# **Revived Pebble Smartwatches and iPhone Compatibility: Essential Insights**
The Pebble smartwatch lineage is re-emerging, close to ten years since it halted its services. The original Pebble founder, Eric Migicovsky, has introduced two fresh smartwatches under the Core Devices label: **Core 2 Duo** and **Core Time 2**. These timepieces bring back the cherished PebbleOS, featuring an always-on e-paper display, extended battery life, and tactile buttons. Nevertheless, although these new gadgets will function with iPhones, the user experience will be heavily restricted due to Apple’s policies.
## **Introducing the New Pebble Smartwatches: Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2**
The two latest smartwatches are designed to rejuvenate the Pebble experience with contemporary enhancements:
– **Core 2 Duo ($149, expected shipping in July 2025)**: Mimics the classic Pebble 2, boasting a straightforward design and fundamental smartwatch capabilities.
– **Core Time 2 ($225, expected shipping in December 2025)**: Features a larger 64-color screen and a high-quality metal casing.
These devices uphold the enduring Pebble ethos of simplicity, effectiveness, and an open-source operating system.
## **iPhone Compatibility: Understanding the Constraints**
Although the new Pebble smartwatches will technically connect with iPhones, the overall experience will be far from flawless. Migicovsky notes that Apple’s stringent App Store regulations hinder effective integration of third-party smartwatches with iOS. Key limitations include:
– **Inability to send text messages or iMessages**
– **No option for replying to notifications or taking action**
– **Limited functionality with third-party applications like Strava**
– **The Pebble app must stay open in the background for optimal watch operations**
– **iPhones will still vibrate for notifications even if the Pebble watch is active**
– **Challenges in providing third-party watch faces and apps due to Apple’s payment structure**
Migicovsky contends that Apple is leveraging its market power to confine users within its ecosystem, stifling competition and creativity.
## **Why Android Users Will Experience More Benefits**
In contrast to iPhones, Android devices offer enhanced smartwatch integration. Android users can expect full functionality, including messaging, app connections, and improved notification management. This makes the new Pebble watches a far more appealing choice for Android users in comparison to those using iPhones.
## **Concluding Thoughts**
The resurgence of Pebble smartwatches is thrilling for enthusiasts of the brand, but iPhone users should recognize the constraints imposed by Apple’s ecosystem. If you’re an Android user, these new Pebble watches could serve as an excellent alternative to standard smartwatches. Conversely, if you’re an iPhone user, you might want to explore other options for a more integrated smartwatch experience.
Would you consider purchasing a new Pebble smartwatch? We would love to hear your opinions!
