Disappointing: Pebble Watch Round 2 suffers from manufacturing problems and further delays

The Pebble Watch 2 is facing further delays. Specifically, the model is yet to enter mass production, even though the company is very close to starting mass production. This is affecting the delivery schedule: shipments of the Pebble Round 2 are now expected to begin in July. The plan is to have all pre-ordered units of the Pebble Round 2 shipped by September. Furthermore, Pebble founder Eric Migicovsky has stated that leather straps will be available in black and brown.

An X post from Migicovsky explains the reason for the delay in considerable detail and with complete transparency. During a visit to China, a cosmetic issue was discovered, caused by the manufacturing process. This was a small indentation near the point where the strap lug connects to the case, which was caused by the CNC machining process. The aim is to correct this defect by adjusting the die for the metal injection molding and to simply avoid the CNC cut.

The Pebble Round 2 is still available for pre-order at a price of $199. The smartwatch will sport a 1.3-inch display capable of showing 64 colors and processing touch input. Thanks to its relatively energy-efficient e-paper display, it reportedly reaches a battery life of around two weeks. However, the Round 2 doesn't include a heart rate monitor, a feature now almost standard on smartwatches.