The Pebble Watch is Back: Pre-Order the New Core Time 2 and Core 2 Duo Smartwatches Today!
If you’re a tech enthusiast or a fan of minimalist smartwatches, you’ll be thrilled to hear that the iconic Pebble Watch is making a comeback! The brand that revolutionized the smartwatch industry before the Apple Watch even existed is back with two new models: the Core Time 2 and the Core 2 Duo. Whether you’re a long-time Pebble fan or new to the brand, these watches promise the same beloved features with modern upgrades. Pre-orders are now open, with prices starting at $149 for the Core 2 Duo and $225 for the Core Time 2. Shipping is expected later this year.
A Brief History of Pebble: The Smartwatch Pioneer
Pebble was one of the first smartwatches to hit the market, launching in 2013 and quickly becoming a fan favorite. Known for its e-ink display (similar to an e-reader), long battery life, and customizable features, Pebble set the standard for wearable tech. The brand’s Kickstarter campaigns were record-breaking, with its three generations holding spots in Kickstarter’s top 12 most-funded projects of all time.
Even after Fitbit acquired Pebble in 2016, loyal users continued to support the brand. A community-driven project called Rebble kept the legacy alive by maintaining app store updates and replacing outdated cloud services. Now, thanks to Google’s decision to open-source Pebble OS (after acquiring Fitbit), the door has opened for a new generation of Pebble-inspired smartwatches.
Meet the New Pebble Watches: Core Time 2 and Core 2 Duo
Led by Pebble founder Eric Migicovsky, the new watches aim to recapture the magic of the original Pebble while introducing modern improvements. Here’s what you need to know about the two models:
1. Core 2 Duo ($149)
- Design: Black-and-white e-paper screen with a durable polycarbonate frame (available in black or white).
- Key Features:
- 1.2-inch always-on display
- 30-day battery life
- IPX8 water resistance (up to 3 meters underwater)
- Step tracking and sleep tracking
- Physical buttons for easy navigation
- Barometer and compass (unique to this model)
- Connectivity: Bluetooth (no Wi-Fi, cellular, or GPS)
- Extras: Microphone and speaker (no native voice call support), 22mm standard watch strap.
- Shipping: Expected in July 2025.
2. Core Time 2 ($225)
- Design: Larger 1.6-inch color touchscreen with a sleek metal frame.
- Key Features:
- 64-color always-on display
- 30-day battery life
- IPX8 water resistance
- Step tracking, sleep tracking, and heart rate monitoring
- Physical buttons and touchscreen functionality
- Connectivity: Bluetooth (no Wi-Fi, cellular, or GPS)
- Extras: Microphone and speaker, 22mm standard watch strap.
- Shipping: Expected in December 2025.
Both models are designed to be lightweight, durable, and highly functional, staying true to Pebble’s original ethos of simplicity and long battery life.
Why the Pebble Comeback Matters
Eric Migicovsky, the founder of Pebble, shared his motivation for reviving the brand: “I’ve tried pretty much every other smartwatch on Earth, yet I still wear my Pebble every day—nothing else matches its features and long battery life.” He emphasized that the new watches are designed for Pebble enthusiasts who’ve been waiting for a true successor.
The new watches are not officially branded as “Pebble” due to trademark ownership by Google, but they carry the same spirit and functionality. The open-source Pebble OS also means developers can contribute to adding new features, ensuring the watches evolve with user input.
What’s New and Improved?
- USB-C Compatibility: While the watches use the same charger as older Pebble models, they now support USB-C cables for charging, making them more convenient for modern users.
- Open-Source OS: Developers can customize and enhance the operating system, ensuring the watches stay relevant and feature-rich.
- Community-Driven: Migicovsky has invited developers and enthusiasts to join the effort on Discord and GitHub, fostering a collaborative environment for innovation.
Should You Pre-Order?
If you’re a fan of minimalist smartwatches with long battery life, the new Pebble-inspired watches are worth considering. With pre-orders now open, securing your watch early ensures you’ll be among the first to experience the next chapter in Pebble’s legacy.
Final Thoughts
The return of Pebble is a win for smartwatch enthusiasts who value simplicity, durability, and long battery life over flashy features. Whether you’re upgrading from an old Pebble or trying the brand for the first time, the Core Time 2 and Core 2 Duo offer a refreshing alternative in a market dominated by high-tech, high-cost wearables.
Pre-order your Pebble-inspired smartwatch today and join the revival of a tech legend!
Source: Google news
Source: Life Hacker
