In a nostalgic yet forward-looking move, Pebble has officially resurrected one of its most beloved designs. The Pebble Round 2 smartwatch, announced on January 3, 2026, marks the return of the iconic circular form factor that first captivated users in 2015 with the Pebble Time Round. This launch is more than a simple reissue; it's a modern reinterpretation that aims to deliver the core Pebble experience—exceptional battery life and always-on readability—to a new generation of wearable users, while navigating a market now dominated by feature-rich giants.
A Modern Take on a Beloved Design
The Pebble Round 2 immediately distinguishes itself with its signature 1.3-inch color electronic paper (E Ink) display. This technology is the cornerstone of Pebble's philosophy, providing a sharp, glare-free screen that remains visible in direct sunlight and consumes minimal power. The new model boasts a resolution of 260x260 pixels and a notable design improvement: significantly reduced bezels compared to its 2015 predecessor. This change gives the watch a more modern, screen-dominant appearance while retaining the classic circular silhouette. Encased in stainless steel and measuring just 8.1mm thick, it remains one of the slimmest smartwatches available, offered in matte black, brushed silver, and polished rose gold finishes.
Pebble Round 2 Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 1.3-inch Color E-Paper (E Ink) |
| Resolution | 260 x 260 pixels |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel |
| Thickness | 8.1 mm |
| Battery Life | 10-14 days (typical) |
| Water Resistance | 30 meters |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Magnetometer, Dual Microphones |
| Health Tracking | Step Counting, Sleep Monitoring |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, Companion App (iOS/Android) |
| Operating System | Pebble OS (Open Source) |
| Price | USD 199 |
| Availability | Pre-order now, shipping starts May 2026 |
Performance and Core Experience
At its heart, the Round 2 runs on the open-source Pebble OS, which continues to support a vast library of over 15,000 apps and watch faces through the Pebble Appstore. Connectivity is handled via Bluetooth to a companion app on both Android and iOS devices. The watch is built for essential smart functionality, featuring four physical buttons and a touchscreen for navigation. It includes basic health tracking via an accelerometer for step counting and sleep monitoring, but pointedly omits advanced sensors like a heart rate monitor or ECG. A key upgrade is the inclusion of dual microphones, enabling voice replies to messages and interactions with phone-based AI assistants, though the lack of a speaker means calls cannot be taken directly on the wrist.
The Enduring Appeal of Marathon Battery Life
Where the Pebble Round 2 truly aims to stand out is in its endurance. Pebble claims a battery life of 10 to 14 days on a single charge, a figure that seems almost anachronistic in today's smartwatch landscape where daily or bi-daily charging is the norm. This feat is achieved through the combination of the ultra-low-power E Ink display and an updated, more efficient Bluetooth chip. For users tired of constant charging rituals, this two-week potential is a compelling reason to look beyond mainstream options. The watch also carries a 30-meter water resistance rating, making it suitable for handwashing and rain.
Comparison with Notable 2026 Smartwatch Launches
- Pebble Round 2 (USD 199): Focus on core experience. Color E-Ink display, 14-day battery, basic tracking, voice replies via mic, no HR sensor or speaker.
- Xiaomi Watch 5 (Recent Launch): Feature-rich flagship. Likely includes dual-chip design, ECG support, EMG gesture controls, and eSIM connectivity.
- Lenovo Watch GT Pro (Recent Launch): Fitness & endurance focus. Features dual-frequency GPS, up to 27-day battery life, and comprehensive health tracking suites.
Market Position and Availability
Priced at USD 199 (approximately CNY 1,393), the Pebble Round 2 positions itself as a competitively priced alternative for those who prioritize battery life and screen readability over comprehensive health metrics and cellular connectivity. It enters a market where recent launches, like Xiaomi's feature-packed Watch 5 and Lenovo's long-enduring Watch GT Pro, offer more advanced sensors and connectivity options. Pebble's strategy appears to be a focused one: cater to the enthusiast and pragmatic user who values core notifications, timeless design, and minimal maintenance. Pre-orders are open now on rePebble.com, with the first units scheduled to ship in May 2026.
The launch of the Pebble Round 2 is a fascinating case study in brand revival. It doesn't attempt to beat the competition at their own game with an array of sensors and apps. Instead, it doubles down on the unique attributes that made the original Pebble a cult favorite: an easy-on-the-eyes display, week-long battery life, and a discreet, watch-like design. In doing so, it carves out a distinct niche, offering a compelling "smartwatch-lite" option for anyone whose primary wish is for their wearable to simply work—without becoming another daily charging burden.