Digital Product
Pebble's New Smartwatch Core 2 Duo: A Peek into the Future
2025-05-05

Eric Migicovsky, founder of Pebble, recently unveiled an early version of the Core 2 Duo smartwatch in a podcast episode. This new model is still under testing but features PebbleOS with watch faces and Bluetooth connectivity. While aiming for a July shipping date, US buyers might face slight price increases due to tariffs. Migicovsky also discussed potential future enhancements and shared insights about making PebbleOS adaptable for various hardware.

In a recent episode of his podcast "Tick Talk," Eric Migicovsky showcased an initial prototype of the Core 2 Duo smartwatch. The device remains in its developmental phase; it is currently held together with tape and lacks the ability to display time. Despite these limitations, it operates on PebbleOS, demonstrating functionalities such as Bluetooth connectivity and customizable watch faces. During the presentation, Migicovsky highlighted several exciting examples of what the watch can do, providing viewers with an impressive glimpse into the capabilities of this upcoming technology.

Migicovsky addressed concerns regarding the impact of US tariffs on Chinese imports, which could potentially increase costs for American consumers by up to $25 per unit. To mitigate these expenses, he plans to import the watches in bulk. International customers should remain unaffected, as their orders will be shipped directly from China. In addition to discussing pricing strategies, Migicovsky explored ideas for adding complications—widgets displaying weather or calendar data—and enhancing compatibility with platforms like Beeper for better chat integration.

Looking ahead, Migicovsky expressed interest in refining minor details, such as softening the backlight intensity at night and enlarging the font size for improved readability. He envisions expanding the versatility of PebbleOS by simplifying its adaptation process for diverse hardware configurations. This forward-thinking approach aims to facilitate easier creation of new devices running on PebbleOS, not only by Core Devices but also by third-party developers.

Beyond technical advancements, Migicovsky emphasizes the emotional value of wearable tech, describing how certain watch faces bring him joy. As development progresses toward the July release target, the spirit of innovation that defined Pebble continues to thrive, promising exciting possibilities for enthusiasts worldwide.

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