The iconic Pebble smartwatch is back with a twist! The original round-faced Pebble Time Round is getting a modern revival, and it's sure to catch the attention of tech enthusiasts and fans of the brand.
But wait, why bring back an old design? Well, the new Pebble Round 2 is not just a nostalgic throwback; it's a significant upgrade. With a sleek new look, the Pebble Round 2 offers a larger, bezel-less 1.3-inch touchscreen display, a welcome improvement over the chunky design of its predecessor. And that's not all—the battery life has been extended to an impressive two weeks, a massive leap from the original's two-day limit. But here's where it gets controversial: is this just a gimmick to capitalize on nostalgia, or a genuine innovation?
The watch is compatible with both iOS and Android devices and is currently available for pre-order at $199, with shipping expected in May. This relaunch is the latest in a series of revivals by Core Devices, the new company founded by original Pebble creator Eric Migicovsky. The Pebble 2 Duo and Pebble Time 2 (formerly known as Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2) have already made their comeback, thanks to Migicovsky's successful recovery of the Pebble trademark from Google.
The original Pebble smartwatch had its limitations, but the Pebble Round 2 aims to address them. With a vibrant 260 x 260 color e-paper display, the new model provides a richer visual experience. And for those who love voice commands, the dual microphones enable speech input for chatting with AI assistants and replying to messages (Android only for now, with iOS support coming to the EU).
Aesthetically, the Pebble Round 2 offers a stainless steel frame in three stylish colors: black, silver, and rose gold. The quick-release bands come in two sizes, with 14mm for rose gold, 20mm for black, and both sizes available for the silver variant. Core Devices is also releasing additional band accessory options, including leather, to cater to various preferences.
While the Pebble Round 2 includes health and activity tracking features, Core Devices clarifies that it's not intended to compete with dedicated fitness watches. It's a smartwatch with basic tracking capabilities, appealing to those who appreciate the simplicity and nostalgia of the Pebble brand. So, is this a watch for the masses or a niche product for die-hard fans? You decide!
What do you think about this revival? Are you excited to see the Pebble brand making a comeback, or do you think it's time to move on to newer, more innovative designs? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
