Realme Watch 5 Debuts, Driving a New Phase of Local AIoT Manufacturing
Realme has introduced the Watch 5 in India, setting an aggressive tone for the budget smartwatch market. Priced at INR 4,499 and available from December 10 at an introductory price of just INR 3,999, the Watch 5 brings several features traditionally associated with premium outdoor and multisport wearables.
The launch coincides with Realme’s broader strategic shift toward India-centric manufacturing for its AIoT (Artificial Intelligence of Things) portfolio, marking a major step for the brand’s long-term operations.
India to Become Realme’s AIoT Manufacturing Base
As per the media reports available, Realme as company intends to manufacture its entire AIoT lineup—including smartwatches, earbuds, and accessories—within India by 2027. To advance this plan, Realme has partnered with Optiemus Electronics Limited, a collaboration expected to help the brand position India as a central export hub.
The company aims to supply to markets across South Asia, the Middle East, Russia and the European Union from India-based factories. Realme estimates that the shift will generate more than 2,000 direct jobs while reducing production costs due to streamlined supply chains and lower import dependence.
A Budget Smartwatch Designed for Outdoor and Fitness Users
Large AMOLED Display and Rugged Build
Realme has decided to position the Watch 5 variant as more than an entry-level wearable.
- It comes equipped with a 1.97-inch AMOLED screen, a 60 Hz refresh rate and an IP68 rating.
- The device provides a premium visual experience and stronger construction than the typical under INR 5,000 watch category.
- The larger display improves outdoor readability, while the aluminium-alloy crown and redesigned 3D wave strap enhance durability and comfort.
- Realme’s enhanced design with the new strap improves grip, reduces sweat accumulation and ensures a more secure fit during intense workouts.
More than 300 watch faces are available from the official launch onwards, expanding personalization options to customers.
Independent Multi-System GNSS Support
One of the standout upgrades on the Watch 5 is its independent GNSS (Global Network Satellite) system, a rarity in this price category. Unlike budget wearables that depend on paired smartphones for location data, the Watch 5 connects directly to multiple global satellite networks.
- This functionality allows for more precise tracking of running, cycling and walking routes.
- The feature is particularly useful for users who prefer to exercise or workout outdoors without carrying a smartphone.
Strong Battery Performance for Long Outdoor Sessions
Realme claims the Watch 5 offers up to 16 days of typical battery life.
- Even when GNSS tracking is active, the watch is engineered to manage power consumption efficiently.
- This positions the Watch 5 as a practical choice for travellers, hikers and fitness enthusiasts who want fewer charging interruptions.
Enhanced Health and Fitness Tracking Features
The Watch 5 includes round-the-clock heart-rate monitoring, SpO2 measurement, sleep analysis and stress tracking.
- A new “body energy” metric aggregates data from different activity levels, rest and stress markers into a single daily score.
- Realme has also revamped its companion app, introducing a simplified dashboard that helps users interpret their health data more clearly.
- With support for 108 sports modes, the Watch 5 covers everything from outdoor cardio to gym workouts.
- While Realme reports improved accuracy over previous models, it acknowledges that highly complex movements may still pose challenges for the onboard sensors.
Realme’s Long-Term AIoT Vision for India
Realme’s broader AIoT strategy is closely aligned with the launch of the Watch 5. The company plans to centre design, testing and manufacturing of next-generation AIoT (Artificial Intelligence on Things) products in India, aiming to become one of the country’s leading AIoT brands within the next two to three years.
With the Watch 5, Realme is not only attempting to raise the standard for budget smartwatches but also reinforcing its long-term commitment to building a robust, India-based manufacturing ecosystem that can support global expansion.