Eric Migicovsky, the founder of Pebble, is making a comeback in the smartwatch scene with a new line of watches under the brand Core Devices LLC. The models introduced are the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2. These devices draw inspiration from the earlier Pebble watches and focus on features like an e-paper display, extended battery life, and open-source software, without aiming to compete with the high-end market.
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Two Models Similar to the Original Pebble
The new watches retain characteristics that were unique to the original Pebble. The Core 2 Duo, priced at $149, offers a straightforward design with a 1.26-inch black and white non-touch screen. It features a polycarbonate casing and follows the design of the Pebble 2 released in 2016.
The Core Time 2, available for $225, is an upgraded version featuring a 1.5-inch color screen and a metal casing. Unlike the Core 2 Duo, it includes a touchscreen and a heart rate sensor. Its design is reminiscent of the Pebble Time 2, a model announced in 2016 but never released.
Enhanced Battery Life and an Open Platform
Both models boast an impressive battery life, claimed to last 30 days on a single charge. This longevity is achieved through the use of energy-efficient e-paper displays and the absence of high-energy features like GPS or cellular connectivity.
They operate on PebbleOS, a system based on the former Pebble watch OS, which Google made open source earlier this year. This allows the watches to support over 10,000 existing applications and watch faces. The interface mainly uses physical buttons, though the Core Time 2 includes a touchscreen for certain interactions.
The features are basic: notifications, sleep and activity tracking, music controls, and the possibility to integrate third-party apps. A microphone and speaker are included, but they do not support making calls.
A Niche Alternative for a Specific Audience
Unlike the Apple Watch, Garmin, or other Wear OS models, the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2 are not targeting the mainstream market. Core Devices emphasizes that these watches are not competitors to current smartwatches. They cater to those looking for a simple device with long battery life and compatibility with the Pebble ecosystem, positioning them as niche products.
The Core 2 Duo will be available in July 2025, whereas the Core Time 2 will hit the market in December, with pre-orders already open on the brand’s website. Core Devices plans a limited production run, and these watches are likely to appeal primarily to former Pebble users or those seeking a more basic device than current models.