Google has recently released the Pixel Watch 2, a new device
that promises to outperform its predecessor in a variety of ways. While the new
Pixel Watch is difficult to distinguish from the original, the former boasts a
recycled aluminum chassis and a reworked button layout. According to Google,
the Pixel Watch 2 is 5 g lighter than its predecessor, which corresponds to a
14% weight decrease.
Furthermore, while the business boasts a 24-hour battery
life, this estimate now incorporates more intensive usage with always-on
display (AOD) feature enabled. Google accomplished this in part by switching
from the Exynos 9110 to the Snapdragon W5 Plus Gen 1, a 4 nm chipset used in
the TicWatch 5 Pro. In addition, the Pixel Watch 2 has a 1.2-inch AMOLED
display but features a reduced resolution panel, 450 x 450 pixels against 384 x
384 pixels, likely to minimize power consumption.
The Pixel Watch 2 recharges faster than its predecessor,
taking only 30 minutes to obtain 12 hours of battery life. Furthermore, Google
pairs the Snapdragon W5 Plus Gen 1 with 2 GB of RAM, which should let Wear OS 4
and third-party apps to run well. Google has integrated a new sensor array,
albeit it does not enable BIA, blood pressure, or ECG like the Galaxy Watch6
series. Nonetheless, Google boasts that its new sensors can capture heart rate
values during intense workouts with 40% greater accuracy.
Google has also incorporated IP68 certification as well as
an Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip for usage with its Find My Device service. The
Pixel Watch 2 is available for pre-order in a variety of colors, including
black, gold, and silver. The Pixel Watch 2 will be available for US$349.99 or
US$399.99 with an LTE modem at launch. Alternatively, the wristwatch may be
purchased as part of a pre-order bundle with the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, which
we previously covered.