Behold the Google Pixel Watch, the maiden venture into the smartwatch realm by Google! This isn’t just a routine debut; it’s a symbolic proclamation that Google is now fully dedicated to wearables. While the Pixel Watch marks the initial step, it’s bound to be the precursor to a series of advancements. The question looming is whether the Pixel Watch can achieve the triumph that the Apple Watch bestowed upon Apple.
Let’s dissect this piece by piece, delving into what the Pixel Watch brings to the table and whether investing in this first-gen gadget is a wise decision.
Distinctive Features of the Google Pixel Watch
Adopting a round, pebble-shaped design, the Google Pixel Watch exudes minimalism and style. Available in a petite 41mm size, it exclusively syncs with Android phones. The WearOS, a result of collaboration with Samsung, carries traces of Tizen DNA. Its battery life is limited to a single day, employing a proprietary band-swapping mechanism. Offered in both Wi-Fi and cellular versions, the Pixel Watch facilitates calls and incorporates Fitbit intelligence for workout and sleep tracking.
Unveiling the Pixel Watch Package
Unboxing the Google Pixel Watch reveals a straightforward package, housing the watch itself, a band with dual size options, a USB-C magnetic charging puck with a fixed USB-C connection, and a user manual. A concise ensemble providing all essential components to kickstart your experience.
Examining Pixel Watch Specifications
Let’s delve into the Pixel Watch specifications:
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Specs
- Google Pixel Watch Models:
- 41mm (30mm actual screen size)
- Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi + Cellular versions
- Processor, RAM, Storage:
- Exynos 9110 with Cortex M33 co-processor
- Wear OS
- Battery and Charging:
- Up to 24 hours of operation
- 50% recharge in 30 minutes
- Sensors:
- HR, blood oxygen, altimeter, ECG
A notable detail is the deployment of the Exynos 9110 chip, a relic from 2018, contrasting with more advanced chips in contemporary smartwatches. The design mimics a polished pebble with a domed glass, offering both aesthetics and vulnerability. Despite the compact 41mm size, the watch’s comfort is commendable, especially for smaller wrists.
Unraveling Pixel Watch Software & Features
Acknowledging its status as a first-gen product, the Google Pixel Watch exhibits a blend of promise and challenges. Wear OS integrates Fitbit workout tracking, albeit not seamlessly, occasionally manifesting stutters. Despite continuous updates, the software refinement journey is ongoing. Fitbit’s presence feels somewhat overlaid, lacking integration with the ecosystem.
The Google Pixel Watch embraces fitness with an extensive list of workouts, yet some users might find it falls short in comparison to dedicated fitness watches. Notably, the heart rate tracking, leveraging machine learning, stands out for its one-second readings, albeit at the cost of accelerated battery consumption.
Scrutinizing Pixel Watch Battery and Charging
The Achilles’ heel of the Google Pixel Watch lies in its battery life. Advertised for up to 24 hours, real-world usage unveils limitations. The option for an always-on screen is available but comes with a substantial battery toll. Charging times, though reasonable, expose the watch’s weak magnetic coupling, demanding a tilted charging position.
Probing Pixel Watch Processor & Storage
Powered by the outdated Exynos 9110 chip supplemented with a modern Cortex M33 co-processor, the Pixel Watch encounters occasional stutters, possibly a consequence of suboptimal optimization. With 32GB of storage and 2GB of RAM, the Pixel Watch stands competitively among its smartwatch counterparts.
Investigating Pixel Watch Connectivity
Offered in Wi-Fi only or Wi-Fi + Cellular variants, the Pixel Watch supports eSIM for cellular connectivity. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity enable autonomous network connections, allowing calls directly from the watch.
Pixel Watch in the Competitive Arena
The Pixel Watch competes directly with Apple and Samsung counterparts, positioned between the Galaxy Watch 5 and Apple Watch Series 8. The choice between Android and iOS platforms narrows the competition to the Galaxy Watch 5 series. Despite its aesthetic appeal, the Pixel Watch falls short of Samsung’s refined and enduring smartwatches.
Summing up the Google Pixel Watch
As a debutant in the smartwatch arena, the Pixel Watch showcases promise amid its teething issues. Comfortable to wear with robust fitness tracking, it falters primarily in battery life, software bugs, and limited size options. Google’s foray into smartwatches is commendable, but refinement and catch-up remain on the agenda.
Pros:
- Exceptional comfort
- Integration of Google Assistant
- Stylish circular design
Cons:
- Subpar battery life
- Software glitches
- Lack of larger size options
- Weak magnetic charger
PhoneArena Rating: 6.0 User Rating: 7.5 (2 Reviews)