Fully Customizable E-Ink Watch with Open Source Hardware and Software

Published  November 23, 2021   0
S Staff
Author
Watchy- E-Ink Watch launched by SQFMI

Watchy launched by SQFMI with support from Crowd Supply is a minimalistic E-Ink watch with a variety of cases to choose from, including bare-bones PCB, injection-molded plastic case, and anodized aluminum. This device uses both open source hardware and software and can be customized with 3D-printed cases and watch straps, enabling users to create unique timepieces. Moreover, this minimalist device offers both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Low Energy connectivity, allowing it to connect to BLE-enabled devices and internet APIs.

Watchy is built using an Espressif ESP32-PICO-D4 system-in-package, providing support for a range of development environment options including Arduino, MicroPython, Espressif’s ESP-IDF, and Zephyr-RTOS. It features an ultra-low-power e-paper display with 200 × 200 pixel resolution and delivers an always-on, beautiful, crisp image clearly visible under bright sunlight, and requires no power between updates.

Key Features and Specifications

  • Ultra-low-power e-paper 1.54" display with 200 x 200 resolution and wide viewing angle
  • Wi-Fi & Bluetooth LE connectivity
  • 3-axis accelerometer with gesture detection
  • Real-time clock for accurate time keeping with calendar and alarm functions
  • Built-in USB-to-serial adapter for programming on the go
  • Vibration motor for alerts
  • Four tactile buttons
  • Open source hardware & software
  • Tons of examples & cool watch faces
  • 3D case designs (stls) to customize your watchy (and watch straps)
  • Injection-molded plastic case

In addition, it is a unique timepiece that is also a wearable development platform, allowing users to create their own experience.