Amazfit’s new cheap wearable packs a big screen and 26 days of battery life
Fitness tech brand Zepp Health has quietly launched a new low-cost smartwatch: the Amazfit Bip 5 Unity. As the name suggests, it looks similar to the previous Bip 5 model, with a few design changes and most of the same features. A few were cut from the mid-range. The Bip 5 Unity is slimmer than its counterpart and has a stainless steel center frame instead of a plastic frame. It also weighs less, clocking in at 25 grams (minus the strap). But despite the smaller size, the smartwatch has the same 1.91-inch touchscreen that can display an image resolution of 320 x 380 pixels.
Inside is a 300mAh battery with an average life of up to 11 days before needing to be recharged. If you have Battery Saver Mode enabled, the device can last almost a whole month; up to 26 days. The screen is made of 2.5D tempered glass to prevent scratches and is covered with an anti-fingerprint coating. Other notable design aspects include an IP68 resistance rating so it can survive being submerged underwater, and a speaker and microphone duo for Bluetooth calling.
Software features
When it comes to software, the Bip 5 Unity has a wide range of tools. It comes pre-installed with over 120 sports modes, from rock climbing to square dancing, to name a few. The wearable can even automatically detect six different types of cardio exercises. What this means is that when you start jogging or exercising on an elliptical machine, the hardware will record your progress without requiring direct input from you. Automatic detection can be difficult. Amazfit states that certain actions, such as driving a car, can trigger this.
On the back of the watch face is a sensor that tracks your heart rate, blood oxygen and stress levels. If the device detects any anomalies, it will display a Smart Health Alert asking you to resolve the issue quickly. For example, the Bip 5 Unity can warn you that the oxygen level in your blood is becoming too low. Another notification lets you know if high stress levels are detected and shows a button on the screen that allows you to start a breathing exercise.
Other key software features include Amazon Alexa as your AI assistant and support for over 70 downloadable apps. According to NotebookCheckyou can install the smartwatch apps via the official Zepp app on your smartphone. Unlike the older Amazfit Bip 5, this new model lacks a built-in GPS. To receive GPS data, you must connect the wearable to your phone. In addition, the dial does not curve around your wrist like the previous generation. It is completely flat.
The Amazfit Bip 5 Unity is available in the United States for $69.99. You can choose from a gray, anthracite black or pink wristband. It’s also on sale in the UK for £69.90 with a gray or charcoal wristband.
Check out Ny Breaking’s roundup of the best smartwatches for 2024 if you want other recommendations.