The Google Pixel Watch has seen remarkable improvements with each iteration. From a less-than-stellar debut, the Pixel Watch 2 showed significant progress, and the Pixel Watch 3 delivered an excellent user experience. Naturally, anticipation is high for the Pixel Watch 4. Will it continue the upward trajectory or regress to the shortcomings of the original? This article compiles the latest leaks and rumors surrounding the Pixel Watch 4, alongside a wishlist of features we hope to see.
Expected Release and Price
While concrete details remain scarce, a fall 2025 release seems likely, aligning with previous Pixel Watch launch patterns. Pricing information is yet to surface, but a price hike isn’t out of the question, although no current leaks suggest this.
Design and Charging: Subtle Refinements and a Potential Shift
Early leaks from OnLeaks and 91Mobiles hint at a familiar design language for the Pixel Watch 4. The iconic round display is expected to return, with even slimmer bezels than its predecessor, the Pixel Watch 3, which already boasted reduced bezels compared to earlier models.
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More significant changes are rumored for the rear of the device. While the four sensors remain, the charging pins are reportedly absent. This suggests a potential transition to wireless charging, similar to the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7. While not revolutionary, wireless charging would be a welcome enhancement.
Our Wishlist for the Google Pixel Watch 4
The Pixel Watch 3 was a strong contender in the smartwatch arena, but there’s always room for improvement. Here are a few key enhancements we hope to see in the Pixel Watch 4:
Extended Battery Life
The OnePlus Watch 3 seen from the top.
The Pixel Watch 3 offered decent battery life, lasting around a day and a half on a single charge. However, recent competitors like the OnePlus Watch 3 have raised the bar, offering multi-day battery performance. While matching this extended battery life might be challenging, it highlights the potential for improvement in the smartwatch segment. We hope the Pixel Watch 4 can significantly extend its battery life.
Unlocking Fitbit Features
A demonstration of the new running features for the Google Pixel Watch 3 in the Fitbit app.
Google’s acquisition of Fitbit provided a robust fitness platform for the Pixel Watch, offering comprehensive health and exercise tracking. However, requiring a Fitbit Premium subscription for access to key features feels incongruous with the premium price tag of the Pixel Watch. The included six months of free access is a welcome perk, but gating core functionalities behind a paywall diminishes the overall premium experience. The Pixel Watch 4 should offer these features standard.
A Larger Base Model
The introduction of a larger size option with the Pixel Watch 3 was a positive step. However, the 41mm model now feels undersized, even for smaller wrists. While the sleek design is a hallmark of the Pixel Watch, it exacerbates the small size, making it feel even smaller than it is. Competitors like the Apple Watch offer smaller models in larger sizes, and the Pixel Watch 4 should follow suit, perhaps offering a 42mm base model.
Enhanced Durability and Repairability
The back of the Google Pixel Watch 3.
While the Pixel Watch 3 offered standard durability features like water resistance, its scratch-prone back panel was a concern. Furthermore, reports of poor repairability further compounded this issue. While not a major flaw, improved durability, particularly for the back panel, and better repairability would be welcome additions to the Pixel Watch 4.
Conclusion
The Pixel Watch 4 has the potential to be a truly exceptional smartwatch. By addressing the shortcomings of its predecessors and incorporating the desired features outlined above, Google can solidify its position in the competitive smartwatch market. We eagerly await its official unveiling.
