Eric Migicovsky, the creator of the Pebble smartwatch, has just unveiled two new smartwatches: the Core 2 Duo, and the Core Time 2. Since Pebble was acquired by Fitbit in 2016, these new watches were launched under Migicovsky’s new company, Core Devices, and are reportedly self-funded. Both watches run on PebbleOS which has recently been made open-source by Google earlier this year.
The first model, Core 2 Duo, is described as an upgraded Pebble 2. It has a 1.26-inch black and white e-paper display, a polycarbonate frame, and is able to run over 10,000 Pebble apps and watch faces. The watch also comes equipped with a built-in microphone, water resistance at a target of IPX8, as well as step and sleep tracking.
In comparison to the original Pebble 2, the Core 2 Duo is stated to have a longer battery life, with a quieter and stronger linear resonant actuator than its predecessor’s vibrating motor. It is priced at US$149 (~RM660) and will start shipping in July.
Next is the Core Time 2, which Migicosky describes as his dream watch. It has a larger 1.5-inch e-paper display with touchscreen capability and 64 colour output, along with a metal frame. Like the Core 2 Duo, the wearable is able to run 10,000+ Pebble apps and watch faces, an estimated 30 day battery life, IPX8 water resistance, as well as an onboard heart rate monitor. This model costs US$225 (~RM996) and will start shipping in December.
The Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2 are available to pre-order via Core Devices’ online rePebble store, though Migicovsky notes that quantities will be limited. Worldwide shipping will be available for both devices once they are released.
(Sources: Eric Migicovsky, rePebble Store)
Manisha Dharmendra contributed to this article.
