Pebble launches Round 2 e-paper watch with 10-day battery and analog look

Pebble has unveiled the Pebble Round 2, a thin, open-source smartwatch that emphasizes an analog look and long battery life.

The watch improves on the 2015 Pebble Time Round with a larger 1.3-inch e-paper display and a reduced bezel, making notifications and messages easier to read. Pebble says the display reflects light rather than emitting it, aiding visibility in bright conditions.

The Round 2 is 8.1mm thick and delivers about 10 days of battery life, roughly double the previous model. The stainless steel case comes in matte black, brushed silver, and shiny rose gold; a silicone strap is included and leather options are sold separately.

Pebble focused on thinness and style, trading off some features such as a heart rate monitor. The watch uses an accelerometer and internal measurement unit to track sleep and steps and is aimed at timekeeping, notifications, and basic AI queries rather than intensive fitness tracking.

Pebble CEO Eric Migicovsky said, "Constraints make things better," describing the goal to make the device feel more like a timepiece than a block of technology.

The Round 2 works with Android and iOS phones, though message-replying currently only works on Android. It is priced at $199 and is available for preorder.

Key Topics

AI, Tech, Smartwatches, Wearables, Pebble, E-paper, Battery