New to fitness tracking? This midrange smartwatch is a great first step – and it’s on sale
ZDNET’s key takeaways The Amazfit BIP 5 is typically sold on Amazon for $89. It’s a solid budget smartwatch that integrates with the Zepp app, providing a breadth of health and fitness data. It’s not the most precise health tracker on the market, and its competitive price is most evident in its physical design. On […]
The Amazfit BIP 5 is typically sold on Amazon for $89.
It’s a solid budget smartwatch that integrates with the Zepp app, providing a breadth of health and fitness data.
It’s not the most precise health tracker on the market, and its competitive price is most evident in its physical design.
On Amazon, the Amazfit BIP 5in Pastel Pink and Soft Black is on sale for $60. The Cream White has seen a smaller discount and currently costs $70.
In a crowded marketplace of expensive smartwatches, Amazfit’s BIP 5 is an inexpensive option that uses the Zepp app to provide lots of health data. Amazfit’s lineup of smartwatches runs the gamut of price points from the Balance to the recently released T-Rex 3, and the BIP 5 is the latest budget option.
Also: The best cheap smartwatches: Expert tested
So, what do you get from a $90 smartwatch? What you might expect from a low-cost device, but with some good surprises, too. The BIP 5 is informed by Amazfit’s lineup and is carried by Zepp, the comprehensive software that works more or less the same across all the tech giant’s smartwatches.
I went hands-on with the BIP over two weeks, wearing it regularly to the gym, as well as on a work trip to Europe, and found this watch to be a solid fitness companion. Even though the watch doesn’t have the most high-end hardware, the Zepp app makes up for it with loads of metrics and customizability.
The first thing I’ll say about this watch is that the battery is great. I didn’t even bother bringing the charger when I went to Europe for six days, nor did I need to. I’ve been getting away with charging it about once a week.
The physical design is the other immediate thing that stands out about this watch. It looks like a sub-$100 smartwatch, but that isn’t necessarily bad. The 1.9-inch face is chunky, and the wristband it comes with is basic, but at least it’s customizable. The display doesn’t compare to high-end AMOLEDs found on other smartwatches, but it’s functional and stutter-free.
Also: This Samsung Galaxy Watch design feature might be returning soon – and it’s good news for fans
It’s ultimately a neutral-looking watch that neither attracts nor repels attention, and there’s something to be said about that fact when other smartwatches insist on selling themselves as style pieces.
In terms of durability, this is not a watch you want to take with you into the pool or shower. It has an IP68 rating, making it splash-proof, but not submersible. Even though I love the outdoors, I’m not someone you’ll find running in the rain. Instead, I prefer a smartwatch that offers solid fitness measurements in the gym, coupled with good sleep tracking.
I had mixed results with the BIP’s fitness tracking. I took the watch to the gym and found that the “workout mode” doesn’t really work for me. When in this mode, the app wants you to keep your heart rate up in a certain range, and will alert you to keep moving when it gets too low.
The problem, in my experience, is that the heart rate monitor is not entirely accurate. The device constantly insisted my heart rate was too low, urging me to “keep moving” even though I was mid-stride on the treadmill or mid-squat on the rack. I can see this being useful for someone focused on high-intensity interval circuit training, but unless you adjust the parameters, it might be too intrusive for athletes who know their way around the gym.
In addition, the device can’t always tell when I’m sitting or standing. I use a standing desk in the office and at home, so I’m standing at least half of the day, but the BIP can’t always tell the difference.
Kyle Kucharski/ZDNET
There are over 120 different sport measurement modes on the BIP, so there’s no way I could try them all, but the ones I did try — like rowing — were helpful but not necessarily game-changing.
That said, the watch measures a wide array of metrics with Zepp’s PAI score. The “personal activity indicator” is a metric that awards you points every day based on cardiorespiratory measurements from all sources (not just designated workouts) with the goal of totaling up to 100 for the week.
Personally, I really like Zepp’s PAI system and think it makes sense to evaluate your health and fitness levels from a broad perspective, not just as random metrics in a vacuum. Runners will also love the built-in GPS, which can generate maps of your routes and a set of metrics surrounding your workout, such as records, achievement predictions to chart progress, and workout templates.
Also: You don’t need to spend over $300 for a good smartwatch – this Android proves it
The core features of the BIP 5 are health-centric, so there aren’t too many special features here in the way of connectivity, but the ones it does have are at least useful. For example, if you’re playing music on your phone, you can control playback with the watch, and it does have Alexa support, allowing you to give commands via the watch if you have a smart home setup.
As for its sleep-tracking capabilities, the BIP 5 is again carried by the Zepp app, which is comprehensive and packed full of data. This makes it a great budget option for people who are primarily interested in monitoring sleep, but don’t necessarily want a full-fledged fitness watch.
Kyle Kucharski/ZDNET
Every morning, Zepp produces a progress report with a grade, including extended AI-generated narrative reports that put your sleep habits into context. Unfortunately, the metrics are not wholly accurate. Zepp often thinks I’m asleep when I’m not, and sometimes says my sleep was worse than it actually was.
One thing that Zepp emphasizes is routine sleep and wake times, and it can harshly judge deviation from that pattern, even if you get a good night’s sleep. There were nights when it would give me a 75 to 80 score rating and chastise me for shifting from my sleep schedule, even though it was a weekend, or I felt well-rested.
Also: This new Asus smartwatch is the first to measure both blood pressure and ECG
Still, the device does a good job of catching things that disrupt sleep, even if you’re unaware. For example, in one instance, I had a late-night cocktail, and the next morning, it asked me, “Hey, I noticed your heart rate took a while to drop last night. Did you eat late or have alcohol before bed?” Busted.
In this case, it did disrupt my sleep, so this level of insight was surprising and smart when I didn’t necessarily expect it: an overarching theme to the watch’s capabilities.
ZDNET’s buying advice
If you’re looking for a budget smartwatch that can do a little bit of everything, but your life doesn’t depend on ultra-precise monitoring, Amazfit’s BIP 5 is one of the best on the market. Its integration with the Zepp app immediately makes this $59 smartwatch feel like it’s double the price.
Additionally, if you’re someone who doesn’t want to wear a smartwatch 24/7, the battery life on the BIP 5 is fantastic, and although it’s not the classiest smartwatch on the market, it gets the job done.
The recent US tariffs on imports from countries like China, Vietnam, and India aim to boost domestic manufacturing but are likely to drive up prices on consumer electronics. Products like smartphones, laptops, and TVs may become more expensive as companies rethink global supply chains and weigh the cost of shifting production.
CNET: Tariff Pricing Tracker: We’re Watching 11 Products You Might Need to Buy
Headphones and wearable devices, which are predominantly manufactured in these regions, are now subject to tariffs as high as 54% on Chinese imports and 46% on Vietnamese goods. As a result, consumers may see price increases of approximately 20% on these items.
Manufacturers are exploring options like relocating production to countries with lower tariffs, but such shifts are complex and may not provide immediate relief. In the short term, shoppers should anticipate higher costs for headphones and wearables due to these trade policies.
Billionaire entrepreneur Mike Repole—the mind behind Vitaminwater, BodyArmor, and now NoBull—joins Adam Breneman for one of the most raw and inspiring conversations we’ve had on Next Up. From growing up in Queens as the son of a waiter and a seamstress to selling companies for billions, Repole shares the unfiltered truth about what it takes […]
Billionaire entrepreneur Mike Repole—the mind behind Vitaminwater, BodyArmor, and now NoBull—joins Adam Breneman for one of the most raw and inspiring conversations we’ve had on Next Up. From growing up in Queens as the son of a waiter and a seamstress to selling companies for billions, Repole shares the unfiltered truth about what it takes to win—in business, in sports, and in life.
He opens up about his deep love for St. John’s basketball—the program that shaped his roots—and why he’s gone all in to help rebuild it into a national powerhouse with Rick Pitino at the helm. From NIL deals to the business of college sports, he breaks down why St. John’s success means so much more than just wins.
Hapbee Technologies Teams Up with Liberty Alliance to Deliver Wearable Sleep and Performance Technology to the Defense Sector; Updates Status of Audited Financial Statements
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hapbee Technologies, Inc. (TSXV: HAPB | OTCQB: HAPBF), a leading provider of wearable wellness technology, is proud to announce it has teamed up with Liberty Alliance, a veteran-owned business (SDVOSB) specializing in defense innovation and mission support. This collaboration aims to introduce Hapbee’s proprietary ultra-low frequency […]
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hapbee Technologies, Inc. (TSXV: HAPB | OTCQB: HAPBF), a leading provider of wearable wellness technology, is proud to announce it has teamed up with Liberty Alliance, a veteran-owned business (SDVOSB) specializing in defense innovation and mission support. This collaboration aims to introduce Hapbee’s proprietary ultra-low frequency wearable devices to military personnel, special operations forces, and veteran communities worldwide.
Liberty Alliance specializes in rapidly prototyping and integrating commercial technologies to address user-defined capability gaps through structured innovation cycles. With a deep understanding of the U.S. defense industry, Liberty Alliance offers strategic advice to both domestic and international clients, supporting compliance, navigation of Foreign Military Sales, and facilitation of collaborative relationships between nations with leading-edge defense solutions.
Hapbee’s wearable devices utilize patented ultra-low radiofrequency energy (ulRFE®) technology to help users achieve desired mental states such as relaxation, focus, and sleep without the use of substances. These devices have been instrumental in supporting veterans through partnerships with organizations like Grey Team and Healing Our Heroes, founded by Dr. Kyle Bergquist.
Yona Shtern, CEO of Hapbee, stated: “This teaming with Liberty Alliance marks a significant step in our mission to support those who serve. By leveraging Liberty’s extensive network within the defense sector, we aim to provide our wellness technology to active-duty personnel and veterans on a global basis, enhancing their performance and well-being.”
Jonathan Shaffner, Chief Strategy Officer, at Liberty Alliance, commented: “Integrating Hapbee’s innovative technology into our offerings aligns with our commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions to our clients. We believe this collaboration will have a profound impact on the health and performance of military personnel and veterans alike.”
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The collaboration will focus on deploying Hapbee devices to special operations units, facilitating access through Liberty Alliance’s established defense channels. Additionally, both organizations will work together to expand outreach to veteran support groups, ensuring that those transitioning to civilian life have access to tools that promote mental health and resilience.
The Company, announces that the filing of its annual audited financial statements and MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2024 (the “Financial Statements”), required pursuant to Parts 4 and 5 of National Instrument 51-102 Continuous Disclosure Obligations (the “Instrument”), remains delayed. As disclosed in the Company’s press release dated April 18, 2025, the delay resulted from the Company’s new auditor, Morton Garellek, Chartered Professional Accountant (the “Auditor”) being unable to obtain files and documentation relating to the Company from its former auditor, Olayinka Oyebola & Co., Chartered Accountants (the “Former Auditor”).
The Company is currently working closely with its Auditor to finalize the Financial Statements. The Auditor has received all requested information and process walkthroughs have been completed. The Company still expects that the Financial Statements will be completed and filed on or before June 30, 2025.
In connection with the delay, the Company made an application for a Management Cease Trade Order (“MCTO”) under National Policy 12-203 Management Cease Trade Orders (“NP 12-203”) to the British Columbia Securities Commission, as principal regulator for the Company. The MCTO was issued on May 1st, 2025. The MCTO restricts all trading by the Company’s CEO and CFO in securities of the Company, whether direct or indirect. The issuance of the MCTO will not affect the ability of persons who are not directors, officers or insiders of the Company to trade their securities.
Both the Company and the Auditor continue to work diligently towards the completion and filing of the Company’s Financial Statements and Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”) certifications (collectively, the “Required Filings”) for the year ended December 31, 2024. The MCTO will remain in effect until two business days after the Required Filings are filed or until it is revoked or varied.
The Company confirms that it intends to satisfy the provisions of the “alternative information guidelines” described in NP 12-203 by issuing bi-weekly default status reports in the form of a news release for so long as it remains in default of the requirement to make the Required Filings. The Company has not taken any steps towards any insolvency proceeding, and the Company has no material information relating to its affairs that has not been generally disclosed.
About Hapbee
Hapbee is a wearable wellness technology company that helps people enhance how they feel. Powered by patented ultra-low radiofrequency energy (ulRFE®) technology, Hapbee’s devices deliver signals designed to produce sensations such as happy, alert, focused, relaxed, and others. The company is committed to improving lives through safe, non-invasive wellness solutions.
You can learn more about how Hapbee works at www.hapbee.com/science.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements included in this news release constitute forward-looking information or statements (collectively, “forward-looking statements”), including those identified by the expressions “anticipate”, “believe”, “plan”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend”, “may”, “should” and similar expressions to the extent they relate to the Company or its management. The forward-looking statements are not historical facts but reflect current expectations regarding future results or events. This news release contains forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and various estimates, factors and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions which are difficult to predict. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding the Company’s ability to meet its planned product marketing and development initiatives and the Company’s ability to achieve its e-commerce rollout and full-scale commercial launch as anticipated.
Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include, delays in design, production, manufacturing, development or releases of signal blends, collection of data from customer use, or the Company may not be able to achieve its targets as anticipated or at all; changes in legislation and regulations; increase in operating costs; equipment failures; failure of counterparties to perform their contractual obligations; litigation; the loss of key directors, employees, advisors or consultants and fees charged by service providers. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. These risks, uncertainties and assumptions could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in any forward-looking statements. These statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those implied by such statements. The Company assumes no responsibility to update or revise forward-looking information to reflect new events or circumstances unless required by law. Readers should not place undue reliance on the Company’s forward-looking statements.
Neither TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
DICK’S Sporting Goods Acquires Foot Locker in $2.4 Billion Deal to Create Global Sports Retail Powerhouse
It is the age of acquisition. Big companies acquiring even bigger companies. DICK’S Sporting Goods is stepping into the global sneaker game with its acquisition of Foot Locker, a move that combines two powerhouse brands under one roof. The $2.4 billion deal marks a major expansion for DICK’S, bringing Foot Locker’s 2,400 stores across 20 […]
It is the age of acquisition. Big companies acquiring even bigger companies.
DICK’S Sporting Goods is stepping into the global sneaker game with its acquisition of Foot Locker, a move that combines two powerhouse brands under one roof.
The $2.4 billion deal marks a major expansion for DICK’S, bringing Foot Locker’s 2,400 stores across 20 countries into its portfolio while keeping the Foot Locker brand intact.
Foot Locker, known for fueling sneaker culture through its brands—Kids Foot Locker, Champs Sports, WSS, and atmos—generated $8 billion in sales in 2024. DICK’S plans to operate Foot Locker as a standalone business unit, tapping into its deep community ties and retail expertise.
The merger positions the combined company to serve an even wider customer base—from athletes to sneaker enthusiasts—through innovative retail formats like DICK’S House of Sport and Foot Locker’s Reimagined Concept stores. It also expands DICK’S reach internationally for the first time, unlocking a global platform in the growing sports retail market.
“This acquisition creates a unique opportunity to build something bigger than either brand could do alone,” said Lauren Hobart, President and CEO of DICK’S. “Together, we’re poised to deliver unmatched omnichannel experiences and a diverse product mix that reflects the future of sports and sneaker culture.”
The transaction, which is expected to close in the second half of 2025, is projected to generate up to $125 million in cost synergies and be accretive to earnings in its first full fiscal year.
Pickleball and paddleboard yoga lead Florida’s new fitness wave
TAMPA, Fla. (BLOOM) – Pickleball paddles are popping, paddleboards are wobbling and Floridians are sweating with a smile. Across the state, a new generation of fitness trends is keeping people active, social and outdoors. Whether it’s the rise of paddleboard yoga in Sarasota or early morning bootcamps on St. Pete Beach, working out in Florida […]
TAMPA, Fla. (BLOOM) – Pickleball paddles are popping, paddleboards are wobbling and Floridians are sweating with a smile. Across the state, a new generation of fitness trends is keeping people active, social and outdoors.
Whether it’s the rise of paddleboard yoga in Sarasota or early morning bootcamps on St. Pete Beach, working out in Florida has never looked more fun.
Pickleball isn’t just for retirees anymore
Once a sport mostly played in retirement communities, pickleball has exploded in popularity across all age groups in Florida. According to USA Pickleball, more than 4.8 million people now play the sport nationwide, with Florida ranking among the most active states.
“It’s competitive, but not intimidating,” said Jenna Morales, a 28-year-old from Tampa who plays in a weekly league. “You don’t need to be super athletic. You just show up and have a good time.”
Local cities like St. Petersburg and The Villages have expanded their courts to keep up with demand. Some gyms now offer indoor pickleball training sessions, pairing cardio drills with racket skills.
Paddleboard yoga combines balance with bliss
Another growing trend: yoga on water. Paddleboard yoga classes are filling up across the Gulf Coast, drawing everyone from beginners to seasoned yogis.
“You can’t fake your balance on the board,” laughed instructor Maya Torres of Clearwater. “It forces you to be present. And the views don’t hurt either.”
Classes are typically held in calm waters near sunrise or sunset. They offer a full-body workout that challenges your core, legs and focus, all while floating on the water. Most sessions end with a short meditation, sometimes accompanied by dolphins passing nearby.
Bootcamp culture meets the beach
From Clearwater to Miami, outdoor bootcamps are still going strong. But instead of gym walls and treadmills, these workouts take place on the sand and in the surf.
Trainers design programs that combine sprints, pushups, kettlebell circuits and even ocean swims. It’s a full-body burn with a built-in tan.
“We do everything from tire flips to beach burpees,” said Marcus Reid, who leads a high-intensity beach bootcamp. “People want variety, and they want to feel connected to nature while working out.”
Recovery is finally getting its spotlight
After all that sweating, Floridians are also embracing the recovery side of wellness. Gyms and wellness studios are expanding their offerings with cold plunges, infrared saunas and float therapy.
“It’s no longer just about how hard you push,” said Liza Chang of Tampa. “It’s about how well you recover. That’s where the real progress happens.”
Facilities like hers are seeing more clients interested in active recovery methods. Many gyms now include guided stretching, massage guns or compression therapy as part of their memberships.
What’s next in Florida fitness?
Technology is already playing a role in what’s coming next. Smart mirrors, AI-guided workouts and VR fitness games are starting to make their way into homes and boutique studios.
Still, many Floridians say the key to sticking with any workout is simple: make it social and make it enjoyable.
“Fitness here feels like a community,” said Morales. “We’re not just working out, we’re living.”
Have a local fitness trend you love? Tag us on Instagram @browoodd or @wflaBloom and let us know what’s helping you stay active in 2025.
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Dick’s Sporting Goods to Acquire Foot Locker, Expand Overseas
Dick’s Sporting Goods plans to acquire Foot Locker and position the combined organization to serve sports retail consumers around the world. The two companies announced the deal in a Thursday (May 15) press release, saying the transaction implies an equity value of $2.4 billion and an enterprise value of $2.5 billion. The transaction is expected to close in the second half, […]
Dick’s Sporting Goods plans to acquire Foot Locker and position the combined organization to serve sports retail consumers around the world.
The two companies announced the deal in a Thursday (May 15) press release, saying the transaction implies an equity value of $2.4 billion and an enterprise value of $2.5 billion.
The transaction is expected to close in the second half, subject to Foot Locker shareholder approval, regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions, according to the release. It was unanimously approved by the boards of the two companies.
“We believe there is meaningful opportunity for growth ahead,” Dick’s Executive Chairman Ed Stack said in the release. “By applying our operational expertise to this iconic business, we see a clear path to further unlocking growth and enhancing Foot Locker’s position in the industry.”
Foot Locker CEO Mary Dillon said in the release that the combined company has “substantial upside potential.”
“By joining forces with Dick’s, Foot Locker will be even better positioned to expand sneaker culture, elevate the omnichannel experience for our customers and brand partners, and enhance our position in the industry,” Dillon said.
Dick’s plans to operate Foot Locker as a standalone business unit, maintain the Foot Locker brands, and create enhanced store designs, omnichannel experiences and a product mix that appeals to all the brands’ customer bases, according to the release.
For Dick’s, the deal will provide the company’s first opportunity to serve customers outside the U.S., per the release. Foot Locker operates retail stores in 20 countries and has licensed stores in others.
Thursday’s announcement confirmed a Wednesday report by the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) that Dick’s and Foot Locker were close to agreeing on an acquisition.
The WSJ report said that the two companies, like other retailers, have been impacted by talk of new U.S. tariffs. At the time of that report, Dick’s shares were down 8% this year, while Foot Locker’s shares were down 40%.
The two companies also announced preliminary results for the first quarter on Thursday.
Dick’s said it saw comparable sales growth of 4.5% during the quarter. The company will report first-quarter results and host a conference call on May 28.
Foot Locker said its comparable sales decreased by 2.6% in the first quarter. The company said that it plans to release full financial results for the quarter on May 29 and that it will not hold its previously scheduled earnings call due to the pending transaction with Dick’s.
New Garmin GPS Smartwatches Target Runners & Triathletes
Forerunner 570 and 970 combine advanced training tools and recovery metrics with Garmin’s brightest screen to date Garmin has introduced two new GPS smartwatches – the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 – designed for runners and triathletes seeking deeper performance insights and longer battery life. The new wearables follow the tech company’s 2024 Garmin Connect […]
Forerunner 570 and 970 combine advanced training tools and recovery metrics with Garmin’s brightest screen to date
Garmin has introduced two new GPS smartwatches – the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 – designed for runners and triathletes seeking deeper performance insights and longer battery life.
The new wearables follow the tech company’s 2024 Garmin Connect Data Report, which showed that track running and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) saw two of the highest year-over-year increases in activity participation.
Both models feature Garmin’s brightest AMOLED displays to date, along with built-in speakers, microphones and enhanced training tools, including the Garmin Triathlon Coach training plans and an evening report.
The Forerunner 570, $549.99, offers PacePro for pacing guidance, a readiness score based on sleep quality, recovery and training load, as well as customized daily suggested workouts. In terms of wellness, the Forerunner 570 tracks key health stats, including heart rate variability, skin temperature and breathing variations with its Pulse Ox feature.
The Forerunner 970, $749.99, debuts a built-in LED flashlight and performance features such as running tolerance, running economy and step speed loss developed with Garmin’s team of data and sports scientists. The Forerunner 970 also includes an ECG function that uses sensors on the watch to detect signs of an irregular heart rhythm.
Battery life ranges from 11 days on the 570 to 15 days on the 970 in smartwatch mode.
See Also
“Created for every athlete who is out there chasing goals and passionate about their data, the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 include innovative training tools, recovery metrics and connected features to help them perform at their best,” Garmin vice president of consumer sales and marketing Susan Lyman said. “Whether you’re an elite athlete striving for your fastest time yet or a runner upping mileage to prepare for that next big race, these premium smartwatches are here for every step of your running journey.”
Both watches are available to order on Garmin.com beginning May 21.
The global wearable technology market was valued at $84.2 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.6% from 2025 to 2030, according to a report from Grand View Research.
