Tag: smartwatches

  • Huawei Launches Slim Smartwatches with Large AMOLED Screens

    Huawei Launches Slim Smartwatches with Large AMOLED Screens

    Key Takeaway

    1. Huawei’s Watch Fit 5 series introduces a new wrist-based micro-movement stretching feature with 30 exercises targeting various body parts.
    2. The series includes two models: the ultra-thin, lightweight Watch Fit 5 with a 1.82-inch AMOLED display and the more premium, larger Watch Fit 5 Pro with a 1.92-inch AMOLED display, sapphire glass, and titanium bezel.
    3. The Watch Fit 5 Pro offers advanced health features, including an ECG sensor and diving support up to 40 meters, while both models aim for around seven days of battery life.
    4. Launch date in China is April 29, 2026, with European pricing expected at €199 for the standard model and €299 for the Pro.

    Introduction to Huawei Watch Fit 5 Series

    Huawei has just announced the new Watch Fit 5 and Fit 5 Pro smartwatches in China, drawing a lot of attention with their updated features and sleek designs. Many of the specs and images were leaked in April 2026, giving fans a good look at what they can expect from the latest models of wearables.

    Unique Features and Tracking Abilities

    These new watches bring a innovative wrist-based micro-movement stretching feature, which supplies users with 30 different types of excercises to stretch 10 body parts, including the neck, shoulders, and back. It’s a smart move to promote health and flexibility. Both watches can track various health metrics, especially with an upgraded sensor that enhances heart rate monitoring accuracy. They also support third-party apps, GPS tracking, and promise about a week of usage on a single charge under typical conditions.

    Design and Display Details

    The Huawei Watch Fit 5 is touted as being “ultra-thin and light”. It features a 1.82-inch AMOLED screen that’s brighter with a peak of 2,500 nits, making it more vivid in sunlight. The body is made of aluminum alloy, curiously just 9.5 mm thick, a tiny bit thinner than the Apple Watch Series 11. Weighing roughly 27 grams, it’s very comfortable for extended wear. Pre-orders in China start at around CNY 1,099-1,199, roughly translating to $161-176.

    Pro Version and Its Upgrades

    The Watch Fit 5 Pro steps up the game with a larger 1.92-inch AMOLED display, dramatically brighter at 3,000 nits, and protected by sapphire glass for durability. It’s housed in a titanium alloy bezel, adding luxury and strength. The Pro model tips the scale slightly heavier at about 30.4 grams. This version includes advanced features like ECG sensors for heart rhythm detection, aside from the fitness basics, and is designed for diving, capable of withstanding depths up to 40 meters. The retail price for the Pro sits between CNY 2,099-2,199, or approximately $308-323.

    Availability and Pricing

    In China, these stylish smartwatches will release on April 29th. The European release date is yet to be confirmed, but rumors suggest that the standard model will cost around €199, and the Pro €299. To compare, the previous Watch Fit 4 was launched at €169, which converts to about €105.18 at Amazon Germany. As the new series arrives, it’s clear Huawei is aiming to capture a wider audience with both affordable and premium options suited to different preferences.

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  • Germany Regulator Acts on Smartwatches Giving False Blood Sugar Readings

    Germany Regulator Acts on Smartwatches Giving False Blood Sugar Readings

    Key Takeaways

    1. No smartwatch can accurately measure blood glucose without an external device like a CGM.
    2. Many low-cost smartwatches falsely claim to feature blood sugar monitoring.
    3. Germany’s Federal Network Agency removed numerous dubious smartwatches from the market due to misleading measurements.
    4. In 2025, there was a decrease in dubious online listings for smartwatches, but violations still represented millions of units sold.
    5. Inspections revealed that 58% of devices evaluated did not meet necessary requirements, affecting around 1.9 million devices.


    There is no smartwatch available today that can accurately measure blood glucose levels without needing an external device like a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). Nevertheless, many low-cost smartwatches are marketed claiming they have a blood sugar monitoring feature.

    Market Oversight

    According to Germany’s Federal Network Agency, some of these smartwatches were previously sold in the country until they were removed from the market. The discrepancies between the “measurements” provided by such smartwatches and actual blood glucose levels can be seen in our review of the Kospet iHeal 6.

    In 2025, the Federal Network Agency identified 1,266 dubious online listings, which is an 11.2% decrease compared to the year before. These listings reportedly represent around five million units sold. The majority of violations in this area were linked to smartwatches, primarily due to fake sensor readings, as well as failures to comply with the Radio Equipment Act.

    Device Evaluations

    Last year, the Federal Network Agency conducted inspections on 2,400 types of devices sold in retail. Out of these, 58% did not meet the necessary requirements, affecting about 1.9 million devices sold. Although many of these issues weren’t serious safety concerns—like the absence of CE marking or user manuals not available in German—there were still significant findings.

    Additionally, the agency reported finding products, including PV inverters and network switches, with dangerously high interference levels that could potentially disrupt wireless communications, broadcasting, and military signals. Customs officials halted the import of 359,000 products, with 8,202 shipments flagged as suspicious, of which 89% did not adhere to the regulations.

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  • Garmin Enhances High-End Smartwatches with New Workout Update

    Garmin Enhances High-End Smartwatches with New Workout Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Smartwatches with solar capabilities now display Rest Timers accurately after updating to Beta Version 21.20.
    2. Garmin mistakenly labeled the recent update as Beta Version 21.19, despite it being officially released as 21.20.
    3. Users confirm the availability of Beta Version 21.20, which is intended for those in the Beta Program.
    4. Ongoing issues with weight tracking input in the metric system persist across the beta builds.
    5. The timeline for moving v21.xx to stable software is still uncertain, and users should monitor Garmin’s communications for updates.


    On the flip side, all smartwatches that come with solar capabilities are now supposed to accurately display Rest Timers while users are working out after they’ve updated to Beta version 21.20. It’s a bit perplexing that Garmin calls this latest beta update Beta Version 21.19, even though it was officially released at the end of last month. Nevertheless, their changelog clarifies that this update is intended for smartwatches enrolled in the Beta Program under the name Beta Version 21.20.

    Confirmation of Release

    Users who got the update early have confirmed that Garmin has indeed made Beta Version 21.20 available, instead of just reissuing Beta Version 21.19. Sadly, problems with weight tracking input when utilizing the metric system still continue to occur across these builds. It is also still uncertain when Garmin will move the v21.xx development to its stable software channel. For additional information, be sure to check out Garmin’s forum post.

    Ongoing Issues

    Garmin’s updates seems to be creating a mix of feelings among its users, especially with the lingering issues that are still not resolved. Keeping an eye on their communications is vital for those who are eagerly awaiting stable updates.

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  • Core Devices Unveils Pebble Round 2: Color ePaper & 2 Weeks Battery

    Core Devices Unveils Pebble Round 2: Color ePaper & 2 Weeks Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. Core Devices relaunched the Pebble brand in 2025 with new smartwatches, including the Pebble 2 Duo and Pebble Time 2, and introduced a smart ring called Pebble Index 01.
    2. The Pebble Round 2, a modern take on the original Pebble Time Round, features a 1.3-inch color ePaper display, improved resolution, and a lightweight stainless steel body.
    3. Key features of the Pebble Round 2 include a pedometer, sleep tracking, two microphones for AI interaction, and a battery life of up to two weeks.
    4. The Pebble Round 2 is compatible with both Android and iOS devices and is water-resistant up to 30 meters.
    5. The smartwatch is available for pre-order at $199, with shipping starting in May 2026, and offers customizable bands in various materials.


    In 2025, Eric Migicovsky launched a new company named Core Devices, bringing back the Pebble watch brand he initially started. They introduced two new smartwatches: the Pebble 2 Duo and the Pebble Time 2. In December 2025, they also revealed a smart ring called the Pebble Index 01. As 2026 begins, Core Devices has presented a fresh smartwatch inspired by the classic Pebble Time Round from the original Pebble period.

    The Pebble Round 2 Unveiled

    This new smartwatch is named the Pebble Round 2 and serves as the spiritual successor to the Pebble Time Round. With a contemporary design, it offers various enhancements compared to the original, while still maintaining the lightweight and slim profile that fans appreciated.

    The Pebble Round 2 features a 1.3-inch color ePaper display with no bezel, all encased in a stainless steel body. The screen boasts a resolution of 260 x 260, which is twice that of its predecessor, and it provides improved viewing angles. Users can interact with the display through touch or utilize the four physical buttons located on the sides. A backlight is included for visibility in dark environments.

    Features and Specifications

    Equipped with a pedometer and sleep tracking, the Pebble Round 2 does not include a heart rate monitor or other fitness tracking options. The watch comes with two microphones for communicating with AI assistants and responding to texts, but it lacks a speaker, meaning calls can’t be taken on the device. Additionally, the watch contains an accelerometer, a magnetometer, and a vibration motor within its 8.1mm thickness.

    According to the specifications, the Pebble Round 2 is compatible with both Android and iOS devices. It boasts an impressive battery life of up to two weeks, a significant improvement over the Pebble Time Round’s two-day lifespan. The watch is also rated water-resistant up to 30 meters.

    Pricing and Availability

    Currently, the Pebble Round 2 is available for pre-order at a price of $199, with shipping set to start in May 2026. Buyers can choose from colors like Matte Black, which comes with a 20mm band, Polished Rose Gold with a 14mm band, and Brushed Silver available with either a 14mm or 20mm band. No matter the color or size, each watch will ship with a silicone band, but customers can purchase bands made from other materials, including leather.

    Core Devices has also announced that individuals who pre-ordered the Pebble Time 2, which is scheduled to ship in March 2026, have the option to change their order to the Pebble Round 2 if they desire.

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  • Smartwatches’ Accuracy in Detecting Atrial Fibrillation: Apple vs. Garmin vs. Fitbit vs. Samsung

    Smartwatches’ Accuracy in Detecting Atrial Fibrillation: Apple vs. Garmin vs. Fitbit vs. Samsung

    Key Takeaways

    1. Smartwatches from various brands are generally effective in detecting atrial fibrillation, with overall sensitivity at 95% and specificity at 97%.
    2. There are significant differences in detection capabilities among brands, with Garmin and Samsung performing best, while Fitbit lags behind.
    3. Sensitivity (ability to identify disease) and specificity (ability to identify healthy individuals) are key metrics in evaluating smartwatch performance for atrial fibrillation detection.
    4. The study is a systematic review, analyzing existing research rather than conducting new measurements, which allows for a broader evaluation of multiple devices.
    5. The research is in preprint and has not yet undergone peer review, indicating that findings may evolve with future studies and new device introductions.


    A fresh meta-analysis and systematic review, which is currently in preprint, indicates that smartwatches from different brands can effectively detect atrial fibrillation overall. We will delve into the background of this study type and the specific technical terms later. This open-access meta-analysis by Barrera et al. assessed studies with a total of 17,349 participants. The researchers measured sensitivity, specificity, and the area under the curve (AUC). The findings reveal that while there are variations in the ability to detect atrial fibrillation, the technology is generally dependable across multiple manufacturers. The sensitivity across all devices tested was 95%, and the specificity was 97%.

    Variations Among Manufacturers

    There are distinctions among different brands. For instance, Garmin Forerunner models with the relevant function report a sensitivity of 97% and a specificity of 98%, while the Apple Watch has sensitivity and specificity values of 94% and 97%, respectively. On the other hand, Fitbit is noticeably behind, with a sensitivity of 66% and a specificity of 79%. The smartwatch that offers the most precise diagnostics can be determined best by looking at the area under the curve (AUC) of the SROC (Summary Receiver Operating Characteristic), with Samsung ranking highest. However, we should not interpret the findings of this study, particularly for devices boasting sensitivity and specificity well over 90%, as a strict hierarchy that should directly guide consumer choices. Additionally, it’s not always guaranteed that both electrocardiographs and optical sensors can reliably detect atrial fibrillation, even though PPG-based systems allow for more regular or continuous monitoring.

    Understanding Sensitivity and Specificity

    Some background information might be required for interpretation and classification, along with explanations of technical jargon. In a medical-diagnostic setting, sensitivity refers to the percentage of diseases or “abnormalities” that are identified, whereas specificity denotes the proportion of healthy individuals accurately recognized as healthy. As we explained in our analysis of the Apple Watch’s blood pressure function, these two metrics are interconnected. Diagnostic techniques can be adjusted for higher sensitivity or specificity within certain boundaries, assuming the method is fundamentally appropriate. In screening procedures like atrial fibrillation detection, high sensitivity should be prioritized from the individual patient’s viewpoint. While a false-positive result could lead to unnecessary waiting at the doctor’s office and an unwarranted ECG, this is certainly a far lesser concern than the heightened mortality risk tied to undetected atrial fibrillation.

    Nature of the Study

    The study is classified as a systematic review, which means that Barrera N et al. did not conduct any measurements themselves, but rather analyzed existing studies and included them in their evaluation (or excluded them). The benefits of such studies are that they gather a considerable number of participants and assess a wider range of brands/devices. It’s important to note that this review includes various specific model versions from different manufacturers, and the number of test subjects for each specific device can vary widely. Moreover, the measurement techniques employed in the individual studies are not always consistent. The study by Barrera N et al. is still in the preprint phase and has not yet undergone peer review. Finally, the research landscape may evolve, particularly if new devices are introduced to the market.

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  • New Casio Edifice Sospensione Watches Inspired by F1 Cars

    New Casio Edifice Sospensione Watches Inspired by F1 Cars

    Key Takeaways

    1. Real-life images of the new Casio Edifice Sospensione ECB-2300 series show the actual design and finish before the official launch.
    2. The double-wishbone case design is inspired by formula racing cars and features a darker brushed stainless steel finish with sharper edges.
    3. The watches have a slimmer profile compared to previous Edifice models and feature a more streamlined display layout.
    4. Key features include Bluetooth connectivity, Tough Solar charging, and world time capabilities.
    5. Pricing for the models is set at ¥41,800 (~$278) for the silver ECB-2300D-1A and ¥52,800 (~$351) for the black ECB-2300DC-1A.


    Real-life pictures of the new Casio Edifice Sospensione ECB-2300 series have appeared on @geesgshock’s Instagram account. Thanks to them, we can see the watches’ actual design and finish before their official launch. The models—ECB-2300D-1A (silver) and ECB-2300DC-1A—were recently announced for Japan and are now being shown for the first time beyond promotional images.

    Stunning Design Features

    The images reveal that the double-wishbone case design, inspired by the suspension systems of formula racing cars, is even more striking in natural light. The brushed stainless steel finish seems a bit darker than what Casio displayed in their product photos, and the edges around the lugs look sharper than anticipated. Both the silver and black versions maintain their specific color schemes, with the silver model featuring red highlights around the subdial and pushers, while the black variant shows subtle hints of blue from certain light angles.

    Sleek Appearance

    A closer examination also indicates that the watches present a slimmer profile compared to Casio’s previous Edifice EQB models, despite their robust framework. The layout of the display, which combines an analog dial with a small digital window, appears more streamlined and less recessed in reality. A side view also highlights the matte texture of the black-ion plating, which contrasts beautifully with the polished screws on the bezel.

    Features and Pricing

    These ECB-2300 models will include Bluetooth connectivity, Tough Solar charging, and world time features, similar to other Edifice watches in this collection. The silver model, ECB-2300D-1A, is set to retail for ¥41,800 (~$278), while the ECB-2300DC-1A (black) will be priced at ¥52,800 (~$351).

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  • Garmin Smartwatches: Major Changes Ahead with Google Maps Replacement

    Garmin Smartwatches: Major Changes Ahead with Google Maps Replacement

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin offers a wide range of smartwatches at different price points with varied navigation features.
    2. Users can view completed activities on maps via Garmin Connect and its smartphone app, even if the smartwatch lacks this feature.
    3. Garmin may be changing its mapping source from Google Maps to Mapbox for its smartwatches.
    4. Mapbox uses data from OpenStreetMap and is well-regarded in the tech community.
    5. The transition to Mapbox could impact cost and user experience, though the reasons for the change remain unclear.


    Garmin has a broad selection of smartwatches that come at various price levels. These devices also vary in their navigation functions. Depending on which model you choose, you might be able to use maps and navigation features without needing a connected smartphone or an active internet connection.

    Viewing Activities on Maps

    Not every smartwatch has this feature, but even those that don’t allow users to see their completed activities on a map through Garmin Connect and its companion smartphone app. This can help users get a better understanding of their route or discover landmarks they passed along the way.

    Possible Changes to Maps

    According to Garmin Rumors, there may be some changes to the maps used on Garmin smartwatches. We couldn’t verify this information right away when checking previously recorded activities. To be more specific, it seems that Garmin might be switching from Google Maps to Mapbox as the underlying source for its activity maps.

    The change may not be obvious at first glance, but it’s important to note that Mapbox utilizes data from OpenStreetMap. Mapbox is already recognized in the tech community and is employed by various apps and developers. It’s still uncertain whether this move to Mapbox is solely for technical purposes or if Garmin is hoping to cut costs. While Google Maps is free for average users, companies that provide services based on Google Maps incur charges, much like they would with Mapbox.

    Conclusion

    In summary, Garmin’s strategy regarding maps could have significant implications for users. As the company navigates these adjustments, it will be interesting to see how this impacts the overall experience for smartwatch users.

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  • Zepp OS 5: New Features of Amazfit Smartwatch Software Revealed

    Zepp OS 5: New Features of Amazfit Smartwatch Software Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Zepp OS 5 introduces new features like a magnifying glass mode, glove mode for touchscreen use, and a Jet Lag Manager tool for travelers.
    2. The update includes a specialized golf app, advanced running metrics, and support for FLAC media file playback on the watch.
    3. Future updates for Zepp OS 5 may include adjustable font sizes and a scuba diving activity.
    4. Zepp Pay is being developed for the US, but there is no set timeline for its release.
    5. Compatibility for Zepp OS 5 is likely for Amazfit Bip 6, Amazfit Active 2, and possibly the T-Rex 3, but exact details are not confirmed.


    Zepp Health has shared more details about Zepp OS 5 for Amazfit smartwatches. This latest software was introduced alongside the Amazfit Balance 2, which debuted in China in May 2025.

    New Features in Zepp OS 5

    Zepp OS 5 introduces a variety of exciting features for Amazfit wearables. Among them is a magnifying glass mode that lets you zoom in on parts of the screen, and a glove mode that enhances touchscreen responsiveness while wearing gloves. Additionally, there’s a Jet Lag Manager tool designed to help users adjust to new time zones during travel. The update also includes a specialized golf app and advanced running metrics, such as vertical oscillation and ground contact time. Plus, it supports the transfer of FLAC media files for local music playback on the watch.

    Future Updates and Zepp Pay

    On Reddit, a representative from Zepp Health indicated that the features mentioned are just a glimpse of what’s included with Zepp OS 5. They also hinted at future updates that will introduce adjustable font sizes and a scuba diving activity. In the same discussion, the topic of Zepp Pay for the US came up. It seems that while Zepp Health is eager to roll this out, the process has been challenging, and there is no set timeline for its release in the US.

    Compatibility and Upgrade Prospects

    Zepp Health has not yet disclosed which other Amazfit smartwatches will be eligible for Zepp OS 5. However, it seems probable that the Amazfit Bip 6 and Amazfit Active 2 (currently priced at $99.99 on Amazon), both launched in 2025, will receive the update. Furthermore, since the T-Rex 3 shares the same chipset as the Balance 2, it may also be in line for this upgrade. It remains uncertain when the Balance 2 smartwatch will become available internationally.

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  • Garmin Forerunner 570 Leaks: Price, Specs, and Images Revealed

    Garmin Forerunner 570 Leaks: Price, Specs, and Images Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is expected to launch new mid-tier smartwatches, including the Forerunner 970 and an affordable Forerunner 270.
    2. The Forerunner 570 is anticipated to be released before the other models, with specifications and store listings already available.
    3. The Forerunner 570 will feature a five-button design and come in two sizes: 42 mm and 47 mm.
    4. Both sizes of the Forerunner 570 are expected to have AMOLED screens, fiber-reinforced polymer cases, and aluminum bezels, with the larger model offering up to 11 days of battery life.
    5. The estimated price for the Forerunner 570 is €549 (about $615), with a potential launch in summer 2024 or spring 2025.


    Lately, there’s been a lot of talk suggesting that Garmin is gearing up to unveil a new range of mid-tier smartwatches. At first, it was thought that the Forerunner 975 would be the next in line. But later hints pointed towards the Forerunner 970, which is expected to debut alongside a more affordable Forerunner 270.

    New Developments

    With all these whispers about the new Forerunner smartwatches, Garmin has also hinted at upcoming LTE versions of the Fenix E, Fenix 8, and other premium models, along with a new version of the Fenix 8. Interestingly, it seems that a different smartwatch called the Forerunner 570 might be released ahead of these other models.

    Details on the Forerunner Series

    So far, not much has come to light regarding the Forerunner 270, 970, or 975. In contrast, there’s already a picture, specifications, and store listings for the Forerunner 570 that have surfaced online. To start with the visuals, the Forerunner 570 continues the five-button design of recent models like the Forerunner 265 (curr. $339 – renewed on Amazon).

    Features and Pricing

    There will be two sizes for the Forerunner 570: 42 mm and 47 mm, which is slightly different from the Forerunner 265 that had sizes of 42 mm and 46 mm. Both models are expected to come with AMOLED screens, cases made of fiber-reinforced polymer, and aluminum bezels. The larger version is anticipated to have a longer battery life of 11 days in smartwatch mode and an additional hour of GPS multi-band battery life for up to 14 hours.

    The two models are also likely to include Garmin’s Elevate V4 sensor array. According to Italian retailer Capo Nord, the Forerunner 570 will cost €549 (about $615) for either size option. The retailer mentions that all versions should hit the market this summer, although FitnessTrackerTest suggests a possible launch in spring 2025.

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  • Huawei Watch Fit 4 Leak: Pricing and Features Revealed

    Huawei Watch Fit 4 Leak: Pricing and Features Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Huawei Watch Fit 4 and Fit 4 Pro will replace the Watch Fit 3, which is currently priced at €105.99.
    2. Both models feature a 1.82-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 408 x 408 pixels, built-in microphone and speaker, GPS, and 5 ATM water resistance.
    3. The Fit 4 Pro will have a larger digital crown, wider side button, and additional health tracking features like ECG and skin temperature measurements.
    4. The expected retail prices are €169 for the Watch Fit 4 and €279 for the Fit 4 Pro.
    5. An official unveiling is scheduled for May 15th, alongside the introduction of the Huawei Watch 5.


    The Huawei Watch Fit 4 and Watch Fit 4 Pro have been listed by a European retailer. As the name suggests, these smartwatches are set to replace the Watch Fit 3, which is currently priced at €105.99 on Amazon.de. Recent leaks have shown images of the devices, which feature designs reminiscent of the Apple Watch and Apple Watch Ultra.

    Key Features of the New Smartwatches

    The Huawei Watch Fit 4 models have shown up in listings at Bigbox. Both versions come with a rectangular 1.82-inch AMOLED screen that has a resolution of 408 x 408 pixels. They include a built-in microphone and speaker for Bluetooth calling. Furthermore, they are equipped with GPS, allowing users to monitor their distance during outdoor activities without needing their smartphones. Both watches also share features like 5 ATM water resistance, up to 10 days of battery life, and the capability for wireless charging.

    Differences Between the Two Models

    When comparing the Huawei Fit 4 to the Fit 4 Pro, the latter has a larger digital crown and a wider side button. Additionally, there is a noticeable difference in the rear sensors. The Fit 4 is anticipated to have heart rate and SpO2 tracking like its predecessor. However, the Pro version may include extra features such as ECG and skin temperature measurements.

    Expected Pricing and Release Date

    The retail prices for the Huawei Watch Fit 4 and the Watch Fit 4 Pro are expected to be €169 and €279, respectively. An official unveiling of these smartwatches is anticipated at an event scheduled for May 15th, where the Huawei Watch 5 may also be introduced.

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