The legacy of the Pebble smartwatch is set to continue as Eric Migicovsky, the original creator, prepares to launch two new devices under his company, Core Devices. These smartwatches, the Core 2 Duo and the Core Time 2, are designed to appeal to both long-time Pebble fans and those seeking a straightforward, long-lasting wearable.
The Core 2 Duo, priced at $149 and scheduled for release in July, is designed to evoke the spirit of the Pebble 2. It features the same black-and-white e-paper display and frame as its predecessor, utilizing leftover parts from the original production. Migicovsky emphasizes that the Core 2 Duo is a “do-over,” offering a familiar experience with modern enhancements. Technological advancements have allowed for significant improvements in battery life, with the Core 2 Duo expected to last over 30 days on a single charge, a notable increase from the Pebble 2’s seven days. The device also includes a speaker for interacting with AI assistants.
The Core Time 2, priced at $225 and set to ship in December, is an update to the Pebble Time 2 design. A key addition is the touchscreen, which enables users to interact with watch face complications and access apps more directly. Migicovsky aims to provide a more intuitive user experience, without introducing complex multitouch functionalities. Like the Core 2 Duo, the Core Time 2 boasts a 30-day battery life, along with upgraded step and sleep tracking capabilities.
Both smartwatches will run on the open-source Pebble operating system, preserving the core features that made Pebble popular. Migicovsky notes that the development process has been smoother than anticipated, with the team efficiently adapting the software to the new hardware.
However, challenges remain. Migicovsky acknowledges the increasing difficulty of maintaining compatibility with iOS devices, particularly regarding notification replies. Android compatibility is more straightforward, offering greater flexibility for data access and integration.
Manufacturing and software integration also present ongoing tasks. Migicovsky expresses concerns about potential delays and the impact of tariffs, indicating that additional costs may be passed on to consumers.
Despite these challenges, Migicovsky’s primary focus remains on creating devices that align with his vision for a practical and user-friendly smartwatch. He emphasizes that Core Devices is not aiming for mass-market appeal but rather catering to a dedicated community of users who value simplicity and functionality.
