Pebble is back: Founder works on new e-paper smartwatch

RePebble project aims to revive the iconic smartwatch line, now with open-source software.

Key Points:

• Eric Migicovsky, Pebble's founder, announced plans for a new smartwatch inspired by the original models.
• The device will run an operating system based on PebbleOS, now open-source.
• The project focuses on simplicity, long battery life, and a minimalist interface.
• Development follows a sustainable model, without external investors or large teams.
• Compatibility with iPhones may be even more limited due to Apple’s policies.

The Return of Pebble

Eight years after Pebble smartwatches were discontinued, a team led by original founder Eric Migicovsky is working on a modern successor to the device. The initiative, called "rePebble," aims to create a new smartwatch with the same fundamental characteristics as the original line, now leveraging PebbleOS’s open-source code.

The project’s website encourages interested users to sign up, with the promise that if enough demand exists, the new device will be produced. Migicovsky emphasizes that the new Pebble will retain the classic model’s essence but with some improvements.

Pebble’s Legacy and Motivation for a New Model

Launched in 2012, Pebble was a pioneer in the smartwatch market, selling over two million units and becoming one of the first major crowdfunding hardware successes. However, financial difficulties and growing competition, especially from the Apple Watch, led to the company’s acquisition by Fitbit in 2016. Google later purchased Fitbit in 2021, absorbing part of the Pebble team.

Since then, a group of enthusiasts has maintained the original devices’ functionality through the Rebble project, which replaced the online services discontinued by Pebble. Now, with Google releasing most of PebbleOS’s source code, a new model based on the original platform is becoming a tangible possibility.

A Simple and Functional Smartwatch

According to Migicovsky, the new Pebble will adhere to the classic version’s design philosophy: always-on screen, long battery life, physical buttons, and a simple, intuitive interface. The goal is to offer a device focused on essentials, without the complexities of modern smartwatches.

The business strategy will also differ from the previous attempt.

"This time, we’re keeping things simple. Important lessons were learned!"

Migicovsky stated. He highlights that he does not intend to seek external investments or build a large team, prioritizing a sustainable long-term model.

Limitations with the Apple Ecosystem

While the new Pebble is expected to integrate well with Android devices, its compatibility with the iPhone may be even more restricted than before. Migicovsky cited the recent U.S. Department of Justice lawsuit against Apple, which accuses the company of limiting third-party smartwatch functionalities to favor the Apple Watch.

Advanced features, such as replying to notifications via voice commands, may remain exclusive to Android. Still, the essential Pebble experience will be available for iOS users.

The Future of RePebble

So far, Migicovsky has not provided a specific timeline for the new Pebble’s release. His previous project, the messaging app Beeper, was acquired by Automattic in April 2024 after facing challenges integrating with Apple’s iMessage.

The success of the new smartwatch will depend on community interest and the ability to overcome technical challenges in adapting PebbleOS. However, for nostalgic fans of the brand, the hope for a Pebble revival is more alive than ever.