Neptune Pine Smartwatch: Release Date & Differences

The Neptune Pine is a standalone smartwatch that differs from most others by functioning as a full Android phone on your wrist, and it is scheduled for release next month. Unlike typical smartwatches that require a constant Bluetooth connection to a smartphone, the Pine has its own cellular radio, SIM slot, and a full touchscreen keyboard, making it a self-contained mobile device.

Formula

The calculator above works out your average running pace and speed. The formulas are:

• Pace (min/km) = Time (minutes) ÷ Distance (kilometers)
• Speed (km/h) = Distance (kilometers) ÷ (Time (minutes) ÷ 60)

Variables: t = total time in minutes, d = distance in kilometers. The pace is expressed as minutes per kilometer, and speed as kilometers per hour.

Worked Example

Using the default values from the calculator: you run 5 km in 30 minutes.

1. Pace = 30 ÷ 5 = 6.00 min/km
2. Speed = 5 ÷ (30 ÷ 60) = 5 ÷ 0.5 = 10.00 km/h

So your average pace is 6 minutes per kilometer, and your average speed is 10 km/h.

Background: The Neptune Pine

The Neptune Pine was first announced in 2013 as a crowdfunded project. It was designed to be a standalone smartwatch that could replace your phone, not just a companion to it. The device runs a full version of Android (initially 4.1 Jelly Bean) and includes a 2.4-inch touchscreen, a 5-megapixel camera, and a speaker/microphone. It also has a built-in SIM card slot, allowing you to make calls, send texts, and use mobile data directly from the watch.

The Pine is often compared to other standalone smartwatches like the Samsung Gear S or the LG Watch Urbane LTE, but it predates many of them. Its key differentiator is the full QWERTY keyboard, which slides out from the side of the watch, making it easier to type messages than on most other smartwatches.

How It Works: Standalone vs. Companion

Most smartwatches (like the Apple Watch or Wear OS watches) are companion devices. They rely on a paired smartphone for notifications, internet access, and even GPS. The Neptune Pine is a standalone device. It has its own cellular modem (2G/3G), Wi-Fi, and GPS. You insert a nano-SIM card, and the watch becomes a phone. It can run Android apps directly, though the small screen limits usability.

This means you can leave your phone at home and still make calls, send texts, check email, and use apps that work on the watch’s screen. The trade-off is battery life: running a full Android OS with cellular on a small battery means you’ll likely need to charge it daily, sometimes more often with heavy use.

How to Choose: Is a Standalone Watch Right for You?

When deciding between a standalone watch like the Neptune Pine and a companion watch, consider these factors:

• Do you want to ditch your phone? If yes, a standalone watch is necessary. If you’re happy carrying your phone, a companion watch is lighter and often has better app support.
• Battery life: Standalone watches generally have shorter battery life because they have more powerful hardware. The Pine’s battery is rated for about 8 hours of talk time, but real-world use is often less.
• Screen size: The Pine’s 2.4-inch screen is large for a watch, but it’s still small for typing long emails or reading web pages. Consider if you can live with that.
• Carrier compatibility: The Pine supports 2G/3G networks, which are being phased out in many countries. Check if your carrier still supports these bands before buying.

Common Problems and Limitations

Users of the Neptune Pine have reported several issues:

• Battery drain: The full Android OS and cellular radio can drain the battery in under a day. Some users carry a portable charger.
• Network compatibility: As 3G networks are shut down, the Pine becomes unusable for calls/texts in many regions. Check your carrier’s 2G/3G status.
• App compatibility: Some Android apps are not optimized for the small screen, and others require a newer Android version than the Pine’s (which was later updated to 4.4).
• Build quality: The sliding keyboard mechanism can feel fragile, and the watch is bulkier than most.

Comparison: Neptune Pine vs. Other Smartwatches

Compared to the Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch, the Pine is a different beast. The Apple Watch is tightly integrated with the iPhone, offers a rich app ecosystem, and has excellent health tracking. But it requires an iPhone and doesn’t have a full keyboard. The Galaxy Watch is similar, though it works with Android and has LTE versions. The Pine offers the promise of a phone-free experience, but with older hardware and less polish.

In terms of price, the Pine was originally sold for around $300–$400, which is comparable to many premium smartwatches. However, it’s now mostly available through third-party sellers, and you should be cautious about buying a device that may not receive updates.

Costs and Availability

The Neptune Pine is no longer in production. The company that made it, Neptune Computer Inc., was based in Canada and released the watch in 2014 after a successful Kickstarter campaign. You can still find new or used units on marketplaces like eBay, but prices vary widely. Be aware that you’ll need a compatible SIM card and a carrier that supports 2G/3G. Also, the watch’s Android version is outdated, so security updates are no longer provided.

Safety and Privacy Considerations

Using a standalone smartwatch with a SIM card means you’re carrying a device that can transmit your location and data. Since the Pine runs an old version of Android, it may have unpatched security vulnerabilities. Avoid entering sensitive information (like banking apps) on the device. Also, be mindful of radiation exposure: like any cellular device, the Pine emits RF radiation, but it’s within regulatory limits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Neptune Pine still available to buy?

No, the Neptune Pine is discontinued. You can find used units on auction sites, but there’s no official store. Be wary of sellers claiming to have new old stock; verify the device’s IMEI and condition before buying.

Can I use any SIM card in the Neptune Pine?

You need a nano-SIM card from a carrier that supports 2G or 3G networks. Many carriers have shut down these networks, so check coverage in your area. The Pine is unlocked, so it should work with any compatible carrier.

Does the Neptune Pine have a speaker and microphone?

Yes, it has a built-in speaker and microphone, so you can make calls directly from the watch, similar to a speakerphone. The sound quality is acceptable for short calls.

Can I install apps from the Google Play Store?

Yes, the Pine runs Android, so you can access the Play Store and install apps. However, many modern apps require a newer Android version, so you may only be able to install older or lightweight apps.

How long does the battery last?

Battery life varies, but with moderate use (some calls, occasional app use), you can expect about a day. Heavy use, like streaming music or using GPS, can drain it in a few hours.

Is the Neptune Pine waterproof?

No, the Neptune Pine is not waterproof. It has an IP54 rating, which means it’s protected against dust and splashes of water, but you should not submerge it or wear it while swimming.

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in t | Time to run | min | 30 | 0
in d | Distance | km | 5 | 0
out pace | Average pace | min/km | t / d | 2
out speed | Average speed | km/h | d / (t / 60) | 2