The iconic Pebble smartwatch brand is staging an unexpected revival in 2025, nearly a decade after its original demise. With two new models boasting impressive 30-day battery life, Pebble aims to recapture the hearts of tech enthusiasts who fondly remember its minimalist approach to wearable technology.
The Rebirth of Pebble
Pebble’s journey back to the smartwatch market is a tale of perseverance and open-source collaboration. After Fitbit acquired the company in 2016 and Google subsequently purchased Fitbit, it seemed Pebble had reached its end. However, in a surprising turn of events, Google open-sourced the PebbleOS in January 2025, paving the way for a new chapter in Pebble’s history.
Eric Migicovsky, Pebble’s original founder, seized this opportunity to breathe new life into the brand. Working with a small team, Migicovsky has developed two new smartwatches that run on the open-source PebbleOS: the Core 2 Duo and the Core Time 2.
Core 2 Duo: Back to Basics
The Core 2 Duo is a modern take on the classic Pebble design, featuring:
- A 1.26-inch black and white e-paper display (144 x 168 pixels)
- Plastic frame construction
- Four physical buttons for navigation
- 6-axis IMU, compass, and barometer
- Step and sleep tracking capabilities
- Microphone and speaker
- Linear resonance actuator for stronger vibrations
- IPX8 water resistance (targeted)
- 30-day battery life
Priced at $149, the Core 2 Duo aims to deliver the essential Pebble experience without unnecessary frills. It’s scheduled to ship in July 2025.
Core Time 2: A Premium Upgrade
For those seeking a more advanced smartwatch, the Core Time 2 offers:
- A larger 1.5-inch touchscreen color e-paper display (200 x 228 pixels)
- Metal frame for a more premium feel
- Four physical buttons plus touchscreen interaction
- 6-axis IMU and heart rate sensor
- Step and sleep tracking
- Microphone and speaker
- Linear resonance actuator
- IPX8 water resistance (targeted)
- 30-day battery life
The Core Time 2 is priced at $225 and is set to ship in December 2025.
Embracing the Pebble Ecosystem
Both new Pebble models are designed to work seamlessly with Android and iOS devices. They’re also compatible with thousands of existing Pebble apps and watch faces, tapping into the rich ecosystem that made the original Pebbles so popular.
The watches use a standard 22mm strap width, allowing for easy customization. They also come with the familiar Pebble charger, maintaining continuity with previous models.
A Focus on Simplicity and Longevity
Pebble’s return to the smartwatch arena comes at a time when many consumers are experiencing fatigue with feature-packed but battery-hungry devices. The new Pebbles stand out with their focus on core functionality and exceptional battery life.
While they may lack some advanced features found in competitors like the Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch series (such as ECG monitoring or cellular connectivity), the Pebbles offer a refreshing alternative for those who prioritize simplicity and battery longevity.
Limited Availability and Open-Source Future
Both the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2 are available for pre-order through the RePebble Store in limited quantities. This cautious approach to production reflects the niche but passionate market Pebble is targeting.
The open-source nature of PebbleOS also opens up exciting possibilities for the future. Developers and enthusiasts can contribute to the platform, potentially leading to new features and improvements over time.
A Nostalgic Yet Forward-Looking Approach
Pebble’s resurrection represents a unique blend of nostalgia and innovation in the wearable tech space. By sticking to its roots of simplicity and hackability while incorporating modern improvements like extended battery life, Pebble is carving out a distinct identity in a crowded market.
For longtime Pebble fans and newcomers alike, these new models offer a compelling alternative to mainstream smartwatches. Whether they can recapture the magic of the original Pebble remains to be seen, but their month-long battery life and open-source foundation certainly make them worth watching.