• Eric Migicovsky demoed the Core 2 Duo smartwatch, showcasing the PebbleOS in action and its basic functionalities.
• US buyers may face a $10-25 price increase due to tariffs on Chinese-made smartwatches, with Core Devices exploring bulk importing to mitigate costs.
• Migicovsky is considering adding features like complications, Beeper integration, and AI voice agent support to enhance the smartwatch experience.

Eric Migicovsky, the creator of the original Pebble smartwatch, is developing new smartwatches under his company Core Devices, named the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2. The Core 2 Duo, demonstrated recently, features the PebbleOS and a black-and-white screen without touch capabilities, while the Core Time 2 is set to have a color touchscreen. Migicovsky's recent demonstration highlighted the progress of the Core 2 Duo and addressed concerns regarding potential price increases due to US tariffs on Chinese-made electronics. The watches aim to capture the essence of the original Pebble, focusing on simplicity, battery life, and a user-friendly experience.

• What: Eric Migicovsky demoed the Core 2 Duo smartwatch, highlighting PebbleOS, potential features, and tariff implications.
• Who: Eric Migicovsky, Core Devices, US and international customers, President Trump (regarding tariffs).
• When: Demo occurred in May 2025. Core 2 Duo is planned to ship in July 2025, Core Time 2 in December 2025.
• Where: Smartwatches are manufactured in Shenzhen, China. Shipping will occur from Asia for non-US orders and in bulk to the US to minimize tariff costs.

The revival of the Pebble smartwatch through Core Devices indicates a demand for simpler, less feature-packed wearables. Migicovsky's focus on the core strengths of the original Pebble, such as long battery life and a clean user interface, differentiates it from the competition. However, challenges like tariffs pose a significant hurdle, potentially impacting the price and market competitiveness of the Core 2 Duo. The success of the Core 2 Duo will likely depend on how effectively Core Devices can manage costs and appeal to consumers seeking a straightforward and affordable smartwatch experience. The decision to open-source PebbleOS is a strategic move that encourages community development and ensures the platform's longevity.

I love having a device in my life that just makes me feel happy.

For all non-US orders… we’re going to ship directly from Asia, so your shipment won’t be subject to the US tariffs.

The Core 2 Duo smartwatch demo signals a promising resurgence of the Pebble philosophy, emphasizing simplicity, essential features, and a vibrant open-source community. Developed by Core Devices under the leadership of Pebble founder Eric Migicovsky, the Core 2 Duo, alongside the Core Time 2, aims to capture a niche market seeking minimalist smartwatches with long battery life and physical buttons, setting them apart from the feature-rich offerings of Apple and Samsung. While the Core 2 Duo mirrors the Pebble 2 with its black and white e-paper display and polycarbonate frame, the Core Time 2 takes inspiration from the unreleased Pebble Time 2, boasting a color e-paper display, touchscreen, and metal frame. Both watches run on the open-source PebbleOS, granting access to thousands of existing apps and watch faces. Despite being in the prototype phase, the Core 2 Duo is on track for a July release, while the Core Time 2 is expected in December. A potential hurdle lies in the US tariffs on China-made smartwatches, which Core Devices plans to mitigate through bulk importing, potentially adding $10-25 to the final cost for US customers. The success of these devices will not only depend on their ability to deliver a seamless user experience but also on navigating the complexities of international trade, and gauging consumer interest in a simplified smartwatch experience.