PineTime Pro is finally getting some real attention, and from what’s been shared so far, this isn’t just a small refresh. It looks more like a serious upgrade aimed at pushing the open smartwatch idea much further.
The original PineTime has been around for years as a simple, hackable device built for developers and enthusiasts. Now, Pine64 is stepping things up with a more capable version that adds modern hardware while still keeping things open and community-driven.
As detailed in the official announcement, the PineTime Pro isn’t meant to replace the original model. Instead, it’s designed to exist alongside it as a more advanced option for users who want extra features and performance.
That decision actually makes sense. The original device is still popular for its simplicity, while the Pro version is clearly targeting users who want something more powerful to experiment with.
The biggest change here is the hardware. At its core, the PineTime Pro uses a dual-core Cortex-M33 chip, with one core handling applications and another dedicated to Bluetooth tasks. This alone is a big jump from the older model’s more limited setup.
Memory has also been upgraded significantly, with hundreds of kilobytes of SRAM and additional PSRAM. Now, it’s much more capable of handling complex applications and features.
The display is another noticeable improvement. Instead of the older LCD panel, the new model features a larger AMOLED screen with higher resolution, which should offer better colors and deeper blacks.
On top of that, the device now includes several new hardware features that bring it closer to mainstream smartwatches:
- Built-in GPS for location tracking
- Heart rate and blood oxygen sensors
- A digital crown that doubles as a button
- Microphone, speaker, and vibration motor
These additions make it clear that PineTime Pro isn’t just for basic notifications anymore; it’s aiming for a more complete smartwatch experience.
Interestingly, despite all these upgrades, the project still stays true to its roots. It remains an open platform designed for community-driven software, meaning developers can build and experiment freely without being locked into a closed ecosystem.
That’s always been one of Pine64’s biggest strengths. Instead of controlling everything, they provide the hardware and let the community shape what it becomes.
Right now, the PineTime Pro is still in development, and things aren’t finalized yet. A newer hardware revision is expected soon, and some details like pricing and release timing haven’t been confirmed.
So this is more of an early look than a finished product, but it already gives a pretty clear idea of where things are heading.
If everything goes as planned, PineTime Pro could become one of the most interesting open-source wearables available. It takes what worked before and builds on it with better hardware, more features, and more room for experimentation.
If you want to explore the full details shared so far, you can check out the PineTime Pro announcement. And for a broader look at the project and ecosystem, the Pine64 official website is worth visiting.
