Madoka Magica smartwatches transform characters as heart rate rises

Your heartbeat could trigger a magical-girl transformation, at least on your wrist. A new smartwatch collection based on Puella Magi Madoka Magica changes its character artwork when the wearer's heart rate rises.

Japanese company Ueni Trading announced six Garrack smartwatches on 6 October, featuring Madoka Kaname, Homura Akemi, Sayaka Miki, Kyoko Sakura, Mami Tomoe and Nagisa Momoe. Each costs ¥10,890 (including tax), with release scheduled for 30 October.

The unusual feature is built into the watch face. When a certain heart-rate level is reached, the character switches to her magical-girl appearance. Garrack has not specified the exact threshold.

Heart-rate transformations meet traditional Japanese watchmaking

The official collection page also shows animated backgrounds and notification effects featuring Soul Gems. Homura's version displays a Dark Orb instead.

The watches offer heart-rate and blood-oxygen monitoring, sleep and stress tracking, and 100 workout modes. They work with iOS and Android through Huawei Health, while the body weighs approximately 16 g without its strap. Each model includes a spare black band and character-themed presentation box.

Garrack previously introduced Super Kaguya-hime! smartwatches, although that collection uses different character interactions.

The accompanying ring watches are more expensive at ¥16,500 each. Inspired by the characters' Soul Gems, the five models feature Japanese quartz movements, stainless-steel cases and 5 ATM water resistance.

Their iridescent dials use raden, a traditional Japanese decorative technique involving thin pieces of shell applied by hand. Unlike smart rings, these are conventional quartz watches worn on the finger.

The franchise has also inspired Seiko's limited-edition Madoka Magica chronographs.

Pre-orders for both Garrack collections opened on 9 October. The smartwatches launch on 30 October, followed by the ring watches on 11 December. Prices and announced availability apply to Japan.