Tag: Smartwatch

  • Global Launch: Smartwatch with Advanced Marathon Mode Alternatives

    Global Launch: Smartwatch with Advanced Marathon Mode Alternatives

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei will launch the Watch GT Runner 2 on February 26, alongside other devices like the Band 11 Pro and FreeBuds Pro 5.
    2. Teaser videos indicate that the Watch GT Runner 2 is a successor to the original model, competing with Garmin’s popular smartwatches.
    3. Developed in partnership with Eliud Kipchoge, the smartwatch includes an ‘intelligent marathon mode’ for training assistance.
    4. The Watch GT Runner 2 features Huawei’s TruSense technology, monitoring over sixty health and fitness metrics.
    5. The smartwatch will utilize the Sunflower positioning system for tracking routes and activities; global pricing details are not yet available.

    Huawei has announced that it will be launching the Watch GT Runner 2 this month. The company has stated that the Watch GT Runner 2 will be featured among numerous new products that it plans to showcase on February 26. At this moment, the smartwatch is anticipated to be released globally alongside several other devices, such as the Band 11 Pro, FreeBuds Pro 5, Mate 80 Pro, and the MatePad Mini tablet.

    Teaser Videos Surface

    Meanwhile, Huawei has started to release teaser videos related to the Watch GT Runner 2 on YouTube. These videos, which can be seen below, present the new smartwatch as a direct successor to the original Watch GT Runner, albeit five years later. Consequently, the Watch GT Runner 2 is expected to compete against popular Garmin smartwatches favored by runners, such as the Fenix 8 or the Forerunner 970, which retails for $749.99 on Amazon.

    Notable Features

    Like its predecessor, the Watch GT Runner 2 has been developed in partnership with Eliud Kipchoge, and it seems to have several key enhancements compared to recent Huawei smartwatches. For example, Huawei has hinted at the addition of an ‘intelligent marathon mode.’ This feature, aimed at training, is said to assist users in preparing more effectively for long-distance races.

    Furthermore, the Watch GT Runner 2 is expected to utilize Huawei’s TruSense technology. Already integrated into several Huawei smartwatches, TruSense is capable of monitoring over sixty health and fitness metrics to offer diverse health insights. Additionally, the smartwatch will benefit from the company’s Sunflower positioning system for tracking routes and activities. Huawei plans to market the Watch GT Runner 2 on a global scale, but the pricing details are still not available for now.

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  • Meta Smartwatch to Challenge Garmin, Apple, and Samsung by 2026

    Meta Smartwatch to Challenge Garmin, Apple, and Samsung by 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. Meta’s first smartwatch, previously known for its dual-camera design, has undergone significant changes and is now expected to launch in 2026.
    2. The new design features a square screen with rounded corners, a selfie camera, and a rear camera, with a focus on health-tracking capabilities and AI.
    3. The smartwatch, dubbed “Malibu 2,” will be released before Meta’s mixed reality headset, indicating a strategic product rollout.
    4. Meta faces strong competition in the smartwatch market from established brands like Apple, Samsung, and Google, as well as specialized companies like Garmin.
    5. To differentiate itself, Meta aims to incorporate innovative AI functionalities into its smartwatch.

    Rumors about Meta’s first smartwatch, which is the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, have been going around for several years. An earlier version, which had two cameras, was reportedly abandoned in 2022. A year later, a leak disclosed the design of a Meta Watch V2, which is quite unique with a square screen and rounded corners, a selfie camera in a notch, and another camera located on the back.

    Innovative Camera Features

    The concept behind the smartwatch was that it could be removed from the wristband magnetically, allowing it to be used as a camera. In early 2025, Bloomberg mentioned that Meta planned to release a smartwatch the year before. Although the company didn’t quite manage to do that, The Information reports that it is anticipated to finally launch in 2026. The emphasis is reportedly shifting from cameras to health-tracking capabilities and AI.

    Competition in the Market

    This smartwatch, referred to as “Malibu 2,” is expected to come out before Meta’s upcoming mixed reality headset. Meta has seen success in the wearable market with products like the Meta Ray-Ban Wayfarer smart glasses. Nevertheless, the smartwatch arena is much more challenging, as major tech players like Apple, Samsung, and Google already have successful smartwatch lines, and brands like Garmin provide specialized alternatives. Meta is reportedly trying to set itself apart from these rivals by incorporating innovative AI functionalities.

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  • Garmin Fenix 9 Release Timeline: CEO Teases New High-End Smartwatch

    Garmin Fenix 9 Release Timeline: CEO Teases New High-End Smartwatch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin plans to launch a new premium smartwatch, likely the Fenix 9, later this year.
    2. The Fenix 8 Pro is currently priced at $1,199.99, following the Fenix 8 released in August 2024.
    3. Garmin anticipates increased sales in the latter half of 2026, despite releasing several smartwatches this year.
    4. There are no specific details available about the Fenix 9 at this time.
    5. Garmin’s outdoor division is expected to have a very active year, but speculation about new features, like advanced digital crown patents, remains unconfirmed.

    Garmin’s CEO has shared that the company is getting ready to launch a new premium smartwatch later this year. To give some background, the Fenix 8 was introduced in August 2024, and the Fenix 8 Pro followed just a year later, currently priced at $1,199.99 on Amazon. Before that, there was around a 14-15 month gap between the release of the Fenix 7 Pro and the Fenix 7, as well as between the Fenix 8 and the Fenix 7 Pro.

    Upcoming Launch

    It appears that we are only a few months away from the debut of the first Fenix 9 smartwatches. For now, Garmin is being secretive about what they are planning. However, during Garmin’s announcement of its financial results for the year 2025, CEO Clifton Pemble indicated that the company anticipates increased sales in the latter half of 2026, even with the introduction of several smartwatches this year, including the Quatix 8 Pro.

    Analyst Insights

    As noted by the5krunner, Morgan Stanley analyst Eric Woodring echoed this sentiment in a follow-up remark. At this moment, Pemble declined to comment on any speculation regarding the Fenix 9. He mentioned that Garmin’s outdoor division is set for a “very active year”. There are no specific details on the Fenix 9 available yet. It also remains uncertain if the recent advanced digital crown patents will lead to a consumer product in this generation.

    Garmin through the5krunner.

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  • Affordable New Reebok Stride Smartwatch with GPS Now Available

    Affordable New Reebok Stride Smartwatch with GPS Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Reebok launched the Stride smartwatch in the US, priced at $99.99, making it more affordable than other models.
    2. The Stride features a 1.43-inch AMOLED display, offers over 100 watch faces, and weighs 41 grams.
    3. It supports tracking for over 80 activities, monitors health metrics like heart rate and sleep quality, and has GPS functionality.
    4. The smartwatch includes Bluetooth calling, smart notifications, and integrates with apps like Strava and Apple Health.
    5. The Stride has a battery life of around ten days and is rated IP68 for dust and water resistance.

    Reebok has unveiled the Stride smartwatch in the United States. After receiving FCC approval earlier this month, this new device launches alongside the Rush smartwatch. Both of these wearables come at a lower price point compared to the current offerings from the brand.

    Design and Features

    The Reebok Stride features a 1.43-inch AMOLED display, boasting a resolution of 466 × 466 pixels. It is available in two stylish colors: Midnight Steel and Victory Gold, and users can select from over 100 different watch faces. Weighing in at 41 grams (about 1.45 ounces), the watch measures 44.5 × 44.5 × 10.8 mm (approximately 1.75 x 1.75 x 0.43 inches).

    Health and Tracking Capabilities

    With the Stride, you can monitor workouts across more than 80 different activities, aided by GPS. It allows tracking of various health metrics, including heart rate, SpO2 levels, and sleep quality. Additional features encompass Bluetooth calling and smart notifications. The Reebok smartphone app enables users to access data-driven insights and set personal objectives. Moreover, it integrates with platforms like Strava, Google Health, and Apple Health. Reebok claims that the battery life should last around ten days with normal use, plus it holds an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance.

    Pricing and Availability

    In the US, the Reebok Stride smartwatch is priced at $99.99. This price point is $20 less than the brand’s Icon watch and $40 under the Pulse model (currently $139.99 on Amazon). However, it stands as a mid-range option for Reebok, positioned above the newly launched Reebok Rush watch. The release date for the Stride in the US remains uncertain, as well as its potential availability in markets beyond North America.

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  • Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 Smartwatch Now Available at Retailers

    Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 Smartwatch Now Available at Retailers

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 smartwatch has been listed by Italian retailer Epto, generating excitement among tech fans.
    2. It features a 1.5-inch AMOLED display with 3,000 nits brightness, but lacks the anticipated MicroLED technology.
    3. The smartwatch supports six satellite systems and dual-band GPS, allowing for route creation and automatic redirection.
    4. It has a battery life of up to 30 days under normal use and is water-resistant up to 10 ATM, with contactless payment options available via Zepp Pay.
    5. Epto has priced the smartwatch at €512.90 for pre-orders, while the official release date from Zepp Health remains unknown.

    The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 smartwatch has surfaced at a European retailer, stirring excitement among tech enthusiasts. Discussions about this smartwatch began back in 2025, and it was later mentioned in the code of a Zepp app update in early 2026.

    Details Unveiled by Epto

    Italian retailer Epto has unveiled the Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2, as noted by a Reddit user. The listing provides insights into its design and specifications. The T-Rex Ultra 2 features a 1.5-inch AMOLED display that shines with up to 3,000 nits brightness; however, it does not include the MicroLED technology that many fans were anticipating. The smartwatch is reported to be about 51 mm (~2.0 inches) wide, encased in titanium, with the display safeguarded by sapphire crystal.

    Impressive Features and Functionality

    The T-Rex Ultra 2 boasts advanced positioning capabilities, supporting six satellite systems alongside dual-band GPS, and comes with preloaded color maps. Users can create routes right on the watch, search for nearby points of interest, and the device can automatically redirect users if they stray from their planned course. Additionally, a dual-color integrated flashlight is included, enhancing visibility, and the watch is equipped with sensors such as a barometer.

    Pricing and Availability

    The listing indicates that the smartwatch can last up to 30 days under normal usage, or around seven days with GPS active. It is also designed to be water-resistant up to 10 ATM, and users in Europe will have the option to use contactless payments via Zepp Pay. Epto has priced the Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 at €512.90, and customers appear to have the option to pre-order it. The official launch date from Zepp Health is still unclear, but its design seems to mirror that of the previously rumored T-Rex 3 Pro 51 mm.

    In addition to this, Epto lists the Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 smartwatch for €512.90, allowing pre-orders. For context, the leading model, the T-Rex 3 Pro, is currently offered at €399.90 in the same market (approximately $399.99 on Amazon). The official release timeline for this new premium watch by Zepp Health remains uncertain.

    Source: Epto, u/Gamefan5 via Reddit

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  • Oppo Watch S: 3,000-nit AMOLED, GPS, 5 ATM Now in More Regions

    Oppo Watch S: 3,000-nit AMOLED, GPS, 5 ATM Now in More Regions

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Oppo Watch S is priced at €259 and available in Phantom Black and Nebula Silver, currently in Austria with plans for wider European availability.
    2. It features a 464 x 464 AMOLED display with a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, ideal for bright conditions, but sustained brightness is not continuous.
    3. The smartwatch has a thickness of about 0.35 inches and includes stainless steel elements, with added workout insights like swing speed for tennis.
    4. Health tracking includes estimating lactate threshold and is water-resistant up to 5 ATM, suitable for swimming, but the ECG feature may not be available in Europe.
    5. The always-on display function reduces battery life from seven days to four days.

    Oppo launched the Watch S last autumn, and it’s now available in Europe. The price for the watch is €259, and customers can select from two colors: Phantom Black and Nebula Silver. Currently, the watch can be found in the brand’s Austrian online store, with plans to expand to other European nations soon. Some third-party sellers have begun offering the Oppo Watch S as well.

    Display Features

    Oppo is putting a spotlight on the display, featuring a 464 x 464 AMOLED screen that can reach a maximum brightness of 3,000 nits, which is beneficial for visibility in bright sunlight. However, it’s important to note that this peak brightness is not maintained continuously but happens in short bursts. The watch also includes an always-on display function, but this will reduce battery life from seven days down to four days.

    Design and Functionality

    The smartwatch has a thickness of about 0.35 inches and incorporates some stainless steel in its design. Furthermore, the Oppo Watch S aims to offer extra workout information, like swing speed for tennis players. For those who jog or run, Oppo includes a posture assessment feature, along with the standard GPS module.

    Health Tracking Capabilities

    Oppo claims that the watch can estimate the lactate threshold, which could be helpful for workout planning. The Oppo Watch S is also water-resistant up to 5 ATM, making it suitable for swimming activities. However, it’s uncertain if the advertised ECG feature is accessible globally, as Oppo does not mention it on the product page, even though it is visible in some images. Thus, it seems likely that this function may not be available on the European model.

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  • Lenovo Smartwatch: AMOLED Display, 7-Day Battery, Calls for $32

    Lenovo Smartwatch: AMOLED Display, 7-Day Battery, Calls for $32

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Lenovo F101 smartwatch is priced at approximately $32 for preorder, with additional shipping and import fees not included.
    2. Customers should expect delivery around mid-March, and warranty claims may be difficult due to the seller’s location in China.
    3. The smartwatch lacks advanced features like GPS and maps, relying instead on step counts and stride lengths for workout distance estimation.
    4. It features a 1.96-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 410 x 502 pixels, a rotating crown, and an IP68 rating, though it may not be suitable for swimming.
    5. The watch can monitor heart rate and blood oxygen levels, track sleep, allow phone calls via Bluetooth, control music playback, and has a battery life of about one week per charge.

    The Lenovo F101 smartwatch has recently appeared on Banggood, priced at approximately $32. This price is for a preorder, and it’s important to note that shipping and import fees are not included. Customers should not anticipate receiving their orders until at least mid-March. As is often the case, enforcing warranty claims might be challenging since the seller operates from China.

    Basic Features

    At this price point, it’s quite evident that the Lenovo smartwatch is quite basic in terms of features. It does not provide access to maps, and there’s no GPS functionality either. Consequently, users will only be able to estimate their workout distance by using step counts and stride lengths, rather than obtaining precise measurements. However, the Lenovo F101 does feature a 1.96-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 410 x 502 pixels, designed with rounded edges that should enhance the user experience.

    Design and Functionality

    Measuring 0.39 inches in thickness, the watch includes a rotating crown and is rated IP68, although it’s likely not suitable for swimming. Nonetheless, the device can monitor heart rate and blood oxygen levels, and it also includes sleep tracking capabilities. Users can make phone calls via Bluetooth, and the F101 allows for music playback control on connected smartphones. Finally, Lenovo claims that the battery can last around one week on a single charge.

    Banggood

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  • Affordable Titanium Smartwatch with Maps and Diving Features

    Affordable Titanium Smartwatch with Maps and Diving Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Product Launch: Mibro has launched the GS Explorer S-Ti Premium smartwatch priced at $349, with a basic version available for $249.

    2. Durable Design: Both versions utilize titanium for enhanced durability, with the premium model featuring a titanium bracelet.

    3. Outdoor-Focused Features: The watch is designed for adventurers, offering offline map downloads and a dual-frequency GPS for accurate location tracking.

    4. Health Monitoring: Equipped with optical sensors to monitor heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and sleep patterns, featuring a 1.32-inch AMOLED display.

    5. Extended Battery Life: The smartwatch boasts a battery life of up to 20 days and includes diving functions for depths up to 98 ft.

    Some readers might already know about the wearable company Mibro, which has just launched a new smartwatch called the Mibro GS Explorer S-Ti Premium. This watch is priced at $349, while the basic version costs $249. The less expensive model does not come with a titanium bracelet, although both versions use titanium. This material is meant to enhance the watch’s durability and likely provides better resistance against scratches and other damages.

    Targeted For Adventurers

    The Mibro GS Explorer S-Ti is promoted as a rival to the Garmin Fenix 8 series and is aimed at those seeking a tough wearable for outdoor activities. The watch features internal storage that allows users to download maps for offline navigation, even without a smartphone. It includes a dual-frequency GPS module designed to deliver quick and dependable location information.

    Health Monitoring Features

    As usual, the watch’s optical sensors measure heart rate and blood oxygen levels, and it also tracks sleep patterns. The AMOLED display measures 1.32 inches, with a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels and a maximum brightness of 1,500 nits. The battery life is typically said to last about 20 days. Additionally, it includes diving functions. Moreover, this so-called Garmin Fenix 8 competitor is capable of being used for diving up to a depth of 98 ft, showcasing data like the current dive depth.

    Mibro’s new offering seems to be a solid choice for those who enjoy outdoor sports and activities, making it an appealing option for potential buyers.

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  • Amazfit Active 3 Smartwatch Launches in Latest Update

    Amazfit Active 3 Smartwatch Launches in Latest Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit Active 3 Premium has been discovered in the code of the Zepp app, but no specific features have been revealed yet.
    2. The previous model, Active 2 Premium, includes health tracking, GPS, 160+ workout modes, and Zepp Pay for contactless payments.
    3. There is speculation about potential improvements in the Active 3 Premium, such as a bigger battery and increased storage.
    4. An updated version of the standard Active 2 smartwatch is also in development, but no official announcements have been made.
    5. The Active 3 smartwatches might be released around April or May 2026, based on the launch timeline of previous models.

    Another smartwatch from Amazfit, the Active 3 Premium, seems to be coming soon. The latest product from the Zepp Health brand was the Active Max, which launched in December 2025 and is currently priced at $169.99 on Amazon.

    Discovery in App Code

    The Amazfit Active 3 Premium has been found in the code of the recent Zepp app update version 10.0.5 by Gadgets and Wearables. So far, only the product name has been revealed, and no specific details about its features have been shared. This leaves us unsure of how the new smartwatch might be different from the previous Active 2 Premium model.

    Features of Active 2 Premium

    To jog your memory, the Active 2 Premium includes features such as health metric tracking, GPS navigation, over 160 workout modes, and Zepp Pay for contactless payments (available in selected European countries). It features a 1.32-inch AMOLED display protected by sapphire glass, and comes with options for leather and silicone straps. Whether the Active 3 Premium will have some advantages like a bigger battery and increased storage, similar to the Active Max, is still unknown. It seems that Zepp Health is also developing an updated version of the standard Active 2 smartwatch. However, the company hasn’t made any official announcements about the launch of either device yet.

    Potential Release Timeline

    It’s uncertain if a Malaysian certification filing for an Amazfit smartwatch is connected to the Active 3 or the rumored T-Rex Ultra 2. Regarding the release date for the Active 3 and Active 3 Premium devices, we can look back at the launches of the prior Active and Active 2 smartwatches. The Active 2 was released about 15 months after the original, which might suggest that the Active 3 smartwatches could come out around April or May 2026. We will need to be patient and wait for Zepp Health to share more information about this upcoming smartwatch.

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  • Affordable 4G LTE Smartwatch with Camera and App Support

    Affordable 4G LTE Smartwatch with Camera and App Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. 4G LTE Capability: The Rogbid R3 allows users to make calls and access the internet independently of a smartphone.
    2. Android Operating System: The smartwatch runs on Android, but it’s not fully optimized for the small display, leading to some apps being cumbersome.
    3. Diverse App Availability: Users can download a variety of applications, including alternative mapping and navigation tools.
    4. Battery and Specs: The smartwatch has a 1,100mAh battery, 3GB of RAM, and 32GB of internal storage, but battery longevity may be limited.
    5. Health Monitoring Features: It includes heart rate, oxygen sensors, sleep tracking, and a potential blood pressure measurement feature, though accuracy may vary.

    Rogbid has recently launched a new smartwatch named the R3, which boasts a comprehensive array of features on paper. The device includes 4G LTE cellular capability, enabling users to make calls or surf the internet without needing a smartphone connected. Although it operates on Android, it’s not necessarily a version that’s fully tailored for smartwatches. This leads to some apps, which weren’t designed with watches in mind, appearing somewhat clumsy on its 1.65-inch display that has a resolution of 480 x 480 pixels.

    Feature Versatility

    On the bright side, this allows users to download a diverse selection of applications. For instance, users can install alternative mapping and navigation tools. The smartwatch can function as a mostly independent Android device, or it can be utilized as a conventional Bluetooth smartwatch, mainly managing activity monitoring and notifications.

    Battery Life and Specifications

    Moreover, the Rogbid R3 comes equipped with a 1,100mAh battery, but buyers should temper their expectations regarding battery longevity. This gadget also features 3GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage. A GPS module is included for navigation purposes, along with an electronic compass. Additionally, heart rate and oxygen sensors are present, and Rogbid even mentions a blood pressure measurement feature. It seems like no calibration is required, which could mean that these blood pressure readings might not be very precise. Regardless, the smartwatch provides sleep tracking and includes a rotatable camera.

    The retail price for the Rogbid R3 smartwatch is set at $100, available directly from the manufacturer.

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