Category: Wearables

May 16, 2025
iQOO Watch 5 Smartwatch with AI Features Launching Soon
Key Takeaways
1. The iQOO Watch 5 will launch in China on May 20th, featuring significant enhancements over previous models.
2. It is the first smartwatch to run on BlueOS 2.5, including an AI assistant called Blue Heart Xiao V x DeepSeek.
3. The watch boasts smart reminders and can last up to 22 days in Bluetooth mode and 14 days with an eSIM.
4. It includes an e-sports mode for tracking health metrics and supports data sharing and game countdowns.
5. The design features a round face, rotating crown, and strap options in fluoroelastomer and woven fabric, but its availability in other regions is still uncertain.
The iQOO Watch 5 smartwatch is set to launch in China soon. This latest model from the Vivo subsidiary is expected to debut later in May, featuring a range of enhancements compared to the previous wearables from the brand.
New Features and Capabilities
Recently, iQOO announced on Weibo that this smartwatch will be the first to run on BlueOS 2.5. The company has shared that it will include Blue Heart Xiao V x DeepSeek, an AI assistant that activates with a raise-to-wake feature. This assistant helps manage the watch’s functions and can also respond to inquiries. Additionally, it serves as an AI phone companion, capable of recording calls and providing summaries. Users can look forward to smart reminders connected to their travel, medication, or work schedules. The watch is anticipated to last up to 22 days in Bluetooth mode and 14 days with an eSIM.
Design and Functionality
The iQOO Watch 5’s design has been showcased in recent images, previously revealed at the King Pro League 2025 Spring Finals, an event for the online game Honor of Kings. During this event, the watch’s e-sports mode was presented, which tracks players’ health metrics such as heart rate and calories burned. It also supports data sharing and game countdowns. Sporting a round face, the watch features a rotating crown and a side button, with available strap options in fluoroelastomer and woven fabric.
Release Information
More information about the iQOO Watch 5 smartwatch is still pending. It is scheduled for release in China on May 20th. However, it remains uncertain if this model will be launched in other regions like North America or Europe.
Source:
Link
Tags: BlueOS 2.5, iQOO Watch 5, Smartwatch
May 16, 2025
Shop Casio G-Shock Black and Bold Red Series Watches Now
Key Takeaways
1. Casio has launched the G-Shock “Black and Bold Red” collection in Japan, featuring five models with a unique matte black and red-tinted design.
2. The collection includes the DW-5600BBR-1JF, GD-010BBR-1JF, GX-56BBR-1JF, GA-700BBR-1AJF, and GA-B2100BBR-1AJF, showcasing a cohesive color scheme despite differing designs.
3. Prices range from ¥14,300 ($92) for the DW-5600BBR-1JF to ¥24,750 ($160) for the Bluetooth-enabled GA-B2100BBR-1AJF.
4. Each watch is shock-resistant and water-resistant up to 200 meters, with varying features like Tough Solar and Bluetooth connectivity.
5. Currently, the “Black and Bold Red” collection is exclusive to Japan and the UK, with no confirmation of availability in Europe or the US yet.
Shortly after the GBX-100S watches hit the market in Japan, Casio has now launched its much-awaited G-Shock “Black and Bold Red” collection, also available in the same area. The five-watch series, which was initially teased in a leak earlier this year, can now be bought directly from Casio Japan’s online store. Until this point, only the DW-5600BBR-1JF model was available in the UK.
Full Collection Details
The entire collection consists of the DW-5600BBR-1JF, GD-010BBR-1JF, GX-56BBR-1JF, GA-700BBR-1AJF, and GA-B2100BBR-1AJF. Every watch in this lineup sports a matte black casing with red-tinted LCD displays, giving the series a unique monochrome look. Although the models vary significantly in design—from the small DW-5600 to the rugged GX-56 and the well-liked analog-digital GA-B2100—the consistent color scheme brings them together as a cohesive set.
Pricing and Features
Prices begin at ¥14,300 ($92) for the DW-5600BBR-1JF and reach up to ¥24,750 ($160) for the Bluetooth-capable GA-B2100BBR-1AJF. Each model is designed to be shock-resistant and can withstand water pressure up to 200 meters, featuring different attributes based on the base model: Tough Solar on the GX-56, Bluetooth connection on the GA-B2100, and large digital displays on the GD-010.
The series doesn’t seem to be a limited edition, but Casio has yet to confirm if it will be available in Europe or the US. For now, the “Black and Bold Red” watches are exclusive to Japan and the UK. However, due to the global popularity of these models, it wouldn’t be surprising to see a broader release in the future.
Source:
Link
Tags: Black and Bold Red, DW-5600BBR-1JF, G-SHOCK
May 16, 2025
Garmin HRM 600: Advanced Wearable for Training and Analysis
Key Takeaways
1. Smartwatches commonly include optical sensors for heart rate tracking, but wrist readings can lag during quick fluctuations.
2. Garmin’s HRM 600 is designed specifically for serious athletes, offering features like heart rate variability and advanced running metrics.
3. The HRM 600 includes a unique Step Speed Loss feature for assessing running efficiency, available only on the Forerunner 970.
4. The HRM 600 strap can be used independently of a smartwatch for various activities, including boxing and climbing.
5. The device has a rechargeable battery lasting up to two months and is priced at $169.99, available from May 21.
There are nearly no smartwatches these days that lack an optical sensor to track your heart rate. When you combine heart rate with speed, easily measured via GPS, it gives a pretty detailed insight into performance, especially for activities like running or cycling. From what we’ve seen, measuring heart rate on the wrist usually works quite well, but if there are quick and noticeable fluctuations in heart rate, the readings can be slow or lagging. This tends to impact serious runners and athletes who push their limits during training.
Designed for Serious Athletes
Garmin has designed the HRM 600 with these dedicated athletes in mind. This heart rate monitor not only tracks heart rate but also looks at heart rate variability. It assesses heart rate over time and examines how individual heartbeats differ from each other. It also includes advanced metrics for running efficiency (known as Running Dynamics) that work in conjunction with a compatible smartwatch. The device has a feature called Step Speed Loss, which evaluates the decrease in speed caused by ground contact; however, this feature is exclusive to the new Forerunner 970. Runners are encouraged to reduce this metric by refining their running technique. Stride length, ground contact duration, and vertical movement can also be evaluated with other models aside from just the Forerunner 970.
Versatile Usage
The HRM 600 strap is versatile and can be utilized without a smartwatch, making it suitable for activities like boxing, martial arts, or even climbing. The rechargeable battery boasts an impressive life of up to two months.
This model is priced at $169.99 and will be available for purchase starting on May 21.
Source:
Link

Tags: Garmin, heart rate monitor, HRM 600
May 15, 2025
Huawei Watch Fit 4: Offline Maps and NFC Payments Now Available
Key Takeaways
1. The Huawei Watch Fit 4 is the most affordable smartwatch in Huawei’s latest line, following the Watch Fit 3 released in 2024.
2. It features a 1.82-inch AMOLED display with a peak brightness of 2,000 nits and a lightweight design, measuring 9.5 mm thick and weighing 27 g.
3. The watch includes new functionalities such as tracking for seven watersports, barometric pressure sensors, and a Sleep Breathing Awareness feature for monitoring sleep patterns.
4. It offers enhanced GPS accuracy with Huawei’s Sunflower Positioning System and supports offline maps and NFC payments.
5. Priced at €169, the Watch Fit 4 is available in four strap colors: black, gray, purple, and white.
The Huawei Watch Fit 4 has just been released in Europe. This model is the follow-up to the Watch Fit 3, which debuted in 2024, and it stands as the most affordable option in Huawei’s latest line of smartwatches.
Display and Design
The Watch Fit 4 features a 1.82-inch AMOLED screen that can reach a peak brightness of 2,000 nits. In contrast, the Watch Fit 4 Pro offers a screen brightness of up to 3,000 nits. Huawei markets this watch as thin and light, measuring 9.5 mm (about 0.4 inches) in thickness and weighing just 27 g (around 1.0 oz). It also comes with a 400 mAh battery, which can last up to ten days on a single charge, or seven days under normal usage; recharging the battery fully takes about 75 minutes.
New Functionalities
Among the new features introduced in this model are seven watersports activities, including kayaking, sailing, and paddleboarding. The watch is equipped with barometric pressure sensors to track depth and elevation, making it useful for hiking and stair climbing. Another innovative addition is the Sleep Breathing Awareness feature, which tracks your breathing patterns at night to identify potential signs of sleep apnea. Moreover, Huawei’s Sunflower Positioning System is claimed to enhance GPS accuracy, even in areas with tall buildings. Additionally, it supports full-color offline maps with tracking capabilities and includes an NFC payment option.
Pricing and Options
The Huawei Watch Fit 4 is currently available for purchase in Europe for €169. Buyers can select from four strap colors: black (fluoroelastomer), gray (fabric), purple (fluoroelastomer), and white (fluoroelastomer).
Source:
Link
Tags: Fitness Tracking, Huawei Watch Fit 4, Smartwatch
May 15, 2025
Huawei Watch Fit 4 Pro: Affordable Rival to Apple Watch Ultra 2
Key Takeaways
1. The Huawei Watch Fit 4 Pro is a budget-friendly alternative to the Apple Watch Ultra 2, starting at €279 compared to Apple’s €899.
2. It features a titanium alloy bezel, sapphire glass screen, and a lightweight design at 30.4 grams, with a 1.82-inch AMOLED display boasting 3,000 nits brightness and 347 ppi pixel density.
3. The smartwatch claims superior battery life, lasting up to 7 days in normal mode and 10 days with battery saver, compared to the Apple Watch Ultra 2’s 72 hours in low power mode.
4. It includes Huawei TruSense technology for tracking heart rate, oxygen saturation, and ECG, along with various fitness features, including a Golf Mode with access to over 15,000 golf course maps.
5. The Watch Fit 4 Pro has a 5 ATM water resistance rating, sleep health tracking, and compatibility with Android, iOS, and EMUI, available in three color choices.
The Huawei Watch Fit 4 Pro has officially been revealed at the launch event in Berlin. This new smartwatch is an enhanced version of the standard model, and Huawei is marketing it as a budget-friendly rival to the Apple Watch Ultra 2. It comes with a starting price of €279 in the European market, while Apple’s premium device begins at €899.
Competing Features
Although the Huawei Watch Fit 4 Pro is not a direct rival to the Apple Watch Ultra 2, it lacks several high-end features, like extensive third-party app compatibility. Nonetheless, Huawei emphasizes the apparently superior build quality of its latest device.
Design and Display
This new budget smartwatch features a bezel made from titanium alloy and a screen crafted from sapphire glass. It also has a lightweight design, weighing just 30.4 grams. The front of the device showcases a 1.82-inch AMOLED display that boasts a brightness of 3,000 nits. Huawei points out that this display has a pixel density of 347 ppi, which surpasses the 326 ppi of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 (49 mm GPS + Cellular currently priced at $729.99 on Amazon).
Battery Life and Health Features
Huawei asserts that the Watch Fit 4 Pro has superior battery life when compared to Apple’s leading smartwatch. More detailed, the company claims that the new device can last up to 7 days in normal mode, and with the battery saver feature, it can stretch to 10 days. In contrast, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is rated for a maximum of 72 hours in low power mode.
In addition, the Watch Fit 4 Pro includes Huawei TruSense technology, which can track essential health metrics such as heart rate, oxygen saturation, and ECG readings. It also offers various fitness capabilities, including a Golf Mode with access to over 15,000 golf course maps.
Additional Features
Other notable features encompass a 5 ATM water resistance rating, tracking for sleep health, and compatibility with Android, iOS, and EMUI. The Watch Fit 4 Pro is offered in three different color choices at the official store.
Tags: Affordable Smartwatch, Apple Watch Ultra 2, Huawei Watch Fit 4 Pro
May 15, 2025
Huawei Watch 5: Premium Smartwatch with 11-Day Battery Life
Key Takeaways
1. Huawei Watch 5 comes in two sizes: 46 mm (11 days battery life) and 42 mm (7 days in Ultra Long mode).
2. The larger model features a 1.5-inch AMOLED display, while the smaller model has a 1.38-inch display with up to 3,000 nits brightness.
3. Both models include health and fitness tracking features like SpO2 monitoring, stress assessment, and sleep tracking.
4. Build quality includes stainless steel or titanium alloy casings, with ceramic rear covers for durability and various strap options.
5. Pricing starts at €449 for both models, available on the official Huawei website.
Huawei has introduced a new high-end smartwatch called the Watch 5. This device comes in two sizes: the larger version boasts a battery life of up to 11 days, while the smaller one can last up to 7 days when in Ultra Long mode. Generally, both models are expected to provide around 3 days of battery life during regular usage.
Display Features
The 46 mm version of the Huawei Watch 5 is equipped with a 1.5-inch AMOLED screen that has a resolution of 466×466 pixels and includes an automatic brightness adjustment feature. In contrast, the smaller model features a 1.38-inch display with the same pixel resolution but is capable of reaching a brightness of up to 3,000 nits.
Health and Fitness Capabilities
Both sizes of the Huawei Watch 5 are packed with numerous health and fitness functions, such as automatic SpO2 tracking, stress assessment, and sleep monitoring. To facilitate these measurements, the smartwatch is equipped with various sensors, including an accelerometer, depth sensor, and optical heart rate monitor.
Build Quality and Design
The smaller 42 mm model is offered with either 316L or 904L stainless steel cases, depending on the specific design. In contrast, the larger 46 mm Huawei Watch 5 comes with either a 316L stainless steel or titanium alloy casing. They all feature ceramic rear covers for added durability.
There are many strap options that can be chosen for both sizes of the smartwatch. Other notable features of the Huawei Watch 5 include support for 3G and 4G networks, dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 5.2, and the convenience of wireless charging. In terms of pricing, both the 42 mm and 46 mm models are priced starting at €449 within the EU, and they can be found on the official Huawei website.
Tags: health features, Huawei Watch 5, premium smartwatch
May 15, 2025
Casio Unveils Colorful Surfrider Foundation Watch for Water Lovers
Key Takeaways
1. Casio launched the G-5600SFJ-9 watch in collaboration with Surfrider Foundation Japan, focusing on ocean and beach protection.
2. The watch is made from bio-resin, features a yellow and beige pattern, and includes the Surfrider logo and ‘#oceanfriendlylifestyle’ on the strap.
3. It offers functionalities such as world time for 48 cities, a 1/100 stopwatch, countdown timer, five alarms, and a white LED backlight.
4. The watch uses Tough Solar technology for battery life, lasting about 12 months before needing solar charging, and has a power-saving option.
5. The G-5600SFJ-9 will be available in Japan in June 2025, priced at ¥ 20,900 (around $143), with uncertain availability in other markets.
Casio has introduced a new watch that is a result of its collaboration with the Surfrider Foundation Japan, named the G-5600SFJ-9. This organization is a non-profit that focuses on safeguarding oceans and beaches. Specifically designed for surfers and beach lovers, this shock-resistant timepiece is crafted from bio-resin and boasts impressive features including resistance to water up to 200 m.
Design and Features
The G-Shock watch from the collaboration with Surfrider Foundation Japan showcases a delicate yellow and beige pattern on its bio-resin casing and strap. You can spot the NGO’s logo on both the watch face and the back casing, while the phrase ‘#oceanfriendlylifestyle’ is printed on one side of the strap. The dimensions of this watch are 46.7 x 43.2 x 12.7 mm (approximately 1.8 x 1.7 x 0.5 inches) and it has a weight of 47 g (around 1.7 oz).
Functionalities
This model from the 5600 Series can store up to five different world time zones, allowing users to select from a list of 48 cities. It features a 1/100 stopwatch, a countdown timer with a range of 24 hours, five daily alarms, and an hourly time signal. Additionally, a white LED backlight makes it easier to see the digital display in dim conditions, while the calendar is fully automatic. The watch includes Tough Solar technology that enhances battery life, which is expected to last around 12 months with normal use before needing solar charging. There’s also a power-saving option and a battery level indicator.
Availability and Pricing
The Casio G-Shock Surfrider Foundation Japan G-5600SFJ-9 is set to be released in Japan in June 2025, with a suggested retail price of ¥ 20,900 (roughly $143). It’s unclear if this model will be available in other markets like the US. An earlier version from the collaboration with Surfrider Foundation, known as G5600SRF-1, can be found in this region for $150 (available through Amazon via third-party sellers).
Source:
Link
Tags: Casio G-SHOCK, G-5600SFJ-9, Surfrider Foundation
May 15, 2025
Garmin Forerunner 570: Mid-Range Smartwatch with AMOLED Display
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin has introduced two new models in the Forerunner series: the Forerunner 970 and the newly revealed Forerunner 570.
2. The Forerunner 570 is a more affordable option than the Forerunner 970 but is still more expensive than the Forerunner 265.
3. The Forerunner 570 is available in two sizes (42 mm and 47 mm) and features AMOLED screens, with the 47 mm model offering better battery life.
4. The Forerunner 570 lacks some features found in the Forerunner 970, including ECG support, a flashlight, and turn-by-turn navigation maps.
5. Pre-orders for the Forerunner 570 will start on May 21, with a price set at $549.99.
Garmin has unveiled two new models in its Forerunner series today. While the Forerunner 970 was already known, the details about the Forerunner 570 just came to light earlier today.
Pricing Structure
The Forerunner 570 is positioned as a more affordable alternative to the Forerunner 970, yet it is still pricier than the current Forerunner 265, which is listed at $349.99 on Amazon. Currently, it is not certain if Garmin is developing a new Forerunner ‘2’ grade model. The Forerunner 570, however, takes the lead over the Forerunner 265 in some respects, such as being available in two different sizes.
Specifications Overview
Garmin has chosen to produce its new smartwatch in sizes of 42 mm and 47 mm, compared to the 42 mm and 46 mm sizes of the Forerunner 265. Both versions of the Forerunner 570 come with AMOLED screens, but there’s a slight 0.2-inch difference in diameter between them. The 47 mm model has a slight advantage in battery life, lasting up to 11 days. Similar differences can be seen when GPS modes are in use, which drops to 8 hours for the larger model.
Feature Comparison
The Forerunner 570 lacks several features that the Forerunner 970 offers. For instance, it does not have ECG support or a specific flashlight. Additionally, the Forerunner 570 has only a quarter of the storage capacity of the Forerunner 970, with 8 GB compared to 32 GB, and it does not support turn-by-turn navigation maps. However, it does appear to include Garmin’s Elevate V5 heart rate sensor. All models of the Forerunner 570 are set to be available for pre-order on Garmin’s website starting May 21 for a price of $549.99.
Source:
Link

Tags: Garmin Forerunner 570, Garmin Forerunner 970, smartwatch release
May 15, 2025
Garmin Forerunner 970: New Smartwatch Launches at $749
Key Takeaways
1. The Forerunner 970 replaces the Forerunner 965 and is priced at $749.99 in the U.S. and €749.99 in Europe.
2. It features a brighter 1.4-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 454 x 454 pixels, protected by a Sapphire Crystal lens and housed in a titanium bezel.
3. New capabilities include Garmin’s Elevate V5 heart rate sensor, ECG, skin temperature monitoring, and Evening reporting features.
4. The smartwatch supports voice commands, Bluetooth calling, and offers up to 15 days of battery life in smartwatch mode.
5. Pre-orders for the Forerunner 970 will start on May 21, and it comes in three different finishes.
Earlier today, some initial details about the Forerunner 970 surfaced online after Garmin accidentally showcased the smartwatch on a support page. To our surprise, the Forerunner 970 is now officially announced, along with the Forerunner 570, which we have discussed in another article.
Pricing and Positioning
In brief, the Forerunner 970 takes the place of the Forerunner 965 in Garmin’s product range. However, it comes at a much higher price of $749.99 in the United States and €749.99 in Europe. Consequently, the Forerunner series is now just $50 less than the Fenix series, which begins at $799.99 for the Fenix E (currently available for $599.99 on Amazon).
Enhanced Features
For that extra cost, Garmin has incorporated a brighter AMOLED display compared to the one found in the Forerunner 965. This display measures 1.4 inches in size, delivering a resolution of 454 x 454 pixels, and is housed in a 47 mm casing that weighs 56 grams. Additionally, Garmin has safeguarded this large screen with a Sapphire Crystal lens and a titanium bezel.
New Capabilities
Among the exciting new features are Garmin’s Elevate V5 heart rate sensor, ECG, and skin temperature monitoring. Unlike the Forerunner 965, the Forerunner 970 also presents Evening reporting features, as well as voice commands and Bluetooth calling capabilities, thanks to its built-in microphones and speakers.
Garmin mentions that the Forerunner 970 can last up to 15 days in smartwatch mode or 12 hours with all GNSS systems turned on and music playing. This smartwatch also provides turn-by-turn navigation support and has 32 GB of internal storage for offline maps. The Forerunner 970 is set to be available for pre-order starting May 21 in three different finishes. More details can be found on Garmin’s official website.
Source:
Link

Tags: Forerunner 970, Garmin, Smartwatch
May 15, 2025
New Casio AE1000W Watches with World Map Now in Stock
Key Takeaways
1. The Casio AE1000W-5AV and AE1000W-8AV are priced at $29.95, similar to previous models.
2. The AE1000W-5AV features a black resin case with a beige band, while the AE1000W-8AV has a gray strap with light blue accents.
3. The design of the AE1000W watches is inspired by airplane cockpit instruments.
4. The watches include multiple displays for settings, a world map for time zones, and an LC Analog display for home city time.
5. Key features include a stopwatch, countdown timer, amber LED backlight, water resistance up to 100 meters, and a battery life of 10 years.
The Casio AE1000W-5AV and AE1000W-8AV timepieces have made their debut in the US market. These watches were first featured on the company’s global website back in May, so consumers are already aware of their specifications.
Pricing Information
You can purchase the Casio AE1000W-5AV and AE1000W-8AV for $29.95. This pricing is identical to that of previous models like the AE-1000W-1A3V, which is currently listed for $24.95 on Amazon. It’s uncertain if these watches will be made available in Europe, where older models retail for £40.00/€39.90.
Design Details
The AE1000W-5AV showcases a black resin case paired with a beige resin band, featuring both beige and yellow highlights on its dial. In contrast, the AE1000W-8AV maintains the same black resin casing but comes with a gray strap and light blue and gray detailing. According to Casio, the design of the AE1000W’s face is inspired by the instruments found in an airplane cockpit.
Features and Functionalities
The AE1000W watch incorporates four smaller displays. The top left display, the smallest of them all, indicates settings such as mute, alarms, and hourly signals. Below that, there is a world map showing the current timezone on the larger display underneath; users have the flexibility to switch between four saved time zones, choosing from a total of 31. On the right side, an LC Analog display shows the time for your home city, while the largest display at the bottom showcases the time, day of the week, and date. Among the features are a 1/100-second stopwatch, a countdown timer, and an amber LED backlight. Additionally, the watch boasts a water resistance of up to 100 meters and an estimated battery life of 10 years.
Source:
Link
Tags: AE1000W-5AV, AE1000W-8AV, Casio AE1000W