After more than ten years away from the spotlight, the beloved Pebble smartwatch is making a comeback — and for many enthusiasts, it couldn’t have come at a better time. In an era where wearable devices are increasingly crammed with sensors, obsessed with fitness tracking, and often heavier than necessary, Pebble’s re-emergence offers something refreshingly different. The new watch promises simplicity, elegance, and a return to the features that made Pebble a cult favorite in the first place.
The company behind this revival, Core Devices, has officially shared its final designs, giving fans an enticing look at what’s on the horizon. For those who miss the charm of e-paper displays and the light, distraction-free experience of Pebble’s early models, the wait may soon be over.
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The Pebble Trademark Finds Its Way Home
Last month marked a pivotal moment for Pebble fans. Eric Migicovsky, the original designer of the Pebble smartwatch and now the head of Core Devices, announced that his company had successfully reclaimed the Pebble trademark. This legal win means the brand can proudly wear its own name again — and fans no longer have to use awkward placeholders like “Core 2 Duo” or “Core Time 2” when talking about the new generation of devices.
The name “Pebble” fits the wearable perfectly. Much like a polished stone, it’s small, smooth, tactile, and satisfying to handle — the kind of device that invites you to turn it over in your hand or tap its surface without thinking. The return of the name feels symbolic, signaling a revival of the original Pebble spirit.
The First Look: Pebble Time 2
A Display That Stays True to Pebble’s Roots
Leading the charge in this new wave of devices is the Pebble Time 2, the flagship model in Core Devices’ upcoming lineup. At first glance, it’s clear that the design remains loyal to Pebble’s heritage. The smartwatch features a 1.5-inch color e-paper touch display, designed to be easy on the eyes, energy-efficient, and readable even in bright sunlight.
Unlike many modern smartwatches that prioritize pixel density over battery life, Pebble sticks with its tried-and-true e-paper technology, ensuring the watch remains lightweight and power-conscious while still offering full color. The addition of an RGB backlight means it’s equally comfortable to read in the dark.
Thoughtful Hardware Details
The Pebble Time 2 isn’t just about the display. Core Devices has incorporated several thoughtful touches, including:
- Heart Rate Monitor: Positioned at the bottom for comfort and accurate readings.
- Step Counter and Sleep Tracker: Simple, reliable activity tracking without unnecessary complexity.
- Compass: An affordable yet functional addition for navigation.
- Second Microphone: Designed to improve noise cancellation and potentially enhance voice assistant functionality.
The watch frame and buttons are made from stainless steel, reminiscent of the premium 2014 Pebble Steel. The back plate is secured with screws for easy access to internal components — though some adhesive might still be necessary for full assembly.
The Compass Debate
In a refreshingly candid moment, Migicovsky admitted in a recent video update that the compass wasn’t originally planned:
“Nobody really uses the compass,” he said. “90-something percent of people haven’t used the compass on a Pebble, so I wasn’t feeling inclined to put another chip on it. But we found a relatively inexpensive chip… no guarantees how good it’s going to be.”
While it may not be a core feature for most users, the inclusion of a compass adds another small but potentially useful tool for those who enjoy outdoor activities.
Color Options and Variants
The Pebble Time 2 is expected to launch in four possible colorways:
- Silver stainless steel
- Blackened stainless steel
- Blue polycarbonate
- Red polycarbonate
While the metal finishes are aimed at those seeking a premium look, the polycarbonate options provide a lighter and more affordable alternative. These colors aren’t yet finalized, and Migicovsky has promised to contact all preorder customers so they can confirm their preferred style.
The Pebble 2 Duo: A Budget-Friendly Sibling
Alongside the Pebble Time 2, Core Devices is also preparing a more budget-friendly model — the Pebble 2 Duo. This variant offers:
- 1.2-inch black-and-white e-paper display (non-touch)
- Barometer and compass
- Polycarbonate build for lighter weight and lower cost
Notably, the Pebble 2 Duo lacks a heart rate monitor, making it more of a classic smartwatch for notifications and basic tracking than a health-focused device.
Pricing reflects this difference:
- Pebble 2 Duo: $150
- Pebble Time 2: $225
Preorder customers can easily upgrade from the Duo to the Time 2 by responding to a forthcoming survey from Core Devices.
Behind the Scenes in China
Migicovsky has been unusually transparent throughout the Pebble revival process. His X (formerly Twitter) account has been a running diary of the challenges and progress he’s experienced while working with manufacturers in China.
From sourcing stainless steel frames to testing early production units, he’s been open about the realities of hardware development — including the setbacks. The Pebble Time 2 units shown in the latest photos and videos are still early prototypes, with several design elements yet to be finalized.
Software: PebbleOS Lives On
One of the most exciting aspects of the new Pebble lineup is the continued use of PebbleOS. This lightweight, battery-friendly operating system retains the charm and simplicity of the original while incorporating a few modern touches.
However, the OS is still in development, with occasional glitches and performance quirks to iron out. Core Devices must still complete extensive engineering testing, design refinement, and production validation before the final units can ship.
No Release Date — Yet
Despite growing excitement, Core Devices has not committed to an official release date. The team’s focus is on getting the hardware and software right before rushing to market.
Given the current stage of development, a late-2025 launch seems plausible, though Pebble fans may need to exercise patience. The extra wait could be worth it — particularly for those eager to escape the complexity of feature-stuffed smartwatches from brands like Apple, Samsung, and Garmin.
Why the Pebble Comeback Matters
Pebble’s return isn’t just a nostalgic nod to early smartwatch history — it’s a statement about the direction of wearable technology. Modern smartwatches often emphasize fitness tracking, medical-grade sensors, and deep ecosystem integration, which can be overwhelming for users who just want a lightweight, long-lasting, and straightforward companion for their phone.
The new Pebble models promise:
- Week-long battery life rather than the daily charging cycle of most competitors
- E-paper readability in any lighting condition
- Minimalist notifications without overwhelming your wrist
- Physical buttons for reliable navigation without swiping through endless menus
Comparing Pebble to the Competition
When it finally launches, the Pebble Time 2 will likely land in the same release window as the Apple Watch Series 11. While Apple’s wearable will undoubtedly dominate headlines with advanced sensors and ecosystem features, Pebble offers a very different proposition.
Apple’s watch is a miniature health lab; Pebble is a notification-friendly, battery-conscious companion. Choosing between them will come down to lifestyle preferences — and Pebble’s lower price point could be a deciding factor for many.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the new Pebble smartwatch be released?
Core Devices has not announced an official release date yet. The Pebble Time 2 is still in the prototype stage, and the company is focusing on finalizing the hardware and software before confirming a launch timeline.
How much will the new Pebble watches cost?
The Pebble 2 Duo is expected to retail for $150, while the Pebble Time 2 will be priced at $225.
What colors will be available?
Four color options are being considered: silver stainless steel, blackened stainless steel, blue polycarbonate, and red polycarbonate. The final choices will be confirmed closer to launch.
What is the battery life like?
While official numbers haven’t been released, Pebble watches are known for multi-day battery life thanks to their energy-efficient e-paper displays. The new models are expected to continue that tradition.
Will the Pebble Time 2 have a touchscreen?
Yes. The Pebble Time 2 will feature a color e-paper touch display, along with physical buttons for reliable navigation.
Does the Pebble 2 Duo have a heart rate monitor?
No. The Pebble 2 Duo focuses on simplicity and basic smartwatch functions, so it does not include a heart rate sensor.
Will PebbleOS still be used?
Yes. Both new models will run on PebbleOS, updated with minor modern enhancements while keeping its lightweight, efficient design.
Conclusion
The return of the Pebble smartwatch marks more than just the revival of a beloved tech brand — it’s a reintroduction of a philosophy that values simplicity, practicality, and long-lasting performance over excessive features. In a market dominated by complex, sensor-heavy wearables, Pebble stands out as a refreshing alternative, appealing to those who want a lightweight, reliable, and distraction-free companion on their wrist.