Tag: Smartwatch

April 24, 2025
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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Tags: Core 2 Duo, Pebble Time 2, Smartwatch
April 22, 2025
Amazfit Active 2: Ultra-Bright AMOLED Smartwatch Launches in India
Key Takeaways
1. The Amazfit Active 2 smartwatch features a durable stainless steel case and is 50-meter water-resistant.
2. It has a bright 1.32-inch AMOLED display with a brightness of up to 2,000 nits for easy readability.
3. The watch supports around 160 workouts and runs on the Zepp OS 4.5 UI, including new strength training features.
4. It includes the Zepp Flow voice assistant and allows users to save maps for offline use when GPS is unavailable.
5. The smartwatch is equipped with the BioTracker 6.0 PPG sensor for accurate health monitoring, priced at INR 9,999 for the Standard version and INR 11,999 for the Premium version.
Amazfit has just launched its newest Active-series smartwatch in India. This device features a sturdy stainless steel case that is “50 meter water-resistant” and comes with two physical buttons. It is available in a single, bright silver color, and has a round 1.32-inch AMOLED display.
Bright Display for Easy Use
The screen can reach brightness levels of up to 2,000 nits, which should help users easily read the watch face and monitor their progress during any of the approximately 160 workouts available.
Advanced Features for Fitness
The smartwatch runs on the Zepp OS 4.5 UI, which introduces a new feature for strength training. Additionally, the Zepp Flow voice assistant is integrated into the Active 2, enabling users to save maps on the device for times when the built-in GPS may not function properly.
Health Tracking Capabilities
With the latest BioTracker 6.0 PPG sensor, the Amazfit Active 2 offers “precise” health-monitoring capabilities. You can find the smartwatch on Amazon.in priced at INR 9,999 for the Standard version and INR 11,999 for the Premium version.
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Tags: Amazfit Active 2, Health Tracking, Smartwatch
April 22, 2025
Vivo Watch 5 Launches: BlueOS 2.0 & 22 Days Battery Life
Key Takeaways
1. Design Improvements: The Vivo Watch 5 features a similar design to its predecessor, with a 1.43-inch curved AMOLED display, 60Hz refresh rate, and two color options (Night Black and Moonlight White).
2. Enhanced Health Monitoring: The smartwatch includes advanced health tracking features such as continuous heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen levels, stress levels, sleep tracking, and insights into blood pressure and heart health.
3. Smart Features: Operating on BlueOS 2.0, it offers an AI Sports Coach for workout recommendations, Bluetooth calling, music control, notifications, and NFC for payments, although third-party app availability is limited.
4. Long Battery Life: The Watch 5 boasts a battery life of up to 22 days in Bluetooth mode, supported by improved power management and an AI Smart Window feature for organizing information.
5. Pricing and Availability: The smartwatch is priced at CNY 799 (about $109) for the silicone strap model and CNY 999 (around $136) for the leather strap version, with pre-orders starting and official sales beginning on April 29.
Along with the latest X200 smartphone series and a few new tablets, Vivo has unveiled a smartwatch named the Watch 5 in China. This device offers slight improvements over the Watch 3, focusing on enhancements in its design, sports tracking capabilities, and health monitoring features.
Design Features
At first look, the design of the Watch 5 appears quite similar to its predecessor. It maintains the classic circular face and sports a 1.43-inch curved AMOLED display that boasts a 60Hz refresh rate and an impressive brightness of up to 1500 nits. The watch comes in two color options: Night Black and Moonlight White, with choices of aluminum alloy or stainless steel cases. Weighing only 32g without the strap, it’s a slight reduction from the previous model’s weight of 35g. Users have the option to select between silicone or leather straps according to their taste.
Smart Features and Health Monitoring
This year’s edition operates on BlueOS 2.0, which includes several new software features. Among them is the AI Sports Coach, capable of analyzing running form and efficiency while also providing fat-burning workout recommendations based on real-time heart rate data. Vivo asserts that it offers a more comprehensive range of health monitoring functions, such as continuous heart rate, blood oxygen, stress levels, sleep tracking, and involvement in studies concerning blood pressure and heart health.
However, similar to the Watch 3, this smartwatch doesn’t feature a full operating system. While there is a functional app store, the availability of third-party apps is limited. It does, however, provide essential functions like Bluetooth calling, music control, and notifications. The device also has NFC for payments, GPS for outdoor activities, and it is rated 5ATM for water resistance.
Battery Life and Compatibility
One of the standout features of the Watch 5 is its battery longevity. Vivo claims the smartwatch can endure up to 22 days when used in Bluetooth mode under typical conditions, thanks to improved power management. Additionally, a new AI Smart Window feature organizes information based on what you are likely to need the most, based on your usage habits.
The Watch 5 is compatible with both Android and iOS devices, which is not always guaranteed in the smartwatch market. For users in China, WeChat functionality is integrated directly into the watch.
Pricing and Launch Details
The Vivo Watch 5 is available at a price of CNY 799 (approximately $109) for the model with a silicone strap and CNY 999 (around $136) for the leather strap version. Pre-orders have already begun, with official sales set to commence on April 29. There has been no announcement regarding its availability in international markets.
Tags: Smartwatch, vivo, Watch 5
April 21, 2025
Redmi Watch Move Launches in India for ₹1,999: AMOLED, 14 Days Battery
Key Takeaways
1. Display and Design: The Redmi Watch Move features a 1.85-inch AMOLED display with 390 × 450 resolution, 600 nits brightness, and a 74% screen-to-body ratio, weighing only 25g without the strap.
2. Battery Life: It has a 300mAh battery offering up to 14 days of usage under normal conditions, with a 10-minute charge providing up to 2 days of use.
3. Health and Fitness Tracking: The watch monitors sleep, heart rate, SpO₂ levels, stress, and includes over 140 workout modes with automatic detection of 7 activities.
4. Connectivity and Features: Supports Bluetooth calling, music and camera control, and includes features like a stopwatch and alarms, with an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance.
5. Price and Availability: The Redmi Watch Move is priced at Rs. 1,999, with pre-orders starting on April 24 at 12 PM on mi.com and Flipkart, available in multiple colors.
Xiaomi has introduced the Redmi Watch Move in India. This smartwatch features a striking 1.85-inch AMOLED display that offers a resolution of 390 × 450, with peak brightness reaching 600 nits and a pixel density of 322 PPI. The screen supports Always-On Display (AOD) functionality and boasts a 74% screen-to-body ratio.
Performance and Battery Life
Equipped with HyperOS, the watch houses a 300mAh battery, providing a battery life of up to 14 days under normal usage and about 5 days when using AOD. A quick 10-minute charge allows for up to 2 days of usage. Charging is done via a magnetic cable, ensuring convenience.
Design and Features
The device weighs just 25g without the strap and 39g when the strap is attached. The strap, crafted from TPU, features a quick-release design for easy adjustments. Notably, the watch has a functional crown that supports various actions like tapping, scrolling, and pressing.
In terms of health tracking, it monitors sleep patterns, heart rate, SpO₂ levels, stress, and women’s health. Additionally, it offers breathing exercises. For fitness enthusiasts, it includes more than 140 workout modes and automatically detects 7 activities: outdoor running, treadmill workouts, walking, cycling, rowing, elliptical training, and jump rope.
Connectivity and Customization
The watch supports Bluetooth calling, which includes features like call history, quick replies, and a dial pad. Other functionalities include music control, camera control, a stopwatch, alarms, and a find my phone feature. With an IP68 rating, it is resistant to dust and can withstand water exposure up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes.
You can personalize the watch with 5 editable layouts and over 200 watch faces available through the Mi Fitness app, which includes options in Hindi as well as India-themed and festive designs.
Price and Availability
The Redmi Watch Move is available for Rs. 1,999. Pre-orders kick off on April 24 at 12 PM on mi.com and Flipkart, with colors including Silver Sprint, Black Drift, Blue Blaze, and Gold Rush.
Tags: Redmi Watch Move, Smartwatch, Xiaomi
April 18, 2025
Casio G-Shock MTG-B2000YBD-2A: New Premium Watch Coming Soon
Key Takeaways
1. The Casio G-Shock MTG-B2000YBD-2A features a new black and blue-gray color scheme, differing from its predecessor’s black with red highlights.
2. It has a durable design with a black ion-plated stainless steel case, carbon-reinforced resin monocoque case, and dual-core guard structure.
3. The watch includes Multi Band 6 radio control, Bluetooth capabilities, and supports 27 time zones, alongside various functionalities like a daily alarm and countdown timer.
4. It offers Tough Solar charging and an LED backlight for visibility in low light conditions.
5. Scheduled for release in Japan in May, the price is 181,500 yen (approximately $1,279), matching the price of the previous model. Availability in other regions is uncertain.
The Casio G-Shock MTG-B2000YBD-2A has been officially announced. Earlier rumors about this new high-end model from the MTG-B2000 series began circulating in late March, suggesting a fresh colorway to complement the MTG-B2000YBD-1A. The previous version, primarily black with red highlights, debuted in 2021.
Details of the New Model
According to Japanese news source Mynavi News, the MTG-B2000YBD-2A features a striking black and blue-gray color scheme. The watch showcases a black ion-plated stainless steel case and bracelet, complemented by blue-gray ion plating on the bezel and buttons. Similar to its predecessor, this model boasts a dual-core guard structure and a carbon-reinforced resin monocoque case, enhancing its overall durability.
Features and Compatibility
The MTG-B2000YBD-2A is anticipated to offer the same functionalities as the previous MTG-B2000YBD-1A. This model is a Multi Band 6 radio-controlled watch equipped with Bluetooth capabilities, which enables access to additional tools and settings via the Casio Watches app. It supports 27 time zones, includes a daily alarm, a stopwatch that measures in seconds, and a countdown timer with a 24-hour limit. Other notable features are Tough Solar charging and an LED backlight for visibility in dim lighting.
Pricing and Availability
The Casio G-Shock MTG-B2000YBD-2A is set to debut in Japan this May, with a price tag of 181,500 yen (approximately $1,279). This price is identical to that of the older MTG-B2000YBD-1A in the Japanese market. It remains uncertain if or when this watch will be available in other regions, such as the United States.
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Tags: Casio G-SHOCK, MTG-B2000YBD-2A, Smartwatch
April 16, 2025
Casio G-Shock GBA-950 Bluetooth Watch Features Revealed
Key Takeaways
1. The Casio G-Shock GBA-950 will be available in three colors: white (GBA-950-7A), black (GBA-950-1A), and navy (GBA-950-2A).
2. The watch dimensions are 48.5 x 43.9 x 16 mm and it weighs approximately 53 g.
3. Features include step monitoring, distance tracking, and metrics like running time, pace, and estimated calories burned.
4. It offers Bluetooth connectivity for syncing with a smartphone and includes an LED backlight for low-light visibility.
5. The GBA-950 is expected to launch in Japan in May, priced at ¥ 25,300 (about $177).
Further information about the new Casio G-Shock GBA-950 watch has come to light. This model was first talked about back in April, and images surfaced soon after. Now, we’ve got insights into its dimensions and features.
Versions and Specifications
A Japanese news source, Mynavi News, reports that the G-Shock GBA-950 will come in three colors: the GBA-950-7A (white), the GBA-950-1A (black), and the GBA-950-2A (navy). The watch will have dimensions of 48.5 x 43.9 x 16 mm (approximately 1.9 x 1.7 x 0.6 inches) and will weigh around 53 g (about 1.9 oz). One of the improvements over the previous GBA-900 model is said to be a better bezel design and a more comfortable band fit.
Features and Functionality
The report suggests that, just like the GBA-900 series, the GBA-950 models will enable users to monitor their steps and the distance they cover. This feature likely uses GPS from a connected smartphone, although Casio hasn’t confirmed this yet. Additional functionalities include an auto-lap feature and metrics such as running time, pace, interval timing, and estimated calories burned.
Connectivity and Release Information
With Bluetooth connectivity, you’ll be able to connect the watch to your smartphone, where you can utilize the Casio Watches app to keep track of your activity. The hybrid watch, powered by a battery, is projected to last for two years, and an LED backlight will assist in viewing the display during low-light conditions. The Casio G-Shock GBA-950 is expected to debut in Japan in May, with a price tag of ¥ 25,300 (roughly $177). For comparison, the older GBA-900 models are available for ¥ 18,700 (around $131). It remains uncertain whether this model will be released in other regions such as the US, UK, or the EU.
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Tags: Casio G-SHOCK, GBA-950, Smartwatch
April 15, 2025
Garmin Instinct 3 Tactical Leaks Featuring AMOLED Display Option
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin is likely to launch the Instinct 3 Tactical soon, following previous leaks and sightings.
2. The term ‘Tactical’ appears in a Garmin Vietnam press announcement, hinting at new features.
3. The Instinct 3 Tactical may come with both AMOLED and MiP display options.
4. Expected features include a kill switch for data deletion and a stealth mode to disable connectivity.
5. Promotional visuals and review samples suggest an official release is imminent, likely before the end of summer.
Fresh news has emerged regarding Garmin’s potential launch of the Instinct 3 Tactical, just about two months after its previous sighting. To summarize, a leak in February came from an influencer who revealed the smartwatch ahead of its time. Now, a Reddit user has stumbled upon a picture of the same device hidden in a Garmin Vietnam press announcement.
Discovery of Tactical Features
In the press release, the Instinct 3 Tactical isn’t specifically named, but the term ‘Tactical’ can be seen under the watch’s display, which also features an updated watch face. Interestingly, the site Lowyat managed to obtain a clearer version of the image, which we’ve included below for your viewing.
Expected Specs and Features
From the details we have so far, it looks like Garmin plans to offer the Instinct 3 Tactical with both AMOLED and MiP display choices. Both variations are anticipated to include a kill switch that allows for the deletion of all data with just one button press, in addition to a stealth mode that turns off all connectivity. Considering that Garmin had promotional visuals ready last month and was sending out review samples to influencers in February, it seems likely that the Instinct 3 Tactical will make its official debut before summer wraps up.
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Tags: AMOLED display, Garmin Instinct 3 Tactical, Smartwatch
April 14, 2025
OnePlus Watch 3 U.S. Price Rises $170; Discounts in Europe
Key Takeaways
1. The OnePlus Watch 3 is now available in the U.S. with a price increase from $329.99 to $499.99, with no explanation provided for the $170 rise.
2. In Europe, the watch is priced at €299 and in the UK at £269, both with additional free gifts for customers, unlike in the U.S.
3. The watch features a 1.5-inch LTPO AMOLED display, titanium alloy bezel, stainless steel body, and health monitoring capabilities including heart rate and blood oxygen tracking.
4. Battery life lasts up to 5 days in smart mode, with quick charging providing a full day’s use in just 10 minutes.
5. The watch operates on Wear OS 5 and RTOS, powered by a Snapdragon W5 chip, and offers over 100 sports modes with improved GPS accuracy.
The OnePlus Watch 3 is finally on sale in the U.S. after a delay due to a mistake on the device’s back. However, the price in the U.S. has soared from the initially stated $329.99 to $499.99, marking a $170 rise. OnePlus hasn’t explained this price jump. Some people think it might be linked to tariffs on technology imports from the Trump administration, especially since prices in Europe and the UK are lower.
Price Differences in Europe and the UK
In Europe, the watch is priced at €299, reduced from €349, and in the UK it costs £269, down from £319. Customers in these areas also get free gifts like earbuds, charging docks, or extra straps, while those in the U.S. get no such bonuses.
Impressive Features and Design
The OnePlus Watch 3 features enhancements like a vivid 1.5-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a peak brightness of 2,200 nits, sapphire glass, a bezel made from titanium alloy, and a body crafted from stainless steel. It’s available in two colors: Emerald Titanium and Obsidian Titanium, both paired with fluoro rubber straps and a rotating crown. Health monitoring features include a wrist temperature sensor, eight-channel heart rate tracking, 16-channel blood oxygen monitoring, and a new vascular health test for arterial stiffness. The availability of EKG support can differ by region. A 60-second Health Check-In evaluates several vital signs, and the watch is compatible with over 100 sports modes, boasting improved GPS accuracy.
Battery Life and Performance
Battery life can last up to 5 days in smart mode, 2 days with heavy usage, and up to 16 days in power saver mode. The watch charges quick, giving a full day’s worth of use in just 10 minutes. It operates on Wear OS 5 and RTOS, running on a Snapdragon W5 chip along with a BES2800BP co-processor, and provides 32GB of storage.
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Tags: OnePlus Watch 3, Price Increase, 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