Stories with Tag Pebble

• We're bringing Pebble back

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  Posted: 2025-01-27 20:11:19

  Verbose tl;dr

  The original Pebble smartwatch ecosystem is being revived through a community-driven effort called Rebble. Existing Pebble watches will continue to function with existing apps and features, thanks to recovered server infrastructure and ongoing community development. Going forward, Rebble aims to enhance the Pebble experience with improvements like bug fixes, new watchfaces, and expanded app compatibility with modern phone operating systems. They are also exploring the possibility of manufacturing new hardware in the future.

  The erstwhile purveyors of the much-beloved Pebble smartwatch, a device that captured the hearts of many with its innovative blend of functionality and minimalist design, have proclaimed their intention to resurrect the platform, albeit in a novel and evolved form. This revitalization, dubbed "Pebble 2.0" by the community, seeks to recapture the spirit of the original Pebble while embracing the advancements in technology that have transpired since its unfortunate demise. The core tenets of this resurgence are predicated upon ensuring the enduring functionality of existing Pebble devices, a promise that extends to both the hardware itself and the associated mobile applications. This commitment to backward compatibility represents a significant boon for the dedicated community of Pebble users who have remained steadfast in their allegiance to the platform.

  Further elaborating on this commitment, the architects of this revival have pledged to open the floodgates of software development, liberating the Pebble ecosystem to the ingenuity of the broader community. This open-source initiative will empower developers, both seasoned and nascent, to contribute to the platform's evolution, breathing new life into the aging yet resilient operating system. This democratization of software development is expected to yield a plethora of new features, applications, and enhancements, ensuring the continued relevance of Pebble devices in an increasingly competitive landscape.

  Moreover, this revival extends beyond mere software preservation. The announcement heralds the introduction of new hardware, though details remain tantalizingly scarce. This forthcoming hardware, while shrouded in an aura of mystery, promises to embody the spirit of the original Pebble while incorporating modern technological advancements, potentially bridging the gap between the classic Pebble experience and the contemporary smartwatch paradigm. This new hardware, when eventually unveiled, is poised to reignite the passion of the Pebble faithful and potentially attract a new generation of users to the revitalized platform.

  In essence, this is not merely a resuscitation, but a reimagining of the Pebble ecosystem. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of the platform and a commitment to the community that has kept the spirit of Pebble alive. This initiative, while still in its nascent stages, holds the promise of a vibrant future for Pebble, a future built upon the foundations of its past while embracing the possibilities of tomorrow.

  • Pebble
  • Smartwatch
  • Wearables
  • Rebble
  • Firmware
  • Open Source
  • Community
  • Software
  • Hardware
  • WatchOS
  • Retro Tech
  • Consumer Electronics

  Summary of Comments ( 192 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42845091

  Verbose tl;dr

  Hacker News users reacted to the "Pebble back" announcement with a mix of excitement and skepticism. Many expressed nostalgia for their old Pebbles and hoped for a true revival of the platform, including app support and existing watch functionality. Several commenters questioned the open-source nature of the project, given the reliance on a closed-source phone app and potential server dependencies. Concerns were raised about battery life compared to modern smartwatches, and some users expressed interest in alternative open-source smartwatch projects like AsteroidOS and Bangle.js. Others debated the feasibility of reviving the app ecosystem and questioned the long-term viability of the project given the limited resources of the Rebble team. Finally, some users simply expressed joy at the prospect of using their Pebbles again.

  The Hacker News post titled "We're bringing Pebble back" generated a significant amount of discussion, with many commenters expressing excitement and nostalgia for the defunct smartwatch brand. A recurring theme is cautious optimism tempered by past disappointments.

  Several commenters recalled their positive experiences with Pebble watches, praising their simplicity, long battery life, and e-paper displays. They expressed hope that the revived project would recapture the essence of what made Pebble unique. Some specifically mentioned the desire for a modern e-paper smartwatch with week-long battery life, a feature largely absent from the current smartwatch market.

  Concerns were also raised about the "bring back" claim. Some questioned what exactly was being brought back, as the original Pebble hardware and servers are no longer functional. Commenters speculated about the possibility of community-driven firmware updates for existing Pebble watches, the development of new hardware compatible with existing Pebble apps, or even a completely new smartwatch inspired by the Pebble ethos. There was significant interest in understanding the technical details of the project and whether it would involve open-source components.

  Skepticism was present, with some commenters expressing doubt about the viability of the project given the competitive landscape and the resources required to develop and manufacture new hardware. Past experiences with other "revival" attempts in the tech world were cited, highlighting the challenges of recapturing a brand's former glory. Several users questioned the business model and the sustainability of relying solely on community contributions.

  Some commenters offered suggestions and feature requests, such as improved water resistance, better integration with existing smartphone ecosystems, and the inclusion of a heart rate monitor. Others inquired about the project's timeline and roadmap.

  Overall, the comments reflect a mixture of excitement, nostalgia, cautious optimism, and skepticism. While many are eager to see Pebble return in some form, they are also mindful of the challenges involved and the need for more concrete information about the project's scope and direction. Many seem hopeful that the team can deliver a product that lives up to the legacy of the original Pebble.

• Google open-sources the Pebble OS

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  Posted: 2025-01-27 20:09:09

  Verbose tl;dr

  Google has open-sourced the Pebble OS, including firmware, apps, developer tools, and watchfaces. This release, dubbed "Pebble.js," allows developers and enthusiasts to explore and tinker with the code that powered these iconic smartwatches. The repository provides access to the entire Pebble software ecosystem, enabling potential revival or adaptation of the platform for other devices and purposes. While official support from Google is limited, the open-source nature of the project invites community contributions and future development.

  In a momentous announcement on January 9, 2025, Google unveiled the open-sourcing of the Pebble OS, a significant operating system that once powered the popular Pebble line of smartwatches. This decision grants developers, enthusiasts, and the wider community unprecedented access to the underlying codebase that drove these innovative wearable devices. The blog post, titled "See the code that powered Pebble smartwatches," details the rationale and implications of this release.

  Google acquired Fitbit, the company that had previously acquired Pebble, and acknowledges the enduring legacy and dedicated community that surrounded Pebble smartwatches. Recognizing the desire among developers to delve into the inner workings of the Pebble OS, Google has meticulously prepared the code for public release. This involved updating the build system to utilize contemporary tools and libraries, ensuring compatibility with modern development environments. They also replaced proprietary components with open-source alternatives where necessary to facilitate a fully open and accessible codebase. This modernization effort ensures that developers will encounter a less arduous path to understanding, building, and potentially extending the Pebble OS.

  The open-sourced project encompasses the core operating system, the firmware for various Pebble watch models, and the accompanying SDK (Software Development Kit). This comprehensive release allows developers to explore every facet of the Pebble ecosystem, from the low-level system functions to the user interface elements. While full functionality is not guaranteed due to the reliance on previously closed-source services that are no longer operational, the core functionality and architecture of the OS are preserved.

  Google emphasizes that this open-sourcing is primarily an archival effort, aimed at preserving the technological legacy of Pebble smartwatches. They are not actively developing or supporting the platform. However, the release allows the community to potentially maintain and even extend the OS for existing hardware. The code is being released under the Apache License 2.0, a permissive license that allows for broad usage and modification.

  The blog post concludes by directing interested parties to the GitHub repository where the Pebble OS code now resides. This repository serves as the central hub for accessing the code, documentation, and any further information related to the open-source project. Google expresses hope that the release will inspire innovation and perhaps even breathe new life into the Pebble ecosystem, albeit in a community-driven capacity.

  • Google
  • Pebble
  • Open Source
  • Wear OS
  • Smartwatch
  • Operating System
  • Firmware
  • Software
  • Technology
  • Pebble OS
  • Open-sourcing

  Summary of Comments ( 90 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42845070

  Verbose tl;dr

  The Hacker News comments express excitement about Google open-sourcing the Pebble OS, with many reminiscing about their fondness for the now-defunct smartwatches. Several commenters anticipate tinkering with the newly released code and exploring potential uses, like repurposing it for other wearables or integrating it with existing projects. Some discuss the technical aspects of the OS and speculate about the motivations behind Google's decision, suggesting it could be a move to preserve Pebble's legacy, foster community development, or potentially even lay the groundwork for future wearable projects. A few commenters express a degree of disappointment that the release doesn't include all aspects of the Pebble ecosystem, such as the mobile apps or cloud services. There's also a recurring theme of gratitude towards Google for making the source code available, acknowledging the significance of this move for the Pebble community and wearable technology enthusiasts.

  The Hacker News post "Google open-sources the Pebble OS" (https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42845070) generated a moderate number of comments discussing various aspects of the Pebble smartwatch and its newly open-sourced operating system.

  Several commenters expressed nostalgia for their Pebble devices, praising their simplicity, long battery life, and e-paper displays. They reminisced about the active Pebble community and lamented the demise of the company after its acquisition by Fitbit. Some users expressed hope that the open-sourcing of the OS might lead to a community revival and potential future development.

  A few comments focused on the technical aspects of the Pebble OS, highlighting its resource efficiency, suitability for low-power hardware, and the clever ways it managed to deliver functionality despite hardware limitations. The use of JavaScript for app development was also mentioned, with some appreciating its accessibility and others expressing concerns about performance.

  Some discussion revolved around the potential uses for the open-sourced codebase. Suggestions included repurposing it for other wearable devices, learning from its efficient design, and potentially even creating new Pebble-like watches. However, the practical challenges of reviving the platform, such as the lack of app store infrastructure and the availability of suitable hardware, were also acknowledged.

  A couple of commenters questioned the timing of Google's decision to open-source the OS, speculating about potential motivations, including public relations benefits and the possibility of leveraging the code for other Google projects.

  One particularly compelling comment thread explored the impact of Fitbit's acquisition of Pebble on the smartwatch market. Some argued that Fitbit effectively killed a promising competitor and stifled innovation, while others defended Fitbit's actions, citing the challenging market dynamics and the inherent difficulties of competing with larger players like Apple and Google.

  Overall, the comments reflect a mixture of nostalgia for the Pebble, appreciation for its technical achievements, and cautious optimism about the potential impact of open-sourcing its OS. While some envision a community-driven revival of the platform, others remain skeptical about its long-term prospects given the practical challenges involved.

• The future of Rebble

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  Posted: 2025-01-27 20:03:22

  Verbose tl;dr

  Rebble, the community-driven effort to keep Pebble smartwatches alive after Fitbit discontinued services, has announced its transition to a fully open-source platform. This means the Rebble web services, mobile apps, and firmware will all be open-sourced, allowing the community to fully control and sustain the platform indefinitely. While current services will remain operational, this shift empowers developers to contribute, adapt, and ensure the long-term viability of Rebble, freeing it from reliance on specific individuals or resources. This represents a move towards greater community ownership and collaborative development for the continued support of Pebble smartwatches.

  The Rebble Alliance, a community-driven initiative dedicated to preserving the functionality of Pebble smartwatches, has outlined its long-term vision and plans for the future in a comprehensive blog post. The post acknowledges the inherent challenges of maintaining a service for a discontinued product line, particularly given the increasing obsolescence of the original Pebble server infrastructure. To address these challenges, Rebble is focusing on a multi-pronged strategy aimed at ensuring the longevity and continued usability of Pebble devices.

  A key element of this strategy is the development of a fully-fledged, open-source server implementation known as the "Rebble OS Server." This project aims to replace the reliance on legacy Pebble services with a modern, community-maintained alternative. The transition to this new server infrastructure is not without its complexities and requires meticulous planning and execution. Rebble is committed to a careful, phased rollout of the Rebble OS Server, prioritizing the preservation of existing functionalities like app installations, notifications, weather data, and voice dictation. While the ultimate goal is complete feature parity with the original Pebble services, the transition process will likely involve periods of limited functionality as specific services are migrated and stabilized.

  In addition to server-side developments, Rebble is exploring avenues for enhancing the user experience on the watch itself. This includes ongoing efforts to improve the existing Rebble app store and potentially developing new software features for Pebble devices. The post emphasizes the importance of community involvement in shaping the future of Rebble, encouraging contributions from developers, designers, and other passionate individuals.

  Furthermore, the post addresses the financial sustainability of the Rebble Alliance. While the organization has primarily relied on donations, the increasing costs associated with server maintenance necessitate a shift towards a more sustainable financial model. Rebble is actively exploring various options to ensure its long-term viability, aiming to balance the need for financial stability with the community-driven ethos of the project. The overarching message is one of cautious optimism, recognizing the challenges ahead while reaffirming a strong commitment to the continued support and enhancement of the Pebble ecosystem. The Rebble Alliance remains dedicated to providing a vibrant and functional platform for Pebble users, striving to extend the lifespan of these beloved devices for as long as possible.

  • Rebble
  • Pebble
  • Smartwatch
  • Wear OS
  • Wearables
  • Software
  • Open Source
  • Community
  • Future of Technology
  • Product Roadmap

  Summary of Comments ( 18 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42845017

  Verbose tl;dr

  The Hacker News comments express cautious optimism about Rebble's future, acknowledging the challenges of maintaining a community-driven alternative for a niche product like Pebble. Several users praise the Rebble team's dedication and ingenuity in keeping the platform alive this long. Some express concern over the long-term viability without official support and question the eventual hardware limitations. Others discuss potential solutions like using existing smartwatches with a Pebble-like OS, or even designing new Pebble-inspired hardware. The overall sentiment leans towards hoping for Rebble's continued success while recognizing the significant hurdles ahead. A few users reflect nostalgically on their positive experiences with Pebble watches and the community surrounding them.

  The Hacker News post "The future of Rebble" (linking to a blog post about the future of the Rebble Web Services for Pebble smartwatches) has generated a number of comments discussing various aspects of the project and its future.

  Several commenters express their appreciation for Rebble and the work the team has done to keep their Pebble watches functional after Fitbit discontinued services. They highlight the longevity and usability of the Pebble devices, contrasting them with newer smartwatches they find less appealing or functional. Some share personal anecdotes about their continued use of Pebble watches, emphasizing the enduring appeal of their simplicity and efficiency.

  A key theme in the comments revolves around the sustainability of the Rebble project. Users inquire about the long-term financial viability of maintaining the services and express concern about potential future challenges. Discussions arise regarding subscription models, donation drives, and the balance between offering free services and ensuring the project's survival. Some users suggest exploring partnerships or alternative funding mechanisms to secure Rebble's future.

  Technical aspects of Rebble are also discussed. Commenters inquire about specific features, potential improvements, and the possibility of expanding functionality or supporting new devices. Some users express interest in contributing to the project's development, offering their skills and expertise. There are mentions of alternative operating systems for Pebble and the challenges involved in maintaining compatibility with existing hardware.

  Some commenters share their perspectives on the broader smartwatch landscape, comparing Pebble to other platforms and discussing the evolution of wearable technology. They reflect on the reasons for Pebble's success and lament its demise, while also acknowledging the limitations of the platform and the challenges of competing with larger tech companies.

  Overall, the comments section reflects a strong community of Pebble enthusiasts who remain dedicated to the platform and appreciate the efforts of the Rebble team. There's a mixture of optimism and concern about the future, coupled with a desire to contribute and ensure the continued functionality of these beloved devices. The discussions highlight the unique value proposition of Pebble and the enduring appeal of its minimalist approach to smartwatch functionality.