Pebble’s Phoenix: Core Devices Revives Iconic Smartwatches with Updated Hardware and Open-Source Freedom
The smartwatch landscape is about to experience a delightful blast from the past. Nearly a decade after their initial splash, Pebble smartwatches are making a triumphant return, spearheaded by the original founder Eric Migicovsky’s new venture, Core Devices. This revival breathes new life into the beloved Pebble 2 and Pebble Time 2, reimagined as the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2, respectively. Set to ship starting in July 2025, these updated devices promise to recapture the magic of the original Pebble smartwatches, blending their signature appeal with modern enhancements.
To truly appreciate this resurgence, it’s essential to revisit Pebble’s formative impact on the smartwatch market. Over a decade ago, Pebble burst onto the scene, pioneering features and philosophies that would shape the very definition of a smartwatch. Their focus on simplicity, long battery life, and an open ecosystem resonated with a dedicated following. In 2016, Pebble unveiled its highly anticipated second-generation lineup, consisting of the Pebble 2 and Pebble Time 2. However, fate intervened when Fitbit acquired the company before the Time 2 could reach consumers. While the Pebble 2 made its way to a limited number of early adopters, the Time 2 remained a tantalizing prototype. Subsequently, Pebble’s operations were shut down, leaving fans to rely on the tireless efforts of developers to keep existing Pebble smartwatches functional.
Despite the company’s demise, the spirit of Pebble lived on. The community’s dedication to preserving the platform’s functionality served as a testament to its enduring appeal. Now, this hardware is poised for a remarkable comeback.
The groundwork for this revival was laid in January when Google, the current owner of Pebble’s assets following its acquisition of Fitbit in 2021, made PebbleOS open-source. This pivotal decision unlocked the door for Eric Migicovsky, the visionary behind Pebble, to embark on a mission to resurrect the hardware. Now, Migicovsky has officially announced this monumental undertaking, unveiling his new company, Core Devices, and its inaugural offerings: the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2 smartwatches.
The Core 2 Duo is, in essence, a faithful reboot of the 2016 Pebble 2. Retaining the same minimalist design and functionality that made its predecessor so popular, the Core 2 Duo utilizes the original 1.26-inch black and white e-paper display. While the panels are eight years old, Migicovsky assures users that they remain in excellent working condition. The "Duo" moniker is a nod to its "do-over" status. Enclosed in a durable polycarbonate frame available in black or white, the Core 2 Duo boasts an IPX8 water resistance rating and supports standard 22mm watch bands. Like the Pebble 2, it provides comprehensive step and sleep tracking capabilities.
However, the Core 2 Duo is more than just a rehash. Several noteworthy hardware upgrades enhance the user experience. A new speaker accompanies the existing microphone, hinting at future integration with AI assistants like ChatGPT. A refined vibration motor promises stronger feedback while operating more quietly. Furthermore, the buttons on the new smartwatch are engineered for increased durability, boasting a 30% longer lifespan compared to those on the Pebble 2.
The most significant improvement to the Core 2 Duo lies in its battery life. While the Pebble 2 offered a respectable 7 days of battery life, the Core 2 Duo extends that to an impressive 30 days. This substantial improvement is primarily attributed to the advancements in Bluetooth technology’s power efficiency over the past decade.
The Core Time 2 represents the realization of a dream deferred. It is, essentially, the Pebble Time 2 that never reached the market. This smartwatch incorporates all the upgrades and features found in the Core 2 Duo, while also introducing several significant enhancements. The Core Time 2 features a metal body (including metal buttons), a larger 1.5-inch color e-paper display with a higher resolution, a heart rate monitor, and, most notably, a touchscreen.
The touchscreen functionality is not intended to replace the traditional button-based navigation that defined the Pebble experience. Migicovsky emphasizes that the buttons will remain central to the user interface, preserving the tactile feel that Pebble users have come to appreciate. Instead, the touchscreen primarily facilitates interaction with watch face complications, providing a more intuitive way to access information at a glance.
Beyond the hardware, the software powering these new smartwatches is equally crucial. Both devices will run the same software experience as previous Pebble devices. However, the open-source nature of PebbleOS unlocks unprecedented levels of customization and flexibility. Users are no longer restricted to a single app for setting up their smartwatches. They can choose to use the Rebble project’s app, an app developed by Core Devices, or even create their own custom app. The overall user experience is intended to be familiar and intuitive. Existing Pebble users will be pleased to know that the thousands of watch faces and apps created for prior Pebble smartwatches will be compatible with the new devices.
The Core 2 Duo is priced at $149 and is scheduled to begin shipping in July 2025. Only 10,000 units are being produced initially, and future production will be determined by customer demand. Pre-orders are currently open, so prospective buyers are encouraged to secure their orders early.
The Core Time 2, with its more advanced features, is priced at $229 and is expected to ship in December 2025. The delay is primarily due to the Core 2 Duo utilizing existing designs and components from the Pebble 2, simplifying the production process. Pre-orders are also available for the Core Time 2, and Migicovsky has assured customers that they can cancel their orders for a full refund at any time. While the Core Time 2 will also be produced in limited quantities, the supply will be slightly larger than that of the Core 2 Duo.
Pre-orders are now being accepted at store.repebble.com. The revival of Pebble is more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane. It is a testament to the enduring power of a well-designed product, a dedicated community, and the vision of a founder who refused to let his creation fade into obscurity. With updated hardware, an open-source platform, and a focus on simplicity and long battery life, the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2 are poised to recapture the hearts of Pebble fans and attract a new generation of smartwatch enthusiasts.
