Xiaomi Watch S2 & Smart Band 8: Coming soon to a store near you
Xiaomi has received regulatory approval for Watch S2 and Smart Band 8 wearables in Malaysia, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates. Here’s what we know so far about their global debut.
Xiaomi Watch S2 and Smart Band 8 get regulatory approval
Xiaomi already sells the Watch S2 in China. So for that one we, pretty much, know what to expect.
One notable change with the Watch S2 is that it now comes in two case sizes. In addition to the 46mm iteration of the first generation, a smaller 42mm iteration is now available. So there’s something more suitable for people with smaller wrists.
Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets
You get the same set of health sensors as the predecessor device, but with the addition of body composition and skin temperature measurement. The first is said to be capable of providing data on fat percentage, skeletal muscle mass, protein volume, and other factors. To record a reading, place two fingers against the side buttons. While the body composition sensor may be more of a novelty than something that provides precise readings, the skin temperature sensor should be useful.
On the other hand, little is known about the Smart Band 8‘s potential features. The only bit of info apart from the regulatory certifications is that Xiaomi has, reportedly, begun mass-producing the fitness tracker. There is no mention of a Pro version, so we may only get one iteration of the device in 2023. In terms of features, an altimeter for floor counting and a skin temperature sensor could be options.
The most recent regulatory approval for the duo comes in the form of a TDRA certificate. The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 goes under model number M2239B1, while the Watch S2 has the model number M2207W1.
Not two but three Xiaomi wearables in the near future
We do not know exactly when the Watch S2 and Smart Band 8 will become available. But the fact that various regulatory bodies in Southeast Asia and the Middle East have registered them suggests a launch in the near future.
Before we see their release we expect the global unveil of Watch S1 Pro. That one will, most likely, see the light of day on February 26th at MWC in Barcelona. It will launch alongside the Xiaomi 11 series smartphones and the much-anticipated Xiaomi Buds 4.
Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro debuted in August 2022, but only in China. The watch has all of the same features as the basic model, but with a few extras. This includes some subtle design changes as well as increased battery life.
Xiaomi has been fairly consistent in releasing new generations of the Mi Band every year. Since 2016, these have typically been revealed in May or June. The one exception is 2021, when the band was unveiled a couple of months earlier. All of these regulatory approvals are a strong hint that 2023 might be another year with an early launch
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