Prime Highlights:
Pebble’s founder, Eric Migicovsky, is reviving the brand after convincing Google to open-source its original operating system.
Migicovsky is prototyping a new smartwatch, which will be a spiritual clone of the original Pebble, focusing on simplicity and long battery life.
The new smartwatch will feature open-source software, allowing users to modify and customize it for their own devices.
Key Background:
Pebble, the beloved smartwatch brand known for its simple interface and long battery life, is making a comeback under the leadership of its founder, Eric Migicovsky. In an interview with, Migicovsky revealed that he successfully convinced Google to open-source Pebble’s original operating system. This marks the beginning of a new venture, as Migicovsky is in the early stages of prototyping a new smartwatch, with plans to launch the product under a new brand name.
Launched in 2012, Pebble gained initial attention through a successful Kickstarter campaign. The company became known for its e-ink display watches that focused on basic functionality. Pebble smartwatches could display notifications, control music, and boast impressive battery life of 5-7 days, all at affordable prices. The watches were compatible with both iOS and Android, and they appealed to users who wanted a no-frills, user-friendly experience. Despite competing against giants like Apple and Google, Pebble became a favorite among enthusiasts who appreciated its simplicity and practicality.
However, like many hardware startups, Pebble struggled with the pressures of scaling too quickly. The company released various iterations, including the Pebble Steel and a model with a round display. Unfortunately, the rapid expansion did not lead to sustainable profits, and the company was eventually acquired by Fitbit for $23 million in 2016. Fitbit itself was later bought by Google, with Pebble’s technology largely sidelined.
Migicovsky, still passionate about the Pebble experience, decided to revive the brand by maintaining the open-source nature of the software. He aims to build a “spiritual clone” of the original Pebble, prioritizing long battery life, an e-paper display, and a simple user experience. The open-source approach will allow users to modify the software for their own devices, and Migicovsky’s new venture will be funded through his personal capital to ensure long-term sustainability.