Pebble's iconic round smartwatch is getting a much-anticipated reboot, over a decade after its original release. The new Pebble Round 2 is a significant upgrade, offering a longer-lasting battery and a larger 1.3-inch touchscreen display, a welcome improvement from the original 1-inch screen. This sleek redesign is available for pre-order at $199, with an expected shipping date of May. It's the latest in a series of re-releases by Core Devices, the new company founded by Eric Migicovsky, the original Pebble creator. The Pebble Round 2 is compatible with both iOS and Android devices, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of users. One of the standout features is its impressive battery life, lasting up to two weeks on a single charge, a significant improvement over the original's two-day battery. The 260 x 260 color e-paper display provides twice as many pixels, covering the entire watch face for a more immersive experience. Additionally, dual microphones support speech input features, allowing users to chat with AI agents and reply to messages, though Android users will have more options for now, with iOS support coming soon. The watch boasts a sleek stainless steel frame, available in black, silver, and rose gold, and comes with two quick-release band sizes: 14mm for rose gold, 20mm for black, and both for the silver variant. Core Devices is also planning to offer additional band accessory options, including leather, catering to various style preferences. While the Pebble Round 2 is designed for basic health and activity tracking, it's not intended to replace dedicated fitness or sports watches. It includes an accelerometer and magnetometer, making it a nostalgic choice for those who appreciate the OG Pebble brand but still need a functional smartwatch. As with any tech release, the Pebble Round 2 is a fascinating development in the smartwatch industry, blending nostalgia with modern functionality. It's a reminder that sometimes, a classic design can be reimagined to meet the needs of today's tech-savvy consumers.
