The First New Pebble Smartwatches Are Coming Later This Year

In a move that’s sure to excite fans of the classic Pebble smartwatch, Eric Migicovsky, the original creator of Pebble, has announced two brand-new devices: the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2. These watches, developed by Migicovsky’s new company, Core Devices, aim to bring back the simplicity, long battery life, and developer-friendly nature that made Pebble a cult favorite.

The Core 2 Duo, priced at $149, is an upgraded version of the Pebble 2. It features a 1.26-inch black and white e-paper display, a 30-day battery life, and a polycarbonate frame available in white or black. The watch also includes a microphone, speaker, step and sleep tracking, and water resistance with a target IPX8 rating. It’s compatible with over 10,000 existing Pebble apps and watchfaces.

The Core Time 2, priced at $225, is a more advanced model inspired by the unreleased Pebble Time 2. It boasts a larger 1.5-inch 64-color e-paper display with touchscreen functionality, a metal frame, and a heart rate monitor. Like the Core 2 Duo, it offers a 30-day battery life, water resistance, and compatibility with thousands of Pebble apps and watchfaces.

Both watches use the Nordic nRF52840 Bluetooth LE chip and feature a linear resonance actuator for quieter and stronger vibrations. They also come with standard 22mm watchstraps, making customization easy. The devices will work with both Android and iOS through dedicated companion apps.

Pre-orders for both watches are now open. The Core 2 Duo is expected to ship in July 2025, while the Core Time 2 is slated for release in December 2025. Migicovsky has emphasized that this project is a “labour of love” rather than a large-scale commercial venture, cautioning that some delays or imperfections may occur.

These new smartwatches mark a revival of the Pebble legacy, offering a blend of nostalgia and modern functionality. For enthusiasts who missed out on the original Pebble watches, or those looking for a no-frills, long-lasting smartwatch, the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2 are worth keeping an eye on.

A Closer Look at the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2

Both the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2 are built on the open-source PebbleOS, ensuring compatibility with the vast ecosystem of Pebble apps and watchfaces that enthusiasts have grown to love. This operating system, known for its simplicity and efficiency, allows for seamless integration with existing content, making these new devices a natural continuation of the Pebble legacy.

Under the hood, both watches utilize the Nordic nRF52840 Bluetooth LE chip, which provides reliable connectivity and efficient energy use. This hardware choice underscores the focus on maintaining the long battery life that Pebble devices are renowned for. Additionally, the inclusion of a linear resonance actuator enhances the haptic feedback, offering quieter yet more pronounced vibrations for notifications and alerts.

Water resistance is another key feature, with both models targeting an IPX8 rating. This ensures that the watches can withstand exposure to water at significant depths, making them suitable for swimming and other water-based activities. The durability of these devices is further complemented by their construction: the Core 2 Duo features a polycarbonate frame, while the Core Time 2 boasts a metal frame, offering a premium feel.

Customization is made easy with the standard 22mm watchstraps on both models. Users can choose from a wide array of third-party straps, allowing for personalization to suit various styles and preferences. This attention to detail reflects the same user-centric approach that made the original Pebble watches so popular.

The announcement of these devices has been met with enthusiasm from the Pebble community, many of whom have eagerly awaited new hardware that aligns with the spirit of the original smartwatches. The open-source nature of PebbleOS and the compatibility with existing apps and watchfaces are particularly appealing to developers and enthusiasts who value customization and community-driven innovation.

Pre-orders for both models are now live, with the Core 2 Duo set to ship in July 2025 and the Core Time 2 following in December 2025. While Migicovsky has cautioned that this is a passion project rather than a large-scale commercial endeavor, the excitement surrounding these devices suggests that they could carve out a niche in the smartwatch market for those seeking a balance of functionality, simplicity, and longevity.

Conclusion

The announcement of the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2 marks an exciting revival for the Pebble smartwatch legacy. These devices, brought to life by Eric Migicovsky and Core Devices, offer a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern functionality. With their long battery life, open-source operating system, and compatibility with thousands of existing Pebble apps and watchfaces, these smartwatches are poised to delight both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

For those who value simplicity, durability, and a vibrant developer community, the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2 present a compelling alternative to more complex smartwatches on the market. While these devices may not feature all the bells and whistles of high-end wearables, they excel in delivering a focused, user-friendly experience that stays true to the spirit of the original Pebble watches.

With pre-orders now open and shipments scheduled for later in 2025, enthusiasts have plenty of time to decide which model aligns best with their needs. Whether you’re drawn to the affordability and practicality of the Core 2 Duo or the advanced features of the Core Time 2, these smartwatches promise to bring a fresh wave of excitement to the wearable technology space.

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