Pebble has officially announced its return to the smartwatch market, years after the company ceased operations due to financial struggles. The California-based company is now working on a new smartwatch under the “rePebble” branding, aiming to bring back its signature e-ink display technology. Unlike most modern smartwatches that rely on OLED or LCD panels, the upcoming Pebble device will feature an always-on e-ink screen, which is expected to improve battery life and outdoor visibility. In a significant move to support Pebble’s revival, Google has open-sourced the operating system (OS) that previously powered its smartwatches.
In a blog post, Pebble’s co-founder and CEO, Eric Migicovsky, explained why the company is returning to the market despite the abundance of smartwatch options today. According to him, most existing smartwatches lack a specific combination of core features that Pebble users loved. The new device will prioritize simplicity and functionality, focusing on essential features like time tracking, notifications, music control, alarms, weather updates, and fitness tracking. Unlike traditional smartwatch displays, Pebble aims to use a reflective e-ink screen, which remains readable under direct sunlight and consumes significantly less power.
Migicovsky also emphasized the importance of physical buttons in the smartwatch’s design, allowing users to control music playback without constantly looking at their phones. He argued that many modern smartwatches rely too heavily on touchscreens, which can be inconvenient in certain situations. Additionally, he expressed a desire for the new Pebble watch to be “hackable,” a nod to the company’s open-source philosophy. This stands in contrast to brands like Apple, which restrict users from customizing their watch faces or modifying the software.
With Google’s decision to release the OS source code, Pebble’s resurgence could mark an exciting new chapter for fans of minimalist and highly customizable smartwatches. While details about the final product, pricing, and release date remain unknown, the company’s vision suggests a return to the roots that made Pebble a fan favorite in the first place. As the development progresses, more information is expected to emerge, giving users a clearer idea of what to expect from the next-generation Pebble smartwatch.
