Pebble, the company that started the modern smart watch revolution, is returning to Kickstarter to raise funds for its brand new device – the Pebble Time.
The new smart watch adds color to the mix, making it easier for users to find out what’s going on without pulling out their smartphones. The wearable got a bigger screen, slimmer body and a brand new platform with improved user interface. The battery life, however, remained the same and users will still be able to count on a full week of usage before charging the watch.
Pebble Time is expandable via the smart accessory port that enables hardware developers to build sensors and smart straps that connect directly to the watch.The best part is that all current Pebble apps will work on the Time, despite the fact that the new model rocks a bigger display; though we expect to see many of the apps getting an update to take advantage of the extra screen estate (and colors).
“Pebble was first brought to life by 69,000 backers and people who supported our vision three years ago. We could not think of a better way to share our new watch,” said Eric Migicovsky, Pebble CEO. “With Pebble Time, we’re launching completely new hardware and reimagined software while keeping all the things people love about Pebble.”
mHealth-wise, Pebble’s new product sings along many popular fitness tracking apps, including Strava, MapMyRun, Endomondo, RunKeeper and Jawbone. In addition, the company made sure the Time is expandable via the smart accessory port that should enable hardware developers to build sensors and smart straps which connect directly to the watch. Considering Pebble’s popularity, we expect to see quite a few companies joining in and launching unique add-ons that would expand the viability of the Time as an mHealth device.
The Pebble Time is available in three colors for $159 exclusively on Kickstarter, with worldwide shipping to backers starting in May. Later this year, the device will retail for $199. As we’re writing this, Kickstarter community has pledged way over $5 million for the Pebble Time.