Summary of the Pixel Watch 4
- Google’s fourth-generation smartwatch running Wear OS
- Unveiled in August alongside the Pixel 10 smartphones and available now
- Pricing consistent with that of the Pixel Watch 3
- Similar aesthetic but with significant enhancements
The Pixel Watch 4 was introduced by Google during the major Made by Google launch event in New York alongside the Pixel 10 series.
This smartwatch competes with devices such as the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8, OnePlus Watch 3, and Apple Watch Series 11.
While it may appear nearly identical to the Pixel Watch 3, the Pixel Watch 4 boasts a host of key upgrades that could position it among the best smartwatches of 2025.
Google has made meaningful enhancements to the design, making it more repairable and thereby extending its longevity. The screen is larger and brighter, charging is now located on the side for easier access and is faster, complemented by numerous new software features.
The new model retains the same pricing, introduces a new color option, though a wait is involved before the Pixel Watch 4 can be acquired. We’ll explore the essential upgrades, availability dates, and pricing details below.
A review of the Pixel Watch 4 will be available soon, but for now, you can check my initial observations after a week’s usage, with a mix of pros and cons.
Pixel Watch 4: What’s new?
Overview of Features
- Similar design, but now with repairability and a new color
- Introduction of the Actua 360 domed display
- Faster charging through an updated docking station
- Improved tracking capabilities overall
- Incorporation of Wear OS 6 with Gemini functionality
Numerous upgrades enhance the Pixel Watch 4, which we’ll delve into shortly, but first, here’s a specifications table outlining the core features of the 41mm and 45mm models of Google’s latest smartwatch.
Pixel Watch 4 (41mm) Specs | Pixel Watch 4 (45mm) Specs | |
Display | Up to 3000 nits peak brightness, 320ppi AMOLED LTPO, 1-60Hz | Up to 3000 nits peak brightness, 320ppi AMOLED LTPO, 1-60Hz |
Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 | Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 |
Co-Processor | New M55 co-processor | New M55 co-processor |
RAM | 2GB SDRAM | 2GB SDRAM |
Storage | 32GB eMMC flash | 32GB eMMC flash |
Battery | 325mAh | 455mAh |
Operating System | Wear OS 6 | Wear OS 6 |
Colors | Matte Black, Polished Silver, Champagne Gold | Matte Black, Polished Silver, Moonstone |
Image Courtesy of Google
Repairable Design and a New Color
The Pixel Watch 3 introduced two size options, and the Pixel Watch 4 addresses another critical need. “Fixable” aptly describes the design, as this smartwatch is now repairable.
Google has completely redesigned the watch to allow for screen or battery replacement if necessary.
Image Courtesy of Google
Details about repair costs are currently unavailable, but it’s encouraging nonetheless. The Pixel Watch 4 also introduces new colors and band options, notably Moonstone, which matches with the Pixel 10 Pro phones, alongside options like Polished Silver, Matte Black, and Champagne Gold.
Please note that the Champagne Gold option is exclusive to the 41mm, while Moonstone is available only in the 45mm variant.
Enhanced Battery Life and Rapid Charging
Expectations for longer battery life are high, whether for smartwatches, phones, or other devices. Google has risen to the challenge, boosting the 41mm Pixel Watch 4 to a 30-hour battery life, while the 45mm model extends up to 40 hours.
In power-saving mode, that extends to two or three days, respectively, although it should be noted that competitors like the OnePlus Watch 3 can outlast it.
Charging the Pixel Watch 4 is now more convenient as well, with a Quick Charge Dock that is 25% faster than previous models and new side-mounted charging pogo pins (although Qi wireless charging remains unavailable).
Image Courtesy of Google
This allows for a 50% charge in a quick 15 minutes, with the 41mm model reaching full charge in 45 minutes and the 45mm model in an hour, owing to its larger battery.
The dock also enhances the user experience by facilitating easy placement for charging while providing a clear view of time, charging status, and more.
Actua 360 Display
The Pixel Watch 4 features a completely revamped Actua 360 display, enhancing usability compared to its predecessor.
The standout feature showcases a remarkable 50% increase in brightness, reaching 3000 nits, making outdoor use much easier. But there’s more to it than just brightness.
This new screen is distinctly domed (a first in the market), protected by custom 3D Gorilla Glass 5, and features a 16% reduction in bezel size, engendering a 10% larger “active area.”
Image Courtesy of Google
Enhanced Tracking and New Software Features
There’s extensive advancement with the Pixel Watch 4, including a new Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 processor and a Cortex M55 co-processor powering various features.
Tracking capabilities have also benefited from upgrades, offering more accurate sleep tracking, precise skin temperature sensing, and an exceptionally accurate heart rate monitor according to Google. The inclusion of dual-band GPS allows for better route tracking, as well as automatic activity detection.
Image Courtesy of Google
As you’d anticipate, the device runs Wear OS 6, Google’s latest smartwatch operating system, which now integrates the Gemini digital assistant.
Among the features is a new AI health coach powered by Gemini, promising personalized fitness and sleep coaching and guidance that caters to individual objectives and daily realities based on metrics gathered from the Pixel Watch.
The rollout of this feature will begin in preview for Fitbit and Pixel Watch users in the US starting in October, alongside a complete overhaul of the Fitbit app.
Release Date of the Google Pixel Watch 4
Release Summary
- Unveiled on August 20 alongside the Pixel 10 smartphones
- Available for purchase as of October 9
Although the Pixel 10 phones hit the market on August 28, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold and Pixel Watch 4 were released later on October 9.
The slight delay may be attributed to the device’s new repairable design and associated supply chain challenges, yet you can order now that it’s officially available.
For additional details, refer to our overview of everything announced during the event.
Image Courtesy of Google
Pricing for the Google Pixel Watch 4
Cost Overview
- Prices aligned with the Pixel Watch 3
- Adding LTE will incur an upgrade fee of £100/$100
<pSimilar to the Pixel 10 smartphones, there is no price increase for the Pixel Watch 4 compared to last year’s model.
You can purchase the 41mm Bluetooth/Wi-Fi model for £349/$349.
For those interested in LTE connectivity, costs rise accordingly, particularly for the larger 45mm variant.
Here’s a complete price summary for the Pixel Watch 4 variants. Remember that Champagne Gold is exclusive to the 41mm design, while Moonstone is available only for the 45mm.
- Pixel Watch 4 (41mm Wi-Fi) – £349/$349/€399
- Pixel Watch 4 (41mm LTE) – £449/$449/€499
- Pixel Watch 4 (45mm Wi-Fi) – £399/$399/€449
- Pixel Watch 4 (45mm LTE) – £499/$499/€549
Image Courtesy of Google