After nearly a decade in the shadows, Pebble is making a comeback. This time, under a new brand, called Core Devices. The wait is over, and original Pebble founder Eric Migicovsky has revived the beloved smartwatch line with two new models: the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2.
Pebble original founder Migicovsky revives the Watch brand with Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2
The Core 2 Duo, priced at $149, is a refreshed version of the Pebble 2. It keeps the classic e-paper screen but stretches battery life to an impressive 30 days, an upgrade from the previous 7-day lifespan. It also gets a speaker, compass, barometer, and better buttons.
Meanwhile, the Core Time 2, which costs $225, takes after the old Pebble Time 2 but brings some premium upgrades. It features a color touchscreen, a metal frame, and even a heart rate monitor. That’s something Pebble never had before. However, while the Core 2 Duo ships in July 2025, the Core Time 2 won’t arrive until December.
Both watches run on PebbleOS, now an open-source platform, meaning users can still access thousands of old Pebble watchfaces and apps. Notifications, fitness tracking, music controls, and alarms remain core features. The microphone and speaker aren’t meant for calls but will support apps like AI voice assistants.
That said, don’t expect all the bells and whistles of modern watches. Neither model has GPS, and water resistance is still being worked on. If you’re looking for a dedicated fitness tracker, even Migicovsky suggests buying a Garmin instead. Or if you’re already invested in Samsung ecosystem, buying the Galaxy Watch 7 or Watch Ultra makes more sense.
Still, for Pebble loyalists, the return of these long-lasting, no-fuss smartwatches is exciting. Both models are available for pre-order now via the Pebble Store. So if you’ve been craving a simple smartwatch with incredible battery life, this could be your moment.
