Eric Migicovsky, the original mastermind behind the Pebble smartwatch, has recently launched two new smartwatches: the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2. Although they resemble Pebble devices, Migicovsky has urged fans not to label them as such. Available for preorder at $149 and $225, respectively, these devices are described as spiritual successors to the original Pebble watches.
The Pebble brand made waves in the tech world after its Kickstarter triumph in 2012, paving the way for smartwatches before competitors like Apple or Android entered the scene. Despite selling over 2 million units, the company faced insolvency in 2016, leading to its acquisition by Fitbit, which is now part of Google.
In an intriguing turn, Migicovsky has decided to revisit the heart of Pebble’s legacy by reviving its simplicity and spirit with his new venture, Core Devices. Google has supported this initiative by open-sourcing PebbleOS, the operating system behind the original watches, allowing Migicovsky to leverage this technology.
The Core 2 Duo sports an always-on e-paper display and includes basic features like alarms and notifications through Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to manage music and receive alerts from their phones. While its non-touch, black-and-white display may seem basic by contemporary standards, it stands out for its impressive battery life, offering up to 30 days between charges. Additionally, users can enjoy a range of customisable watch faces and applications, catering to enthusiasts.
Reflecting on the project’s nature, Migicovsky noted, “This project is a labour of love rather than a startup trying to sell millions of watches.” He acknowledged that the rollout may have bumps along the way, but he promised that the experience would be enjoyable. The other model, Core Time 2, offers a larger, 64-color touch display within a metal casing, although touch functionality for Pebble apps is not yet available.
The Core 2 Duo is expected to ship by July, while the Core Time 2 will follow in December. As Migicovsky puts it, users are bound to smile every time they glance at their new timepiece, promising a nostalgic return to a simpler era of wearable technology.
Fanpage: TechArena.au
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