Pebble is returning to its roots today with the Kickstarter launch of its new Pebble Time smartwatch.
The next-gen wristwatch features a new color e-paper display and microphone, as well as a thinner, curved design.
Like its predecessors (the Pebble and Pebble Steel), the Time syncs with Apple and Android smartphones; users will need an iPhone 4s or newer running the latest iOS, while Android owners must be updated to Android 4.0 or higher.
The Pebble Time is 20 percent thinner than the original watch and sports a scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass lens, and stainless steel bezel. It’s attached to a quick-release band for easier personalization, while a smart accessory port allows for sensors and other straps to connect directly to the watch.
Perhaps most notable, though, is its color display, which provides a more visually appealing watchface but still consumes less power than smartwatches with LCD or OLED screens. The result: Up to seven days of battery life on one charge, Pebble said.
With Pebble Time, we’re launching completely new hardware and reimagined software while keeping all the things people love about Pebble, CEO Eric Migicovsky said in a statement.
New operating system features include automatic organization of notifications and apps, and the option to catch up on things you missed, like emails, the day’s step count, or last night’s game score.
Pebble also promised many new APIs and tools for developers with the Time smartwatch.
Available today for $159 exclusively from Kickstarter, the device is set to start shipping in May. If you’re not into crowdfunding, you can still pick up a Pebble Time later this year, when the gadget hits digital shelves for $199.
(Update: It appears that many people are, indeed, into crowd-funding. The Pebble Time Kickstarter topped $1 million in just 30 minutes.)
Pebble was first brought to life by 69,000 backers and people who supported our vision three years ago, Migicovsky said. We could not think of a better way to share our new watch.
Kickstarter CEO Yancey Strickler said the crowdfunding platform is thrilled Pebble has returned to share its latest product. As enthusiastic members of the Pebble community, all of us at Kickstarter are excited to help them again bring an exciting vision to life, Strickler said.
Pebble helped to usher in the era of smartwatches with 2012’s uber successful Kickstarter campaign for the Pebble e-paper watch. Earlier this month, Pebble shipped its 1 millionth device.
And when the innovators last week launched a countdown clock on its website, speculation grew that Pebble was readying exclusive new software or a next-generation watch—or both.
The news comes shortly after Pebble announced formal Android Wear compatibility.
For more, check out PCMag’s roundup of The Best Smartwatches.