Tag: Smartwatch

April 11, 2025
Polar and Garmin Lock Smartwatch Features Behind Paywall
Key Takeaways
1. Polar has introduced a subscription model for certain fitness features on its smartwatches, costing €9.99 per month after a 14-day free trial.
2. The “Polar Fitness Program” is currently available only to users in Europe with Android devices, with iOS compatibility expected soon.
3. The program personalizes training plans based on individual goals and workout responses, adjusting over a four-week period for optimal recovery and performance.
4. It offers 20 different fitness levels and customizes to individual habits, but primarily focuses on endurance sports.
5. The program has limitations, as it primarily optimizes endurance training and cannot accurately assess muscle fatigue during strength training.
We’ve previously discussed Garmin’s controversial choice to place certain features of their smartwatches behind a paywall, and now another brand has made a similar move. Polar provides smartwatches that deliver standard functions like displaying notifications from a linked smartphone, but the company has also focused heavily on sports-related features.
Subscription Model
A few fitness features are now locked behind a paid subscription model, which includes a free trial period of 14 days and then costs €9.99 per month afterward. At this time, this new service called “Polar Fitness Program” is only accessible to users in Europe with an Android device, though compatibility with iOS is expected to come later this year. This fitness program aims to be a helpful tool for athletes and those who are active often.
Personalized Training
More specifically, it adjusts to personal goals and lifestyles by utilizing data gathered from a Polar smartwatch. It is said to be capable of recognizing how users respond to workouts and can devise a training schedule for four weeks that automatically changes if the user requires extra time for recovery. These data-driven changes are designed to make workouts more efficient and help reduce the risk of injuries and fatigue, all while ensuring that users continue to enhance their performance.
Limitations of the Program
Additionally, the program customizes itself to fit individual habits and offers 20 different fitness levels. However, Polar’s new subscription service has a drawback that is also seen in other smartwatches: all the training plans primarily focus on endurance sports. While optional strength and mobility workouts can be added to the plan, current wearable devices can only accurately optimize the intensity of endurance workouts using heart rate data. Unfortunately, Polar smartwatches are unable to detect muscle fatigue that may occur during strength training, for instance.
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Tags: fitness subscription, polar, Smartwatch
April 11, 2025
Google Pixel Watch 4 Expected to Be Larger Than Pixel Watch 3
Key Takeaways
1. The Pixel Watch 4 is expected to have a smaller 41 mm version revealed, with a potential 45 mm upgrade also anticipated.
2. The design changes from Pixel Watch 3 to Pixel Watch 4 include a thinner bezel and the addition of two small buttons beside the speaker and microphone.
3. The Pixel Watch 4 is reportedly thicker, measuring 14.3 mm, an increase of over 16% compared to its predecessor.
4. A new sensor array may be introduced in the Pixel Watch 4, differing from previous models.
5. The Pixel Watch 4 might utilize inductive charging, eliminating the four charging pins found in earlier versions.
91mobiles and OnLeaks have teamed up to give us a sneak peek at what they say is the upcoming Pixel Watch 4. According to the information shared by OnLeaks, only the smaller 41 mm version’s CAD files have been revealed at this moment. However, 91mobiles believes that Google will also launch a 45 mm upgrade to the Pixel Watch 3, which is currently priced at $399.99 on Amazon.
Minor Changes Noticed
At first sight, it appears that Google hasn’t altered much from the Pixel Watch 3 to the Pixel Watch 4. That said, there are a few interesting modifications. For instance, it seems like Google has made the bezel thinner compared to previous models, although these changes will mostly be concealed by the curved glass once again. Additionally, there are now two small buttons located beside the Pixel Watch’s speaker and microphone grille, which is still positioned on the left side of the smartwatch.
Increased Thickness
Interestingly, 91mobiles and OnLeaks claim that the Pixel Watch has increased in thickness by over 16%, now measuring at 14.3 mm for its fourth version. It looks like Google might be introducing a new sensor array for the Pixel Watch 4 as well. While specific details about this are still unclear, this new sensor setup does not have the four charging pins that older versions of the Pixel Watch featured. This means that the Pixel Watch 4 could possibly be the first in its series to utilize inductive charging, similar to other smartwatches on the market.
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Tags: google, Pixel Watch 4, Smartwatch
April 11, 2025
Oppo Watch X2 Mini Launches: 1.32″ AMOLED, Snapdragon W5, eSIM
Key Takeaways
1. Display and Design: The Watch X2 Mini features a 1.32-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 466 × 466, 1,000 nits peak brightness, and 2.5D glass protection.
2. Performance and Storage: Powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon W5 Gen 1, it has 2GB of RAM, 32GB of storage, and an additional 4GB EMMC for RTOS functions.
3. Battery Life and Charging: Offers up to 2.5 days in smart mode and 7 days in power-saving mode, with fast charging that provides a full day of use in just 10 minutes.
4. Health and Fitness Tracking: Equipped with advanced health monitoring features, including heart rate and SpO₂ sensors, stress and sleep tracking, and support for over 100 workout modes.
5. Connectivity and Smart Features: Includes independent eSIM support, NFC for payments, and operates on ColorOS Watch 7.0, compatible with Android 10.0+ and iOS 14.0+.
Oppo has introduced the Watch X2 Mini in China, along with the Find X8s, X8s+, and X8 Ultra smartphones. Let’s take a look at its main features.
Key Features of the Watch X2 Mini
The Watch X2 Mini boasts a small 1.32-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 466 × 466 and a pixel density of 352 PPI, which is shielded by sleek 2.5D glass. It can achieve a peak brightness of 1,000 nits, making it easy to see even in bright sunlight.
This smartwatch is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 platform and includes a BES2800BP co-processor, ensuring a balance between performance and energy efficiency. It comes with 2GB of RAM, 32GB of storage, and an additional 4GB EMMC for RTOS functions, allowing for a smooth user experience along with smart power management.
Battery Life and Health Monitoring
When it comes to battery life, the Watch X2 Mini can last up to 2.5 days in smart mode and up to 7 days in power-saving mode. It also features fast charging capabilities; just 10 minutes of charging gives enough power for a full day, and a full charge takes around an hour.
For health tracking, it is equipped with an 8-channel heart rate sensor and a 16-channel SpO₂ sensor for continuous monitoring. It tracks stress levels, sleep patterns (including REM cycles), and can even identify snoring risks through bio-signal analysis. There are features for women’s health, like menstrual cycle tracking and ovulation prediction, plus it can monitor blood sugar levels in real-time when paired with compatible CGM devices.
Workout Modes and Connectivity
The Watch X2 Mini supports over 100 workout modes, automatically starting six activities and providing advanced tracking for sports such as running, swimming, and skiing. Runners benefit from detailed metrics, a Fat Burn Run mode with voice guidance, and smart feedback post-run thanks to the DeepSeek-R1 AI engine.
Moreover, it includes a unique Travel Guardian system that provides real-time location sharing, automatic health alerts, and a quick emergency contact option for urgent situations. Connectivity options include independent eSIM support for making calls and replying to WeChat messages without needing a phone. It also features NFC for payments, smart door access, and digital car keys for certain BYD, Li Auto, and Leapmotor vehicles. The device supports five satellite systems for positioning and has 5ATM and IP68 ratings for water and dust resistance.
Smart Features and Pricing
In addition to its health and fitness capabilities, the Watch X2 Mini has smart features such as remote camera previews, automatic music pausing during sleep, and seamless notification syncing via Fluid Cloud. It operates on ColorOS Watch 7.0 and is compatible with Android 10.0+ and iOS 14.0+, although some features are limited to Oppo’s ecosystem.
The Oppo Watch X2 Mini is available in three colors: Black and Silver, both priced at 1,799 yuan (around $250), while the premium Gold version, which has an 18K gold-coated stainless steel case, is priced at 2,099 yuan (about $290). Sales are set to start on April 16, 2025, in China. As part of a launch promotion, customers will receive a free fluoroelastomer strap, adding extra value to the purchase.
Tags: Health Tracking, Oppo Watch X2 Mini, Smartwatch
April 9, 2025
Redmi Watch Move Launching in India on April 21: Key Specs Leaked
Key Takeaways
1. The Redmi Watch Move will launch in India on April 21, priced under ₹4,000, targeting fitness enthusiasts.
2. It features a 2.07-inch AMOLED display with a peak brightness of 1500 nits, claimed to be the brightest in its budget range.
3. The smartwatch includes Bluetooth calling, dual microphones for noise reduction, over 100 sports modes, and five satellite positioning systems for accurate tracking.
4. Battery life is rated at 14 days, and it operates on HyperOS, though details about software updates are unclear.
5. The Watch Move introduces a rotating crown for navigation, differing from last year’s models, and sales will begin on platforms like Amazon and Mi.com after the launch.
Xiaomi’s sub-brand Redmi is set to unveil its latest smartwatch, the Watch Move, in India on April 21, with a price tag of under ₹4,000. Aimed at fitness lovers, it boasts a 2.07-inch AMOLED display that matches the global Redmi Watch 5 in size. It shines with a peak brightness of 1500 nits, which Xiaomi asserts is the brightest available in its budget range. Leaked images reveal a square design featuring a rotating crown for easy navigation, along with silicone straps available in black, blue, white, and silver/gray, topped off with a sleek curved screen.
Features and Performance
The Watch Move includes Bluetooth calling capabilities, enhanced by dual microphones for better noise reduction. It also offers over 100 sports modes and integrates five satellite positioning systems (GNSS) to ensure precise outdoor tracking. Xiaomi claims a remarkable 98.5% accuracy in activity tracking and a battery life of 14 days, which is shorter than the 24 days offered by the Watch 5, but still quite competitive. The smartwatch operates on HyperOS, although details regarding potential software updates remain vague.
Comparison to Previous Models
In contrast to last year’s models, the Watch 5 Active (₹2,799) and Watch 5 Lite (₹3,499), the new Watch Move introduces a rotating crown instead of just a single button, a hallmark typically found in high-end watches. Following its launch on April 21, sales are expected to commence on platforms such as Amazon and Mi.com. Further details regarding final pricing, available colors, and specific features of HyperOS will be revealed as the launch date approaches.
Additional Releases
On a separate note, Redmi has begun taking pre-orders for its Buds 7S wireless earbuds on JD.com in China. These earbuds are priced at 199 Yuan (~$27) and come equipped with a dual-driver configuration (12.4mm titanium-coated and 5.5mm ceramic), along with SoundID audio customization, spatial audio, and dual-mode active noise cancellation.
Tags: Redmi Watch Move, Smartwatch, Xiaomi
April 9, 2025
Xiaomi Redmi Watch Move: Upcoming AMOLED Smartwatch Release
Key Takeaways
1. The Redmi Watch Move features a square AMOLED screen, touted as the “brightest & smoothest” display of its type.
2. The smartwatch claims a fitness tracking accuracy of 98.5% and operates on Xiaomi HyperOS, with a battery life of up to 14 days.
3. The launch event for the Redmi Watch Move is scheduled for April 21st, 2025, in India.
4. The pricing details for the smartwatch are not yet revealed, but the Redmi Watch 5 Active is priced at ₹4,999 (around $40.48).
5. Availability of the Redmi Watch Move in regions outside India remains uncertain.
Xiaomi has hinted at the upcoming launch of the Redmi Watch Move in India. The smartwatch is officially introduced on social media, with some extra details surfacing on X.
Display Features
The Xiaomi India website’s event page states that the smartwatch features a square AMOLED screen. Well-known leaker Mukul Sharma has mentioned that Xiaomi is promoting it as the “brightest & smoothest” display of its type. Images reveal a narrow bezel surrounding the display, with a digital crown located on the right side. Some pictures imply that one version of the watch will sport a black casing and silicone band, while another will come in a gold/white combination.
Fitness Tracking and Battery Life
Another claim from the company is that the fitness tracking has an accuracy of 98.5%, though there are no further specifics available. The leaked marketing visuals also suggest that the device operates on Xiaomi HyperOS. Furthermore, it’s rumored that the smartwatch will provide a battery life of up to 14 days.
Launch Date and Pricing
The complete specifications for the Xiaomi Redmi Watch Move are anticipated to be disclosed during its launch event, which is set for April 21st, 2025, in India. The price point for this mid-range smartwatch is still under wraps. For reference, the Redmi Watch 5 Active is priced at ₹4,999 (approximately $40.48 at Amazon US). It remains uncertain when or if this device will be available in other regions.
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Tags: Redmi Watch Move, Smartwatch, Xiaomi
April 7, 2025
Huawei Watch Fit 3 Launched in India: 1.82″ AMOLED, GPS, 10-Day Battery
Key Takeaways
1. Display and Design: The Watch Fit 3 features a 1.82-inch AMOLED screen with 1500 nits brightness and a slim design, weighing only 26g.
2. Fitness Tracking: It supports over 100 workout modes, built-in GPS, and automatic detection for six exercise types, along with a Smart Suggestions tool for personalized recommendations.
3. Health Monitoring: Key health features include SpO2 monitoring, sleep tracking, heart rate monitoring, atrial fibrillation alerts, and women’s health management.
4. Compatibility and Battery Life: Compatible with Android (8.0+) and iOS (13.0+) devices, the smartwatch has a battery life of up to 10 days, with fast charging capabilities.
5. Pricing: The Watch Fit 3 is priced from Rs. 14,999 ($180), currently available on discount for Rs. 10,999 (~$132) on Amazon India.
Huawei has launched the Watch Fit 3 in India, the much-awaited successor to the Watch Fit 2. After weeks of teasers, the company has revealed a smartwatch that combines fitness-oriented features with a trendy design, targeting users who desire both performance and aesthetics on their wrist.
Specifications of the Watch Fit 3
The Watch Fit 3 boasts a 1.82-inch AMOLED screen that reaches a peak brightness of 1500 nits, with a resolution of 480 × 408 and 347 PPI, providing a vivid and clear viewing experience. Its slim bezels and 77.4% screen-to-body ratio increase immersion, while the watch’s aluminium alloy construction keeps it light at just 26g and 9.9mm thick.
Fitness Features
Fitness and health tracking is extensive. The watch includes built-in GPS, a Track Run mode, and supports over 100 workout modes, with automatic detection for six types of exercises. Additionally, it features Huawei’s new Smart Suggestions tool, which learns your workout habits and recommends activities based on your routines, calories burned, and even the weather conditions in your area.
Health Monitoring Capabilities
Regarding health tracking, the Watch Fit 3 offers SpO2 monitoring, sleep tracking with TruSleep 4.0, heart rate monitoring, atrial fibrillation alerts, and women’s health management. There is also a comprehensive calorie-tracking system that syncs with the Huawei Health app to help you keep track of meals and nutritional intake.
Compatibility and Battery Life
The smartwatch is compatible with both Android (8.0+) and iOS (13.0+) devices and features Bluetooth 5.2 for quicker and more reliable connections. Only the variants with White Leather and Grey Nylon straps come with NFC support.
In terms of battery life, Huawei claims the Watch Fit 3 can last up to 10 days with regular use, 7 days under heavier usage, and 4 days with the always-on display activated — all backed by fast charging that provides a day’s power in just 10 minutes.
Pricing Details
When it comes to pricing, the Watch Fit 3 starts at Rs. 14,999 ($180) for most color options, while the Space Grey model with a Nylon Strap is priced at Rs. 15,999 ($192). However, it is currently available at a discounted price of Rs. 10,999 (~$132) on Amazon India, making it one of the most competitively priced options in the premium mid-range smartwatch segment.
Tags: Huawei, Smartwatch, Watch Fit 3
April 1, 2025
Garmin Vivoactive 6 Launches at $299 with Bright AMOLED Display
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin has launched the Vivoactive 6, the successor to the Vivoactive 5, priced at $299.99.
2. The Vivoactive 6 features a more vibrant AMOLED display, maintaining a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels and supporting Always On Display.
3. It offers a battery life of up to 11 days and increased built-in storage, along with new features like Red Shift and Daily Suggested Workouts.
4. The Vivoactive 6 lacks passcode support and is compatible only with 20 mm watch bands.
5. The watch will be available for order starting April 4 and comes in four different colors.
Companies usually avoid launching new products on April 1 for obvious reasons. However, Garmin has chosen to unveil the successor of the Vivoactive 5 (currently priced at $214 on Amazon), which was released just a bit over 18 months ago.
Display Enhancements
Garmin says that the Vivoactive 6 boasts a more vibrant AMOLED screen compared to the previous model. Nevertheless, they haven’t provided detailed information on this aspect. What they did confirm is that the 1.2-inch display maintains a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, and features Always On Display capability.
Battery Life and Features
Similar to its forerunner, the Vivoactive 6 offers a battery life of up to 11 days. This time, Garmin has upped the built-in storage capacity, and it now supports BeiDou and QZSS location services. Additionally, the Vivoactive 6 is equipped with a built-in gyroscope, which was not present in the Vivoactive 5. New features include Red Shift, more activity profiles, Daily Suggested Workouts, and a Smart Wake Alarm designed to wake you ‘gently’ at the ‘best time’ according to your sleep data.
Missing Features
Interestingly, the Vivoactive 6 does not include passcode support, which Garmin had rolled out to several smartwatches this year, including the Vivoactive 5. It’s also worth noting that the new Vivoactive is only compatible with 20 mm watch bands. The standard watch bands are made to fit wrist sizes ranging from 125 mm to 190 mm in circumference. The Vivoactive 6 will be up for order starting April 4 for a price of $299.99 and will come in four different colors. For a complete list of differences between the Vivoactive 5 and Vivoactive 6, check out Garmin’s product comparison page.
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Tags: Garmin, Smartwatch, Vivoactive 6
April 1, 2025
Garmin Vivoactive 6 Specs and Pricing Ahead of Launch Rumors
Key Takeaways
1. The Vivoactive 6 will have a 1.2-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels, similar to the Vivoactive 5.
2. It is expected to be thinner than the Vivoactive 5, measuring 10.9 mm.
3. The smartwatch will feature 8 GB of internal storage and support BeiDou and QZSS location services.
4. New features will include Garmin Share, animated workouts, and additional running metrics.
5. The anticipated price is around €329 (~$355) in Europe and about $300 in North America.
Hardly any time has gone by since a Reddit user disclosed some early information about the Vivoactive 6 and a possible new Forerunner smartwatch. Yet, new details about the Vivoactive 6 have come to light just ahead of its expected launch in less than a month.
Display and Specs
The Vivoactive 6 is expected to feature an AMOLED display with a diagonal measurement of 1.2 inches and a resolution of 390 x 390 pixels with a density of 325 PPI. In simpler terms, the screen on Garmin’s next Vivoactive will be identical in size and resolution to the one on the Vivoactive 5 (currently priced at $179.95 for refurbished units on Amazon). Unfortunately, it is still unclear if the display will be larger this time around.
Design and Features
Reportedly, the Vivoactive 6 will be a bit thinner than the previous model, measuring at 10.9 mm. This new smartwatch is anticipated to come with 8 GB of internal storage and will support BeiDou and QZSS location services. Additionally, Fitness Tracker Test has noted that the Vivoactive 6 will include features like Garmin Share, animated workouts, and running metrics, which were lacking in its predecessor. The website also mentions that the Vivoactive 6 will be priced at €329 (~$355) in Europe, while it is expected to cost around $300 in North America.
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Tags: Garmin, Smartwatch, Vivoactive 6
March 27, 2025
New Casio MTG-B2000YBD Bluetooth Watch Launching Soon
Key Takeaways
1. A new version of the Casio MTG-B2000YBD watch is rumored to be released soon, featuring a blue color scheme.
2. The original model, MTG-B2000YBD-1A, was launched in 2021 and is made of stainless steel, carbon fiber, and resin.
3. The watch is a Triple G Resist model, offering resistance to shocks, centrifugal forces, and vibrations, and includes Bluetooth connectivity.
4. Users can connect the watch to the Casio Watches app for features like Self check and Phone finder, along with world time support and Tough Solar charging.
5. Launch details, including date, regions, and pricing for the new model, are currently unclear; the previous model was priced at $1,200/£1,109.
New versions of the Casio MTG-B2000YBD watch are said to be coming soon. The MTG-B2000YBD-1A, or MTGB2000YBD1, was introduced in 2021 as a high-end product in the MTG-B2000 lineup.
Rumors of a New Color
A new report claims that at least one updated version of this MT-G timepiece will be unveiled, featuring a blue color scheme. Just to refresh your memory, the MTG-B2000YBD-1A is primarily black with red highlights. This previous model is constructed from stainless steel, carbon fiber, and resin, boasting a Carbon Core Guard design and sapphire crystal glass. Because of its materials, it remains light at 131 g (approximately 4.6 oz).
Features and Connectivity
This watch is tagged as a Triple G Resist model, meaning it is resistant to shocks, centrifugal forces, and vibrations. The MTG-B2000YBD is a radio-controlled device with Multi Band 6, and its Bluetooth capability allows it to link with your smartphone. Via the Casio Watches app, users can modify the watch’s settings and utilize features like Self check and Phone finder. Additional functionalities include world time support for over 300 cities, Tough Solar charging, timers and alarms, along with 20 bar water resistance.
Uncertain Launch Details
Details regarding the launch date of the rumored Casio MTG-B2000YBD watch remain unclear, including which regions it will be sold in and what the price might be. The previous MTG-B2000YBD-1A was priced at $1,200/£1,109.
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Tags: Casio MTG-B2000YBD, MTG-B2000YBD-1A, Smartwatch
March 27, 2025
Amazfit Bip 6 Leaked Video Reveals Upcoming Smartwatch Features
Key Takeaways
1. The packaging for the Amazfit Bip 6 smartwatch has been leaked, showing a square box with an image of the device.
2. The smartwatch features a 1.97-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 380 x 450 px and brightness up to 2,000 nits.
3. Health monitoring capabilities include heart rate, SpO2 levels, HRV, and various workout modes, along with GPS and voice assistant features.
4. The battery life is claimed to last up to two weeks with normal usage.
5. The exact release date and pricing for the Amazfit Bip 6 are still uncertain, but rumors suggest a potential launch in March 2025.
The packaging for the Amazfit Bip 6 smartwatch has reportedly been leaked on Reddit. This new device was initially introduced during a launch event in February for the recently unveiled Active 2 smartwatch.
Packaging Details
A video showcasing the Amazfit Bip 6 was posted by u/toomuchfur on the Amazfit subreddit, displaying a square box with an image of the smartwatch. The image appears to show a black variant of the watch featuring a dark metal casing and a silicone strap. Additional color options include Charcoal, Stone, and Red. However, this video does not provide any more information about the model itself.
Specifications Unveiled
During the official launch event, numerous specifications for the Bip 6 were confirmed. It comes with a 1.97-inch AMOLED display that has a resolution of 380 x 450 px, offering brightness levels of up to 2,000 nits. Users will have the ability to monitor health metrics such as heart rate, SpO2 levels, and HRV. They can also log workouts using modes like HYROX Race and even access AI-generated training plans. Other notable features include GPS, offline navigation, and the Zepp Flow voice assistant. Additionally, it’s claimed to last up to two weeks with normal usage.
Release Date and Pricing
The exact release date for the Amazfit Bip 6 smartwatch is still uncertain. Previous rumors suggested it might be launched as early as March 2025, and this recent video could hint that the launch is approaching. The pricing remains unclear; for reference, the Amazfit Bip 5 is priced at $89.99/£69.99/€89.99 (currently $59.97 on Amazon).
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Tags: Amazfit Bip 6, leak, Smartwatch