First glimpse: Google Pixel Watch 2 image & October 4th launch details
The Google Pixel Watch 2 is set for an official unveil on October 4th. The company has now released a video which gives us a first glimpse into what the device will look like. According to earlier information, the second generation timepiece is poised to bring a more efficient processor, enhanced display, and innovative features such as UWB.
Google’s original Pixel Watch impressed with its sleek design and advanced features but left room for improvement, particularly in battery life. Now, the upcoming Pixel Watch 2 signals Google’s deeper commitment to the smartwatch market, aiming to build on the strengths of its predecessor while addressing its shortcomings.
Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets
According to the Google teaser video released yesterday, Pixel Watch 2 will be very similar to the original. Expected are three colour options, Licorice (Black), Porcelain, and Sky (Blue).
Google has also updated its online store with a new page about the 4th of October event. As shown in the image below, the company also hi lights the Pixel Watch2 on this page.
Previously, a report by Android Authority, based on a source inside Google, provided some more insight as far as what to expect. It appears a number of the previous model’s shortcomings will be rectified.
A new era of processing power
Specification | Details |
|---|---|
Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 1, four Cortex A-53 cores running at 1.7GHz, Adreno 702 GPU |
Battery | 306mAh (4% increase from the previous model) |
Display | 1.2-inch OLED panel, 384 x 384 resolution, made by Samsung |
Operating System | Wear OS 4 (based on Android 13), supports seamless updates |
UWB Technology | NXP SR100T UWB module (for precise device-finding features and Digital Car key support) |
Variants | LTE and Wi-Fi |
Custom Coprocessor | Based on an NXP chip, similar to the first-generation Pixel Watch |
Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 & better battery
The Pixel Watch 2 will replace the Exynos 9110 chipset with the more powerful and efficient Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 1. This processor features four Cortex A-53 cores running at 1.7GHz and a newer Adreno 702 for graphics. It will also be paired with a custom coprocessor based on an NXP chip.
Google will offer the Pixel Watch 2 in two variants, LTE and Wi-Fi, codenamed “Eos” and “Aurora.” The new chip is expected to be more power-efficient, hinting at improved battery life.
The first-gen Pixel Watch had a 294mAh battery, but the Pixel Watch 2 will be powered by a 306mAh battery pack, a modest 4% increase. Earlier reports hinted that the upcoming device might have enough power for two days between charges. This may be possible considering the more power efficient chip, and with battery saving features activated.
UWB on the Pixel Watch 2
One of the standout features of the Google Pixel Watch 2 is the inclusion of ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, facilitated by an NXP SR100T UWB module. This cutting-edge technology opens up new possibilities, such as precise device finding, aligning with Google’s efforts to enhance its Find My Device network, and even supporting its first-party item tracker.
The UWB feature could also revolutionize user convenience by acting as a Digital Car Key, supported by several automobile brands, and enabling seamless media playback transfer to UWB-enabled devices like a Pixel Tablet or Nest speaker.
Display enhancements
The Pixel Watch 2 is expected to feature a 1.2-inch OLED panel with 384 x 384 resolution, made by Samsung. This replaces BOE, which supplied the first Pixel Watch. While the pesky bezels will make a reappearance, the updated panel may enable battery-saving features and higher brightness.
Software and updates
The Pixel Watch 2 will run on Wear OS 4, based on Android 13. This model will be the first-ever smartwatch to support seamless updates. The watch will update the OS in the background while still running on the older version, switching to the newer version once the user reboots the device. This will lead to higher storage being occupied but ensures a smooth user experience.
Like this article? Subscribe to our monthly newsletter and never miss out!
