Key Takeaways
- Eric Migicovsky, Pebble’s original founder, is leading a revival project to create a new smartwatch following Google’s open-source release.
- Google has open-sourced PebbleOS, enabling developers to create new software and applications for the platform.
- The new smartwatch will focus on the original Pebble’s strengths: functionality, lightweight design, and extended battery life.
- The project cannot use the Pebble name due to trademark restrictions but maintains the brand’s core philosophy.
- The Rebble developer community is actively maintaining Pebble apps while supporting the development of the new device.
Eric Migicovsky, the original founder of Pebble smartwatch, is breathing new life into the beloved brand that once revolutionized the wearable technology market. After Google’s recent decision to open-source PebbleOS, Migicovsky seized the opportunity to revive the spirit of the innovative device that garnered massive support through Kickstarter in 2012, raising over $10 million from 68,000 enthusiastic backers.
The original Pebble smartwatch stood out in the market with its distinctive e-ink display technology and impressive battery life, features that helped the company sell more than 2 million units and generate sales exceeding $230 million. Despite its success and loyal following, Pebble ceased operations in 2016 when Fitbit acquired its assets, which were later transferred to Google. The company’s intellectual property was sold to Fitbit for an undisclosed amount. The revival is set to launch in 2025 with renewed focus on the features that made the original device popular.
Now, with PebbleOS becoming open-source, Migicovsky is leading a revival project that aims to capture the essence of the original Pebble while creating something new for today’s market. The Rebble developer community has been maintaining Pebble apps to keep existing devices functional. The upcoming device will maintain the core principles that made Pebble popular: functionality, lightweight design, and durability. The integration of generative AI features will enable advanced health scoring and personalized recommendations for users. However, due to trademark restrictions, the new project cannot use the Pebble name, which remains under Google’s ownership.
This revival comes at a significant time in the smartwatch market, which is experiencing substantial growth and transformation. Industry projections indicate the global smartwatch market will expand from $38.53 billion in 2025 to $105.20 billion by 2032, with North America maintaining its dominant position with a 38.71% market share in 2024. The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated this growth by highlighting the importance of personal health monitoring and fitness tracking.
The new device, planned for release later this year, will embrace the original Pebble’s commitment to simplicity and hackability while incorporating modern features. Migicovsky’s vision focuses on addressing specific user needs that current market leaders like Apple, Samsung, and Garmin may have overlooked. The project emphasizes the importance of practical features such as e-paper screens and extended battery life, characteristics that made the original Pebble stand out.
Interested users can now sign up for updates and join the waitlist at rePebble.com, where they can follow the project’s development. As Europe and Asia Pacific markets show increasing potential for smartwatch adoption, driven by rising disposable income and growing health consciousness, the timing of this revival could prove advantageous. The project represents more than just a new product launch; it’s a demonstration of the enduring appeal of Pebble’s innovative approach to wearable technology and its commitment to user-focused design.
