Pebble Core 2 Duo packaging and dongle revealed in new update

Eric Migicovsky has just shared fresh images and a short video showing the first sample Core 2 Duo packaging. The device is now fully assembled and already connecting to his phone over Bluetooth, though work is ongoing to polish the software side.


A glimpse at the unboxing experience

The new packaging is exactly what you might expect from a small-scale project. Simple, no frills, and clearly designed to be functional rather than flashy. That’s what Pebble watches are all about.

It’s a small white box made from thin paperboard. This first run appears to be an early production sample, but likely close to what backers will receive when shipments begin.

Inside the box, the watch is visible alongside a new charging dongle that closely resembles the well-known Nomad design from the original Pebble days. That’s a notable switch from the flatter style seen in earlier mock-ups. The dongle has a short cable and USB-C at the end, which lines up with Eric’s earlier comment about sticking with the classic Pebble connector while modernising the plug.


The software still isn’t done

The Core 2 Duo features a black-and-white reflective LCD, physical buttons, and a plastic case. It runs PebbleOS on a dual-core chip with 16MB of storage and up to 30 days of battery life. There’s Bluetooth LE, a barometer, compass, and speaker, but no GPS, NFC, or call support.

Pebble Core 2 Duo

While the hardware is coming together, PebbleOS is still being worked on. Eric notes that they’re in the process of finalising drivers for various peripherals. No specific modules were named, but it’s safe to assume this includes things like sensors and screen drivers. The watch in the video is already functioning and pairing with his phone, which is a good sign that core Bluetooth functionality is in place.

Pebble Core 2 Duo

That said, this is still very much a work-in-progress build. But the quick glimpse we get is just enough to confirm that the basics are working. It’s encouraging, and suggests mass production is not too far off.


Still a passion project

This latest preview reinforces the DIY spirit behind the Core watches. Everything from the plain packaging to the reuse of old accessories shows how lean this operation is. There’s no attempt to mimic commercial smartwatch launches. Instead, it’s more like opening a kit you’ve been waiting on from a small-batch maker.

Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets

The choice to go with the Nomad-style charger suggests a bit of listening to fan preferences, too. That dongle was a favourite among Pebble users for its ease of use and compact design.

For now, the focus remains on getting everything working. Packaging is in place. Charging is covered. Bluetooth connection is up. What’s left is refining the software and getting ready for that first wave of deliveries—whenever that might be.

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Marko Maslakovic

Marko Maslakovic founded Gadgets & Wearables in 2014 after more than 15 years working in the City of London’s financial sector. He has spent more than a decade testing and writing about smartwatches, fitness trackers, sports watches and connected health devices. His reviews are based on hands-on use, including real-world GPS, heart-rate, battery and workout testing. Marko personally tests and writes most of the product reviews published on the site.

Marko Maslakovic has 3186 posts and counting. See all posts by Marko Maslakovic

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