Pebble Creator Unveils Core 2 Duo Smartwatch with New Features and Challenges

Eric Migicovsky, the visionary behind the original Pebble smartwatch, is back with an exciting new venture: Core Devices. Recently, he introduced the Core 2 Duo, a new smartwatch that builds on the legacy of Pebble by running the open-source PebbleOS. In a recent podcast episode, Migicovsky provided a hands-on demonstration of one of the first Core 2 Duo units fresh from the factory, revealing both its potential and the challenges ahead.

The Core 2 Duo smartwatch is designed as a more affordable model featuring a black-and-white screen without touch capabilities. Although the software is still under development, the familiar PebbleOS user interface is present. Basic functions like time display are yet to be enabled, and the team is actively working on drivers for vibrating notifications and the accelerometer. The device sports a silicone strap inspired by the Apple Watch, complete with a slot to neatly tuck away excess strap length, and charges via a compact USB-C magnetic dongle.

Looking ahead, Migicovsky envisions several enhancements for both the Core 2 Duo and the upcoming Core Time 2, which will feature a color touchscreen and is slated for release in December 2025. Planned features include watch face widgets for quick access to weather updates and appointments, deeper integration with Beeper — a universal chat app developed by Migicovsky — and improved AI voice assistant capabilities leveraging the devices’ built-in speakers and microphones.

An exciting prospect is expanded compatibility with iOS devices, particularly in Europe, where the EU’s Digital Markets Act is compelling Apple to open its ecosystem. This could enable users to respond to messages via voice commands when paired with an iPhone, enhancing the smartwatch’s communication capabilities.

Beyond wearables, the Core Devices team is working on porting PebbleOS to new Bluetooth chipsets, aiming to broaden the operating system’s application to other device categories. While specifics remain under wraps, this initiative signals a strategic push to expand PebbleOS’s footprint in the IoT landscape.

However, the journey is not without hurdles. The Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2 are manufactured in Shenzhen, China, and are subject to US tariffs on Chinese-made electronics. Currently, a 27.5 percent tariff is imposed, potentially increasing shipment costs by $10 to $25 per unit. While the exact impact on retail pricing is uncertain, this factor poses a challenge to maintaining competitive pricing for the $149 Core 2 Duo and $225 Core Time 2.

Migicovsky’s return to the smartwatch arena with Core Devices highlights a blend of nostalgia and innovation. By leveraging open-source software, focusing on user-centric features, and navigating complex geopolitical trade environments, the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2 represent a compelling evolution in wearable technology. For developers and businesses in the IoT space, these advancements underscore the importance of adaptable software platforms and resilient supply chain strategies.

As the smartwatch market continues to evolve, Core Devices’ approach offers valuable insights into balancing innovation with practical challenges. The integration of AI voice agents, enhanced app interoperability, and modular OS design are trends that can inspire broader IoT development efforts. Meanwhile, understanding the impact of tariffs and manufacturing logistics remains critical for companies aiming to deliver cost-effective, high-quality wearables to global consumers.