Rebble’s mission gets a boost with PebbleOS code release

Google has released the source code for PebbleOS, giving the Rebble team a major boost. This could mean real progress for keeping those quirky little smartwatches alive and kicking.

Rebble is the community that has been keeping Pebble devices going with their proprietary operating system. But let’s be honest, it was slow going. Building something from scratch isn’t easy, especially when you’re aiming for the kind of reliability Pebble users expect.

Now, with the original PebbleOS code in hand, Rebble has a chance to fast-track their efforts. It’s not a magic solution—they still have to get the code working—but it’s a huge step in the right direction.


Rebble’s big plans

Rebble isn’t just about keeping old watches running. They’re planning for the long haul, transforming into a non-profit to put the community at the heart of everything. The idea? Keep Pebble alive as a user-first, hackable platform that doesn’t try to grab your data or overwhelm you with unnecessary features.

They’ve always been about more than just the tech. It’s about preserving Pebble as a piece of history, teaching people about embedded systems, and making sure this corner of the smartwatch world stays open and accessible. With Google’s release of the source code, their mission has a lot more momentum.


New Pebble watches on the horizon

Now this is linked to some news from Eric Migicovsky – Pebble’s original founder. Yesterday, he announced plans to build a new smartwatch inspired by the classic Pebble vibe. Eric says he is tired of the over-complicated devices flooding the market and wants to bring back the simplicity and charm that made Pebble special.

This new watch is set to stick to the basics: an e-paper screen that works great in sunlight, days of battery life, and physical buttons for navigation. Oh, and it’ll be hackable, just like the original. A smartwatch that does what people need without overdoing it.


Interesting period ahead for Pebble lovers

RebbleOS might not directly fit with the new Pebble watches if Eric Migicovsky’s project ends up building a completely new operating system or uses the original PebbleOS as its base. But it is what will keep the old watches going. The connection really depends on how the new watches are designed and what software choices Migicovsky and his team make.

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If the new Pebbles stick to the core principles of being hackable and community-driven, RebbleOS could serve as a source of inspiration or even provide features and tools for customization. Plus, the open-source release of PebbleOS means there’s now a common foundation that both Rebble and Migicovsky’s project can build on.

It’s safe to say that whether directly or indirectly, Rebble’s work will continue to shape the legacy and evolution of Pebble—old and new. If you’ve missed your old Pebble or just want something that isn’t trying to do too much, this could be the comeback you’ve been waiting for.

Source: Rebble

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Marko Maslakovic

Marko founded Gadgets & Wearables in 2014, having worked for more than 15 years in the City of London’s financial district. Since then, he has led the company’s charge to become a leading information source on health and fitness gadgets and wearables.

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