Pebble Watches

For many, the name “Pebble” might sound unfamiliar. But for those who remember a time when smartwatches were just beginning to explore their potential, Pebble stands out as a true pioneer. I got stoked about this resurgence because I owned a Pebble Steel back in 2015—a year before Pebble was sold to FitBit and eventually faded away. With Google open-sourcing Pebble’s code on and Eric (the original founder) announcing a revival on X (formerly Twitter), the magic of Pebble is poised to return to a new generation. Read the full story on Google's open-sourcing of PebbleOS here.

What Was Pebble and Why Should You Care?

A Smartwatch Ahead of Its Time

Launched in 2012, Pebble was one of the very first smartwatches to capture the public’s imagination. Back when Apple Watches didn’t exist, Pebble offered something truly remarkable: a wearable device that could not only tell time but also connect seamlessly to your smartphone. Its minimalist design, long battery life (7days battery life with an always on display 11 years ago!! You've got to be kidding!!), being able to connect with both iOS and Android, and a customisable interface set it apart in a nascent market.

The Revolutionary Pebble Steel

One of the standout models was the Pebble Steel. More than just a timepiece, it was a glimpse into the future of wearable tech. In a groundbreaking move, Pebble partnered with Mercedes to showcase a unique app that allowed the watch to connect with a car and display real-time vehicle data and lock/unlock the vehicle with the watch (all this in 2014!!). This integration, achieved over a decade ago, was nothing short of revolutionary and a testament to Pebble’s forward-thinking approach.

Heres an image of my Pebble Steel from 2015!!

A Storied Legacy: From Kickstarter Triumph to Tech Innovation

A Historic Kickstarter Campaign

Pebble's journey began with a groundbreaking Kickstarter campaign that shattered records by crossing the $10 million mark. This milestone wasn’t just a financial triumph—it signaled a new era of community-funded innovation. At a time when the concept of smartwatches was still budding, Pebble demonstrated that there was a vast, untapped demand for wearable technology.

A Vibrant Community of Innovators

Pebble wasn’t just about hardware; it was about fostering a dynamic community. With its open API, developers worldwide built a wide array of applications, ranging from fitness tracking to productivity tools. This open ecosystem allowed Pebble to continuously evolve, adapting to users’ needs and setting the stage for future innovations.

The Twist in the Tale: From FitBit to Google

The Acquisition That Changed Everything

For many, owning a Pebble was a cherished experience—mine included. I loved the Pebble Steel for its simplicity and innovation, and it was a reminder of a time when smartwatches were just beginning to explore what was possible. Unfortunately, after FitBit acquired Pebble, the product eventually stopped working and its legacy seemed to fade away.

Google’s Open-Source Revival

Fast forward to January 27, 2025: Google made the game-changing decision to open-source Pebble’s code. This decision is monumental for several reasons:

• Unlocking Innovation: By releasing the code to the public, Google has invited developers, former Pebble enthusiasts, and tech innovators to breathe new life into the platform.

• A Revival of Legacy: The open-source release means that the pioneering technology behind Pebble can now be reimagined and modernized, blending its classic charm with today's cutting-edge features.

• Community Empowerment: With the code now available to all, we can expect a surge of creativity and collaboration—a return to the community-driven innovation that defined Pebble's original success.

In just 10 days, the open-sourced PebbleOS has garnered an impressive 3.9K stars ⭐️ on its GitHub repository.

Eric’s Bold Announcement

Adding fuel to the fire, Eric, the visionary founder of Pebble, recently announced on X that he plans to revive the Pebble watches. Although the new iteration might eventually be marketed under a different name due to acquisition rights, his commitment has reignited excitement among fans and tech enthusiasts who remember the revolutionary impact of Pebble.

Why This Matters Today

For those who’ve never heard of Pebble, it’s important to understand the impact it once had. In a pre-Apple Watch era, Pebble not only introduced many of us to the idea of wearable technology but also pushed the boundaries of what was possible. Its innovative partnership with Mercedes, which allowed a car to communicate directly with the watch, was a milestone that set the standard for smart, connected devices.

As we stand on the brink of Pebble’s revival, the opportunity to blend nostalgic innovation with modern technology is exciting. Whether you’re a long-time fan like me or a newcomer curious about the roots of today’s smartwatches, the upcoming Pebble comeback promises to be a fascinating journey of rediscovery and reinvention.