Pebble Time 2 shows off its final design, gets new features too

The development of the new Pebble smartwatches seems to progressing well as Eric Migicovsky, the founder of the original Pebble company and the CEO of Core Devices, has shared the final design of the Pebble Time 2*.

The new look of the Pebble Time 2* (formerly known as Core Time 2) was revealed in a blog post and a 15-minute long YouTube video, and they show a revamped design that is quite different from what was shown earlier in March when it was first announced.

The Pebble Time 2* now has a curved stainless steel 316 front that looks much better than the initial renders. The underside of the watch is also made of the same material and attaches to the body via four screws. The buttons are also made of steel, and while their number and placements haven't changed, the final design shows they are textured like the buttons on the Pebble Time Steel.

Eric Migicovsky also showed off a working engineering sample but specifically stated that the finish hasn't been finalized yet. He also revealed that the watch will be available in four colors but they are yet to be finalized, too. However, once the colors are decided, those who pre-ordered for the Pebble Time 2* will be notified to choose their preferred color.

In addition to a revamped design, the Pebble Time 2* has also gained a few more features such as an extra microphone for potential environmental noise cancellation, multicolor RGB LED backlight, and a compass sensor.

Other confirmed specifications are a 1.5-inch 64 color e-paper touch display protected by a hardened glass lens, 22mm quick release straps, heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and step tracking. It will also have a speaker, a linear actuator motor, and waterproofing (IP rating TBD).

The blog post also revealed that those who pre-ordered the Pebble 2 Duo, which is expected to ship this month, will be able to change to the Pebble Time 2 if they want. However, they are advised not to cancel their Pebble 2 Duo pre-order as doing so will move them to the back of the line. A survey link will be sent to effect the change.

Of course, buyers will be expected to pay the difference since the Pebble Time 2* costs significantly more at $225 whereas the Pebble 2 Duo has a $149 price tag.