Tag: Smartwatch

  • Garmin Forerunner 970: New Smartwatch Launches at $749

    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.

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  • Amazfit Balance 2 Smartwatch Launches with Extended Battery Life

    Amazfit Balance 2 Smartwatch Launches with Extended Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. Larger Size and Enhanced Protection: The Amazfit Balance 2 features a 47 mm diameter and sapphire crystal glass for improved durability compared to the original model.

    2. Improved Battery Life: The new model has a 658 mAh battery, lasting up to 21 days, with enhanced performance in power-saving GPS mode of up to 67 hours.

    3. Dual Speakers and Innovative Features: It is the first Amazfit smartwatch with dual speakers for Bluetooth calling, along with offline maps, music storage, and a new golf feature.

    4. Waterproof and Future Updates: The Balance 2 is waterproof up to 10ATM, with a diving mode expected to be added through an OTA update.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The retail price in China is CNY 2,199 (~$305), with pre-orders available now and an official launch date of May 20th; global release details are yet to be announced.


    The Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch has officially been unveiled in China. This new model improves on the original Amazfit Balance, which came out in 2023. The Balance 2 comes with a range of enhancements and modifications compared to the first version.

    New Design Features

    To start off, the Amazfit Balance 2 has a slightly larger size, featuring a 47 mm (~1.85 inch) diameter instead of the 46 mm (~1.81 inch) of its forerunner. It retains the same 1.5-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 480 x 480 px. However, this updated model boasts sapphire crystal glass for protection, making it more resistant compared to the tempered glass on the previous version. The Balance 2 is showcased with stylish black and orange leather straps, and it seems a bit heavier as it weighs 42 g (~1.5 oz), in contrast to the 35 g (~1.2 oz) of its predecessor.

    Enhanced Battery Life

    Another significant improvement is the battery, which is now 658 mAh, nearly 200 mAh more than before. This means the battery can last up to 21 days, giving users an extra week of usage compared to the earlier model. Furthermore, in power-saving GPS mode, it is expected to last longer, with a maximum of 67 hours instead of 52. It operates on the same chipset as the T-Rex 3, featuring 32 GB of memory, and it will utilize the latest Zepp OS 5 software.

    Innovative Features

    As per Amazfit, the Balance 2 is the first smartwatch equipped with dual speakers, which facilitate Bluetooth calling among other functions. Similar to its predecessor, it also supports offline maps and music storage. Notably, a new golf feature is included, offering course guidance and advanced running dynamics metrics such as vertical amplitude and ground contact time. The Balance 2 is also said to be waterproof up to 10ATM, with a diving mode expected to be added in a future OTA update.

    The Amazfit Balance 2 has a retail price of CNY 2,199 (~$305) in China. Pre-orders are already available on platforms like JD.com, with an official launch set for May 20th. Nevertheless, there are no current updates regarding its release in global markets or the pricing. For context, the original Amazfit Balance is currently priced at $199.99 (now $149.99 at Amazon).

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  • Honor Watch Fit Revealed: 23 Days Battery in Slim Design

    Honor Watch Fit Revealed: 23 Days Battery in Slim Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Honor Watch Fit features a round display and a single button design, differing from previous models like the Honor Watch GS 3.
    2. The smartwatch will have a metal casing available in silver, gold, and black, along with various band options including sport, leather, and a denim-inspired strap.
    3. It will display multiple analogue and digital watch faces, showing heart rate and calories burned.
    4. The official unveiling of the Honor Watch Fit is expected in May, with a release planned for early summer.
    5. The smartwatch measures 9.9 mm in thickness, weighs 26 grams, and has a 495 mAh battery promising up to 23 days of usage when the always-on display is off.


    Honor has shared the first visuals of a smartwatch on the Chinese platform Weibo, which is set to be released as the Honor Watch Fit. This design bears some similarities to the Honor Watch GS 3, featuring a round display along with standard watch bands.

    Design Features

    This new device, however, sports just a single button on the right side of the case rather than two buttons. The display’s edges are masked by a printed bezel. The pictures reveal the metal casing with a shiny finish available in silver, gold, and black. Besides the typical sport and leather bands, Honor also showcases a strap that seems to take inspiration from denim fabric.

    Watch Faces and Release Information

    The visuals depict various analogue and digital watch faces, which include features that show the current heart rate and calories burned. Although Honor has only mentioned that the Honor Watch Fit will arrive in early summer, reliable leaker Digital Chat Station has discovered that the official unveiling is expected in May.

    Specifications and Battery Life

    According to the information from the leaker, the Honor Watch Fit measures 9.9 millimeters in thickness and weighs 26 grams. It is said to be equipped with a 495 mAh battery, which supposedly enables a usage period of up to 23 days. However, this extended runtime might only be achievable with the always-on display turned off. The Honor Watch Fit is anticipated to be one of the slimmest and lightest round smartwatches available, but additional details regarding its features or pricing are still not disclosed.

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  • Lightweight Suunto Run Smartwatch for Runners – Perfect Choice

    Lightweight Suunto Run Smartwatch for Runners – Perfect Choice

    Key Takeaways

    1. Designed for Runners: The Suunto Run smartwatch is specifically tailored for all types of runners, featuring tools to enhance running performance.

    2. High-Quality Display: It has a 1.32” AMOLED screen with a resolution of 466 × 466, housed in a lightweight 46mm stainless steel casing.

    3. Multiple Sports Modes: The watch includes 34 sports modes, catering to various activities beyond running, such as cycling, swimming, and yoga.

    4. Health and Connectivity Features: It offers heart rate monitoring, sleep analysis, and music playback capabilities, along with a battery life of 20 hours with GPS.

    5. Affordable Pricing: Priced at €249, the Suunto Run is a more budget-friendly option compared to the Suunto Race, which costs around $379.


    Finnish brand Suunto has introduced its latest smartwatch, the Suunto Run. The name makes it clear that this watch is designed specifically for runners. Suunto claims this device is suitable for all types of runners, no matter their skill level. It is part of their performance lineup, which also features the Suunto Race and Suunto Race S.

    Design and Display

    Similar to its counterparts in the performance series, the Suunto Run sports a circular dial with a 1.32” AMOLED screen boasting a resolution of 466 × 466. The display is set within a 46mm stainless steel casing and is shielded by Gorilla Glass. This casing includes two physical buttons along with a digital crown. Weighing in at only 36 grams, the Suunto Run is quite light and has a slim profile of just 11.5mm thick.

    Features for Runners

    The Suunto Run is loaded with various features and tools designed to enhance running performance. Users can schedule their runs and receive training tips, complete with voice feedback without needing a phone. It includes modes for marathon running, ghost runner, track running, and even a metronome. The watch will also prompt users to hydrate and provide energy reminders, as well as recovery statistics. Users can monitor their progress over extended periods.

    Even though the watch is primarily for runners, it includes numerous other sports modes such as cycling, skiing, hiking, climbing, swimming, skipping, rowing, boxing, yoga, and pilates. In total, Suunto states there are 34 sports modes available. The smartwatch also works with popular running apps like Strava, Adidas Running, and Mapmyrun. However, it does not offer offline maps nor does it support the Suunto Plus ecosystem. It does come equipped with dual-frequency GPS and a compass.

    Health Tracking and Connectivity

    Equipped with a heart rate monitor, respiratory tracking, and sleep analysis, the Suunto Run also features a breathing app designed to help manage stress and improve breathing techniques. Users can save their music, audiobooks, or podcasts directly on the watch, allowing for playback during workouts without needing to connect to a phone. They only need to pair it with Suunto’s Bluetooth headphones or any compatible third-party brand.

    The Suunto Run boasts a battery life of 20 hours when using GPS, but it can last up to 12 days when used solely as a smartwatch. It comes with a new charging dock, which is not compatible with chargers from other Suunto watches. Additionally, it can be paired with a Suunto HR belt or belts from other manufacturers.

    With a retail price of €249, the Suunto Run is more affordable than the Suunto Race, which is currently priced at around $379 on Amazon. The watch is available in four colors: Frost Gray, All Black, Lime, and Coral Orange, all featuring a 22mm textile strap.

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  • New Suunto Run Smartwatch Leak Shows Lower Price Reveal

    New Suunto Run Smartwatch Leak Shows Lower Price Reveal

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Suunto Run watch features a 1.32-inch AMOLED display, 34 workout modes, and is water-resistant up to 5ATM.
    2. It is expected to have a battery life of up to 12 days or 20 hours in GPS mode, with some listings suggesting a maximum of 20 days.
    3. The smartwatch is anticipated to be priced at €249 in Spain, making it more affordable than the Suunto Race models.
    4. Recent leaks indicate that the Suunto Run may have over 90 sports modes and could lack offline maps.
    5. The watch has been briefly listed on MediaMarkt Spain, hinting at an upcoming release.


    The Suunto Run watch has been spotted at a European retailer, providing additional details about its features and pricing. This latest device appears to be a more affordable option compared to the Suunto Race, which was released last year in 2023.

    Features Overview

    A few weeks ago, an Australian news outlet reported about Suunto’s new Run smartwatch. The article confirmed that this wearable will feature a 1.32-inch display, housed in a polymer case with a stainless steel bezel and protected by Corning Gorilla Glass. It is expected to be water-resistant up to 5ATM and weigh anywhere from 35 to 45 g (about 1.2 to 1.6 oz). Among the features highlighted are 34 workout modes, support for training plans, local music storage, and a dual-band GNSS module. Additionally, the battery life is said to last up to 12 days or 20 hours when in GPS mode.

    Recent Listings

    Recently, the watch was briefly listed on MediaMarkt Spain. A Reddit user, u/GoatInformal9622, shared a screenshot of the product page for the Suunto Run smartwatch, hinting that its release could be soon. This leak validates that the smartwatch has a 1.32-inch AMOLED display, although the number of sports modes is claimed to exceed 90. The listing indicates that the battery could last up to 20 days, although this might be the optimistic maximum, with a typical use estimate of 12 days. The image included seems to show a velcro strap, and earlier leaks suggest that this model might lack offline maps and could come with a new version of the firmware from the brand.

    Pricing Information

    In Spain, the Suunto Run smartwatch is anticipated to be priced at €249. This makes it less expensive than the basic models of the Suunto Race S and Suunto Race, which are listed at €349 and €399, respectively. The earlier report mentioned that the new model would be priced at AU$599 in Australia. For those in the US, the Suunto Race S is currently available for $349 on Amazon, providing a rough pricing reference.

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  • Motorola Launches Affordable Moto Watch Fit: AMOLED, GPS, Health Tracking

    Motorola Launches Affordable Moto Watch Fit: AMOLED, GPS, Health Tracking

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Moto Watch Fit was launched on April 24, 2025, priced at £89.99, targeting budget-conscious Android users.
    2. It features a bright 1.9-inch AMOLED display, built-in GPS, and an impressive battery life of up to 16 days.
    3. The smartwatch includes fitness tracking capabilities for over 100 activities, heart rate monitoring, and is water-resistant (IP68, 5 ATM).
    4. It offers some customization options but lacks advanced health features like ECG and temperature tracking found in higher-end models.
    5. The Moto Watch Fit competes well with budget fitness trackers, especially due to its GPS feature, though availability in markets like the US and India is still uncertain.


    Motorola has launched a new smartwatch called the Moto Watch Fit on April 24, 2025, alongside its Edge 60 Pro and Razr 60 Ultra. In the UK, it is priced at £89.99, making it an attractive option for Android users who want fitness tracking without spending too much. The watch features a bright 1,000-nit AMOLED display, GPS, and boasts an impressive battery life of 16 days.

    A Great Value Proposition

    The Moto Watch Fit offers both style and utility without costing too much. It comes with a 1.9-inch AMOLED screen protected by Gorilla Glass 3, providing excellent visibility even in bright sunlight. However, the larger bezels and lack of a digital crown suggest some compromises were made to keep costs down compared to more expensive models like the Apple Watch. This smartwatch is designed for Android users, allowing them to receive notifications and control music directly from their wrist. Nevertheless, its unique operating system does not support third-party applications.

    Fitness Features Abound

    For those passionate about fitness, the built-in GPS is a fantastic feature, letting you track runs and bike rides without needing your smartphone. It includes heart rate, SpO2, and motion sensors that keep tabs on your steps and more than 100 different activities, including yoga and swimming, thanks to its IP68 rating and 5 ATM water resistance. Motorola claims it can last up to 16 days on a single charge, though this is likely without using the always-on display—a real plus for anyone who dislikes charging their devices daily. The watch also features interchangeable 22mm straps that look and feel similar to those of the Apple Watch.

    Customization and Competition

    While the Watch Fit does offer some customization options, it lacks advanced health features like ECG or temperature tracking that are available on higher-end models. At £89.99 (around ₹10,200), it competes strongly with budget fitness trackers like the Amazfit Bip 6, especially since it includes GPS, which gives it an advantage over the Galaxy Fit 3.

    Details regarding its availability in markets like the US or India remain uncertain, but there are positive comments on social media about its long battery life and vibrant display. If you’re an Android user in search of an affordable fitness watch, the Moto Watch Fit seems to be a wise choice.

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  • Garmin Instinct 3 Tactical Edition Smartwatch Launch with Unlimited Battery

    Garmin Instinct 3 Tactical Edition Smartwatch Launch with Unlimited Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched the Instinct 3 Tactical Edition watches globally, with three models available: two AMOLED and one Solar version.
    2. The watches feature a durable design with a metal-reinforced bezel, scratch-resistant display, and health tracking functions, including Body Battery and GPS.
    3. Exclusive tactical features include night vision capabilities, rucking activity mode, stealth mode, Jumpmaster Mode, and waypoint bookmarking.
    4. The AB Quantum app allows users to manage profiles and ballistic information, with an option to access the Applied Ballistics Solver for a fee.
    5. Pricing for the Tactical Edition starts at $599.99 for the 50 mm AMOLED model, with Solar versions priced between $429.99 and $549.99.


    Garmin has introduced the latest Instinct 3 Tactical Edition watches globally. These devices were previously revealed in April 2025 through images that appeared in a press release on the Garmin Vietnam website.

    Variants and Design

    There are three models available: the Instinct 3 – 50 mm, AMOLED, Tactical Edition, the Instinct 3 – 50 mm, Solar, Tactical Edition, and the Instinct 3 – 45 mm, Solar, Tactical Edition. Each model comes in black with a black strap, expanding on the original versions that debuted in January 2025. They maintain a metal-reinforced bezel and a scratch-resistant display, similar to their earlier versions. Other shared features include an integrated LED flashlight and health tracking functions with metrics like Body Battery and GPS positioning. Battery life remains unchanged, lasting up to 24 days for the AMOLED variant and up to 40 days, or unlimited under optimal settings, for the Solar models.

    Tactical Features

    Exclusive features of the Tactical Edition are night vision capabilities, a new rucking activity mode, and a stealth mode that conceals your GPS location. Users can bookmark waypoints for future reference, and there’s a Jumpmaster Mode along with a kill switch. Additionally, the AB Quantum app for smartphones lets you manage your profile, targets, and ballistic information. Users can also pay a single fee to access the Applied Ballistics Solver for long-distance shooting.

    Pricing Information

    You can purchase the 50 mm Garmin Instinct 3 Tactical Edition AMOLED in regions like the US, UK, and Netherlands for $599.99/£499.99/€599.99. The 45 mm and 50 mm Solar versions are priced at $499.99/$429.99/€499.99 and $549.99/£459.99/€549.99, respectively. Just to note, the standard 50 mm Instinct 3 AMOLED is available for $499.99, while the Solar version of the same size retails for $449.99.

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  • Vivo Watch 5: New Smartwatch with iOS Support & 22-Day Battery

    Vivo Watch 5: New Smartwatch with iOS Support & 22-Day Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Vivo Watch 5 has a battery life of up to 22 days, surpassing the Vivo Watch 3 by 6 days.
    2. It includes advanced AI features for health monitoring and a specialized sports coach function.
    3. The smartwatch is compatible with iOS, making it unique among many competitors.
    4. It features a 1.43-inch AMOLED display with a brightness of 1,500 nits.
    5. Currently, the Vivo Watch 5 is only available in China, with prices starting at CNY 799 (~$110).


    The Watch 5 is the newest smartwatch from Vivo, and it resembles the Pixel Watch 3 quite a bit (curr. $399 on Amazon) in its promotional pictures. As anticipated, the Vivo Watch 5 comes with several enhancements compared to the previous model, while also being over 10% lighter.

    Battery Life and AI Features

    For instance, the Vivo Watch 5 offers an impressive battery life of up to 22 days, which is 6 days more than what the Vivo Watch 3 provides. Moreover, Vivo has integrated AI more extensively this time, allowing for what it calls a more all-encompassing health monitoring system, along with a specialized sports coach feature. Additionally, the Watch 5 can alert users if it recognizes irregular heartbeats (AFib) or possible blood pressure issues.

    Compatibility and Display

    In a noteworthy advantage, the Vivo Watch 5 is compatible with iOS, setting it apart from many other smartwatches in the market. It is said that the smartwatch features a 1.43-inch AMOLED display that can reach a brightness of 1,500 nits; however, Vivo hasn’t shared similar specifications for the Vivo Watch 3. Unfortunately, it’s still unclear if the Watch 5 will be launched globally. Currently, it is available only in China, priced at CNY 799 (~$110) for the standard model and CNY 999 (~$137) for the stainless steel version.

    Conclusion

    In summary, the Vivo Watch 5 brings significant improvements and features to the table, making it a compelling option for smartwatch enthusiasts. With its long battery life, advanced health monitoring, and compatibility with iOS, it stands out in a crowded market, though potential buyers outside of China will have to wait for further announcements.

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  • Motorola Launches Moto Watch Fit: GPS, AMOLED Display, 16 Days Battery

    Motorola Launches Moto Watch Fit: GPS, AMOLED Display, 16 Days Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Moto Watch Fit features a 1.9-inch AMOLED screen with a brightness of 1,000 nits and is protected by Gorilla Glass 3.
    2. It includes an integrated GPS for tracking running and biking distances, along with sensors for heart rate, SpO2, and activity monitoring.
    3. The smartwatch is IP68 rated, making it water-resistant up to 5 ATM, suitable for swimming activities.
    4. Motorola claims a battery life of 16 days, though it likely does not have an always-on display.
    5. The Moto Watch Fit is priced at £89.99 in the UK and is designed to work exclusively with Android devices.


    Along with the Motorola Edge 60 Pro and Razr 60 Ultra, the company has introduced the Moto Watch Fit. The smartwatch’s design seems to take cues from the Apple Watch, but it lacks a digital crown and features a display with noticeably larger bezels, likely to maintain a lower price point.

    Display and Features

    The Moto Watch Fit comes with a 1.9-inch AMOLED screen that boasts a brightness of 1,000 nits and is protected by scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass 3. Thanks to an integrated GPS module, users can track their running and biking distances without needing a smartphone nearby. Additionally, with heart rate, SpO2, and motion sensors, this watch can monitor steps and keep tabs on more than 100 different activities.

    Durability and Battery Life

    This smartwatch is IP68 rated, meaning it is water-resistant up to 5 ATM, making it ideal for swimming. Motorola claims an impressive battery life of 16 days, although it’s likely that the watch won’t feature an always-on display. The Moto Watch Fit supports standard 22-millimeter watch bands and is designed to work exclusively with Android devices. It can also show notifications and manage music playback.

    The cost for the Motorola Moto Watch Fit is set at £89.99 in the UK. Information regarding pricing and availability in other regions is still being awaited.

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  • Pebble Core 2 Duo: Innovative Charging Adapter for Retro Smartwatch

    Pebble Core 2 Duo: Innovative Charging Adapter for Retro Smartwatch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Pebble is reintroducing the Pebble 2 and Pebble Time 2, now called Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2, with a shipping date of July 2025.
    2. The Core 2 Duo is priced at $149 and aims to compete with budget-friendly smartwatches like the Huawei Watch Fit 3.
    3. It features easy charging with a USB-C adapter, allowing use of old Pebble cords and standard mobile device cables.
    4. The Core 2 Duo has a battery life of 30 days, significantly improved from the original Pebble 2’s 7 days, requiring fewer charges annually.
    5. Both models support over 10,000 third-party apps and watch faces through open-source PebbleOS, with the Core Time 2 offering heart rate monitoring.


    Back in the middle of March, Eric Migicovsky, the founder of Pebble, shared exciting news about bringing back the Pebble 2 and Pebble Time 2, now rebranded as the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2. In the video linked below, he gave a sneak peek of what comes in the box of the Core 2 Duo, which is set to start shipping in July 2025. This smartwatch is priced at $149 and aims to go head-to-head with budget-friendly smartwatches, like the Huawei Watch Fit 3, which is around $140 on Amazon.

    Charging Made Easy

    The smartwatch comes with an adapter that allows charging through a standard USB-C cable. This smart design means that long-time fans can still use their old Pebble charging cords, while new users can utilize the same cable they already have for most mobile devices. The adapter is compact enough to attach to a key ring. With the Core 2 Duo boasting a significantly enhanced battery life of 30 days—up from the original Pebble 2’s 7 days—users will likely find themselves charging it only 12 times a year.

    Simple Yet Effective

    The first-look video doesn’t feature the sports band, which will be part of the final product. In today’s tech landscape, the Core 2 Duo stands out as a straightforward smartwatch, showcasing a 1.28-inch black-and-white screen, a waterproof plastic casing, sleep tracking capabilities, and a pedometer. Heart rate monitoring is a feature reserved for the pricier Core Time 2. Both models are fitted with a microphone and speaker, and they work seamlessly with Apple iPhones and Android devices. Importantly, PebbleOS is open source, giving users access to over 10,000 third-party apps and watch faces.

    Eric Migicovsky (X)

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