Google has unveiled the Pixel Watch 4, its latest smartwatch, with significant upgrades in display, performance, battery life and safety features — all while keeping the same price as last year’s model.
The device was announced alongside the Pixel 10 series on 20 August. Pre-orders opened the same day, but buyers will have to wait until 9 October for retail availability.
Pricing and Variants
The Pixel Watch 4 comes in two sizes, 41mm and 45mm, with both Wi-Fi and LTE models available. Prices start at $349.99 in the US (£349 in the UK, €399 in Europe) for the 41mm Wi-Fi version and go up to $499.99 (£499/€549) for the 45mm LTE model.
Design and Display
The watch retains Google’s signature domed design but introduces a flatter, brighter Actua 360 AMOLED display. With peak brightness of 3,000 nits, it is 50% brighter than its predecessor, while bezels are 16% thinner.
The device is also designed to be more repairable, with replaceable batteries and displays — a first for the Pixel Watch series.
Battery and Charging
Google promises up to 30 hours of battery life on the 41mm model and 40 hours on the 45mm model with the Always-On Display enabled.
In Battery Saver mode, this extends to as much as 72 hours. Charging is also faster, with both sizes reaching 50% in about 15 minutes using the new dock.
New Features
The Pixel Watch 4 introduces several new capabilities, including:
- Emergency satellite communication (LTE models only), enabling users to connect with emergency services even without mobile coverage.
- AI-powered activity recognition, which automatically tracks and categorises workouts.
- Improved health tracking, with next-generation skin temperature sensors and more accurate sleep monitoring.
- Personal AI Coach, offering tailored fitness and sleep plans, powered by Google’s AI and Fitbit’s expertise.
- Raise-to-Talk for Gemini, letting users activate Google’s AI assistant with a wrist movement.
Performance and Compatibility
Powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 processor, the watch is said to be 25% faster and more efficient than before. It runs on Wear OS 6, featuring refreshed visuals and more interactive notifications.
The device works with any Android 11 or newer phone, though some features are exclusive to Google Pixel devices.
Outlook
The Pixel Watch 4 faces competition from Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 8 and OnePlus Watch 3, as well as Apple’s upcoming Watch Series 11.
But with its brighter screen, extended battery life and new safety features, analysts say Google has delivered its most compelling smartwatch yet.
