A second chance for a beloved design
Pebble’s unexpected comeback has been one of the most surprising tech stories of the year, and the company is now revisiting one of its most ambitious ideas. The newly announced Pebble Round 2 aims to correct the shortcomings of its predecessor while staying true to what made Pebble popular in the first place.
The original Pebble Time Round, released in 2015, stood out for its ultra-thin design and elegant round display. However, compromises in battery life, durability, and price prevented it from becoming a lasting success. Pebble Round 2 is designed as a direct response to those criticisms.
Display and design improvements
One of the most noticeable changes is the removal of the oversized bezel that surrounded the original model. The new 1.3-inch color e-paper touchscreen now extends to the edge of the case, creating a cleaner and more modern look.
Viewing angles have been significantly improved, allowing users to read the screen without adjusting their wrist. The display is now bonded directly to the glass crystal, reducing glare and reflections that previously affected visibility.
Battery life finally meets expectations
Battery performance has seen the biggest leap forward. The Pebble Round 2 delivers more than two weeks of use on a single charge, restoring the long-lasting battery life that Pebble users have always valued.
Despite the improved endurance, the watch remains remarkably slim at just 8.1mm thick, setting it apart from bulkier smartwatches currently on the market.
Focused features and user freedom
Rather than chasing every possible feature, Pebble has chosen a more intentional approach. The Round 2 includes step and sleep tracking, dual microphones for voice interaction and message dictation, and support for AI-based assistants.
Notably absent are heavier hardware additions like optical heart-rate sensors. This reflects Pebble’s renewed focus on simplicity, utility, and customization. Users are encouraged to create and modify their own watch faces, reinforcing the brand’s long-standing emphasis on tinkering and personalization.
Pricing and availability
The Pebble Round 2 is available for preorder now at a price of $199, undercutting many premium smartwatches while offering a distinct design philosophy. Shipping is scheduled to begin in May.
Customers who previously preordered another Pebble model can switch their order to the Round 2 without penalty, reinforcing the company’s user-first approach.
