A new version of some of Garmin’s more expensive smartwatches has been introduced. Beta Version 23.16, which is being distributed globally through its Beta Program, comes ahead of a far more significant stable software update that seems to be imminent.
After revealing the August 2025 Feature Update a little more than a week ago, Garmin has just upgraded a number of its devices. In summary, since releasing its most recent Feature Update, the business has released new stable upgrades for the Fenix 8, Forerunner 970, Instinct 2, Instinct 3, and related smartwatches. Additionally, it has produced significant modifications for its cycle computers, such as the Edge 1050 from the previous year.
Through a new beta update for the Enduro 2, Epix 2, Fenix 7, Marq Gen 2, and Quatix 7, Garmin has now resorted to its more expensive, older smartwatches. In June, Garmin published System Software 22.06, the most recent stable update for these smartwatches. As it prepares to release a new stable build at some point, the corporation has released a number of beta updates in the interim.
Following a wait of more than three weeks, Garmin has begun releasing a new beta version, known as Beta Version 23.16. According to reports, Beta Version 23.16, the fourth v23.xx update to date, fixes two major problems that can lead to problems with CT10 sensor pairing and Hunt activity navigation. When Garmin will complete v23.xx development is still unknown. But given its recent modifications, the shift from v23.08 to v23.16 indicates the corporation may be on the verge of releasing a stable build.
Europe will soon be able to purchase the Amazfit Balance 2 XT smartwatch. However, the business has stated that it will only be accessible in a few countries through its online storefronts. With a few modifications, this device is less expensive than the conventional Balance 2 and is already offered by a US shop.
The arrival of the Balance 2 XT smartwatch in Europe has been announced by Amazfit. This wearable, which was the subject of rumors earlier this year, is now sold at Best Buy in the United States.
Amazfit Balance 2 XT
Built for Performance and Style: The sleek aluminum body and 1.5″ durable sapphire crystal glass screen of the Balance 2 smart watch offer a premium, resilient design, while dual speakers provide clear audio cues during training.
Amazfit has now notified Notebookcheck that the Balance 2 XT smartwatch will be available for purchase at its online stores in Italy and Spain. Although the delivery cost in this instance is unknown, the company claims that clients in other European nations will be able to have the merchandise transported to their location. Pricing and the European release date are still pending. It retails for $199.99 in the US, although one merchant advertises it for €189.91.
The original Balance 2 smartwatch, which came out earlier this year, is more expensive than the Balance 2 XT. It features a 1.5-inch mineral glass-protected AMOLED display. With more than 170 sports modes, users may record their workouts and monitor health indicators including stress, blood oxygen levels, heart rates, and sleep quality. In addition, it should have a run time of about 21 days, GPS navigation, and downloaded maps.
Amazfit Balance 2 XT
Built for Performance and Style: The sleek aluminum body and 1.5″ durable sapphire crystal glass screen of the Balance 2 smart watch offer a premium, resilient design, while dual speakers provide clear audio cues during training.
The basic and XT models of the Balance 2 smartwatch (now available on Amazon for $299.99) differ in a number of ways. Among these is the substitution of mineral glass for sapphire glass. Due to its reduced water resistance rating of 5 ATM, the XT will not support diving and does not feature the Golf app. The Amazfit Balance 2 XT smartwatch’s official US debut date is still unknown.
For Google, the Pixel 9 series marked a significant turning point. With a fresh design, robust software support, and an extensive array of practical AI functions, it signaled the company’s transition into a reputable flagship smartphone manufacturer.
But the Pixel 9 has been out for about a year now. The Pixel 10 series is now ready to take center stage.
The Pixel 10 series is anticipated to be introduced at Google’s Made by Google event on August 20, 2025, which Google formally confirmed on Wednesday, July 16, 2025.
Here’s how to watch the Pixel 10 launch event live, along with the precise time, date, location, and announcements to anticipate.
When and how to watch the Google Pixel 10 launch event
On August 20, 2025, Google’s Pixel 10 series launch event will begin at 1 PM ET (10 AM PT).
Google used to release Pixel smartphones in September, following Apple’s iPhone event. Nevertheless, the firm shifted its calendar to August with the Pixel 9, and the Pixel 10 is now operating on the same timetable.
For those of us who can’t make it, Google will broadcast the unveiling, even though it will take place in person.
Here is a list of global time zones so you know exactly when to tune in, even though the event starts at 1 PM ET in New York:
Time zone
Start time
Date
New York (ET)
1:00 PM
August 20, 2025
Los Angeles (PT)
10:00 AM
August 20, 2025
London (BST)
6:00 PM
August 20, 2025
Central Europe (CEST)
7:00 PM
August 20, 2025
India (IST)
10:30 PM
August 20, 2025
China (CST)
1:00 AM
August 21, 2025
Japan (JST)
2:00 AM
August 21, 2025
Sydney (AEST)
3:00 AM
August 21, 2025
You may watch the event on any of your devices, including laptops, gaming consoles, cellphones, and smart TVs, since Google will be livestreaming it on YouTube as usual.
You can either tap the Notify me button to receive a reminder or save the keynote to your Watch Later playlist when the YouTube page goes live. A few minutes prior to the commencement of the event, you will receive a notification from the YouTube app.
Your local time for the event will also be displayed in the stream listing. When the official keynote video is live, we’ll embed it above, so be sure to return.
What we can anticipate from the Made by Google this year
The new Pixel 10 series will undoubtedly be the main attraction.
The Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Google’s third-generation foldable smartphone, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, are all anticipated to be part of the same range as the Pixel 9.
The Pixel 10 lineup isn’t anticipated to receive a significant visual makeover, as Google has already updated the Pixel’s design language with the Pixel 9 series. Instead, the phones’ designs will probably stay similar to those of the previous year.
But some significant improvements are anticipated.
Most importantly, it has been speculated that the base Pixel 10 would (finally) include a telephoto zoom lens, something that Pixel owners have long wanted.
This implies that a triple-camera configuration – possibly comprising a 50MP primary sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide, and a 10.8MP telephoto lens – will probably be included in the base model.
A larger 4,970 mAh battery (up from 4,700 mAh on the Pixel 9) and somewhat quicker cable charging at 29W (a tiny increase from 27W on the previous generation) are other anticipated features of the Pixel 10.
Speaking of batteries, it is anticipated that the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL would come with bigger cells than previous models. It has been reported that the Pixel 10 Pro XL will have the largest battery in a Pixel phone, with a capacity of 5,200 mAh.
The Pro models might start at greater base storage tiers this time around, even if the camera systems are anticipated to mostly stay the same as the previous generation.
The Pixel 10 Pro XL may cost $100 more than its predecessor, according to certain speculations.
It looks like Google is working on some significant improvements for the Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
Although there are rumors that it may have a larger 6.4-inch cover display, the smartphone will feel exactly as small in the hand because of a better hinge.
Additionally, a larger battery and an IP68 rating are anticipated for the foldable. However, the Tensor G5 processor will probably be the most significant improvement throughout the whole Pixel 10 family.
According to reports, Google and TSMC have teamed up to produce the Tensor G5 for the Pixel 10 series.
According to reports, the chipset is based on the 3nm technology, which should increase efficiency over Samsung’s Tensor G4.
This might seem like a small change, but it could have a big impact on sustained performance and power efficiency.
At the Made by Google event, Google is anticipated to reveal the Pixel Watch 4 in addition to the Pixel 10 series.
According to reports, the Pixel Watch 4 will have new buttons and even smaller bezels than the Pixel Watch 3, while yet maintaining the same spherical appearance.
More significantly, the Pixel Watch 4 series is expected to provide a much-needed advance in strength training, complete with Workout Builder and real-time workout coaching.
This would at last establish the Pixel Watch as a viable choice for athletes seeking a specialized health-tracking gadget.
There are reports that Google may release the Pixel Buds 2a to complete the product lineup.
The first Pixel Buds A were released more than four years ago, and it appears that Google is now prepared to update its reasonably priced earbuds.
Better ANC, longer battery life, and four color options are possible features of the Pixel Buds 2a.
Overall, it looks like Google will have a crowded event for the second year in a row.
Expect news on Gemini and Android 16 features, like as the upgrade that makes Material 3 Expressive available on all devices, as is customary with Google keynotes. ,
You’re in luck if you have an older Galaxy Watch and are wondering if Samsung would give it some love with the most recent One UI 8 Watch update. Earlier today, Samsung affirmed that older Galaxy Watch units will receive the eagerly awaited software upgrade before the year is over.
We can verify which models are eligible for the One UI 8 Watch once it launches, even if the business did not provide a specific timeframe. Check out the list below.
One UI 8 Watch is pre-installed on the Galaxy Watch 8, Watch 8 Classic, and 2025 Watch Ultra. The update was already available for the 2024 Watch Ultra in late July.
Obviously, One UI 8 Watch will be offered in every region in both Wi-Fi and LTE versions. Additionally, it will be accessible for limited-edition versions of the previously listed models, such as:
Galaxy Watch 4 Golf Edition.
Galaxy Watch 4 Classic Thom Browne Edition.
Galaxy Watch 5 Pro Golf Edition.
Galaxy Watch 6 Classic Golf Edition.
Galaxy Watch 6 Classic Astro Edition.
Galaxy Watch 6 Thom Browne Edition.
The One UI 8 Watch upgrade will essentially be available for all Galaxy Watches running Wear OS, whether or not they are special edition models. No Tizen OS smartwatches will be updated, as you may have anticipated. They are no longer supported.
Lastly, while One UI 8 Watch will be available for all of the previously mentioned Wear OS-based Samsung Galaxy Watches, older devices will not be able to access the newest features, like Antioxidant Index.
It makes sense that Google is attempting to sell off their older models at a discount, as they have formally announced that the Google Pixel 10 range and the Pixel Watch 4 will be introduced in August. In addition to the Pixel Watch 2 (199.99) and the official Pixel 8 Pro case ($34.99), which are both free, they are currently selling the Pixel 8 Pro for $599.99 (originally $999.99). If you want to start your trip into the Google ecosystem or obtain a Pro phone on a budget, this is a good value.
The Pixel 8 Pro has a 10.5MP front-facing camera, a 50MP, 48MP, and 48MP back camera, and a battery life of roughly nine hours. The 6.7-inch OLED panel has a refresh rate of 120 Hz and a resolution of 2,992 by 1,344 pixels. The brightness reaches 2,400 nits at its max.
Google Pixel 8 Pro with free Pixel Watch 2 and case
With support for a ton of AI features that keep the phone feeling new a year after it was released, the Pixel 8 Pro is still a fantastic phone in 2025. Since Google has been actively trying to address security flaws in its Pixel phones since the Pixel 6, software upgrades for the Pixel 8 Pro will be available for a considerable amount of time (up to seven years). Every few months, Google also releases new features for the Pixel, such as the “Audio Magic Eraser,” which eliminates annoying noises from films, and the “finest Take” function, which allows you to select the finest picture out of a collection.
The Pixel Watch 2 has a vivid AMOLED screen, a Qualcomm 5100 CPU, 33 hours of battery life, and a host of other features like a temperature sensor, GPS, an accelerometer, and a blood oxygen monitor. You may submerge the smartwatch up to 164 feet underwater because it has an IP68 rating for water and dust protection. Our review goes into greater information about it.
The Pixel Watch 2 for Android users is the primary competitor of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6, which debuted in 2023 with excellent specifications and features. By 2025, both of these smartwatches – made by Samsung and Google, respectively—remain viable choices for users in those ecosystems. If you’re searching for a good price on a reliable wristwatch and you use Samsung or Android, the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is now only $180.99 (was $449.99) thanks to an almost 60% reduction from Best Buy. For comparison, the current price of this model on Amazon is $329.99.
The 1.3-inch, 2,000-nit brilliant AMOLED screen of the Watch 6 features a digital bezel that allows for fast menu navigation. Best Buy also offers the larger 47mm screen with LTE for $240.99 (was $479.99) if that’s what you’re looking for.
All of the newest Wear OS features are available to you if you have an Android smartwatch. The Watch 6 has a number of unique functions, such as a temperature sensor, heart rate monitor, blood oxygen monitor, GPS tracking, and an accelerometer for measuring speed. Whether or whether your Android phone is within Bluetooth range, the Galaxy Watch 6 also lets you make and receive calls from it.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
Galaxy Watch6 Classic features a timeless, iconic look and a bezel that just clicks with your style; It not only looks great, but it also rotates to give you easy access to all your apps
The Galaxy Watch 6 is “outstanding,” according to PCMag, which also named it the top 2023 wristwatch that works with Android. Yes, that was nearly two years ago, but for the price, Samsung customers still have a good choice. The main drawback will be the battery’s short lifespan of 22 hours, depending on usage.
The Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is a cost-effective way to monitor your body composition, calendar, daily activities, heart rate, sleep, stress, weather, and exercises. Even though it was only released this month, the Galaxy Watch 8 is also on sale right now if you want the newest model.
The OneUI 8 Watch upgrade, which was unveiled alongside the Galaxy Watch 8 and Watch Ultra (2025), represents a significant feature advancement for the Galaxy Watch. Samsung surprised us by releasing the major Wear OS 6-based software, with the original Watch Ultra getting first dibs, even though it was anticipated that it would arrive later for earlier Watch models.
It was first believed that the new Galaxy Watch 8 would have a brief exclusivity period with the new operating system, so the release of OneUI 8 Watch is rather unexpected. Samsung has now formally said that the OneUI 8 Watch would be released before the Galaxy Watch Ultra from last year.
Numerous users – including those with carrier-tied and unlocked models – confirmed receiving the update. With a size of roughly 1.9 GB, the OTA update is quite large, however it may differ depending on the watch model. A patch will be sent to beta participants at the same time to move them to the stable version.
Regarding the changes and new features, OneUI 8 Watch seems to be a noteworthy turning point. As part of Samsung Health, it does offer a new generation of wellness and health tracking tools.
New smart features and customizations
The Now Bar from OneUI 8 is one of the many UI improvements and refinements that OneUI 8 Watch offers in addition to the new tracking tools. It functions with the majority of first-party apps and workouts and shows the current tasks as a widget at the bottom of the watch face.
Additionally, the update allows users to receive personalized watch face recommendations and merge numerous app tiles into one. Now, the double pinch gesture can be used to take a picture, dismiss notifications, and control music.
Vital Sleep Tracking Tools
“Bedtime Guidance” is a new feature in the update that, as the name implies, offers tailored bedtime recommendations based on a user’s activities and sleep habits. To assist users in addressing irregular sleep patterns and improving their quality of sleep, it is integrated with sleep coaching.
Another sleep-related tracking tool is Vascular Load. This gauges the vascular system’s circulatory stress as you sleep, which is a crucial sign of your general health.
Running coach and mindfulness
Athletes and runners would also profit from OneUI 8 Watch’s new Running Coach feature. Personalized training programs are offered by this fitness gadget according to users’ fitness levels and objectives. In order to analyze a runner’s level of fitness and generate a performance analysis, they must essentially complete a 12-minute test. During runs, real-time coaching is also available.
Mindfulness, a well-known function that is new to the Galaxy Watch, is a technique for stress and anxiety management. It includes breathing techniques to help lower stress levels.
Antioxidant Index
One of these new features is the Antioxidant Index, which measures the antioxidant-producing carotenoids in a user’s skin using a non-invasive technique. To determine the antioxidant level, users must press their finger against the Galaxy Watch’s BioActive sensor for five seconds. A score ranging from 0 to 100 is displayed for the outcome, with 100 being the highest and most suitable.
As usual, a person’s level of antioxidants reflects their overall health. The tool also suggests ways to improve carotenoid levels, such as eating more fruits and vegetables.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 8
Advanced health and sleep tracking features. A lighter, more snug design for all day comfort. Improved user interface. Personal AI assistant for hands free help
Additionally, the upgrade allows users to receive personalized watch face recommendations and merge numerous app tiles into one. Additionally, the double pinch gesture may now be used to take a picture, dismiss notifications, and control music.
Given that it has the same sensor and processor as the Galaxy Watch Ultra, the majority of these capabilities are also intended for the Galaxy Watch 7, though we are unsure of when the update will be available for that wristwatch. Additionally, there is no timeline for previous Galaxy Watch models.
Samsung begins rolling out the One UI 8 Watch update in the United States. The main software, which weighs about 2GB and includes a security patch from earlier, is being made available to owners of the original Watch Ultra.
PDA build version L705USQU1BYFE in the US is the stable One UI 8 Watch upgrade that Samsung enthusiasts with Galaxy Watch Ultra may identify. It’s a significant update that adds health monitoring capabilities and a new user interface.
Samsung released the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2025 on July 9. Compared to the original models, this smartwatch has new colors and more storage. The Watch 8 and Watch Ultra 2025 also marked the official release of the updated Watch OS.
One UI 8 Watch update comes to US
Wear OS is the foundation of Samsung’s One UI 8 Watch. It gives your smartwatch a longer battery life. Reimagined tiles, slicker animations, and reliable functioning are all part of the company’s significant redesign.
Stay connected with the latest from Droid Tools—follow us on X @droid_tools, like our page on Facebook, check out our updates on Instagram, and follow us on Google News for real-time news, device tips, and mobile tech insights.
The Phone by Google app is receiving an M3 Expressive overhaul on WearOS, much like it does on Android.
The in-call screen has been updated for users to see. The end call button clings to the display’s lower border. For a larger touch target that is useful on this small screen, it is larger than the current circle.
The call duration appears at the center of the same line, while the mute and three-dot overflow buttons are positioned farther up the screen.
Similar updates occur when you dial a number. Presumably, M3 Expressive will also be added to the Google Phone Wear OS homescreen. On the watches we looked at today, this is not currently generally available.
These are minor updates that match the phone’s redesigned in-call screen. Although it is no longer a grid, the “More” menu is now a list similar to Call Assist. The incoming call screen, which allows users to choose between a left/right slide or buttons to answer calls, is the most significant improvement.
While some beta users already have the Home, Keypad, and Voicemail bottom bar, others have Material 3 Expressive’s complete redesign.
Google Pixel Watch 3
The Google Pixel Watch 3 is designed for performance, with advanced fitness from Fitbit; the 45mm screen is twice as bright and 40% larger than before, making it easier to see your stats and info
Stay connected with the latest from Droid Tools—follow us on X @droid_tools, like our page on Facebook, check out our updates on Instagram, and follow us on Google News for real-time news, device tips, and mobile tech insights.
As part of early Prime Day savings, two of Samsung’s top smartwatch models are currently on sale for incredibly low rates, so forget about the rumored Samsung Galaxy Watch 8. I’m referring to the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra, of course.
Amazon is selling the 40mm Galaxy Watch 7 for just $209, down from $299, and the 44mm variant for just $199.99, down from $269. But that’s not all. Amazon now sells the durable and long-lasting Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra for $399, down from $649. Visit our early Prime Day bargains live blog for further discounts.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 (44mm)
1.5″ Super AMOLED, 480x480px ~327ppi, 425mAh Battery, Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi, MIL-STD-810H compliant, 50m/5ATM water resistant (IP68), ECG certified, Sleep Coach, Heart Monitor
With the Samsung Galaxy Unpacked event less than a week away, where we’ll likely get our first look at the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Watch 8, now is a wonderful time to get a Galaxy Watch 7 or Ultra for less money!
The Galaxy Watch 7 is still a really powerful and impressive smartwatch, and even after the release of the Galaxy Watch 8, I’ll probably still suggest it if it stays affordable, even though the next generation smartwatches will undoubtedly have some awesome new capabilities.
The Galaxy Watch 7 is the greatest wristwatch for tracking sleep in 2025, in addition to being one of my favorite Android-compatible models. Available in 40mm or 45mm (both sizes are on sale), it provides a plethora of helpful native and third-party apps, dependable workout tracking and safety features, outstanding AI-backed holistic insights, and an incredibly comfortable design.
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra deal
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 47mm LTE
RUGGED. RELIABLE. READY FOR ANYTHING: Climb the highest peak; Bike the long way home; The durable titanium design is our toughest yet, able to stand up to the rigors of your workout, including rainy or dusty conditions — even ocean swimming
In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra has twice the battery life (up to three days in low power mode) and a much larger, all-titanium case with 100 meters of water resistance (compared to the Watch 7’s 50mm) and all the same features and comprehensive tools as the Galaxy Watch 7.
With the same tough-as-nails, anything-goes attitude as the Apple Watch Ultra series, consider it the Android counterpart.
Stay connected with the latest from Droid Tools—follow us on X @droid_tools, like our page on Facebook, check out our updates on Instagram, and follow us on Google News for real-time news, device tips, and mobile tech insights.
