: Eric Migicovsky wants to ensure Pebble can’t be killed again, and DIYers benefit most

Pebble, the e-ink smartwatch with a tumultuous history, is making a move sure to please the DIY enthusiasts that make up the bulk of its fans: Its entire software stack is now fully open source, and key hardware design files are available too.

Pebble creator Eric Migicovsky announced the move on Monday in a blog post and video detailing the changes his reborn Pebble watchmaking firm has undertaken, and they’re considerable.

  • infinitevalenceEnglish
    371·
    4 days ago

    Mostly good news except they cut out the foundation that did all the work keeping it alive for the last 9 years.

    It’s good it’s going open it sucks that they are forking the amazing work of the community rather than contributing directly into the existing branch.

    • yuri@pawb.social
      21·
      3 days ago

      it sucks hard, but at the same time rebble wasn’t about to release a new product. i’d wager a large number of the preorders are from folks who are now measurably more loyal to rebble than the original pebble brand.

      the lack of trust in the founder might actually be driving FOMO in this case, as folks are even more likely to think the reincarnation will fail sooner rather than later.

      • infinitevalenceEnglish
        2·
        3 days ago

        It’s the best worst case and there is still room for rebbel to find meaningful support. I’m just sad it happened your way. I wish Eric could have been more patient, and I wish rebbel could have been faster to react. All the personal stuff and respect issues are just a bummer all around.