Pebble, the name that revolutionized the smartwatch industry back in 2012, is back in 2025, and this time, it comes with a promise that fans have been eagerly waiting for—30-day battery life. In an era where smartwatches often require charging every day or two, Pebble’s return is a nostalgic yet forward-thinking leap into the wearable tech world, bringing a fresh outlook on long-lasting battery performance.
If you’ve ever owned one of the early Pebble smartwatches, you know how groundbreaking it was. With its e-paper display and weeks-long battery life, Pebble stood apart from the competition, offering a practical alternative to other smartwatches that required constant charging. Back in 2012, the Pebble watch was the harbinger of change in the wearable tech market. It predates the Apple Watch and was one of the first smartwatches to make waves with its innovative features and unmatched battery endurance.
But as we’ve seen, technology has evolved. The world of wearables has grown exponentially, and the Pebble brand disappeared from the scene, leaving many fans wondering if the company would ever return. The good news: it’s back, and better than ever.
The genius behind the original Pebble, Eric Migicovsky, has returned to the world of smartwatches—this time with a new venture, Core Devices. Under this new company, the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2 models are set to launch later this year, bringing with them a familiar, nostalgic feel but with modern upgrades to meet today’s tech standards.
Unlike the previous generation, which was defined by simplicity and efficiency, the new models incorporate some fresh features. The Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2 will bring the beloved Pebble OS with improved aesthetics and functionality. The designs of these new models will still stay true to the minimalist charm Pebble fans know and love but with some necessary modern upgrades.
So, what’s new in the 2025 Pebble lineup? Let’s break down the key features of the Core 2 Duo and the Core Time 2.
For those who loved the original Pebble for its simplicity and battery efficiency, the Core 2 Duo is the model to watch. It comes with a 1.26-inch black and white display, which is similar to the Pebble 2’s screen but with a more refined design and improved durability. The focus is on offering the most efficient, low-power smartwatch that maintains Pebble’s reputation for long battery life, with the promise of lasting for up to 30 days.
At a price point of $149 (approximately Rs 12,900), the Core 2 Duo is designed to cater to those looking for a more budget-friendly option without compromising on the basics: solid performance, long battery life, and the trusted Pebble OS interface.
If you’re after a more feature-packed experience, the Core Time 2 might be your ideal choice. Featuring a larger 1.5-inch color touchscreen, this model not only offers touch support but also includes a heart rate sensor, sleep tracking, and a speaker, making it a more premium offering in the lineup.
This model is designed for those who want more than just basic functionality. While the 30-day battery life might be slightly compromised due to the addition of these advanced features, it’s still a remarkable feat in the world of smartwatches. The Core Time 2 is priced at $225 (approximately Rs 19,500), positioning it as a more premium alternative for users who want a more comprehensive wearable experience.
The new Pebble smartwatches, while featuring upgraded functionality, continue to work with both iPhone and Android devices. However, like previous generations, the Apple ecosystem may limit some of the features due to Apple’s strict third-party app policies. Users who own Android devices will experience a more seamless and fully functional smartwatch, but iPhone users can still enjoy most of the key features, albeit with some limitations.
One of the standout features of the new models is their long-lasting battery. While 30 days of battery life might seem too good to be true for a modern smartwatch, it’s worth noting that the company has designed these devices to be as power-efficient as possible, especially with the black-and-white display of the Core 2 Duo.
While the market is now dominated by heavyweights like Apple, Samsung, and Fitbit, Pebble’s re-entry into the smartwatch scene offers a breath of fresh air. By prioritizing battery life—a feature often overlooked in modern smartwatches—Core Devices is appealing to users who value practicality over flashy features. There’s something truly special about having a smartwatch that lasts for weeks, and in 2025, that’s a rarity.
Pebble’s new offerings are poised to capture the attention of nostalgic fans as well as a new generation of users who appreciate a sleek, long-lasting smartwatch without all the unnecessary frills. Whether or not these new models will redefine the wearable tech market remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Pebble’s legacy isn’t going anywhere, and it’s ready for a second act.
As we await the official release later this year, the return of Pebble is a reminder that sometimes, simplicity and efficiency make for the most compelling technology. With the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2, Pebble’s journey might just be getting started.