Pebble Round 2 Preorders Open With Major Upgrades
Pebble has officially opened preorders for the Round 2 smartwatch, the latest redesign of its 2015 Pebble Time Round. The $199 device combines a sleek bezel-free design with a battery life that promises up to two weeks of use. Shipping is expected to begin in May 2026, making it one of the most highly anticipated smartwatch releases this year. Consumers searching for a durable, stylish smartwatch that works seamlessly with both iOS and Android now have a new option that balances form and functionality.
Bezel-Free Display and High Resolution
The standout feature of the Round 2 is its 1.3-inch color e-paper touch screen, which completely covers the watch face. Pebble claims the display delivers 260 by 260 pixels at 283 DPI, effectively doubling the resolution of the original Pebble Time Round. This improvement ensures sharper text and clearer graphics, making notifications, messages, and watch faces easier to read at a glance. By removing the large bezel, the watch looks more modern while keeping a lightweight, wearable design.
Extended Two-Week Battery Life
Battery life has been a key focus for Pebble, and the Round 2 doesn’t disappoint. The device can last up to two weeks on a single charge, a major upgrade from the two-day runtime of its predecessor. This extended battery life reduces the need for daily charging, making the Round 2 an ideal companion for users who want a smartwatch that stays powered during long trips or busy weeks.
Compatibility and Smart Features
The Round 2 runs on open-source PebbleOS and connects with both iOS and Android devices through the Pebble mobile app. It includes dual microphones for voice input and message replies, though voice replies for iOS are limited to the EU. Unlike some other smartwatches, the Round 2 does not include a heart rate monitor, focusing instead on simplicity, lightweight design, and extended battery performance.
Design and Build
Pebble has combined the electrical design of the Pebble Time 2 with the mechanical design of the original Time Round for the Round 2. This approach keeps the watch thin and stylish while maintaining robust performance. Users who preordered the Pebble Time 2 have the option to switch their order to the Round 2, highlighting Pebble’s flexible approach to meeting customer preferences.
Relaunch and Brand Vision
Pebble founder Eric Migicovsky relaunched the brand after Google open-sourced PebbleOS last year. The Round 2 follows the Pebble Time 2, which featured a larger 1.5-inch display, stainless steel body, and heart rate monitoring. With the Round 2, Pebble focuses on delivering a lightweight, visually striking watch that prioritizes battery life and user-friendly features.
A Smart Choice for Modern Users
The Pebble Round 2 blends classic design with modern upgrades, making it an appealing choice for anyone seeking a stylish, functional smartwatch. With preorders now open and shipping scheduled for May 2026, enthusiasts can secure one of the first units of this long-awaited device. Its combination of bezel-free display, two-week battery, and broad smartphone compatibility positions the Round 2 as a strong contender in the smartwatch market.
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