After nearly a decade of absence, smartwatch maker Pebble is back in the form of Core Devices, a new brand created by its founder Eric Migicovsky. The company’s first offerings are the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2, running on open-source PebbleOS. While not technically Pebble watches due to Google owning the trademark, these devices bear striking similarities to their predecessors.
Core Devices’ journey began with Google releasing the source code for PebbleOS in January, allowing Migicovsky to revive the brand. The new smartwatches are designed to cater to a niche audience seeking a more minimalist experience, distinct from the polished Apple Watch.
The Core 2 Duo features a monochrome e-paper display and shares characteristics with the Pebble 2 from 2016. It boasts improved battery life of up to 30 days, while the Core Time 2 offers additional features like an aluminum frame, touchscreen capabilities, and a heart rate monitor. Both watches can access over 10,000 apps and offer customizable watch faces.
Migicovsky emphasizes that these smartwatches are not for everyone, targeting those who prefer a more unique experience outside of the status quo. The company’s approach is measured, with Migicovsky stating that success is not predicated on the entire project’s lifespan. To mitigate this risk, customers can preorder their watches with the option to secure a full refund if they change their mind before shipping.
The Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2 are available for pre-order now, with prices starting at $149 for the former and $225 for the latter.
Source: https://www.wired.com/story/pebble-smartwatches-core-devices-core-2-duo-core-time-2