Pebble smartwatches have been a massive success due to their simplicity, low cost and functionality, and as reported by the Verge, that success has led to a triumphant Kickstarter campaign, earning the company enough to officially announce the Pebble 2 and Pebble Time 2, both of which will be released this year.
The Pebble Time 2 will officially replace both the Pebble Time and Pebble Time Steel as it combines the features of both smartwatches into a single product. The two previous models will be phased out, leaving only the Pebble Time 2 in the market.
According to the report, the Pebble Time 2 has a much thinner bezel and is made of steel. This new design reportedly gives it a 50 percent larger display than the previous models. It will be compatible with previous watch straps so owners of the older models can easily replace the default strap with what they already own.
The newest feature is the built-in heart rate sensor. According to the report, Pebble has acknowledge that fitness sensors and fitness apps are one of the main pillars of today's smartwatches and have implemented several fitness-related features into the Pebble 2 and Pebble Time 2.
Along with the new sensors is a scratch-resistant glass face and it is now water resistant but only to a maximum depth of 30 meters, which is more than needed for most. It also has a built-in microphone which will allow users to respond to text and app messages. Like previous models, the Pebble Time 2 uses physical buttons instead of a touch-screen.
Battery life on the Pebble Time 2 is also stated to last a full 10 days before requiring the owner to recharge. In comparison, the Pebble 2 has an estimated battery life of a week.
The Pebble Time 2 is priced at $169 and will launch in November. The Pebble 2 will be a little less expensive, at $99, and is set to ship out by September this year.
