Pine64 has announced an updated version of its PineTime smartwatch, dubbed the PineTime Pro, during a recent community update at FOSDEM 2026. This smartwatch, initially introduced almost seven years ago, targeted tech enthusiasts with its affordable price of under $30 and its FOSS-friendly approach.
The new PineTime Pro boasts an AMOLED display, built-in GPS, a blood oxygen sensor, and a rotating digital crown with an additional button. Pine64 mentions that the device will feature a "custom chip," although specific details are yet to be disclosed. The original PineTime operated on a Nordic nRF52832 ARM Cortex-M4 microcontroller, which had limitations on power management that affected battery life. However, the Pro version aims to enhance battery efficiency by allowing individual components to power down as needed.
While the original PineTime was known for its practicality rather than fashion, it fulfilled the needs of DIY enthusiasts and was ideal for tinkering. Pine64 has indicated that its approach tends to focus on affordable hardware while leaving software development to the community. Progress on the PineTime Pro was being made at FOSDEM, indicating that the project is advancing well.
As for pricing and release dates, those details remain uncertain. Pine64 is contemplating various funding models, possibly incorporating a minor cost offset into the smartwatch’s price or establishing a fundraising service. However, the cost is expected to exceed the original PineTime’s sub-$30 price tag, with speculation about keeping it under $50 amid rising component costs.
The ongoing DRAM shortage has previously impacted production across various Pine64 devices, including the anticipated PineTab 2 and PinePhone, but it seems to leave the PineTime line unaffected. Additionally, it remains unclear whether the open-source firmware known as InfiniTime, which has supported the original model, will be compatible with the PineTime Pro.