Tag: Pixel Watch 4

  • Google Wear OS 7 Launches for Pixel Watch

    Google Wear OS 7 Launches for Pixel Watch

    Key Takeaway

    – Wear OS 7 rollout begins for Pixel Watch 2, 3, and 4 (first-gen excluded), with updates rolling out over several days.
    – Battery life improves by up to 10% due to reduced power consumption.
    – Full-screen tiles are replaced by widgets similar to Android, and notifications can show live updates.
    – Enhanced accessory integration, such as viewing photos from AR glasses on the watch.
    – New Gemini AI features include “Create My Widget,” app automations via voice, and personalized Gmail/chat responses.


    Rollout of Wear OS 7 for Pixel Watch Begins

    In a blog post, Google announced that the rollout of Wear OS 7 for the Pixel Watch has started. It normally takes several days for the update to become accesible for download to every users of a compatible smartwatch.

    Compatibility and Battery Life Improvements

    According to Verizon, the update is avalible for the Pixel Watch 2, Pixel Watch 3, and Pixel Watch 4, but no longer for the first-generation Pixel Watch. The update is designd to not only introduce new features but also to reduce power consumption, which should extend battery life by up to 10 percent, depending on usage.

    Wear OS 7 replaces full-screen tiles with widgets that strongly resemble Android widgetts. In Wear OS 7, notifications can display live updates similar too those in Android. After the update, the Pixel Watch is expected to work more seamlessly with many accessories.

    AR Glasses Integration and Audio Panel

    For example, if a photo is taken with compatable AR glasses, it can be viewed directly on the smartwatch’s display, while the improved audio panel makes it easier to switch playback from a speaker to headphone’s.

    Finally, Google is introducing new Gemini Intelligence AI features. “Create My Widget” allowes users to create personalized dashboards using voice prompts. App automations can perform multiple actions acros different apps with a single voice command. The voice assistant can now access Gmail and past chats to provide more personalized responses.


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  • Google Pixel Watches 2, 3, 4 Get Wear OS 7 Soon

    Key Takeaway

    – Wear OS 7 will be released for Pixel Watch 2, 3, and 4 on June 9, 2026, but not for the first-generation Pixel Watch.
    – Key improvements include roughly 10% longer battery life and replacement of tiles with more versatile Android-style widgets.
    – Standardized workout app UI and multi-headphone music streaming via Google Cast or Bluetooth are new features.
    – Watch face optimizations aim to reduce development effort for creators.


    Google’s Latest Update Drops Sooner Than Expected

    Google Wear OS 7 was anounced in mid-May. At the launch, Google only confirmed that the update would be released for the Pixel Watch “later this year”, without publishing a schedule or a list of compatible smartwatch models. The release could now take place surprisingly quickly, as Verizon has already published a changelog with a release date of June 9, 2026.

    Which Models Get The Update And What It Includes

    The update is listed for the Pixel Watch 2, the Pixel Watch 3 and the Pixel Watch 4 ($309 on Amazon), but not for the first-generation Pixel Watch, which was launched in 2022. Wear OS 7 therefore supports similarly old smartwatch models such as Apple watchOS 27. As usual, Verizon’s changelog is sparse – the update is said to include Wear OS 7, the latest security patch and performance improvements.

    Battery Life And Interface Changes Are Key

    Wear OS 7 is a moderate update, but there are a few significant improvements on board. First and foremost, Google promises around 10 percent longer battery life. Full-screen tiles are replaced by Widgets which look and function almost exactly like Android widgets. This should not only make them more versatile and interactive than tiles, it should also make it much easier for app developers to port an Android widget to Wear OS.

    Workout Apps, Music Streaming, And Watch Faces

    Google also wants to standardize workout apps by making the user interface of features such as heart rate measurement or music playback available to third-party apps. Wear OS 7 allows music to be streamed to multiple headphones via Google Cast or Bluetooth. Watch face optimizations are intended to reduce the development effort.

     


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  • Google Pixel Watch 4 Gains Satellite Connectivity in Europe

    Google Pixel Watch 4 Gains Satellite Connectivity in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. The March 2026 Feature Drop introduces new features for Pixel smartphones and the Pixel Tablet, including the long-awaited desktop windowing feature for the tablet.
    2. The older Pixel Watch 3 will receive gesture controls, allowing users to interact with their connected smartphones more easily.
    3. Satellite connectivity for the Pixel Watch 4 is expanding to more markets, including Europe, beyond its initial availability in the US.
    4. Pixel Watch 2 and newer models can now use tap-to-pay options and access transit systems without opening the Wallet app.
    5. These updates enhance the overall functionality and user experience of Google’s Pixel devices and smartwatches.


    Google is beginning to introduce a variety of fresh features to its Pixel smartphones as part of the March 2026 Feature Drop. This update is also making its way to the Pixel Tablet, which will finally have the desktop windowing feature that was missing from its earlier version.

    New Features for Smartwatches

    In addition to the smartphones, Google has announced that new functionalities are on the way for its smartwatches too. For instance, the older Pixel Watch 3 will get gesture controls with the arrival of the March 2026 update. These controls, which were once only available on the Pixel Watch 4 (currently priced at $399 on Amazon), allow users to answer calls, browse notifications, and snap photos on a connected smartphone simply by tapping their thumb and index finger together on the watch.

    Expanding Connectivity Options

    Furthermore, Google has broadened the satellite connectivity options for the Pixel Watch 4, making it accessible in additional markets. Initially, this feature was only available in the US, but the March 2026 Feature Drop will also extend it to Europe. Additionally, the Pixel Watch 2 and newer models can now utilize tap-to-pay options or access transit systems without needing to open the Wallet app first. For further information, you can visit Google’s blog post.

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  • Pixel Watch 4 Update: One-Handed Gestures and Faster Replies

    Pixel Watch 4 Update: One-Handed Gestures and Faster Replies

    Key Takeaways

    1. One-Handed Gestures: The Pixel Watch 4 introduces hands-free controls with gestures like the Double Pinch for easy operation while hands are occupied.

    2. Wrist Turn Gesture: Users can decline calls and dismiss notifications by simply turning their wrist in and out.

    3. Gesture Hints: Wear OS will feature hints over buttons and scroll bars, customizable in frequency through the Settings menu.

    4. Smart Replies Upgrade: An improved on-device language model for Smart Replies on Pixel Watch 3 and 4 operates faster and uses less memory.

    5. User Guidance: A step-by-step guide for the Raise to Talk feature helps new users understand how to use the assistant without touching the screen.


    Google recently unveiled an update for the Pixel Watch 4 that introduces one-handed gestures. This new feature adds some useful hands-free controls, enabling you to operate the watch easily while your hands are occupied. One of the main gestures, known as the Double Pinch, allows you to control the watch by pinching your thumb and index finger together two times. This simple action lets you handle calls, pause timers, snooze alarms, capture photos, manage music, and engage with notifications.

    Gesture Functionality

    The functionality is akin to gesture control systems seen on Apple and Samsung devices, where a tapping motion between the thumb and index finger is utilized. Furthermore, the Pixel Watch 4 will also include the Wrist Turn gesture. With this, you can quickly turn your wrist in and out to decline incoming calls and dismiss alert notifications.

    Enhanced User Experience

    In the broader scope of Wear OS, Google will implement Gesture Hints. These hints will appear directly over buttons or alongside the scroll bar to indicate when they can be used. Users will have the option to customize how frequently these hints show up, with choices ranging from daily to just once. All of this can be adjusted through the Settings menu, under Gestures > Hand gestures, where each option can be toggled on or off individually.

    Smart Replies Upgrade

    Additionally, Google is enhancing Smart Replies on both the Pixel Watch 3 and 4 by introducing a new on-device language model derived from Gemma. This updated model operates twice as fast and is nearly three times more efficient regarding memory usage when compared to the previous version. The company has also included a step-by-step guide for the Raise to Talk feature, making it easier for new users to understand how to interact with the assistant without needing to touch the screen.

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  • Garmin Patents Inertial Scrolling Digital Crown for Smartwatches

    Garmin Patents Inertial Scrolling Digital Crown for Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is exploring digital crown technology for wearable devices, but source transparency is lacking in reports.
    2. A newly discovered patent titled ‘rotatable control button assembly for a wearable device’ supports earlier claims about this technology.
    3. The patent describes a control button assembly with a rotating crown and a Hall effect sensor for inertial scrolling.
    4. The design of the control button assembly resembles Garmin’s current Fenix series, but patents don’t guarantee final product realization.
    5. The timeline for turning this patent into a mass-produced device is uncertain, making claims of an imminent release misleading.


    Yesterday, fresh details came to light about Garmin’s planned digital crown technology. According to Gadgets & Wearables, the website didn’t disclose where the information came from in their report. This lack of source transparency was also true for the earlier statements made a few weeks ago.

    Patent Speculation

    At first, we thought that a recent patent might be the basis for Gadgets & Wearables’ claims. Regrettably, searches on Justia and similar sites yielded no useful findings. Nevertheless, Wearable has recently found the patent that likely supports many of the earlier assertions made by Gadgets & Wearables. This patent, titled ‘rotatable control button assembly for a wearable device’ and assigned the number 20250341869, provides a description of the control button as follows:

    A wearable electronic device, which consists of a body. In addition, the device contains a Hall effect sensor that is placed within the body’s interior and is either close to or in contact with an inner surface of the body.

    Control Button Assembly

    Moreover, the device includes a control button assembly that is attached to the body. The outer part of the body has a hollow section where at least part of the control button assembly fits. The control button assembly has a magnet at its proximal end.

    At the opposite end, the control button assembly has a crown that can rotate in relation to the body, and the assembly is designed so that turning the crown results in a corresponding movement of the magnet. The body also has a sidewall that completely separates the control button assembly from the Hall effect sensor.

    This patent additionally confirms that the assembly includes a sensor to facilitate inertial scrolling, similar to the existing Apple Watch Series 11 and Pixel Watch 4 (currently priced at $349 on Amazon). As mentioned before, the drawings in the patent are very similar to the design language of Garmin’s current Fenix series. It’s important to note, however, that patent submissions seldom reflect the final product.

    Reality Check

    In the same vein, any implication that this patent is on the verge of being realized is a bit misleading. Generally, patents may take many years to transform into mass-production devices, if they ever do. Therefore, it would be surprising if Garmin were to release this hardware ‘soon,’ as prior reports have suggested.

    USPTO via Wareable

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  • Google Pixel Watch 4 with Replaceable Battery Launches in India

    Google Pixel Watch 4 with Replaceable Battery Launches in India

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel Watch 4 was launched in August and is now available in India, with prices starting at INR 39,900 for the 41 mm version and INR 43,900 for the 45 mm version.

    2. The smartwatch offers a variety of color combinations for both models, including options like polished silver, champagne gold, and matte black aluminum cases.

    3. It features a 3D curved always-on AMOLED display with a peak brightness of up to 3,000 nits and a customizable refresh rate from 1 Hz to 60 Hz, protected by Gorilla Glass 5.

    4. The Pixel Watch 4 is powered by a Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 chipset and a new Cortex M55 co-processor, improving battery life by 25%.

    5. Battery specifications include 325 mAh for the 41 mm model and 455 mAh for the 45 mm model, with claimed battery lives of 30 and 40 hours, along with numerous health and fitness features.


    Google has introduced the Pixel Watch 4 in August, and it became available in several countries in October. Now, the timepiece has finally made its debut in India. More specifically, Pixel lovers and smartwatch fans can purchase the Pixel Watch 4 through Google India’s online shop and from various authorized sellers. In terms of pricing, the 41 mm Wi-Fi version is set at INR 39,900 (approximately $450), while the 45 mm version is priced at INR 43,900 (around $495).

    Color Options Galore

    There are numerous color combinations available for both models. The 41 mm version features a polished silver aluminum case with an iris active band, a champagne gold aluminum case with a lemongrass active band, a matte black aluminum case with an obsidian active band, and a polished silver aluminum case with a porcelain active band. Meanwhile, the 45 mm version (currently available for $399 on Amazon) offers three distinct color choices, which include a satin moonstone aluminum case with a moonstone active band, a polished silver aluminum case with a porcelain active band, and a matte black aluminum case with an obsidian active band.

    Impressive Display and Performance

    The Pixel Watch 4, which follows the Pixel Watch 3, boasts a 3D curved always-on AMOLED screen that achieves a peak brightness of up to 3,000 nits. Furthermore, users can modify the refresh rate from 1 Hz to 60 Hz. It features Gorilla Glass 5 on top, providing protection against accidental drops and scratches. This IP68-rated smartwatch is driven by a Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 chipset combined with a new Cortex M55 co-processor, which is claimed to boost battery life by 25%.

    Battery Life and Features

    Both the 41 mm and 45 mm models come with 325 mAh and 455 mAh batteries, respectively, with Google asserting that they offer 30 and 40 hours of battery life. Additional features include a built-in microphone, a speaker, over 40 workout modes, body response tracking, pulse loss detection, and much more. We’ve already discussed the Google Pixel Watch 4 and you can find more details about it here.

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  • Google Announces New Fitbit Hardware and Fitbit Coach Launch

    Google Announces New Fitbit Hardware and Fitbit Coach Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google released the Pixel Watch 4, available in 41 mm and 45 mm sizes, priced at $399.99.
    2. Fitbit has not launched any new devices for two years, with the last devices being the Charge 6 (September 2023) and others in 2022.
    3. Fitbit confirmed that new devices are in development but will not release any products in 2024.
    4. Google indicated that Fitbit will unveil new hardware “next year,” but no specific details are available.
    5. Future Fitbit products may include a completely new model and could coincide with the stable release of the Fitbit Coach app expected in 2026.


    A few months ago, Google released the Pixel Watch 4, available in 41 mm and 45 mm sizes (currently priced at $399.99 on Amazon). On the other hand, it’s been two years since Fitbit, which is owned by Google, has launched any new devices. Just to remind you, the Charge 6 came out in September 2023, while the Inspire 3, Sense 2, and Versa 4 were launched a year before that.

    New Developments Ahead

    Recently, Fitbit has reportedly confirmed that new devices are in the pipeline. However, the company is going to skip 2025 completely, as it won’t be launching any products in 2024 either. According to a report from 9to5Google, Google has stated that Fitbit is set to unveil new hardware “next year.”

    Sadly, there haven’t been any details from either Google or Fitbit about what these new products might be. This leaves us in the dark about when we can expect new Fitbit devices. There’s also no information on the number or types of wearables that could be under development.

    What Might Come Next?

    Because of this uncertainty, it’s possible that Fitbit might opt for a completely new model instead of revisiting the Charge, Inspire, Sense, or Versa lines that they’ve previously provided. The launch of new Fitbit hardware could align with the comprehensive release of the Fitbit Coach app. Currently, this app is available in public preview, and a stable version is expected to be released sometime in 2026 as well.

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  • Google Pixel 10 Pro XL Teardown: Impressive Repairable Internals

    Google Pixel 10 Pro XL Teardown: Impressive Repairable Internals

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel Watch 4 and Pixel 10 flagships have improved repairability in 2025.
    2. iFixit praised the Pixel 10 for its easier disassembly and repair features.
    3. Zack Nelson highlighted the positive aspects, including Google’s official repair manual and availability of replacement parts.
    4. Users need to be cautious when disassembling, especially when changing the display, but battery replacement is simpler.
    5. Google’s official repair guides support user-friendly repairs, aligning with growing consumer interest in sustainability.


    Google has not been famous for making smartphones and smartwatches that are easy to fix. However, this is changing a lot in 2025. The Pixel Watch 4 has made a significant shift from being a throwaway item to a repairable device, and this year’s Pixel 10 flagships have also introduced helpful internal changes that make taking them apart and fixing them simpler.

    Positive Feedback on Repairability

    iFixit has already taken apart the Pixel 10 and has given it a thumbs up for its improvements in repairability. Now, the Pixel 10 Pro XL has made its way to Zack Nelson’s workspace, and in his latest video on YouTube, he expresses his excitement about the enhanced repair features of Google’s flagship for 2025. This teardown specialist also points out the manufacturer’s official repair manual and the ease of finding replacement parts as positive aspects.

    User Caution Needed

    Zack suggests in the video that taking apart the Pixel 10 Pro XL might be easier than dismantling a Fairphone, but it’s important to remember that users still need to be careful, especially when changing the display. However, swapping out the battery has become much simpler due to pull tabs that make the process pretty hassle-free. After the disassembly, the Pixel 10 Pro XL remains operational – a job well done.

    More on Repair Guides

    For those interested in taking matters into their own hands, the official guides provided by Google give detailed instructions, which can be really helpful. This also marks a shift for the company as it aims to be more user-friendly regarding repairs. As consumers become more aware of sustainability, these changes could position Google more favorably in the market.

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  • Google Pixel Watch 4 Teardown: Easy Battery and Display Replacement

    Google Pixel Watch 4 Teardown: Easy Battery and Display Replacement

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Google Pixel Watch 4 has a revamped design with a curved OLED screen and simpler casing.
    2. Accessing internal components requires unscrewing just two T2 screws located under the band pocket.
    3. The display can be removed in about 13 minutes, making it user-friendly for repairs.
    4. The smartwatch features a waterproof design but only meets the IP68 standard, limiting swimming use.
    5. The Pixel Watch 4 is easier to repair compared to both the Apple Watch and the Galaxy Watch Ultra.


    The Google Pixel Watch 4 may seem very much like the Pixel Watch 3 at first sight, but Google has totally revamped its design. They’ve changed the casing, including a curved OLED screen and a metal frame that’s simpler to open. Although the smartwatch won’t be available until October 9, Wired has already dissected it.

    Easy Access to Components

    To get inside, you just need to unscrew two T2 screws that are tucked away under the band pocket. After that, the back can be taken off, allowing access to various parts, including sensors, the vibration motor, and the battery. If you want to swap out the battery, you only need to take out the vibration motor and then unscrew two more T2 screws that hold the battery securely.

    Quick Display Removal

    After the battery is out, you can take off the display by unplugging the appropriate cable from the motherboard and taking out four screws. Wired reported that removing the screen took only 13 minutes during their teardown, making it fairly straightforward for users with limited repair skills to change the Pixel Watch 4’s display without too much trouble.

    Waterproof Design

    A silicone ring surrounds the display to help keep the smartwatch watertight even after you change the screen. However, it only meets the IP68 standard, which means you can’t wear the watch while swimming. The teardown results indicate that the Pixel Watch 4 is significantly easier to fix compared to the Apple Watch, and it’s even a bit simpler than the “repairable” Galaxy Watch Ultra.

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  • Oppo Watch X3 Set to Launch with Impressive Pixel Watch 4 Specs

    Oppo Watch X3 Set to Launch with Impressive Pixel Watch 4 Specs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Oppo’s Watch X2 features the BES2800 co-processor, providing impressive battery life of up to 120 hours on a single charge.
    2. The upcoming “Watch X3” may enhance the Pixel Watch 4 with a circular OLED screen and a rotating crown for added functionality.
    3. The “Watch X3” is expected to offer ECG readings and continuous health monitoring, although some features may be limited to China.
    4. There is no current information on the Watch 4’s sensors for stress tracking and skin temperature in relation to the “Watch X3.”
    5. The “Watch X3” is likely to be revealed alongside new devices at the “Find X9 Ultra” event early next year.


    Oppo has built a reputation not just for its smartphones, but also in the smartwatch sector, showcasing impressive technology that stands out.

    Impressive Battery Life

    One standout feature is the BES2800 co-processor, which equips the Watch X2 (also available on Amazon under the name OnePlus Watch 3) with a remarkable battery life of up to 120 hours on a single charge.

    With whispers of its return in Oppo’s upcoming smartwatch, it seems poised to significantly outperform the Pixel Watch 4, which has a maximum battery life of only 30 hours.

    Potential Upgrades

    The BES2800 may work in conjunction with the Plus variant of the Watch 4’s satellite-ready Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 SoC, despite that premium model having its own QCC5100 backup chip.

    There are also hints that the “Watch X3” could enhance the Pixel Watch 4’s circular OLED screen by integrating a rotating crown for added functionality.

    Health Monitoring Features

    Furthermore, the “X3” may have the ability to conduct ECG readings like some previous models that resemble the Apple Watch (though this feature is expected to be limited to China), and it aims to support continuous health monitoring throughout the day.

    However, as of now, there hasn’t been any information regarding the Watch 4’s specialized sensors for stress tracking and skin temperature in relation to the “Watch X3.”

    Considering that the Watch X2 was launched in February 2025, and with the reliable leaker Digital Chat Station suggesting its successor will debut with a new smartphone, tablet, and audio devices, it’s likely that Oppo’s flagship smartwatch will be revealed during the “Find X9 Ultra” event early next year.

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