Wearables
Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 McLaren Edition Review: A Supercar for Your Ears?

Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 McLaren Edition
In the world of high-performance audio and automotive engineering, few collaborations resonate with as much gravitas as that between Bowers & Wilkins and McLaren. It’s a partnership built on a shared obsession with precision, cutting-edge materials, and an uncompromising pursuit of performance. When these two British titans join forces on a product, expectations aren’t just high; they’re stratospheric. The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 McLaren Edition True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds are the latest fruit of this union, promising to distill the essence of a McLaren supercar into a device that fits in your pocket.
But with a price tag that rivals some mid-fi desktop audio setups, the question is stark: are these earbuds a true feat of audio engineering, or are they a masterclass in brand marketing? Do they deliver a pole-position performance, or are they merely coasting on the fumes of a famous name? We spent weeks with the Pi8 McLaren Edition, subjecting them to everything from transatlantic flights to critical listening sessions, to find out if they truly earn their place on the podium.
First Impressions: Unboxing a Piece of Woking

The premium experience begins before you even hear a note. The packaging for the Pi8 McLaren Edition is suitably luxurious. A sturdy, dark grey box with subtle branding slides open to reveal the earbuds and their case nestled in dense foam. The immediate visual impact comes from the signature McLaren colorway: a sophisticated dark grey chassis accented with bold, unmistakable Papaya Orange highlights. It’s the same hue that has graced McLaren’s most iconic Formula 1 and road cars, and it’s used here with tasteful restraint.
Lifting the charging case from its cradle, the quality is immediately apparent. It’s constructed from a high-grade polymer that feels dense and substantial, with a matte finish that resists fingerprints. The top lid features the iconic McLaren “Speedmark” logo, while the Bowers & Wilkins wordmark sits elegantly on the front. It’s larger and heavier than an AirPods Pro case, but it feels robust and protective, like it’s housing something special.
The earbuds themselves continue the theme. The main housing is a smooth, dark grey, but the circular, multifunction touch surface is a disc of spun aluminum, echoing the design language of B&W’s high-end speakers. The Papaya Orange accent appears on a subtle ring and on the inner acoustic tube, a flash of color that’s both a nod to the partnership and a statement of intent. These are not earbuds designed to disappear; they are designed to be noticed.
Inside the box, you’ll find a generous selection of accessories: three sizes of silicone ear tips (S, M, L), a USB-C to USB-C charging cable, and, most interestingly, a 3.5mm to USB-C audio cable. This last item is a critical component of the Pi8’s most unique feature, which we’ll explore in detail later.
Core Specifications and Features: The Engineering Under the Hood

Beneath the McLaren livery lies a formidable array of audio technology, much of it inherited from B&W’s flagship Pi7 S2 earbuds, but no less impressive.
- Driver Technology: Dual Hybrid Drive Units with individual amplifiers per earbud. This is the heart of the Pi8. A 9.2mm dynamic driver, developed by the same team behind the legendary 800 Series Diamond speakers, handles the bass and mid-range frequencies. A separate, high-precision balanced armature driver is dedicated solely to the high frequencies. This two-way design is akin to a high-end loudspeaker, promising greater clarity, detail, and control across the entire frequency spectrum.
- High-Resolution Audio: Support for 24-bit/48kHz wireless audio transmission. This ensures a high-fidelity connection between your source device and the earbuds, preserving more of the original recording’s detail.
- Wireless Codecs: Qualcomm aptX™ Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, and SBC. The inclusion of aptX Adaptive is a massive win for Android users, as it dynamically adjusts the bitrate to optimize for audio quality or connection stability, ensuring the best possible sound in any environment. iPhone users will benefit from the high-quality AAC codec.
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Adaptive ANC that continuously monitors and adjusts to the surrounding environment. Six microphones (three in each earbud) work in concert to measure ambient noise and generate anti-noise, while also ensuring crystal-clear voice calls.
- Wireless Audio Retransmission Case: The charging case doubles as a Bluetooth transmitter. By connecting the case to an external audio source (like an in-flight entertainment system, a Nintendo Switch, or a turntable with a phono preamp) via the included 3.5mm-to-USB-C cable, the case can stream that audio directly to the Pi8 earbuds.
- Call Quality: The six-mic array with cVc2 (Clear Voice Communication) technology is designed to isolate your voice and suppress background noise during phone and video calls.
- Durability: IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, making them safe from sweat and light splashes.
- Battery Life:
- Up to 5 hours of listening time per charge (with ANC off).
- An additional 19 hours from the charging case, for a total of 24 hours.
- 15-minute fast charge provides 2 hours of listening time.
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0 with Multipoint support, allowing connection to two devices simultaneously.
- Companion App: The Bowers & Wilkins Music app (iOS and Android) allows for ANC mode selection (On, Off, Passthrough), connection management, and wear sensor adjustments.
Performance Deep Dive: Audio Quality

Let’s cut to the chase: the Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 McLaren Edition sound phenomenal. They deliver a sonic signature that is rich, detailed, and unapologetically engaging. This is not a flat, neutral, “studio monitor” sound. It’s a sound with character and life, engineered to make music exciting.
Bass: The 9.2mm dynamic driver is a masterpiece. The bass is deep, powerful, and incredibly well-controlled. Listening to Hans Zimmer’s “Time,” the low-frequency rumbles that build throughout the track are rendered with a physical presence without ever becoming muddy or bloated. In electronic tracks like Bicep’s “Glue,” the sub-bass has a visceral texture that you can feel, yet the kick drums remain punchy and distinct. It’s a sophisticated bass response that prioritizes quality and texture over raw, boomy quantity.
Mid-range: This is where the dual-driver setup truly shines. The handover from the dynamic driver to the balanced armature is seamless. Vocals are pushed slightly forward in the mix, rendered with exceptional clarity and emotion. On tracks like Adele’s “Easy on Me,” her voice is intimate and detailed, capturing the subtle inflections and breathiness of her performance. Guitars, pianos, and strings have a natural timbre and are well-separated, preventing the mid-range from ever feeling congested, even on complex rock tracks like Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody.”
Treble: The dedicated balanced armature driver delivers a treble that is crisp, airy, and full of detail. Cymbals and hi-hats in jazz recordings, like Dave Brubeck’s “Take Five,” shimmer with realistic decay without a hint of harshness or sibilance. The high-end extension provides a wonderful sense of space and atmosphere to recordings. It unearths micro-details in familiar tracks that lesser earbuds often smear over.
Soundstage and Imaging: The soundstage is impressively wide for an in-ear monitor. It extends well beyond the confines of your head, creating an immersive, speaker-like presentation. Imaging is precise and stable. You can easily pinpoint the location of individual instruments within the stereo field, from the placement of a cello in an orchestra to the panning of synthesizers in an electronic mix.
The overall sound signature is one of controlled power and refined excitement. It’s a sound that will please audiophiles with its technical prowess while captivating casual listeners with its sheer musicality.
Performance Deep Dive: ANC and Call Quality


Active Noise Cancellation: The adaptive ANC on the Pi8 is very, very good, but it doesn’t quite dethrone the reigning champions from Bose and Sony. It does an excellent job of attenuating low-frequency drones, making them a fantastic companion for flights, train commutes, and noisy cafes. The roar of a jet engine is reduced to a distant, unobtrusive hum.
Where it’s slightly less effective is with higher-frequency, unpredictable sounds like office chatter or keyboard clicks. It dampens them significantly, but doesn’t erase them with the almost magical silence of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds. Importantly, enabling the ANC has a minimal impact on the audio signature, a testament to B&W’s careful tuning. The Passthrough (transparency) mode is also well-implemented, allowing you to hear your surroundings clearly without sounding overly processed or artificial.
Call Quality: Call quality is a strong point. The six-microphone array does a commendable job of isolating your voice. In moderately noisy environments, callers reported that my voice came through clearly, with most background distractions being effectively suppressed. In very windy conditions, some noise did creep in, but my voice remained intelligible. They are more than reliable for work calls, video conferences, and personal chats.
The Killer Feature: The Wireless Audio Retransmission Case
This is the Pi8’s ace in the hole. For frequent flyers, this feature alone could justify the price of admission. The ability to plug the charging case into an in-flight entertainment system’s 3.5mm headphone jack and have it stream high-quality audio wirelessly to your earbuds is nothing short of revolutionary. No more fumbling with flimsy airline headphones or dangling dongles. It works flawlessly and is incredibly easy to set up.
But its utility extends far beyond the airplane cabin. Gamers can plug it into their Nintendo Switch or Steam Deck. Fitness enthusiasts can connect it to a treadmill at the gym. Vinyl lovers can even hook it up to their turntable’s phono-out. This single feature transforms the Pi8 from a simple pair of wireless earbuds into a versatile personal audio system, solving a major pain point for wireless audio users. It’s a genius innovation that sets Bowers & Wilkins apart from every single one of its competitors.
Who Are These Earbuds For?

The Mobile Audiophile: The person who demands uncompromising sound quality and is willing to pay for it. They value technical excellence, high-resolution codecs, and a musical, engaging sound signature.- The Luxury Tech Enthusiast: This user appreciates premium materials, sophisticated design, and the cachet of a high-end brand collaboration. For them, the McLaren branding and Papaya Orange accents are a feature, not a gimmick.
- The Frequent Traveler: The audio retransmission case is a game-changer for anyone who spends significant time on planes. The combination of great sound, effective ANC, and this unique feature makes the Pi8 an ultimate travel companion.
- The McLaren Superfan: For a devoted fan of the automotive brand, these are the ultimate accessory. They offer a tangible, daily-use connection to the McLaren ethos of performance and design.
Who Should Look Elsewhere?
- The Budget-Conscious Buyer: At an MSRP of $499, these are firmly in the ultra-premium category. There are excellent earbuds available for half the price that will satisfy most users.
- The ANC Absolutist: If your one and only priority is blocking out the maximum amount of external noise, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds still hold a slight edge in overall noise cancellation performance.
- The Hardcore Athlete: While the IP54 rating is sufficient for light workouts and resisting sweat, dedicated sports earbuds often offer a more secure fit with wingtips and a higher IP rating for true waterproof protection.
- The User Seeking Simplicity: While not complicated, the Pi8 are a feature-rich product. Users who just want a simple, no-fuss experience might be better served by something like the Apple AirPods Pro, especially if they are already in the Apple ecosystem.
The Competition: A Crowded Starting Grid

The premium TWS market is fiercely competitive. Here’s how the Pi8 McLaren Edition stacks up against the other top contenders.
- Sony WF-1000XM5 ($299): The tech-packed all-rounder. Sony offers arguably better ANC, a more customizable EQ via its excellent app, and industry-leading features like DSEE Extreme upscaling. The sound is fantastic, though perhaps a bit more clinical than the B&W’s rich musicality.
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds ($299): The undisputed king of noise cancellation. If silence is golden, these are the gold standard. They also feature immersive audio for a more spatial sound. Their sound quality is very good, but audiophiles may prefer the detail and precision of the Pi8.
- Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 ($299): The audiophile’s choice. Sennheiser prioritizes sound fidelity above all else. The MTW4 offers a beautifully balanced and detailed sound signature. The competition here is tight, with the choice likely coming down to a preference for Sennheiser’s neutrality versus B&W’s warmer, more dynamic presentation.
- Apple AirPods Pro 2 ($249): The benchmark for ecosystem integration. For iPhone users, the seamless pairing, spatial audio with head tracking, and “Find My” integration are killer features. Their sound quality and ANC are excellent, making them a formidable and much more affordable competitor, though they lack the high-end material feel and the audio retransmission feature of the Pi8.
Competitive Breakdown Chart
Feature | Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 McLaren | Sony WF-1000XM5 | Bose QC Ultra Earbuds | Sennheiser MTW4 | Apple AirPods Pro 2 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price (MSRP) | $499 | $299 | $299 | $299 | $249 |
Drivers | 9.2mm Dynamic + Balanced Armature | 8.4mm Dynamic Driver X | Custom Dynamic Driver | 7mm TrueResponse Dynamic | Custom High-Excursion Driver |
Key Codecs | aptX Adaptive, AAC | LDAC, AAC | aptX Adaptive, AAC | aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, AAC | AAC |
ANC | Adaptive ANC | Industry-Leading Adaptive ANC | Class-Leading Adaptive ANC | Adaptive Hybrid ANC | Excellent Adaptive ANC |
Unique Feature | Wireless Audio Retransmission Case | DSEE Extreme, Speak-to-Chat | Bose Immersive Audio | Auracast, Lossless Audio | Seamless Apple Ecosystem Integration |
Battery (Buds) | ~5 Hours | ~8 Hours | ~6 Hours | ~7.5 Hours | ~6 Hours |
Battery (Total) | ~24 Hours | ~24 Hours | ~24 Hours | ~30 Hours | ~30 Hours |
IP Rating | IP54 | IPX4 | IPX4 | IP54 | IP54 |
Call Mics | 6 Mics | 6 Mics + Bone Conduction | 4 Mics per earbud | 6 Mics | 6 Mics |
Q&A
Q: Are the Pi8 McLaren Edition worth the $200 premium over the standard B&W Pi7 S2, which they are based on? A: From a pure audio technology standpoint, the core components are very similar. The premium for the McLaren Edition is for the exclusive design, the signature Papaya Orange colorway, the McLaren branding, and the prestige of the collaboration. If you are not a McLaren fan or don’t place a high value on this specific aesthetic, the Pi7 S2 offers a nearly identical audio experience for less money.
Q: I’m an iPhone user. Do I lose out by not being able to use aptX Adaptive? A: While aptX Adaptive is a fantastic codec for Android, the Pi8’s implementation of AAC for Apple devices is excellent. You will still experience high-quality, detailed, and rich audio. You won’t be missing a dramatic amount of performance, and the fundamental character and quality of the drivers will still shine through.
Q: How comfortable are they for long listening sessions? A: Comfort is subjective, but the Pi8 are generally very comfortable. They are slightly larger and heavier than some competitors, so users with very small ears might want to try them first. However, for most, the ergonomic shape and selection of tips provide a secure and comfortable seal for hours of listening without fatigue.
Q: Is the audio retransmission case difficult to use? A: Not at all. It’s incredibly intuitive. You plug the cable into your audio source and the case, press and hold the button on the case for a second, and it automatically pairs and starts streaming to the earbuds. There’s no complicated app or pairing process required.
Q: Can you customize the sound with an equalizer (EQ)? A: As of the latest firmware, the Bowers & Wilkins Music app does not offer a user-adjustable graphic EQ. You are reliant on B&W’s factory tuning. While that tuning is exceptional, users who love to tweak their sound profile to their exact preference might find this omission disappointing.
The Verdict: The Checkered Flag
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 McLaren Edition are a stunning pair of true wireless earbuds that largely deliver on their ultra-premium promise. They offer a class-leading audio experience, with a sound that is as exciting and dynamic as the supercars that inspired them. The build quality is impeccable, the design is striking, and the innovative audio retransmission case is a genuinely brilliant feature that solves a real-world problem.
However, they are not without their caveats. The price is undeniably steep, placing them in a category of their own. The ANC, while very good, is a half-step behind the absolute best in the business, and the battery life is merely adequate compared to the competition.
So, are they a supercar for your ears? Yes. They offer blistering audio performance and a design that will turn heads. But like a real McLaren, they come with a supercar price tag and a focus so sharp on performance that they make a few practical compromises.
If sound quality is your absolute monarch, you are a frequent traveler, and you appreciate the fusion of luxury design and high-performance engineering, the Pi8 McLaren Edition are an endgame product. They are an audacious, uncompromising, and deeply impressive piece of audio engineering. For those who can justify the cost, the listening experience is pure pole position.
Final Score: 8.8/10
Wearables
The Apple Watch Series 11 Hermès Edition: Where Haute Horlogerie Meets Digital Innovation

The collaboration between Apple and Hermès continues to redefine luxury smartwatch design, blending Silicon Valley innovation with Parisian craftsmanship in the Series 11 Hermès Edition.
Since Apple first partnered with the legendary French fashion house Hermès in 2015, the technology giant has continuously pushed the boundaries of what a luxury smartwatch can be. The Apple Watch Series 11 Hermès Edition represents the latest evolution of this prestigious collaboration, offering a unique fusion of cutting-edge health technology, premium materials, and the timeless elegance that has defined Hermès for nearly two centuries.


A Legacy of Craftsmanship Meets Modern Technology
The partnership between Apple and Hermès seemed unlikely when first announced. Apple, the Cupertino-based technology company known for sleek minimalism and mass-market appeal, joining forces with Hermès, the 188-year-old Parisian luxury house synonymous with equestrian heritage and artisanal leather craftsmanship. Yet this collaboration has proven to be one of the most successful in the luxury smartwatch space, creating a product that appeals to both tech enthusiasts and fashion connoisseurs.
The Series 11 Hermès Edition continues this tradition, building upon the foundation established by previous iterations while introducing refinements that showcase both companies’ commitment to excellence. Unlike standard Apple Watch models, the Hermès Edition isn’t merely a fashion accessory with interchangeable bands—it represents a holistic design philosophy where hardware, software, and materials work in harmony to create something greater than the sum of its parts.
Design Philosophy: The Details That Define Luxury
At first glance, the Series 11 Hermès Edition may appear similar to the standard Apple Watch Series 11, but closer inspection reveals numerous distinctive elements that justify its premium positioning. The watch face features an exclusive stainless steel case with a unique engraving on the back: “Apple Watch Hermès, Swiss Made.” This small detail carries significant meaning in the world of horology, acknowledging the Swiss origins of the watch’s assembly and paying homage to Switzerland’s centuries-old watchmaking tradition.
The case itself undergoes additional finishing processes not applied to standard models. Each unit receives extra polishing and quality control checks to ensure the mirror-like finish meets Hermès’ exacting standards. The result is a case that catches light differently, with a depth and warmth that photographs struggle to capture but becomes immediately apparent in person.
The display retains Apple’s industry-leading Always-On Retina technology, now in its latest iteration with improved brightness and power efficiency. However, Hermès Edition owners gain access to exclusive watch faces that aren’t available on any other Apple Watch model. These faces incorporate design elements drawn from Hermès’ rich heritage, including typefaces inspired by the brand’s iconic signage, color palettes reflecting classic Hermès shades like Orange 144 (the brand’s signature orange), and complications arranged with the same attention to balance and proportion that defines Hermès’ print and digital design.
The new Hermès Radial face, exclusive to Series 11, features a dynamic design that changes throughout the day, with flowing lines that evoke both traditional chronograph subdials and the organic curves found in Hermès silk scarves. The Lucky Horse watch face returns with enhanced animation, bringing Hermès’ equestrian heritage to life with subtle movements that respond to wrist raises and screen taps.


The Heart of the Matter: Hermès Leather Bands
While the watch case sets the foundation, the bands truly distinguish the Hermès Edition. Each strap is handcrafted in Hermès’ French ateliers using the same techniques and materials employed in the creation of the house’s legendary handbags and accessories. The leather selection process alone involves multiple stages of inspection, ensuring only the finest hides make it into production.
For the Series 11 launch, Hermès introduces several new strap options while maintaining beloved classics:
The Single Tour remains the most popular choice, offering a clean, elegant single wrap design that works equally well in boardrooms and bistros. Crafted from Swift leather—a fine-grained calfskin known for its suppleness and durability—the Single Tour features hand-stitched edges and a custom stainless steel buckle engraved with the Hermès name. New colorways for Series 11 include Étoupe (a sophisticated greige), Vert Moyen (a refined forest green), and Bleu de Malte (a deep, rich blue).
The Double Tour creates a more fashion-forward statement with its distinctive double-wrap design that circles the wrist twice. This style, particularly popular among fashion enthusiasts, adds visual weight and presence while maintaining the refined aesthetic Hermès is known for. The extra leather length also allows wearers to adjust the fit more precisely. For Series 11, Hermès debuts the Double Tour in Noir leather with gold hardware, creating a striking contrast that pairs beautifully with both casual and formal attire.
The Attelage represents one of the more equestrian-inspired designs, featuring a leather strap that interweaves through the lugs in a manner reminiscent of horse bridles and reins. The technique requires exceptional skill to execute, as the leather must be precisely cut and shaped to thread smoothly through the watch case while maintaining structural integrity. This band particularly appeals to those who appreciate Hermès’ equestrian heritage and want that connection visible in their everyday accessory.
The Kilim brings textile artistry to the collection, incorporating woven patterns inspired by traditional Anatolian kilim rugs. Unlike purely leather bands, the Kilim features fabric sections that showcase Hermès’ textile expertise while maintaining leather accents for durability and comfort. The Series 11 version introduces new color combinations that reflect contemporary tastes while respecting traditional patterns.
The Toile H represents perhaps the most casual offering, pairing printed canvas with leather accents. The canvas features Hermès’ signature “H” pattern in various colorways, making it ideal for active pursuits while maintaining the brand’s unmistakable aesthetic. Despite its more relaxed appearance, the Toile H undergoes the same rigorous quality control as its purely leather counterparts.
Each band includes Hermès’ signature details: hand-stitched edges using the brand’s characteristic saddle stitch technique, edges painted and polished to a smooth finish, and hardware that bears the Hermès engraving. The buckles and connectors receive individual attention, with artisans ensuring each piece moves smoothly and sits flush against the leather.


Technical Specifications: No Compromises
Despite its fashion credentials, the Series 11 Hermès Edition makes no compromises in technical capability. It features identical internal specifications to the flagship Apple Watch Series 11, ensuring Hermès Edition owners enjoy the full breadth of Apple’s latest health and fitness innovations.
The advanced health monitoring suite includes upgraded sensors for more accurate heart rate tracking, blood oxygen measurement, and temperature sensing. Sleep tracking has been refined with new algorithms that provide deeper insights into sleep stages and overall rest quality. The ECG app continues to offer medical-grade electrocardiogram readings, while fall detection and crash detection provide critical safety features.
Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the enhanced GPS accuracy, improved workout tracking algorithms, and new exercise modes. The Series 11 introduces more sophisticated training load analysis, helping athletes optimize their routines and avoid overtraining. Swimming metrics have been expanded, with better stroke detection and automatic pool length adjustment.
Battery life remains consistent with the standard Series 11, offering all-day performance with typical use and up to 36 hours in Low Power Mode. The fast-charging capability allows the watch to reach 80% charge in approximately 45 minutes, minimizing downtime.
The S11 chip powering the watch delivers impressive performance improvements over previous generations, making animations smoother, app launches faster, and on-device Siri processing more responsive. The always-on display reaches higher brightness levels for improved outdoor visibility while somehow becoming more power-efficient—a testament to Apple’s chip design prowess.
Software Integration: Exclusive Experiences
Beyond exclusive watch faces, the Hermès Edition offers subtle software enhancements that enrich the user experience. Notifications can be customized with Hermès-designed haptic patterns, creating a more refined alert experience. The watch complications available to Hermès Edition owners include color schemes and design elements unique to this model.
The Hermès Sports app, exclusive to these watches, provides fitness tracking with a distinct visual style that aligns with the brand’s aesthetic sensibilities. Metrics are presented with custom typography and color treatments that feel decidedly more elegant than standard fitness displays.
When paired with an iPhone, Hermès Edition owners gain access to exclusive wallpapers and watch face complications that extend the design language across devices. This ecosystem approach ensures visual consistency whether you’re glancing at your wrist or checking your phone.


The Question of Value: Understanding the Premium
At a significant price premium over the standard Apple Watch Series 11—typically starting at $1,249 and reaching upward of $1,549 depending on case size and band selection—the Hermès Edition asks potential buyers to invest substantially more for what may appear to be primarily aesthetic differences. Understanding this value proposition requires looking beyond pure functionality.
For luxury goods enthusiasts, the Hermès name carries cachet built over nearly two centuries. Hermès leather goods are investment pieces known to appreciate in value and last for decades with proper care. While a smartwatch won’t appreciate financially due to inevitable technological obsolescence, the craftsmanship invested in each band represents genuine artisanal work that commands premium pricing across Hermès’ entire product line.
The exclusive watch faces and software elements, while intangible, provide daily value through refined aesthetics and the satisfaction of owning something distinctive. In an age where millions of people wear Apple Watches, the Hermès Edition offers differentiation—a way to express personal style and appreciation for craftsmanship within the framework of modern technology.
There’s also the consideration of build quality and attention to detail. The additional finishing applied to Hermès Edition cases, the hand-selection of materials, and the quality control processes all contribute to a product that feels more refined in hand. These differences may not photograph well or appear dramatic on a spec sheet, but they create a cumulative effect that luxury goods buyers recognize and value.
Sustainability and Longevity Considerations
One interesting aspect of the Hermès Edition is how it addresses—or complicates—questions of sustainability in consumer electronics. Smartwatches face criticism for their relatively short useful lives compared to traditional watches, which can function for decades or even centuries. The Hermès Edition takes a different approach by creating a product meant to be treasured and maintained rather than quickly replaced.
The bands, if properly cared for, will develop a patina and character over years of wear, much like fine leather goods should. Hermès offers band replacement and repair services, allowing owners to maintain their investment. Some collectors purchase multiple bands to rotate, extending the life of each while varying their style options.
Apple’s trade-in and recycling programs apply to Hermès Edition watches, though some owners choose to keep their devices even after upgrading, treating them as design objects or passing them to family members. The distinctive nature of the Hermès Edition may encourage this kind of lasting appreciation more than standard models that blend into the broader smartwatch category.

The Target Audience: Who Buys the Hermès Edition?
The Series 11 Hermès Edition appeals to a specific intersection of consumers: those who value both cutting-edge technology and traditional luxury craftsmanship. This includes fashion industry professionals who appreciate Hermès’ heritage and want their technology to align with their aesthetic sensibilities. It appeals to luxury goods collectors who see the watch as an accessible entry point into Hermès ownership while maintaining practical utility.
Tech enthusiasts with disposable income may choose the Hermès Edition as a way to differentiate their Apple Watch while knowing they’re getting identical technical specifications to the standard model. Some view it as a middle ground between fashion and function—more substantial than a simple band swap but less complex than collecting traditional mechanical watches.
The corporate executive market represents another key demographic, with the Hermès Edition offering a professional appearance suitable for high-stakes environments while providing all the connectivity and productivity features that make the Apple Watch indispensable for many business users.
Conclusion: The Intersection of Two Worlds
The Apple Watch Series 11 Hermès Edition succeeds because it doesn’t ask consumers to choose between technology and fashion—it offers both without compromise. Apple provides the technical foundation and digital ecosystem that makes the smartwatch genuinely useful, while Hermès layers on the craftsmanship, materials, and design sensibility that elevate it beyond pure functionality.
This collaboration represents something broader about how luxury brands are adapting to technological change. Rather than resisting or ignoring the digital transformation of personal accessories, Hermès has embraced it while staying true to its core values of quality, craftsmanship, and timeless design. The result is a product that feels authentic to both brands—unmistakably an Apple Watch in capability and user experience, yet distinctly Hermès in aesthetic and execution.
For consumers willing to invest in this premium offering, the Series 11 Hermès Edition delivers daily satisfaction through beautiful materials, exclusive design elements, and the knowledge that they’re wearing something special. It won’t replace a traditional mechanical watch in the hearts of horology purists, but it has carved out its own space in the luxury accessory landscape—a space where heritage craftsmanship and modern technology not only coexist but thrive together.
As smartwatches continue maturing as a product category, the Hermès Edition points toward a future where technology companies and fashion houses increasingly collaborate, bringing together their complementary strengths to create products that appeal to both mind and heart, function and feeling. The Series 11 represents the most refined expression of this vision yet, proving that even in our digital age, there remains substantial appetite for products that honor traditional craftsmanship while embracing innovation.

Before buying your next wearable, be sure to read all our smart watch tech reviews
Wearables
Google Pixel Watch 4: A Smartwatch That Finally Gets Repairs Right

Google’s latest wearable proves that meaningful innovation doesn’t always require a complete redesign. The Pixel Watch 4, now available starting October 9, brings refinements that transform the smartwatch experience while maintaining the beloved aesthetic that made its predecessors so recognizable.

A Display That Demands Attention
The standout feature is the new Actua 360 domed display, which provides a larger viewing area with bezels reduced by sixteen percent. Unlike previous models where only the glass curved, the entire screen is now physically curved, creating an immersive visual effect. The display reaches an impressive 3000 nits of brightness, making it fifty percent brighter than its predecessor and far easier to read in direct sunlight.
The domed design creates a subtle three-dimensional effect that reviewers have compared to curved monitors—initially noticeable but quickly feeling natural with continued use. This design contributes to a ten percent increase in active display area, offering more space for notifications and app content without increasing the watch’s footprint.

Battery Life That Actually Lasts
Battery improvements are substantial, with the 41mm model delivering 30 hours of use and the 45mm variant reaching 40 hours. With Battery Saver mode enabled, users can extend battery life to two days on the smaller model and three days on the larger version.
The charging system has been completely reimagined with a new side-mounted dock design. The Quick Charge Dock enables twenty-five percent faster charging than previous generations, reaching 50 percent battery in just 15 minutes. Real-world testing confirms these claims, with users reporting charges from 29 percent to 95 percent in under 20 minutes—effectively eliminating battery anxiety.
Repairability: A Long-Overdue Feature
Perhaps the most significant upgrade isn’t visible at first glance. The Pixel Watch 4 is the first in the series to feature a serviceable design with replaceable battery and display components. Small screws in the watch band connectors provide access to internal components, making repairs straightforward rather than requiring complete device replacement.
This change addresses one of the biggest criticisms of previous Pixel Watch models, where cracked screens or battery issues meant buying a new device. The shift toward repairability benefits both consumers and the environment, marking a meaningful commitment to device longevity.

Gemini Integration Takes Center Stage
The watch introduces Gemini AI assistant integration with a raise-to-talk gesture, allowing users to activate the assistant simply by raising their wrist. This feature eliminates the friction of voice commands or button presses, making AI assistance truly seamless during activities like walking or exercising.
The implementation runs on the new Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 Wearable Platform paired with Google’s custom machine learning co-processor, which operates twenty-five percent faster while consuming half the power of the previous generation.
Wear OS 6: Form Meets Function
The software experience receives a significant visual overhaul with Wear OS 6 and Material 3 Expressive design language. The interface automatically adapts its color scheme to match the active watch face, creating a cohesive visual experience. Notifications feature a redesigned interface, and system apps like Weather showcase the new design philosophy.
AI-powered smart replies and notification cooldown features borrowed from Android 16 operate quietly in the background, managing digital interruptions without drawing attention to themselves.
Safety First: Satellite Communication
The Pixel Watch 4 LTE is the first smartwatch to support standalone emergency satellite communications, allowing users to contact emergency services even without cellular coverage. This potentially life-saving feature uses geo-stationary satellites to dispatch help to your exact location when traditional networks are unavailable.

Fitness Tracking That Works
The health and fitness capabilities build on the Fitbit foundation with enhanced accuracy. Dual-frequency GPS provides more precise route tracking during runs and hikes, even in challenging environments. Activity detection has improved, with better recognition of various workout types and automatic tracking of walks.
Sleep tracking receives backend improvements, though changes are subtle rather than transformative. The upcoming AI-powered Fitbit Coach redesign promises to deliver personalized workout recommendations, though that feature remains in early access.
Pricing and Availability
Google maintains competitive pricing, with the 41mm WiFi model starting at $349 and the 45mm version at $399. LTE variants command a premium, with the larger model topping out at $499. The watch became available for preorder on August 20, 2025, with general availability beginning October 9.
Trade-in offers provide up to $350 credit for eligible devices, including the Apple Watch Series 10. LTE models include two years of data service through Google Fi Wireless at no additional cost.
The Verdict
The Pixel Watch 4 represents evolutionary refinement at its finest. While not revolutionary, the combination of improved display technology, genuine repairability, extended battery life, and seamless AI integration creates a smartwatch that finally delivers on Google’s wearable vision. The familiar design hides substantial improvements that address previous generations’ most significant shortcomings.
For owners of the Pixel Watch 3, upgrading makes little sense. However, those using earlier models or considering their first Pixel Watch will find the fourth generation offers compelling reasons to join Google’s wearable ecosystem. The watch succeeds by making small things work better rather than chasing headlines with gimmicks—a refreshing approach in the smartwatch market.

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Wearables
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra: The Ultimate Rugged Smartwatch for Adventurers and Athletes

Samsung’s Galaxy Watch Ultra represents a bold entry into the premium rugged smartwatch market, delivering a feature-packed wearable that challenges both Apple’s Watch Ultra and Garmin’s dominance in the outdoor adventure segment. Announced in July 2024, this Android smartwatch features a 1.5-inch display, Exynos W1000 chipset, 590 mAh battery, 64 GB storage, and 2 GB RAM, all housed in a MIL-STD-810H compliant case with sapphire crystal glass.
Design and Durability: Built for Extreme Conditions
The Galaxy Watch Ultra embodies Samsung’s commitment to creating a timepiece that can withstand the harshest environments. The watch has obtained MIL-STD-810H Certification for high and low temperature, altitude, humidity, immersion, salt fog, dust, vibration, and drop resistance. This military-grade testing ensures the device can handle real-world challenges that outdoor enthusiasts regularly face.



Grade 4 titanium is partially applied to the front and back cover areas of the metal frame, excluding the display and physical buttons, while the remaining parts feature a mix of plastic and Grade 2 titanium. This hybrid construction balances durability with wearability, though some users with smaller wrists may find the 47mm case substantial.
The watch’s environmental resistance is equally impressive. Galaxy Watch Ultra withstands temperatures ranging from -20°C to 55°C while being worn on the wrist. Whether you’re scaling frozen peaks or trekking through desert landscapes, this smartwatch is engineered to keep functioning when you need it most.
Display: Brilliance Under Any Conditions
One of the standout features is the exceptionally bright display. The Galaxy Watch Ultra has gained a much more brilliant display at 3,000 nits, ensuring visibility on beaches or mountain tops. This brightness advantage makes a tangible difference when checking metrics during outdoor activities in direct sunlight, addressing a common complaint with earlier Galaxy Watch models.

Enhanced Button Layout and Controls
The watch has gained a new “Quick” button, which can be customized to open a specific app or function and by default opens the Workout menu to select a sport to start. Samsung’s thoughtful placement of this orange Quick button between the button guards of the other two buttons prevents accidental presses, a notable improvement over competing designs.
The top button takes you home from whatever screen you’re on, and the bottom one goes back one screen, while the center Quick Button is configurable but defaults to launching workouts. However, users should note that unlike many other watches, there’s no rotating crown or bezel—navigation relies primarily on buttons and swiping.
Water Resistance and Outdoor Features
The Galaxy Watch Ultra is consistent with 10 ATM water-resistance classification, rated for up to 100 meters of water for up to 10 minutes, and carries an IP68 rating for up to 6 feet of water for up to 30 minutes. While Samsung markets the watch for ocean adventures and water sports, it’s worth noting that the specific ISO certification differs from traditional dive watches.
For hikers and cyclists, the watch includes practical safety features. The Track Back feature must be enabled prior to every hiking or cycling workout session, while the emergency siren emits up to 86-decibel sound and can be heard up to 180 meters away maximum.

Health and Fitness Tracking: Comprehensive Wellness Monitoring
The Galaxy Watch Ultra introduces several groundbreaking health features that set it apart from competitors. For the first time on Galaxy Watch, it offers a Sleep apnea feature that requires at least 2 days of sleep data within a span of 10 days for detection. While this feature is not intended for diagnosis or treatment, it provides valuable insights for users to discuss with healthcare professionals.
The watch introduces the Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs) index, which for the first time on Galaxy Watch allows users to see how their diet could affect metabolic health. This feature helps users monitor meal choices and maintain peak performance through lifestyle adjustments.
Additional wellness features include the Vascular Load metric, which estimates strain on your circulatory system during sleep by analyzing sleep tracking data, stress levels, and exercise patterns. The Energy Score and other Galaxy AI-powered insights help users understand their overall readiness and recovery status.
The watch can automatically detect and log various workouts including walking, running, swimming, elliptical, and rowing, with a longer list of supported activities than other Wear OS devices. The addition of multisport workout plans makes it particularly appealing for triathletes and cross-training enthusiasts.

Battery Life: Extended Endurance for Long Adventures
In normal battery mode with Always On Display enabled, battery life reaches up to 60 hours, while disabling Always On Display extends it to up to 80 hours. This multi-day battery life represents a significant advantage over many competitors, reducing the need for frequent charging during extended outdoor adventures.
For ultra-endurance activities, the watch offers power-saving modes that can extend battery life even further, though with some feature limitations such as restricted Wi-Fi connection, wake-up gestures, CPU speed, and location services.
Software Experience: Galaxy AI Integration
The Galaxy Watch Ultra runs on Wear OS, customized with Samsung’s One UI Watch interface. One UI makes several significant changes from stock Wear OS, including a more powerful notification system that retains notification bundles from your phone, making it easier to triage long lists of emails or messages.
The watch offers Suggested Replies with Galaxy AI, providing quick text-reply suggestions based on conversation context. Users can control various functions with a double pinch gesture, adding convenient hands-free operation for taking photos, answering calls, or silencing alarms.
One notable quirk: the Galaxy Watch Ultra still defaults to using Bixby as the voice assistant, though users can and should switch to Google Assistant in the settings.
Performance and Storage
Powered by the Exynos W1000 chipset built on a 3nm process, the Galaxy Watch Ultra delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks and workout tracking. The watch comes with 2GB of RAM and generous storage options. The 2024 model includes 32GB of internal storage, while the 2025 refresh doubles this to 64GB, providing ample space for offline music, maps, apps, and workout data.
Ecosystem Integration and Limitations
Some of the Watch Ultra’s features will only work with a Samsung phone, including running ECGs and detecting health issues like sleep apnea and irregular heart rhythms, along with certain Galaxy AI features like the energy score. This ecosystem lock-in may frustrate Android users who prefer other smartphone brands, though the watch remains compatible with any Android device for basic functionality.
The Galaxy Wearable app manages watch connections and settings with a sleek, modern interface that simplifies customization. Meanwhile, the Samsung Health app, though somewhat clunky initially, provides comprehensive tracking and analysis of all your health and fitness data.
Real-World Performance: Accuracy and Reliability
During testing, the watch performed well for normal workouts with automatic laps and reliable instant pace tracking during runs. The inclusion of multiband/dual-frequency GNSS and an improved optical heart rate sensor enhances accuracy for outdoor activities.
However, the watch isn’t without occasional quirks. Some users have reported activities mysteriously stopping or ending during rides, though such incidents appear relatively rare. The multiband GPS generally delivers accurate tracking, though dense tree cover or urban canyons can still impact satellite signal quality.
The 2025 Refresh: Incremental But Valuable Updates
Samsung released an updated Galaxy Watch Ultra in 2025 with modest but meaningful improvements. The 2025 model doubles internal storage to 64GB from the previous 32GB, powered by the same 3nm Exynos W1000 processor with 2GB of RAM and a 590mAh battery.
The Watch Ultra (2025) comes pre-installed with Wear OS 5, layered with Samsung’s updated One UI Watch 8 skin, including the Now Bar feature that shows context-aware controls like timers and media playback on your watch face. Importantly, most of these software features are expected to arrive on the original Galaxy Watch Ultra through updates.
New health features include Vascular Load for estimating circulatory system strain during sleep, Antioxidant Index for skin antioxidant levels, Bedtime Guidance powered by Galaxy AI for personalized sleep scheduling, and a new Running Coach mode with real-time training feedback.
The 2025 version introduces a new Titanium Blue color option alongside the existing Titanium Gray, Silver, and White finishes. The refreshed model costs the same—$649.99—as the original Watch Ultra, making it an even better deal for new buyers.
Who Should Buy the Galaxy Watch Ultra?
The Galaxy Watch Ultra targets a specific audience: active individuals who demand durability, comprehensive health tracking, and multi-day battery life. It excels for outdoor enthusiasts, serious athletes, and anyone who needs a watch that can withstand extreme conditions while providing detailed fitness and wellness insights.
However, the high $650 price tag and chunky 47mm design might make it a tough sell for some users. The Galaxy Watch 7 offers most of the same features at a lower price point with a sleeker design, making it a better choice for casual users or those with smaller wrists.
For Samsung phone owners, the Watch Ultra’s ecosystem integration unlocks its full potential, including advanced health monitoring features like ECG and sleep apnea detection. Android users with other phone brands will still enjoy excellent functionality but may miss out on some premium features.
Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra represents a serious competitor in the premium smartwatch market, offering military-grade durability, exceptional battery life, a brilliant display, and comprehensive health tracking. While it clearly draws inspiration from Apple’s Watch Ultra design language, Samsung has created a capable device that stands on its own merits.
For adventurers, athletes, and anyone seeking a rugged smartwatch that can keep up with an active lifestyle, the Galaxy Watch Ultra delivers impressive performance and features. The 2025 refresh adds valuable storage and software improvements at the same price, making it an even more compelling choice for new buyers. However, existing 2024 model owners can largely skip the upgrade, as most new features will arrive via software updates.
Whether you’re training for a triathlon, hiking mountain trails, or simply want a smartwatch that can handle whatever life throws at it, the Galaxy Watch Ultra proves that Samsung is serious about competing in the premium wearable market.

Before buying your next wearable, be sure to read all our smart watch tech reviews
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