, notifying users of fitness goals or abnormal readings.
    5. The RingConn Gen 3 is expected to have improved battery life, lasting longer than the 10 to 12 days of the previous version, with no subscription fee required.

    The RingConn Gen 2 and RingConn Gen 2 Air (starting at $199 on Amazon) are about to be replaced by a new version that boasts a variety of upgrades. Like its predecessors, this new iteration comes with a waterproof titanium body, but now it’s available in five stylish colors: matte black, brushed silver, polished silver, royal gold, and polished rose gold.

    Size Options

    The ring is offered in US sizes ranging from 6 to 15, making it likely that most individuals can find a suitable fit. One of the standout features is its capability to alert users to high blood pressure. However, it’s important to clarify that this alert is not derived from a medical-grade blood pressure measurement. Instead, the RingConn utilizes data from its heart rate and SpO2 sensors, along with the accelerometer and skin temperature sensor, to assess the risk of high blood pressure. This method is somewhat similar to that of the Circular Ring 2.

    New Features

    Another significant improvement is the inclusion of a vibration motor that delivers haptic feedback. This feature can notify users when they achieve a fitness goal or when an abnormal reading is detected. Additionally, RingConn claims that this new model will have a longer battery life compared to the previous version, which was said to last between ten to twelve days on a single charge. Unfortunately, specific runtime details have not been disclosed yet.

    As of now, it’s uncertain when the RingConn Gen 3 will be available for purchase or what its price will be. Unlike the Oura smart rings, it seems that the RingConn Gen 3 will not necessitate a subscription fee.

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