This G-SHOCK was designed by AI — and it's brilliant

Casio has unveiled the GMW-BZ5000, marking a significant evolution in the G-SHOCK 5000 line with the introduction of AI-assisted design and advanced display technology. According to Casio's announcement, this is the first full-metal G-SHOCK to feature a high-definition MIP LCD, promising enhanced readability in direct sunlight whilst maintaining the iconic toughness the brand is known for.

What makes the GMW-BZ5000 different?

The GMW-BZ5000's standout feature is its memory-in-pixel (MIP) LCD technology, delivering high-definition, high-contrast visuals with wide viewing angles. Unlike traditional LCD displays that struggle under harsh lighting, MIP technology ensures the watch remains readable even in Dubai's intense midday sun or when viewed from awkward angles.

In our experience with previous full-metal G-SHOCKs, standard LCD displays could struggle under direct UAE sunlight, so the shift to MIP should be a genuine daily-use upgrade given MIP's superior outdoor readability.

Beyond the display, the watch offers four different layout options and two font choices — STANDARD for modern clarity or CLASSIC for the traditional 7-segment look that harks back to the very first G-SHOCK. These customisations are accessible via Casio's smartphone app.

How did AI help design this watch?

This marks one of the first instances where AI has played a substantial role in G-SHOCK design. Human designers provided initial concepts, which generative AI then refined through repeated load simulations based on Casio's 40+ years of shock-resistance data.

The result is a departure from conventional G-SHOCK construction — instead of the bezel fully covering the centre case, the GMW-BZ5000 features an interconnected bezel and centre case, secured at the top and bottom. This new structure addresses a longstanding comfort complaint we've heard from readers: that squared-off metal construction is unforgiving during extended wear.

The sides reveal complex, three-dimensional contours formed by component intersections, giving this full-metal G-SHOCK a distinctly architectural appearance that sets it apart from traditional models.

What features does it pack?

The GMW-BZ5000 maintains G-SHOCK's commitment to practical functionality whilst embracing modern connectivity. Solar charging powers the entire system, including the new MIP LCD, ensuring the watch remains operational without battery changes.

Time adjustment works through both standard radio wave reception and Smartphone Link via Bluetooth, providing redundant accuracy systems. The watch connects to Casio's app for display customisation, font selection, and presumably additional features that weren't detailed in the announcement.

• High-definition MIP LCD with wide viewing angles
• Solar charging system
• Bluetooth smartphone connectivity
• Radio wave time adjustment
• Four customisable display layouts
• Two font options (Standard and Classic)
• Shock-resistant construction with AI-optimised comfort

Should you buy it?

Our take is that the GMW-BZ5000 is positioning itself in the AED 3,000–5,000 range, between premium sports watches and entry-level luxury timepieces. With AI-assisted design and full-metal construction, Casio is making a compelling case that you don't need to spend luxury money for something genuinely distinctive on your wrist.

The MIP LCD upgrade addresses real-world readability issues, and the redesigned case structure should improve day-to-day comfort. However, until we get hands-on time with the watch and see the full technical specifications, questions about weight, exact dimensions, and long-term structural integrity remain fair to ask.

For G-SHOCK enthusiasts, this represents a meaningful evolution rather than mere iteration. The AI design element isn't just marketing — it's solved a genuine comfort problem that previous full-metal models struggled with.

Price and availability in UAE

Casio hasn't confirmed UAE pricing or availability dates for the GMW-BZ5000 series. The three variants — silver (GMW-BZ5000D-1), black (GMW-BZ5000BD-1), and gold (GMW-BZ5000GD-9) — will presumably launch through authorised retailers, but specific timing remains unclear.

Given the watch's positioning and full-metal construction, we expect pricing to align with other premium G-SHOCK models currently available in the UAE market, likely falling between AED 2,500 and AED 4,500 depending on the finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Casio GMW-BZ5000?

The GMW-BZ5000 is a new full-metal G-SHOCK watch featuring the first-ever MIP LCD display in this category, combined with an exterior design co-created by human designers and AI for improved comfort and readability.

What are the key features of the GMW-BZ5000?

Key features include a high-definition MIP LCD with wide viewing angles, solar charging, Bluetooth smartphone connectivity, radio wave time adjustment, four customisable display layouts, and an AI-optimised case structure for enhanced wrist comfort.

What colours are available for the GMW-BZ5000?

The GMW-BZ5000 comes in three variants: silver (GMW-BZ5000D-1), black (GMW-BZ5000BD-1), and gold (GMW-BZ5000GD-9), each featuring the same core functionality with different aesthetic finishes.

How much does the GMW-BZ5000 cost in UAE?

UAE pricing hasn't been announced yet, despite the watch being unveiled from Dubai. Based on similar full-metal G-SHOCK models, expect pricing between AED 2,500 and AED 4,500 depending on the variant chosen.

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