Google has introduced the Pixel Watch 4, a new smartwatch emphasizing enhanced features, at the Made by Google event on Wednesday. The device incorporates a domed display, standalone satellite communication capabilities, and advancements in health and fitness tracking.
The Pixel Watch 4 will be offered in two sizes with varying connectivity options. The 41mm model has a starting price of $349 for the Wi-Fi version and $449 for the LTE version. The larger 45mm model starts at $399 for Wi-Fi and $499 for LTE connectivity.
The Pixel Watch 4 incorporates an Actua 360 display, physically curved to increase the active display area by 10%. This design also reduces the visible bezel size by 16%, creating a streamlined appearance. The display’s brightness has been increased by 50% from previous models, achieving a peak brightness of 3,000 nits.
A key feature of the LTE-enabled Pixel Watch 4 is its standalone emergency satellite communication capability. This allows users to connect to emergency services, even in areas lacking traditional cellular coverage. The watch connects via a network of geo-stationary satellites, facilitating dispatch of assistance when users are off-grid. Google indicates that this functionality is enabled by the Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 Wearable Platform.
Google has integrated a new gesture-based shortcut for its Gemini AI assistant. Users can now raise their wrist to activate Gemini, eliminating the need to press a button or use a verbal cue like “Hey Google.” The company anticipates this feature will be practical when users’ hands are occupied. In addition to this, the Pixel Watch 4 offers on-device AI capabilities, including Smart Replies. These AI-powered responses are designed to provide contextually relevant suggestions during conversations.
The battery life of the Pixel Watch 4 has been improved by 25% compared to previous models. The 41mm version provides an estimated 30 hours of use, while the larger 45mm version is expected to last up to 40 hours on a single charge. The Pixel Watch 4 includes a redesigned fast-charging dock.
The Pixel Watch 4 maintains a water resistance rating of up to 50 meters. Google has also made the Pixel Watch 4 serviceable, now allowing for the replacement of both the battery and the display.
According to Google, the Pixel Watch 4 incorporates a next-generation machine learning (ML)-powered co-processor. This co-processor is reported to be 25% faster while operating at half the power consumption level compared to previous iterations.
The Pixel Watch 4 incorporates advanced health and fitness tracking capabilities. The device improves sleep cycle classification accuracy by 18%, enabling more precise monitoring of sleep stages. The watch also includes a new Skin Temperature sensor, designed to detect potential changes in the user’s overall well-being.
The inclusion of dual-frequency GPS in the Pixel Watch 4 enhances route tracking accuracy. This is particularly beneficial in challenging environments, such as dense urban areas or heavily wooded trails. The watch also uses AI to automatically detect and classify workouts, even if the user forgets to manually initiate tracking. New exercise options have been added, specifically basketball and pickleball.
Google is also introducing a personal AI health coach designed to provide users with access to personalized fitness and sleep guidance utilizing data collected by the Pixel Watch. The goal of this feature is to provide a 24/7 AI-powered health resource that offers tailored advice. This includes answering questions such as, “Is this cold plunge actually good for me?” and “What’s the best way to fight jet lag?”
The tech company plans to launch a preview of the AI health coach for users of any Fitbit device or Pixel Watch in the United States this October.
The Pixel Watch 4 is available for preorder immediately, with in-store availability beginning on October 9.
