Pebble is set to release the Pebble Round 2, a refreshed version of its thinnest smartwatch, following the launch of its revived Pebble smartwatch and a budget-friendly AI smart ring. The Pebble Round 2, priced at $199, features a rounded screen design intended to provide a more premium aesthetic while maintaining affordability, a hallmark of Pebble devices.

The new smartwatch focuses on basic health and activity tracking, including step counting and sleep monitoring. Pebble has opted to exclude a heart rate monitor and other advanced features typically found in fitness-oriented smartwatches to maintain a lower price point and extend battery life. The Pebble Round 2 is projected to operate for 10 to 14 days on a single charge.

This release mirrors the strategy employed with the Pebble Time 2, representing a reboot of a previous smartwatch model. In 2015, Pebble introduced the original Pebble Time Round, which it touted as the thinnest smartwatch available at the time. The Pebble Round 2 retains a slim profile, measuring 8.1 mm in thickness, a slight increase from the original's 7.5 mm.

Pebble's decision to limit features in the Pebble Round 2 reflects a broader strategy of offering accessible and long-lasting smartwatches to consumers. By focusing on core functionality and battery efficiency, Pebble aims to carve out a niche in the competitive smartwatch market. The company hopes to attract users who prioritize simplicity and extended use over advanced features.