Una’s $249 modular GPS watch puts repairability ahead of ruggedness
Engadget’s review found the Scottish startup’s open design easy to repair, but limited features and IPX5 water resistance narrow its appeal.
Engadget has reviewed a $249 GPS running watch from Scottish startup Una, whose modular construction lets owners replace components themselves. The company was founded by Lewis Allison, formerly chief technology officer at golf watchmaker Shot Scope.
The watch breaks down into six parts, and Una publishes its hardware and software designs on GitHub. Engadget’s reviewer replaced the display in about three minutes and the battery in two. Replacement displays cost $50 and batteries $40; owners seeking other modules are directed to contact Una.
Repairability comes with durability limits. The watch is rated IPX5 overall, for protection against rain, sweat and light splashes. Una says the USB-C port is IP68-rated, but the reviewer questioned the strength of the internal gaskets and the watch’s suitability for mud or immersion.
The feature set is also spare. Built-in activity options include walking, running, hiking and cycling, while the companion app offers basic activity records and statistics. Engadget found that notifications do not respect a phone’s Do Not Disturb setting, requiring users to switch them off manually.
Una expects seven to 10 days of battery life and up to 20 hours of GPS use. The reviewer recorded about seven days in their own use, including several short GPS-tracked walks and workouts. Engadget described the watch as an early step towards a repairable wearable ecosystem, with practical compromises that may deter some sports-watch buyers.
