Eric Migicovsky, the founder of the beloved wearables company Pebble, is back with a plan to revive his creation. After selling Pebble to Fitbit, which was later acquired by Google, Migicovsky has secured open-source access to Pebble OS and is launching a new company to build new wearables that stay true to the original Pebble spirit.
Thirteen years after founding Pebble , the wearables company that achieved Kickstarter success and later was acquired by Fitbit (which itself was acquired by Google ), Eric Migicovsky still wears his Pebble watch. Although it hasn't received a software update since December 2016, it continues to function. Migicovsky, who sold his messaging app startup, Beeper, to Automattic last year, decided to revive Pebble rather than purchase another smartwatch.
He reached out to Google, unexpectedly receiving agreement to open-source Pebble OS. As of Monday, all Pebble firmware is accessible on GitHub, and Migicovsky is launching a company to continue Pebble's legacy. The company, currently unnamed but operating under RePebble, will release new wearables this year that resemble and function like the original Pebbles. Migicovsky believes nothing else on the market matches Pebble's appeal, particularly its e-paper screen, long battery life, user-friendliness, and hackability. He emphasizes that the goal isn't to reinvent Pebble but to create a faithful clone, acknowledging that the original Pebble might have already achieved its intended purpose.While the core principles remain the same, several changes have occurred in the eight years since Pebble's closure. Competitors like Google, Apple, and Samsung now offer robust smartwatches tightly integrated with their ecosystems. Moreover, smartwatches have evolved into sophisticated health and fitness devices. Migicovsky acknowledges these challenges but believes Google doesn't perceive his new venture as a threat. This time, the company's structure will prioritize sustainability, with Migicovsky and a few part-time employees leading the charge. Open-sourcing their creations and fostering a community around Pebble OS is crucial to Migicovsky's vision. He sees potential beyond smartwatches, envisioning Pebble OS being utilized in other hardware. The existing Pebble community, including developers maintaining apps and an active subreddit, demonstrates the enduring appeal of the platform.
Pebble Wearables Eric Migicovsky Open Source Smartwatches Kickstarter Google Fitbit
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Pebble Flow: Electric Travel Trailer Promises Quiet Glamping AdventuresPebble, a California-based company, unveils the Pebble Flow, an electric travel trailer designed to enhance the glamping experience with off-grid capabilities. Powered by a large battery, the Flow can operate lighting, heating, air conditioning, and other appliances. It also features a towing assist function for easier maneuvering. Available for preorder at $109,000, the Flow boasts a futuristic aesthetic and a compact yet well-equipped interior, including a kitchen with induction stove, oven, sink, microwave, and refrigerator.
Read more »
Pebble Electric Travel Trailer Ready for ProductionThe Pebble electric travel trailer, featuring self-propulsion and a detachable power pack, is set to enter production early this year.
Read more »
Pebble Flow RV Trailer Enters Production in 2025Pebble has revealed the final design and pricing details for its highly anticipated Pebble Flow RV trailer, confirming a production start in early 2025.
Read more »
CES's Pebble Flow EV trailer gets some tweaks ahead of its spring shipping dateAmy Skorheim has an English degree from UCLA and has been a commerce writer for six years, covering tech, men’s gear and outdoor paraphernalia. Her work has appeared in publications that include Futurism, Digg and Huckberry. After four years as the managing editor of GearMoose, she joined the commerce team at Engadget in 2022.
Read more »
Jordan Spieth to Return From Wrist Surgery at AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-AmJordan Spieth plans to return from wrist surgery at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, ending his longest stretch without competition. Spieth underwent surgery in May 2023 after experiencing persistent pain due to his extensor carpi ulnaris tendon (ECU) popping out of its sheath. He views his time off as an opportunity to reset his swing and address some bad habits that developed over time.
Read more »
Pebble Beach: Lessons in Planning, Adaptability and Excellence for Commercial Real EstateA recent trip to Pebble Beach inspired an exploration of the parallels between the world of golf and the art of commercial real estate. The article highlights the importance of strategy, resilience, attention to detail, and a passion for the journey.
Read more »