The original creator of the Pebble smartwatch, Eric Migicovsky, has unveiled two new smartwatches that are spiritual successors to the iconic Pebble brand. The Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2, available for pre-order at $149 and $225 respectively, mark a nostalgic return to the simpler times of smartwatch technology.

For those unfamiliar, Pebble was a Palo Alto-based startup that achieved massive success on Kickstarter in 2012, selling over two million devices before abruptly closing in 2016. The company's assets were later acquired by Fitbit, which was subsequently acquired by Google. In a surprising move, Google has open-sourced PebbleOS, the operating system that powered the original Pebble smartwatches, allowing Migicovsky to revive the brand in spirit.

The Core 2 Duo is essentially a new Pebble 2, running the original Pebble software. It features an always-on E Ink display with a few buttons on the side, a non-touch, black-and-white display that supports alarms and timers. The smartwatch pairs with phones via Bluetooth, allowing for notifications and internet connectivity, as well as music control. While the device may seem basic compared to modern smartwatches, it boasts two key advantages: excellent battery life, with up to 30 days of use, and its hackable nature, with thousands of available watchfaces and easy app creation.

Migicovsky has emphasized that this project is a labor of love, rather than a commercial venture. In a statement, he acknowledged that the project may have rough edges, delays, and potential issues, but promised that the end result would be "awesome and a lot of fun." The enthusiasm and dedication to reviving the Pebble spirit are palpable, and fans of the original brand will likely appreciate the nostalgic value.

The Core Time 2, the second smartwatch announced, shares the same specifications as the Core 2 Duo but features a larger, 64-color display in a metal casing. Although it's a touch display, Pebble apps currently don't support touch interactions. Shipments for the Core 2 Duo are expected to begin in July, while the Core Time 2 will take longer to produce, with availability slated for December.

The launch of these new smartwatches raises interesting questions about the future of wearable technology. Will there be a resurgence of interest in simpler, more focused devices, or will consumers continue to demand more feature-rich smartwatches? Only time will tell, but for now, Pebble enthusiasts can rejoice in the revival of their beloved brand.

In conclusion, the unveiling of the Core 2 Duo and Core Time 2 marks a significant moment in the history of wearable technology. As the industry continues to evolve, it's refreshing to see a return to the roots of smartwatch innovation, driven by a passion for simplicity and functionality. Whether you're a nostalgic Pebble fan or simply looking for a more streamlined smartwatch experience, these new devices are certainly worth keeping an eye on.