Ewan Wills Launched EWatch ESP32-S3 Smartwatch
The new open-source wearable platform provides a customizable hardware device for developers and hobbyists.
Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in Consumer Electronics
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Developer Ewan Wills has released the EWatch ESP32-S3, an open-source smartwatch designed for custom programming and hardware experimentation. The device is aimed at hobbyists and developers interested in creating personalized firmware for wearables.
Why it matters
The EWatch provides a flexible platform for developers to deploy their own code on a compact, wearable device, offering an alternative to locked-down consumer products. By supporting multiple programming environments, it allows creators to tailor the watch experience to specific functional requirements.
The smartwatch utilizes a 1.69-inch color touchscreen and a 350mAh battery on a 34 by 28mm PCB. Pricing ranges from 59 pounds for the bare circuit board to 129 pounds for a fully assembled device.
The players
Ewan Wills
He is the developer responsible for creating and releasing the open-source EWatch platform.
The details
The hardware runs on the ESP32-S3 processor and supports a variety of languages including Python, C, C++, and Rust through development environments like Arduino IDE. Although beta testing identified initial challenges regarding enclosure tolerances and display connectors, the final design incorporates a two-layer ENIG-finished PCB.
Timeline
Development of the EWatch project spanned five years prior to its September 2026 release.
The Tech Race
The EWatch continues the industry trend of modular, open-source hardware that empowers developers to bypass proprietary vendor ecosystems. By leveraging the widely used ESP32-S3, the project positions itself within a mature ecosystem of microcontrollers that are increasingly replacing legacy fixed-function components.
Users can choose between a bare PCB for complete customization or a fully assembled watch for immediate use. Developers gain a portable testbed for their code, though they should be aware that the project is aimed at those comfortable with programming environments like PlatformIO or Arduino.
The takeaway
The EWatch project highlights the growing accessibility of custom wearable technology for independent developers. By modularizing the device design, creators can focus on firmware optimization and software features rather than managing complex circuit fabrication.
Further reading
For more information on hardware development trends, explore the Consumer Electronics section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by LinuxGizmos.
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