Category: Wearables

  • Garmin Updates Remove Popular Shortcut, Users React Negatively

    Garmin Updates Remove Popular Shortcut, Users React Negatively

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin removed the sleep mode shortcut from some smartwatches in recent software updates.
    2. User feedback has been largely negative, with many expressing frustration on forums like Garmin Forum and Reddit.
    3. Garmin stated the removal was intentional, grouping sleep mode with other focus modes in a new focus menu.
    4. Users have to navigate more menus to access sleep mode, which can be inconvenient, especially for shift workers.
    5. Some users suggested using the voice assistant to activate focus mode, but it’s uncertain if Garmin will reinstate the original shortcut based on user feedback.


    Garmin has decided to take away the sleep mode shortcut on some of its smartwatches. This change occurred in two recent stable software updates: version 15.16 for the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970, and version 20.19 for the Fenix 8, Fenix 8 Pro, Fenix E, Tactix 8, and Enduro 3 smartwatches (curr. $889.99 at Amazon).

    User Reactions to Changes

    The removal of the sleep mode shortcut was first noticed earlier this year during beta testing, leading users to begin asking questions about why it was taken away. Now that these stable updates are being released, more users have been voicing their concerns on the Garmin Forum and Reddit.

    Garmin’s Explanation

    Garmin has explained that the removal of the sleep mode shortcut was a planned decision, stating that sleep mode has now become a type of focus mode. All focus modes are now grouped together in the focus menu. A company representative has suggested that users add Focus Mode to the Light/Controls menu as a replacement for the shortcut.

    User Frustration

    However, many users are unhappy with this change, as it means they have to click more and spend extra time looking at their watch when they’re trying to sleep. Some have noted that this situation also affects shift workers or people with irregular sleeping patterns, making it difficult for them to set up an automatic sleep schedule.

    One user proposed using the smartwatch’s voice assistant to activate focus mode, but that may not work for everyone. It is still unclear if Garmin will listen to this feedback from users and consider restoring the shortcut for better usability.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Google Launches High Blood Pressure Study for Smartwatch Users

    Google Launches High Blood Pressure Study for Smartwatch Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google is recruiting participants for a new Hypertension Study Lab focused on early symptoms of high blood pressure.
    2. Eligibility includes being a US resident, owning a Google Pixel Watch 3, and being at least 22 years old.
    3. The study aims to recruit 10,000 volunteers and some participants will receive a 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring cuff.
    4. Participants will not receive health analysis or feedback during the study, and may experience temporary battery life reduction on their devices.
    5. Interested users can sign up through the Fitbit app, but responses from Google regarding acceptance are currently unclear.


    Google is on the lookout for participants in a new Hypertension Study Lab. The research is open to a select group of Pixel Watch users and aims to assist users in identifying early symptoms of hypertension, which is commonly referred to as high blood pressure. According to the company, this research “could one day help users take proactive steps toward better heart health.”

    Eligibility Requirements

    Users in the US who own a Google Pixel Watch 3 (45mm LTE currently priced at $349.99 on Amazon) and are at least 22 years old can take part in the study. Google aims to recruit 10,000 volunteers for this six-month research initiative. Certain participants will receive an ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) cuff to wear for 24 hours during the study.

    What to Expect

    It’s important to note that during the Hypertension Study, participants will not receive any analysis or feedback regarding their health status. Additionally, Google has mentioned that users might notice a temporary reduction in the battery life of their smartwatches. If you’re interested in joining the Fitbit Hypertension Study Lab, you can sign up through the Fitbit app. Simply navigate to You > Fitbit Labs > See all; be aware that the Fitbit Hypertension Study Lab questionnaire might not be visible if it hasn’t been made available to your account yet. Only those who are accepted will receive a response from Google, although the timeline for this is currently unclear, as well as when the study itself will kick off.

    Conclusion

    In summary, Google is taking steps to enhance heart health awareness through its new Hypertension Study Lab. This initiative is an opportunity for Pixel Watch users to contribute to research that may lead to better health outcomes. If you meet the criteria, consider signing up and being part of this important study.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Rollme Smart Glasses: 8MP Camera, AI Translation, Dual Mics

    Rollme Smart Glasses: 8MP Camera, AI Translation, Dual Mics

    Key Takeaways

    1. Rollme’s VivaView AR glasses are priced at $69.99, offering impressive specifications for their cost.
    2. The design features lightweight frames with photochromic lenses that darken in sunlight, and controls on the right temple arm.
    3. The unique camera placement includes an 8MP Sony sensor for capturing first-person photos and videos, capable of recording 1200P anti-shake HD video.
    4. Additional features include wireless earbuds with AAC speakers and dual-silicone microphones for hands-free calls via Bluetooth.
    5. The glasses claim to have AI capabilities for voice assistance, real-time translation, and object recognition, though expectations should be realistic given their price point.


    The smart glasses market is becoming quite saturated with products that either cost a fortune (yes, we’re looking at Ray-Ban Meta) or just don’t perform well. Yet, Rollme’s new AR glasses seem to have potential, at least on paper, and they’re debuting with a specifications list that looks almost too impressive for their price of $69.99.

    Design and Features

    The design of the VivaView glasses is quite simple. They come with lightweight frames available in black, white, or clear, and they feature photochromic lenses that automatically darken when exposed to sunlight—a nice addition at this price. The right temple arm houses two control buttons along with the charging port.

    Camera Innovations

    What sets these glasses apart from others is the unique camera placement. Rollme has situated the 8MP Sony sensor and a flash right in the middle of the bridge—not on the temple arm like many competitors do. This design is said to provide a “more natural perspective” for capturing first-person photos and videos. The camera is capable of recording “1200P anti-shake HD video.” While it’s not the highest resolution (Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 can record in 3K), we can assume it’s at least better than 1080p.

    Additional Features

    As with many smart glasses, the VivaView also functions as wireless earbuds. They include AAC speakers for open-ear listening and dual-silicone microphones that reduce noise for hands-free calls via Bluetooth.

    Ambitious AI Capabilities

    Things get really interesting with the “AI” features. In addition to a regular voice assistant for reminders and weather updates, the VivaView claims to provide real-time translation and object recognition. The company says you can ask the assistant to play music, find recipes, or send messages, but the press release doesn’t specify which apps are supported or how it connects with other services.

    Realistic Expectations

    Major tech companies like Google and Meta have invested billions to make these features work, and they’re still not perfect. Honestly, we’re not expecting a $70 pair of glasses to deliver flawless real-time translation and object recognition. However, if you keep your expectations reasonable, the VivaView seems like a very appealing choice for those wanting to try out AR glasses without spending a huge amount of money on something like Ray-Ban Meta Glasses.

    Battery Life

    Finally, the VivaView glasses include a 290mAh battery, which the company claims can last a full day. It takes about 70 minutes to completely charge the glasses.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Apple’s iPhone Pocket: Unique Designer Accessory with High Price

    Apple’s iPhone Pocket: Unique Designer Accessory with High Price

    Key Takeaways

    1. Stylish Utility: The iPhone Pocket is designed for carrying an iPhone and other pocketable items, catering to modern fashion trends of baggy, pocketless clothing.

    2. Limited Availability: It is a limited-edition item available in select stores and online in several countries, enhancing its exclusivity and desirability.

    3. Innovative Design: Made from a unique 3D-knitted stretchable material, it allows for secure storage of the iPhone while keeping the display and camera accessible.

    4. Versatile Wear Options: The accessory can be worn in multiple ways, such as on the shoulder or across the body, appealing to style-conscious consumers.

    5. Color Customization: Users can choose from various colors to match their iPhone and personal style, promoting individuality and personal interpretation.


    The collaboration between Apple Design Studio and the renowned Japanese fashion label Issey Miyake has led to the creation of an innovative accessory called the iPhone Pocket.

    Stylish Utility

    True to its name, this accessory is designed for carrying an iPhone stylishly, but it also aims to hold “all other pocketable items” that don’t fit into the current trend of baggy, pocketless clothing. The iPhone Pocket will be available in both short-strap and longer formats, starting at $149.95 upon its release in the US on Friday, November 14. The long-strap version, which can be worn across the body, will be priced at $229.95. While Apple already offers a $59 iPhone Crossbody Strap that attaches to several of its cases, it certainly lacks the flair of the Miyake-designed piece.

    Limited Availability

    To justify its price, Apple describes the iPhone Pocket as a “limited-edition release,” restricting its availability to select stores and online in the US, UK, France, China, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and South Korea. This exclusivity adds to its allure, making it a sought-after item for fans of the brand.

    The iPhone Pocket draws inspiration from the versatile Japanese “piece of cloth” design that can transform into various clothing items. It features a strap with an opening that expands to accommodate the iPhone while also holding other personal items for easy access.

    Innovative Design

    The iPhone Pocket is crafted from a “3D-knitted” stretchable material, developed by the Issey Miyake fashion studio. This unique fabric secures the iPhone while providing a clear view of its display, ensuring that the camera lens remains unobstructed.

    Manufactured in Japan, known for its rich heritage in high-quality textiles, the iPhone Pocket embodies “the joy of wearing iPhone in your own way,” according to the design director of Issey Miyake. Users can select colors that complement their phone and personal style.

    This accessory can be worn in various ways—on the shoulder, arm, across the body, attached to a handbag, or a backpack—making it a potential viral sensation among style-savvy iPhone users. Miyake emphasizes “the idea of leaving things less defined to encourage possibilities and personal interpretation,” showcasing the accessory’s versatility.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Casio G-Shock GBD-200 Watches Launching Soon in the UK

    Casio G-Shock GBD-200 Watches Launching Soon in the UK

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio is launching the GBD-200 models in the UK, featuring a positive MIP LCD screen for the first time in the square G-Squad series.
    2. The GBD-200 models include 20-bar water resistance, a replaceable CR2032 battery, LED backlight, and a lightweight design weighing approximately 58 grams.
    3. These watches connect via Bluetooth to the Casio Watches app for automatic updates, training logs, notifications, and GPS calibration.
    4. The expected UK price is €149, similar to the current EU listings, with availability through Casio’s website and major retailers.
    5. The launch is ideal for those who prefer the slim design and training features of the GBD-200 but were not fans of the original model’s negative display.


    Casio is bringing its positive-display GBD-200s to the UK. The black GBD-200-1A1 and the white GBD-200-7 have been officially mentioned for a local launch in a recent Instagram post by the long-standing UK G-Shock source, @geesgshock. This announcement aligns with recent listings in Europe and our own updates about their rollout. The news comes shortly after Casio’s late-October listing of these models on EU online stores, such as those in the Netherlands and France, priced at €149. By early November, it was noted that stock had started shipping to various countries, making the UK and US the last major uncertainties. In summary, the UK is set to see these models soon, with these two versions expected to arrive first.

    Features of the GBD-200 Models

    What makes these models stand out is their shift to a positive MIP LCD screen, marking the first time a light-background display appears in the square G-Squad series. The design retains the classic GBD-200 features: 20-bar water resistance, a replaceable CR2032 battery with an estimated life of about two years, an LED backlight, and a lightweight glass-fiber-reinforced resin case weighing approximately 58 grams. The watches connect via Bluetooth to the Casio Watches app, allowing for automatic time updates, training logs, notifications, and phone-GPS distance calibration. On the watch itself, users can access world time, a 1-second stopwatch, interval timers, four alarms, and energy-saving modes.

    Pricing and Availability

    We anticipate that the UK pricing will mirror the EU listing of €149 once the local pages are activated. The distribution will likely follow the typical G-Shock channels through Casio’s website and high-street retailers. For those who were not impressed by the original GBD-200’s negative display but appreciated its slim, wrist-friendly square design and training features, this UK release should be an excellent opportunity for them.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Death Stranding 2 Dnsys Z1 Exoskeleton Unveiled with Giveaway

    Death Stranding 2 Dnsys Z1 Exoskeleton Unveiled with Giveaway

    Key Takeaways

    1. Product Launch: The Z1 Exoskeleton Pro is set to launch on December 2, 2025, in partnership with Kojima Productions.

    2. Connection to Death Stranding: The exoskeleton is linked to the upcoming game, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, enhancing the immersive experience of the game.

    3. Design Philosophy: Kojima Productions’ art director emphasized that the exoskeleton’s design reflects the game’s universe, aiming to blur the lines between fantasy and reality.

    4. Advanced Technology: The exoskeleton features AI technology with a dual-core 240 MHz processor and 900-watt DNA-1 motors, designed to reduce knee strain and enhance mobility.

    5. User Engagement: Interested users can register for updates on the product and participate in a giveaway for a chance to win the exoskeleton.


    After a partnership that spanned two years, Dnsys and Kojima Productions are excited to unveil the Z1 Exoskeleton Pro – Death Stranding 2: On the Beach limited-edition knee exoskeleton. This innovative product is set for launch on December 2, 2025, with more information on pricing and availability to be announced at that time.

    About the Z1 Exoskeleton Pro

    The Z1 Exoskeleton Pro represents a unique iteration of the Z1 knee exoskeleton, which first appeared on Kickstarter in August 2025. This knee exoskeleton is linked to Kojima’s newest entry in the celebrated Death Stranding series, which has been reviewed by Notebookcheck.

    Design Insights from Kojima Productions

    Art director Yoji Shinkawa from Kojima Productions stated:

    “We crafted this exoskeleton with the same dedication and accuracy as if it were intended for the Death Stranding universe. Every single detail has been enhanced to transform the game’s visionary future into reality, resulting in something that Sam Porter Bridges himself might don. Wearing it genuinely feels like stepping into the world of Death Stranding, where the lines between fantasy and reality finally blur.”

    Advanced Features and Capabilities

    This unique exoskeleton is equipped with AI technology powered by a dual-core 240 MHz processor, which operates 900-watt DNA-1 motors with each movement. It comes with interchangeable batteries that can last for up to four hours, alleviating knee strain and supplying additional energy with every step, thereby increasing the trekking distance significantly, as per Dnsys.

    Interested individuals can register on the product’s website to receive updates on the Z1 Exoskeleton Pro. For those eager to win one for free, it’s important to closely follow the giveaway instructions. While waiting, why not dive into Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, which is available on Amazon?

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Apple Watch 11 Now Connects to Starlink for Messaging and Emergencies

    Apple Watch 11 Now Connects to Starlink for Messaging and Emergencies

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple Watches can now connect to the Starlink network for messaging in remote areas, thanks to partnerships with Rogers and KDDI.

    2. The Apple Watch Ultra 3, Watch 11 Series, and Watch SE 3 can utilize Starlink messaging, with Rogers offering a free beta version for Apple Watch 11 users.

    3. KDDI in Japan provides a paid service for Starlink messaging, allowing users to send texts, share locations, and receive emergency alerts.

    4. Apple plans to enhance satellite messaging capabilities for iPhones, including image sharing and access for third-party apps, alongside Apple Maps for navigation in areas without cellular coverage.

    5. Future updates may allow direct satellite connectivity for iPhones and Android devices without needing a Starlink Mini dish, depending on the launch of Starlink’s V3 satellites in 2026.


    While Apple has put money into Globalstar as the satellite service for its iPhones, the new Watch series can now link up with the larger Starlink network from Elon Musk’s SpaceX.

    Starlink Support for Apple Watches

    Both Rogers in Canada and KDDI in Japan have revealed that the Apple Watch Ultra 3, the Watch 11 Series, and the Watch SE 3 can now utilize Starlink messaging even in remote areas. All Apple Watch models from 2025 that have cellular capabilities can benefit from the Starlink services provided by these companies. Rogers is offering its Starlink Cellular add-on in a beta version for free, allowing Apple Watch 11 users to send messages from their watches in places where there is no cellular coverage, thanks to Starlink satellites.

    Texting Options in Japan

    KDDI in Japan also supports Starlink messaging from the Apple Watch; however, this feature is a paid service, similar to what T-Mobile provides for many of its phones in the United States. KDDI notes, “In addition to sending and receiving text messages, Apple Watch can also share your location and receive emergency alert emails.”

    The likely implication of this is that T-Mobile may also introduce the Starlink satellite feature for the Apple Watch in the US, similar to its offerings for iPhones. Apple, which first introduced emergency satellite services for iPhones back in 2022, is now reportedly seeking to broaden its service options, which its Globalstar partner may struggle to provide without a significant upgrade to its constellation or a partnership with a bigger entity like SpaceX.

    Enhanced Messaging and Navigation

    Apple is aiming to enhance media messaging to include images and allow third-party app developers access to its satellite connectivity. Apple Maps is also set to join the satellite service, enabling iPhone users to navigate in areas lacking cellular coverage, just like Google Maps does with T-Satellite Starlink service.

    The iPhone 18 is expected to support the 5G NTN protocol for non-terrestrial connectivity, allowing its modem to maintain a connection by extending cell tower coverage with satellite signals when necessary. After SpaceX acquired Dish’s spectrum, Elon Musk has ambitious plans for Starlink to become a standalone carrier offering global 5G coverage via satellite, although at slower speeds than terrestrial networks, which are around 100 Mbps.

    Future of Connectivity

    With this setup, users won’t need the Starlink Mini dish while on the move and can connect directly to satellite broadband with their iPhones or Android devices. These plans depend on launching thousands of Starlink direct-to-cell V3 satellites, which SpaceX is set to start in 2026. Until then, limited Starlink connectivity is accessible for both the Apple Watch and iPhone through various carriers.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Coros Pace 4: New Runners Smartwatch with AMOLED Display & Battery Boost

    Coros Pace 4: New Runners Smartwatch with AMOLED Display & Battery Boost

    Key Takeaways

    1. Coros has launched the Pace 4, priced at $249, which is a $20 increase from the Pace 3.
    2. The Pace 4 features an upgraded AMOLED display with a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels, improving from the previous model’s LCD display of 240 x 240 pixels.
    3. Battery life has improved to 19 days with typical use, up from 15 days in the Pace 3, and offers 55% more battery life in demanding scenarios.
    4. New features include a microphone for voice commands and support for Padel and Pickleball activities, expanding its functionality.
    5. The Pace 4 retains key features like 5 ATM water resistance, 4 GB storage, and optical heart rate and pulse oximeter sensors.


    Coros has officially launched the Pace 4 worldwide, following hints about its release earlier this month. To provide some background, the Pace 4 comes out more than two years after the Pace 3 (currently priced at $229 on Amazon), which was introduced by Coros in August 2021. In summary, Coros has made several improvements in this new version, with a price increase of just $20.

    Enhanced Display and Battery Life

    In a significant change, Coros has replaced the LCD with an AMOLED display, while keeping the screen size at 1.2 inches. The new display also features a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels, compared to the 240 x 240 pixels of the Pace 3. Additionally, the battery life is estimated to last 19 days with typical daily use and sleep tracking, an increase from the previous 15 days.

    Improved Performance and Features

    Even in the worst-case scenario, where all satellite systems are active and offline music is playing, the Pace 4 reportedly offers over 55% more battery life than the previous model. Furthermore, Coros has included a microphone for recording training logs and utilizing voice commands, among other functionalities. The Pace 4 also introduces support for Padel and Pickleball activities, which were not available in the Pace 3.

    Core Features and Pricing

    The Pace 4 maintains key features from its predecessor, such as 5 ATM water resistance, 4 GB of built-in storage, an optical heart rate monitor, and an optical pulse oximeter, along with other sensors. Coros retails the Pace 4 for $249, available in black or white, with options for silicone or nylon bands. For more information, please check the company’s official website.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Philips Wireless Power Bank with Stand Now Available

    Philips Wireless Power Bank with Stand Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Philips DLP2540C Power Bank is Qi-certified, specifically for Qi 1.3.3, with a 5W wireless charging output.
    2. The design may include one or two built-in stands for adjustable phone viewing angles while charging.
    3. Complete specifications, such as battery capacity and dimensions, are currently unknown.
    4. The product’s release date and availability in different regions remain uncertain.
    5. Previous Philips accessories are available in Europe, with similar products priced around €22.76.


    A new Philips power bank is seemingly on its way. Known as model DLP2540C, this accessory was recently found in the Wireless Power Consortium database, which oversees the development of wireless charging standards.

    Qi-Certified Features

    The Philips DLP2540C Power Bank comes with Qi certification; however, it is important to mention that the certification is for Qi 1.3.3, not the latest Qi 2.2.1. The wireless charging pad located on the front of this device can provide up to 5W output. This makes it ideal for powering devices such as AirPods or an Apple Watch, or for slowly charging a smartphone.

    Design and Specifications

    An image of the Philips Power Bank (shown above) does not confirm any other output options, yet there might be ports on the sides that aren’t visible in the photo. The image also suggests the presence of one or two built-in stands, which let you change the viewing angle of a phone while it’s charging. The complete specifications for the device, including battery capacity and measurements, are still unknown. The product URL in the database points to RichGo, a Chinese manufacturer associated with this Philips-branded power bank.

    Release Information Uncertain

    It remains uncertain when the Philips DLP2540C Power Bank will hit the market and which regions it will be available in. Previous Philips accessories can be found in European countries like Germany; for instance, the older DLP2510C USB-C Power Bank is currently priced at €22.76 on Amazon’s platform.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Casio Stranger Things Watch Prices Leak for Europe

    Casio Stranger Things Watch Prices Leak for Europe

    Key Takeaways


    The new collaboration watches from Casio and Stranger Things have had their pricing details leaked. The G-Shock DW-5600STT-1 and Vintage AQ-800EST-1A were officially introduced in November 2025, with a confirmed release scheduled for December 2025 in Japan.

    Retail Listings

    Recently, French retailer David et Philly has added these new Casio x Stranger Things watches to their online shop. The DW-5600STT-1 is available for €149, while the AQ-800EST-1A is priced at €129. These prices are pretty close to the official Japanese market rates, which are ¥19,800 (~€111) for the DW-5600STT-1 and ¥17,600 (~€99) for the AQ-800EST-1A. Although the retailer briefly allowed pre-orders for these items, they are currently unable to process orders due to “an unusually high volume of orders” (translated by machine).

    Design and Features

    The G-Shock DW-5600STT-1 is a digital watch that showcases a striking black and red color scheme. It features a twisting vine design that pays homage to the character Vecna, with the number 011 printed on the band loop. A red backlight enhances its spooky aesthetic. The watch display is a negative type (black background), which can show time in both 12 or 24-hour formats, along with the date and day of the week. Additional features include a 1-second countdown timer, a stopwatch with 1/100th of a second precision, a multifunctional alarm, and hourly time signals.

    Additional Model Features

    The AQ-800EST-1A also showcases the twisting vine motif on its analog dial and around the slim digital screen. This black and silver watch has a resin case and a stainless steel strap, with “001,” a tattoo associated with Vecna, etched into the clasp. This hybrid model allows for dual time zones and includes features like a stopwatch, daily alarm, and hourly time signals. It remains unclear when the Casio Stranger Things DW-5600STT-1 and AQ-800EST-1A will hit the shelves in Europe. The brand’s international website indicates both models are set for a December 2025 launch. As for a potential US release and pricing, that remains unknown at this time.

    David et Philly, Casio

    Source:
    Link