Pebble Time 2 and Pixel 11: Key Updates in Wearable Tech and Smartphone RAM

Welcome to our Q&A breakdown of two major tech stories that have caught the attention of gadget enthusiasts: the resurgence of the Pebble smartwatch with touchscreen app support and rumors about Google's Pixel 11 possibly having less RAM than its predecessor. We'll dive into the history, features, and implications of these developments.

What is the history of Pebble smartwatches and how did they make a comeback?

Pebble was a pioneer in the smartwatch space long before the Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch arrived. Its e-paper display and long battery life won over fans, but after the company was acquired by Fitbit (and later by Google), the brand went silent. However, in 2023, Pebble founder Eric Migicovsky launched Core Devices and revived the brand. The new Pebble Time 2 aims to blend nostalgia with modern upgrades, including a touchscreen interface for apps. This comeback marks a return to the roots of smartwatch innovation, appealing to both longtime fans and new users who value simplicity and utility.

Pebble Time 2 and Pixel 11: Key Updates in Wearable Tech and Smartphone RAM — Source: liliputing.com

What new feature does the Pebble Time 2 add?

The most notable addition to the Pebble Time 2 is full touchscreen support for apps. Previously, Pebble relied on buttons for navigation, but now users can swipe, tap, and interact more intuitively with app interfaces. This change brings the smartwatch closer to competitors while retaining its signature e-paper display for excellent battery life. The touchscreen makes it easier to use maps, messaging, and fitness tracking without needing to memorize button combos.

How does touchscreen app support change the Pebble experience?

Adding a touchscreen significantly enhances the user experience by enabling richer app interactions. For example, you can now simply tap a notification to expand it, swipe to dismiss, or use gestures to navigate menus. This makes the Pebble Time 2 more accessible to newcomers who might find button-only interfaces outdated. Developers can also create more complex apps with buttons, sliders, and other touch elements. Despite this upgrade, Pebble still prioritizes battery life—expect days of usage on a single charge.

What are the implications of Pebble's revival for the smartwatch market?

Pebble's return injects fresh competition into a market dominated by Apple, Samsung, and Garmin. Its focus on e-paper displays and long battery life appeals to users tired of daily charging. By adding a touchscreen, Pebble modernizes without losing its identity. This could push other brands to prioritize battery efficiency or offer more customization. Additionally, Pebble's open platform encourages third-party development, potentially leading to innovative apps. However, success will depend on marketing and ecosystem integration.

What is the rumor about the entry-level Pixel 11's RAM compared to Pixel 10?

According to recent leaks, Google's entry-level Pixel 11 model might ship with less RAM than the Pixel 10. While the Pixel 10 base model started at 8GB, the Pixel 11 could drop to 6GB. This is surprising given that most smartphones are increasing RAM to support AI features and multitasking. The rumored reduction may be aimed at cutting costs or differentiating between tiers, but it could hurt performance for heavy users.

Why might Google be reducing RAM on the Pixel 11?

Google may be reducing RAM on the entry-level Pixel 11 to hit a lower price point and compete with budget Android phones. By using a more efficient Tensor chip, Google might rely on software optimizations to keep the device responsive even with less memory. Alternatively, this could be a move to push more buyers toward higher-tier models. However, users who run multiple apps or use advanced AI features may notice slowdowns or more frequent app reloads. It remains a controversial rumor that has yet to be confirmed.

How does this compare to other budget smartphones?

Most budget smartphones in 2025 come with at least 6GB of RAM, and many mid-range devices start at 8GB. If the Pixel 11 drops to 6GB, it would align with entry-level models but lag behind competitors like Samsung's Galaxy A series or OnePlus Nord, which often offer 8GB. However, Google's software prowess and clean Android experience could still deliver smooth performance. The trade-off might be in resource-heavy tasks like gaming or running multiple apps simultaneously. We'll have to wait for official specs to see if the rumor holds true.