The latest leaks have given us an exclusive first look at the Google Pixel Watch 4, and there are several key changes that set it apart from its predecessors. Here’s a breakdown of what we can expect from this upcoming smartwatch.
Design and Build
The Pixel Watch 4 maintains the familiar circular design that has become a hallmark of the series. However, there are some notable adjustments. The watch is slightly thicker than the Pixel Watch 3, measuring 14.3mm compared to the previous 12.3mm[1][2][3].
Thicker Profile and Potential Battery Upgrade
The increased thickness could be a sign of a larger battery, which would be a welcome change given the battery life concerns of the previous models. While nothing is confirmed yet, a bigger battery would likely translate to improved multi-day battery life, a feature that was praised in the Pixel Watch 3 but still left room for improvement.
Slimmer Bezel and Wireless Charging
The renders suggest that the bezels on the Pixel Watch 4 might be slightly slimmer, which could help offset the impact of the thicker profile. Another significant change is the absence of charging pins on the back, indicating a possible shift to wireless charging. This would be a return to the wireless charging capability of the original Pixel Watch, which was removed in the Pixel Watch 2 and 3[1][2][3].
Additional Features and Buttons
New Buttons and Speaker Design
The leaked images also show two mysterious buttons or bumpers on either side of the speaker. It’s unclear whether these are functional buttons or serve another purpose, such as dampening noise or enhancing audio quality. This addition could bring extra functionality to the watch, though their exact purpose remains to be seen[1][2][3].
Launch and Availability
The Pixel Watch 4 is expected to be announced during the Made by Google 2025 event, likely in September or October, aligning with past release patterns. However, given recent trends with early reveals of Pixel products, an earlier announcement is also possible[1][2].
Color Options and Compatibility
The watch is expected to come in multiple color options and metal finishes, similar to its predecessors. The black model shown in the renders is likely just one of several colorways that Google will offer. The watch will continue to support Wear OS and is anticipated to come in two size options: 41mm and 45mm[2].
Specifications and Hardware
While the design changes are clear, details on the specifications and hardware of the Pixel Watch 4 are still scarce. It is rumored to feature a new chipset, possibly an in-house Tensor chip, though this has not been confirmed. The current model uses the Snapdragon W5 Gen 1, so any upgrade would be a significant improvement[2].
User Experience and Practical Applications
For users, the thicker profile might be a trade-off for better battery life and potentially new features enabled by the additional space. The return to wireless charging could also enhance the user experience by eliminating the need for a magnetic pin charger.
In summary, the Pixel Watch 4 promises to build upon the successes of its predecessors while addressing some of the key areas where improvement was needed. As we get closer to the launch date, more details will emerge, but for now, these leaked renders provide an exciting glimpse into what Google has in store for smartwatch enthusiasts.