Pebble Round 2 Revives Classic Design with 10-Day Battery, $199 Price Tag

Pebble is launching a new rounded smartwatch. The Pebble Round 2 arrives on January 2 for pre-order. It revives the company’s classic rounded design from 2015.The new model focuses on affordability and simplicity. It costs $199 and is set to ship in May. According to TechCrunch, the watch prioritizes long battery life over advanced sensors.

Slimmer Bezel, Larger Screen Define Updated Look

The original Pebble Time Round had a large bezel. Founder Eric Migicovsky said the new version fixes that flaw. Technology improvements allowed for a larger, 1.3-inch color e-paper display.The screen has twice the pixels of the original model. The watch itself is slightly thicker at 8.1mm. It maintains a slim, premium profile with a stainless steel frame.

Basic Tracking and Smart Features for Daily Use

The watch does not include a heart rate monitor. It tracks basic health metrics like steps and sleep. The trade-off is a battery that lasts 10 to 14 days on a single charge.It runs the open-source Pebble OS. Users can access thousands of apps and watch faces. Dual microphones allow for voice replies to messages on Android devices.Side buttons offer tactile control for music and calls. Migicovsky notes buttons let you operate the watch without looking. The device comes with a silicone band, with leather options sold separately.

Info at your fingertips

When will the Pebble Round 2 be available to buy?

The Pebble Round 2 will be available for pre-order on January 2. The company states the first watches are scheduled to ship to customers in May of this year.

How much does the Pebble Round 2 smartwatch cost?

The watch is priced at $199. This continues Pebble’s strategy of offering capable smartwatches at a significantly lower price point than many major competitors.

What is the battery life of the new Pebble watch?

Pebble estimates the Round 2 will last between 10 to 14 days on a charge. This extended life is possible because the device lacks power-hungry components like a continuous heart rate sensor.

Does the Pebble Round 2 work with iPhones?

Yes, it works with iOS, but some features are limited. Voice reply functionality for messages is currently for Android only, though support for iOS in the EU is planned.

Will Pebble add AI features to its watches?

Yes, the company is working on it. Founder Eric Migicovsky confirmed AI capabilities, similar to those in Pebble’s new smart ring, will come to its watches in the future.

Can I switch my Pebble Time 2 order to the Round 2?

Yes, existing customers will have that option. People who previously ordered the Pebble Time 2 will be allowed to change their order to the new Round 2 model if they prefer.

Trusted Sources

Information for this report was gathered from TechCrunch.