Category: Wearables

  • Pre-Order New Casio G-Shock GST-B1000D Watches in Europe

    Pre-Order New Casio G-Shock GST-B1000D Watches in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock GST-B1000D watches are available for pre-order in Europe, priced at €399.00 each.
    2. The models available for pre-order include GST-B1000D-1A (black), GST-B1000D-2A (blue), and GST-B1000D-3A (green), with shipments expected to start on November 7th.
    3. Only members of Casio ID can place orders currently, but signing up for membership is free and easy.
    4. In the UK, the watches are listed for £379, but cannot be ordered yet; buyers can subscribe for email alerts for updates.
    5. The watches feature a metal casing, Carbon Core Guard structure, Bluetooth connectivity, and various functionalities like a stopwatch and alarms.


    The new Casio G-Shock GST-B1000D watches are now up for pre-order in Europe. These stylish analog watches were recently revealed in Japan, but are not yet available in that region.

    Pre-Order Details

    You can now secure your order for the Casio G-Shock GST-B1000D-1A (black), GST-B1000D-2A (blue), and GST-B1000D-3A (green) in countries like the Netherlands, France, and Germany. Each watch is priced at €399.00, with shipments anticipated to start from November 7th. It’s important to mention that at this moment, only members of Casio ID can place orders for these timepieces. However, signing up as a member is free and can be done easily on the brand’s website.

    Availability in the UK

    The three watches from the GST-B1000 Series are also listed on the Casio UK website. They are set to be sold for £379, but can’t be ordered right now. Interested buyers are encouraged to subscribe for an email alert when they launch.

    The G-Shock GST-B1000 watches come equipped with three analog hands, and they maintain accuracy within 15 seconds each month. In addition, there are two inset dials; one displays the time in a 24-hour format, while the other shows either the day of the week or the date. Additional features include a 1-second stopwatch, countdown timer, and daily alarm. Moreover, Bluetooth connectivity enables users to access more settings and tools through the Casio Watches smartphone app.

    Design and Release Uncertainty

    The GST-B1000 model has a metal casing and bezel, designed with the Carbon Core Guard structure, and is paired with a sturdy stainless steel band. It remains uncertain if the Casio G-Shock GST-B1000D-1A, GST-B1000D-2A, and GST-B1000D-3A watches will be available in the EU on November 7th or at a later date. The timeline for their release in the US is also unclear.

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  • Amazfit Introduces New HRV Data Sharing Feature for Wearables

    Amazfit Introduces New HRV Data Sharing Feature for Wearables

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit Helio Strap is receiving a new update, version 3.3.10.3, shortly after version 3.3.6.1.
    2. The update allows users to sync heart rate variability (HRV) data with the Apple Health app, though not all users have access to this feature yet.
    3. Improvements have been made to the heart rate algorithm for better tracking reliability.
    4. The update includes unspecified bug fixes.
    5. The update is initially available in the US, Canada, and China, with a price of $99.00 for the Amazfit Helio Strap on Amazon.


    A new update is being released for the Amazfit Helio Strap, with version 3.3.10.3 coming out just weeks after the previous update, version 3.3.6.1. The earlier update introduced a Tennis workout mode and a fresh heart rate zone chart for users on the Zepp workout page.

    Update Details

    According to users on Reddit, the software version 3.3.10.3 is a 3.64 MB update that brings two main changes to the wearable device. Firstly, the release notes mention that users can now sync heart rate variability (HRV) data with the Apple Health app. This feature allows iPhone users to see their HRV data alongside data from other devices and make use of third-party analysis tools. However, some users have reported that they can activate HRV data syncing through the Apple Health app, while others have yet to see this option. Amazfit has not provided any official comment on this matter, and it’s also not clear how often the HRV data will sync.

    Improvements Made

    The second enhancement relates to the heart rate algorithm. Amazfit claims it has optimized the model to improve the reliability of heart rate tracking when using the Helio Strap. The final note in the change log mentions bug fixes, but does not specify which issues were addressed.

    The software version 3.3.10.3 is being rolled out to the Amazfit Helio Strap, which is currently priced at $99.00 on Amazon. Typically, these updates are first available for users in the US, Canada, and China, before they reach other areas such as Europe. Once the update is available in your region, you can start the installation process using the Zepp app.

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  • Garmin Updates Smartwatch: Sleep Mode Shortcut Removed

    Garmin Updates Smartwatch: Sleep Mode Shortcut Removed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin launched beta update 15.12 for Forerunner 570 and 970 smartwatches.
    2. The update includes bug fixes for activity voice alerts, incident detection alarms, and device resets.
    3. A specific fix for the Forerunner 970 addresses the flashlight strobe effect issue.
    4. Users are encouraged to switch to the new Sleep Focus Mode after the removal of an older sleep mode shortcut.
    5. Beta version 15.12 is available to all users in the beta program, with no timeline for a stable release.


    Garmin has launched a new beta update for its Forerunner 570 and 970 smartwatches. This is beta version 15.12, which comes after the mid-October release of beta version 15.09. The previous update added a hotkey for the calculator and an automatic button lock feature for climbing activities.

    Bug Fixes and Improvements

    The latest beta version 15.12 brings several bug fixes to the Forerunner 570 and 970 models. The company has resolved an issue with activity voice alerts that could play at incorrect frequencies. Additionally, there was a problem where the incident detection alarm would sound through headphones instead of the watch’s speakers; this has now been fixed. Moreover, a bug affecting runners that caused the watch to lock onto a nearby track has also been addressed. Other issues that could lead to unexpected device resets or a blank screen have been eliminated as well.

    Specific Fixes for Forerunner 970

    Specifically for the Forerunner 970, there was a bug related to the flashlight strobe effect, which was not functioning as it should have during use. Garmin has also removed an older sleep mode shortcut, and users are encouraged to switch to the new Sleep Focus Mode instead. Furthermore, there are updates regarding translations for the smartwatches, although no specific information has been shared.

    In a post on the Garmin Forum, a brand representative has confirmed that the beta version 15.12 is now accessible to all Forerunner 570 and 970 users (currently priced at $749.99 on Amazon) who are part of the beta program. It remains unclear when a stable version of the 15.xx software will be rolled out to all users of these devices.

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  • New Slim Casio Watches with Sun-Ray Dial Now in the UK

    New Slim Casio Watches with Sun-Ray Dial Now in the UK

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio Vintage AQ-240E series includes three models: AQ-240E-3A (blue-green), AQ-240E-7A (silver), and AQ-240EG-9A (all-gold), launched in the UK market.
    2. Pricing for the AQ-240E-3A and AQ-240E-7A is £54.90 each, while the AQ-240EG-9A is priced at £74.90.
    3. The watches feature a chrome-plated resin case, stainless steel strap, and a slim rectangular design measuring 40.9 x 35.8 x 8.1 mm.
    4. Each model has a sun-ray dial, two analog hands accurate to within 30 seconds per month, and a digital display for a second time zone.
    5. There are currently no plans for the Vintage AQ-240E series to be available in other European countries or North America.


    The Casio Vintage AQ-240E-3A, AQ-240E-7A, and AQ-240EG-9A watches have been released in the UK market. These unique analog-digital watches were first introduced in Japan in October 2025.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can now purchase the Casio Vintage AQ-240E-3A (in blue-green) and AQ-240E-7A (in silver) for £54.90 each. Both models feature a chrome-plated resin case that is silver in color along with a stainless steel strap that has an adjustable clasp for comfort. The AQ-240EG-9A, which comes in an all-gold color scheme, is a pricier option at £74.90 in the UK.

    Design and Specifications

    According to Casio, the AQ-240E boasts a “retro character” merged with a “modern design.” The slim rectangular case measures 40.9 x 35.8 x 8.1 mm (approximately 1.6 x 1.4 x 0.3 inches), and the total weight of the watches is 51 g (around 1.8 oz). Each model features a sun-ray dial that reflects light beautifully, with two analog hands that are claimed to be accurate to within 30 seconds per month. The narrow digital display, positioned at six o’clock, allows for a second time zone. Additional functionalities include a stopwatch accurate to 1/100th of a second, hourly time signals, and a daily alarm.

    Future Availability

    Casio has not yet revealed any plans to extend the availability of the Vintage AQ-240E series to other European nations or North America.

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  • Fitbit Unveils Redesigned App with New Health Coach Feature

    Fitbit Unveils Redesigned App with New Health Coach Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google launched the Public Preview Program for its Personal Health Coach feature in the Fitbit app for select users.
    2. The health coach offers personalized fitness plans, sleep improvement tips, and answers to general health inquiries.
    3. The program is available to US Fitbit Premium users with Android devices, with iOS access coming soon.
    4. Users may encounter issues during the preview and are encouraged to provide feedback; some features are not yet available.
    5. The rollout of the revamped Fitbit app and new devices is planned for 2026, but the timeline for additional markets is still unclear.


    Google has kicked off the Public Preview Program for its Personal Health Coach aimed at select Fitbit users. This innovative feature was first revealed in August 2025, coinciding with the introduction of a new Dark Mode for the app. The health coach is powered by Gemini and is part of a larger redesign effort for the Fitbit application.

    Enhancing Health and Fitness

    The Fitbit personal health coach aims to boost your workout routines, enhance your sleep quality, and respond to a variety of health and wellness inquiries. This tool can create a customized fitness plan based on your personal objectives or offer workouts tailored to the equipment you have and how much time you can dedicate. For sleep-related issues, the coach can examine data from your Fitbit device to provide tips on improving your rest. Additionally, users can pose questions regarding general health topics, including nutrition, menopause, or specific illnesses. You can also inquire about your health statistics and any noticeable patterns.

    Program Details

    The Public Preview Program began on October 28th for Fitbit users residing in the US who have a Fitbit Premium subscription and an Android device. Soon, it will also be accessible to iOS Fitbit Premium users in the same region. Upon joining the program, participants have the option for an onboarding discussion, where they answer questions related to their fitness level and aspirations. The company estimates that this onboarding process should only take between five to ten minutes.

    Feedback and Features

    Google has cautioned users that since this is a preview, they may encounter some “rough edges” during their experience. The company encourages participants to provide feedback through thumbs up and thumbs down icons available in the app. Certain features, like blood glucose monitoring, body temperature tracking, and Cardio Fitness Score, are not yet operational in the app; a full list of these unavailable features can be found on the Fitbit blog. It remains uncertain when these functionalities will be added. However, Google has made it simple for users to revert back to the standard app version whenever they choose using a “Switch app version” button.

    It is still unknown when the revamped Fitbit app, including the personal health coach feature, will roll out in additional markets. Google also recently announced plans to release new Fitbit devices in 2026; the last product launch was the Ace LTE kids smartwatch, which is currently priced at $129.95 on Amazon and was released in July 2024.

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  • Ugreen Launches Power Bank with Integrated Apple Watch Charger

    Ugreen Launches Power Bank with Integrated Apple Watch Charger

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Ugreen Nexode 30W 10000mAh Power Bank can charge up to four devices simultaneously with various output options.
    2. It features a built-in braided USB-C cable providing 30W output, and a wireless charging pad for Apple Watch with 5W output.
    3. The power bank has a capacity of 10,000 mAh, able to recharge an iPhone 17 Pro about 1.7 times or an Apple Watch S10 approximately 9 times.
    4. Users can monitor battery life through an LED display, and the device is compact and lightweight.
    5. It is priced at £69.99/€69.99 and available for purchase on Amazon in select European countries.


    The Ugreen Nexode 30W 10000mAh Power Bank, which includes an Apple Watch charger, has been launched in Europe. This handy gadget enables users to power up to four devices at the same time, thanks to its variety of output options.

    Specifications and Features

    This power bank features a built-in braided USB-C cable that can provide an output of 30W. Ugreen claims that this power bank can charge an iPhone 17 Pro to 50% within just 35 minutes. On the front side, it has a wireless charging pad specifically designed for the Apple Watch. With a 5W output, it can charge an Apple Watch S10 to 50% in around 49 minutes. Additionally, there are 30W USB-C and 12W USB-A ports available. When using multiple outputs, the highest combined output is capped at 15W, and it also supports fast charging protocols like PD, PPS, SCP, and UFCS.

    Charging Capacity and Display

    The power bank has a capacity of 10,000 mAh and can be recharged through a 30W USB-C input. Ugreen indicates that this battery can recharge an iPhone 17 Pro about 1.7 times or an Apple Watch S10 approximately 9.0 times. Users can see the remaining battery percentage on an LED display located on one side of the device. It’s relatively compact, with dimensions of 12.0 x 5.8 x 2.8 cm (approximately 4.7 x 2.3 x 1.1 inches) and a weight of 245 g (around 8.6 oz).

    Pricing and Availability

    The Ugreen Nexode 30W 10000mAh Power Bank with Apple Watch charger is currently available for purchase on Amazon in European nations such as the UK, the Netherlands, and Germany, priced at £69.99/€69.99. It’s still uncertain whether or when this product will be released in the United States.

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  • Casio G-Steel GST-B1000 Watches Officially Listed in Japan

    Casio G-Steel GST-B1000 Watches Officially Listed in Japan

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio officially announced the G-Steel GST-B1000 series on their Japanese website, confirming previous leaks.
    2. The release date is set for November 2025, with pre-orders starting on November 1 at a price of ¥66,000 each.
    3. The series includes three main models: GST-B1000D-1AJF (black dial), GST-B1000D-2AJF (blue dial), and GST-B1000D-3AJF (green dial).
    4. Key features include a Carbon Core Guard case, shock resistance, Tough Solar charging, Bluetooth connectivity, and 20 bar water resistance.
    5. The watches will be available to the public on November 21, with high demand expected due to prior interest.


    Casio has made it official by listing its new G-Steel GST-B1000 series on the Japanese website. This confirms what leaks and retailer listings have hinted at for quite some time. The listing provides confirmation on the timing of the launch, details about the models, and pricing for the three main variants: GST-B1000D-1AJF (black dial), GST-B1000D-2AJF (blue dial), and GST-B1000D-3AJF (green dial).

    Release Date and Pricing

    As previously mentioned in earlier leaks, the release is set for November 2025. The well-known Casio social media account @geesgshock has also shared that pre-orders will begin on November 1, with each model priced at ¥66,000 (including tax). The official product pages showcase detailed specifications, including a full analog display, a Carbon Core Guard case, excellent shock resistance, a stainless steel bracelet, Tough Solar charging, Bluetooth connectivity with smartphones, and water resistance rated up to 20 bar. The case dimensions and weight remain consistent with earlier reports: 46.9 x 44.2 x 11.6 mm and 118 grams.

    Confirming the Information

    There are no significant surprises or alterations compared to the earlier information provided. The official listing marks the shift from speculation to retail availability. Casio’s G-Steel GST-B1000 is expected to be one of their top flagship models this season.

    For those who have followed the model from our earlier reports, you can now visit Casio’s Japanese website for the final images, specifications, and ordering information. The watches will be available to the public on November 21. With the GST-B1000 officially listed, attention will now turn to pre-order options and the launch period in November. Given the previous interest in this collection, it is likely that the available models will sell out quickly after they are released.

     

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  • Nanoscale OLEDs: Scientists Shrink OLED Pixels to 300 nm

    Nanoscale OLEDs: Scientists Shrink OLED Pixels to 300 nm

    Key Takeaways

    1. The smallest commercially available pixels are currently about 5 x 5 micrometers, but researchers have created OLED pixels as small as 300 nanometers².
    2. Smaller pixels could eliminate the screen-door effect (SDE) in VR and augmented reality glasses, potentially leading to displays with billions of pixels.
    3. The new 300 nm² pixels produce orange light and shine as brightly as larger OLEDs, but additional technology is needed for efficiency and to prevent short circuits.
    4. The lifespan of the new pixels has only been tested for 2 weeks, compared to traditional OLEDs that last 8 to 13 years, and the color range is currently limited to orange.
    5. Future developments aim to expand the color range to full RGB and improve efficiency, with potential applications in projectors and ultra-high-resolution displays integrated into eyewear by the end of the decade.


    As of now, the smallest pixels in displays that can be bought commercially are about 5 x 5 micrometers. This size might seem tiny, but when used in VR or augmented reality glasses, some people might still see the annoying screen-door effect (SDE). Reducing the pixel size could help, but how much smaller do we need to go? Would pixels measuring 300 x 300 nanometers be sufficient to eliminate SDE? VR headsets with such tiny pixels could be on the market soon, as a group of researchers at Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg in Germany have successfully reduced the size of OLED pixels to just 300 nanometer². Such a minuscule size could mean that 1080p displays would only be 1 x 1 millimeters, suggesting that future VR/AR glasses might have billions of pixels.

    Research Findings

    The German scientists shared their results in the Science Advances journal, highlighting that the 300 nm² pixel produces orange light and shines as brightly as a standard 5 nm² OLED. However, making the light-emitting diode smaller alone wouldn’t ensure good efficiency. The researchers had to add a gold cuboid antenna that measures 300 x 300 x 50 nm and also ensure that the electric field currents wouldn’t push the gold atoms into the optically active materials, which could cause short circuits in the pixel. To achieve this, they created an insulation layer on top of the antenna, featuring a round opening with a 200 nm diameter right in the center.

    Future Developments

    The pixels have been evaluated for only 2 weeks without any problems, which is just a small part of the lifespan of traditional OLEDs that can last between 8 to 13 years. Additionally, the color range is still limited, since the only color produced is orange. The team aims to broaden the color range to include the full RGB spectrum. Another goal is to improve efficiency, which is currently at a lowly 1%.

    It appears that the German team still has a lot of work ahead, and displays with such minuscule pixels may still be several years away. Projectors could also gain from this new tech, and by the end of this decade, we might witness nearly invisible displays with ultra high resolution that could be integrated into eyeglasses or even contact lenses.

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  • Google Announces New Fitbit Hardware and Fitbit Coach Launch

    Google Announces New Fitbit Hardware and Fitbit Coach Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google released the Pixel Watch 4, available in 41 mm and 45 mm sizes, priced at $399.99.
    2. Fitbit has not launched any new devices for two years, with the last devices being the Charge 6 (September 2023) and others in 2022.
    3. Fitbit confirmed that new devices are in development but will not release any products in 2024.
    4. Google indicated that Fitbit will unveil new hardware “next year,” but no specific details are available.
    5. Future Fitbit products may include a completely new model and could coincide with the stable release of the Fitbit Coach app expected in 2026.


    A few months ago, Google released the Pixel Watch 4, available in 41 mm and 45 mm sizes (currently priced at $399.99 on Amazon). On the other hand, it’s been two years since Fitbit, which is owned by Google, has launched any new devices. Just to remind you, the Charge 6 came out in September 2023, while the Inspire 3, Sense 2, and Versa 4 were launched a year before that.

    New Developments Ahead

    Recently, Fitbit has reportedly confirmed that new devices are in the pipeline. However, the company is going to skip 2025 completely, as it won’t be launching any products in 2024 either. According to a report from 9to5Google, Google has stated that Fitbit is set to unveil new hardware “next year.”

    Sadly, there haven’t been any details from either Google or Fitbit about what these new products might be. This leaves us in the dark about when we can expect new Fitbit devices. There’s also no information on the number or types of wearables that could be under development.

    What Might Come Next?

    Because of this uncertainty, it’s possible that Fitbit might opt for a completely new model instead of revisiting the Charge, Inspire, Sense, or Versa lines that they’ve previously provided. The launch of new Fitbit hardware could align with the comprehensive release of the Fitbit Coach app. Currently, this app is available in public preview, and a stable version is expected to be released sometime in 2026 as well.

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  • Amazfit Smartwatch Update: Heart Rate Boost and New Running Metrics

    Amazfit Smartwatch Update: Heart Rate Boost and New Running Metrics

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit Active 2 (Square) smartwatch has received a software update to version 3.5.10.3, introducing new features and enhancements.
    2. New running metrics, Ground Contact Time and Vertical Oscillation, have been added for improved running dynamics.
    3. Users can now take screenshots by pressing both buttons simultaneously and enjoy three new workout modes: HIIT, HYROX training, and ultra-marathon.
    4. Additional improvements include jump rope exercise reminders, in-workout controls, and a new icon for external heart rate sensors.
    5. The update is being rolled out gradually and can be downloaded via the Zepp app; it is separate from the Active 2 (Round) updates.


    Amazfit has just launched an update for the Active 2 (Square) smartwatch, now called software version 3.5.10.3. This device was introduced in June 2025 as an option alongside the Active 2 (Round) and Active 2 (Round – Premium Version).

    New Features and Enhancements

    The latest software version 3.5.10.3 brings a variety of new features and enhancements to the Active 2 (Square). Users will now benefit from improved running dynamics with two new metrics: Ground Contact Time and Vertical Oscillation. Additionally, a new screenshot function has been added, allowing users to capture their display by pressing both buttons at the same time. There are also three fresh workout modes included: HIIT, HYROX training, and ultra-marathon.

    Additional Improvements

    Moreover, new reminders related to jump rope exercise have been introduced, along with in-workout controls like wrist raise to unlock and direct button response support. For those utilizing an external Bluetooth sensor to monitor heart rate, a new icon will indicate the source of the real-time heart rate information. Also, Amazfit has mentioned that they have decreased audio lag during sports broadcasts.

    Software version 3.5.10.3 is being released gradually to users of the Active 2 (Square) smartwatch, which is priced at $149.99 on Amazon. Once it becomes available in your area, you can download it through the Zepp app. It’s important to note that the Active 2 (Square) does not share updates with the Active 2 (Round). The latter received software version 6.3.10.4, a similar update, earlier in October 2025.

     

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