The spiritual sequel to the Pebble smartwatch is scheduled to ship in July

Pebble smartwatch successor, Core 2 Duo, ships July; Core Time 2 ready soon.

: Eric Migicovsky's Core Devices is launching new smartwatches, the Core 2 Duo for $149 is ready for July, and Core Time 2 will be available later. The Core 2 Duo offers essential functionality from the original Pebble, while the Core Time 2 adds features like a heart rate monitor and a larger display. Both models utilize e-paper displays and support existing Pebble apps and watch faces. Core Devices is testing an app compatible with past Pebble models, inviting users to join its beta program.

The Pebble smartwatch, originally launched with great success due to its distinctive e-paper display, is being reimagined through a spiritual successor by Core Devices, a company led by Eric Migicovsky, the original creator of Pebble. The announcement was initially covered by Ian Campbell at Engadget. Core Devices is set to launch two new models: the Core 2 Duo, priced at $149, which will begin shipping to pre-order customers in July 2025, and the Core Time 2, which will follow later in the year and is anticipated to cost around $225.

Eric Migicovsky indicated the Core 2 Duo is nearing mass production status, with pre-orders slated for a July to August delivery window. This model maintains many of the original Pebble's beloved features, such as health tracking and access to notifications. The Core Time 2, distinguished by its larger display, metal frame, and integrated heart rate monitor, aims to provide a more premium user experience.

Migicovsky highlighted the use of both black-and-white and color e-paper displays for enhanced power efficiency and outdoor readability. One of the standout offerings of these smartwatches is backward compatibility with Pebble's app ecosystem, allowing users to access previously beloved watch faces and apps.

Core Devices is also initiating a beta testing program for its new companion app, designed to sync seamlessly with both new and older Pebble models on Android and iOS platforms. This move is geared toward ensuring a smooth transition for users already accustomed to Pebble’s ecosystem.

Those interested in participating in the beta can sign up, offering enthusiasts a chance to preview and provide feedback on the new hardware and software functionalities before the official release.

Sources: Eric Migicovsky's blog, Core Devices, Engadget

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