The buzz around Google’s upcoming Pixel Watch 4, which is expected to debut alongside the Pixel 10 series this August, is met with a touch of hesitation. That excitement seems to come with a small asterisk, as recent leaks point to a device that might not deliver the leap in innovation many have come to expect. According to reports, the watch could stick with the same Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 processor used in the Pixel Watch 2 and 3. If true, it sets the stage for a more subtle evolution rather than a bold overhaul.
Key Takeaways:
- Google Pixel Watch 4 likely launching August 2025.
- Expected to retain Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 processor.
- Battery capacity may increase slightly in both 41mm and 45mm versions.
- Design mostly unchanged, though bezels might be thinner and the body a bit thicker.
- Qi2 wireless charging could replace pogo-pin connectors.
Processor Stagnation and Battery Boost
One of the more notable rumors, shared by sources including Android Authority, suggests the Pixel Watch 4 will once again feature the Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 chipset. This chip first appeared back in July 2022 and, while it’s held up fairly well for Wear OS devices, three consecutive generations using the same SoC is… well, it’s not exactly thrilling. Especially when many in the tech sphere were speculating a switch to something newer—perhaps Qualcomm’s next-gen “sw6100” platform or even a custom Google Tensor chip designed for wearables.
The continued reliance on the W5 Gen 1 might raise questions. Is Google playing it safe? Or just not quite ready to make that jump? Either way, if you’re hoping for major performance improvements or more sophisticated AI features tied to Google’s Gemini platform, this might feel like a missed opportunity.
On the upside, there are whispers of better battery life. The 41mm version could see its battery rise from 307mAh to 327mAh, and the 45mm model may jump from 420mAh to 459mAh. These aren’t huge increases—we’re talking roughly 7% to 9% gains—but with improved software optimization, even a little extra juice might go a long way. Fast charging is also expected to get a bump, though specifics remain under wraps. For reference, the Pixel Watch 3 delivered about 24 hours of battery life with always-on display turned on. Pixel Watch 4 is presumably aiming to top that, or at least hold steady.
Design and Other Features
From a design standpoint, don’t expect dramatic changes. The signature circular face and minimalist aesthetic appear to be sticking around. The watch will reportedly come in two sizes: 41mm and 45mm. Renders hint at a slightly bulkier body, around 14.3mm thick compared to the 12.3mm of the Watch 3. That added thickness might just be to accommodate the larger battery—a practical trade-off.
One interesting shift could be the move to wireless charging without physical pins. Rumors point to the adoption of Qi2 charging tech, which would be a change from the pogo-pin magnetic chargers of the past. If that turns out to be true, it might pave the way for reverse wireless charging from compatible Pixel phones, though nothing is confirmed just yet.
The display will likely stick with Google’s Actua Display technology, offering up to 2,000 nits peak brightness. That means outdoor readability should remain strong. Core features like Fitbit health tracking, Google Maps, contactless payments through Google Wallet, and Pixel camera controls are expected to return, possibly with minor software tweaks for better usability.
Color options could include familiar choices like Obsidian (black), Porcelain (a sort of creamy white), Lemon (yellow), and Iris (silver). New watch bands may also be on the horizon.
The Pixel Watch 4 is projected to start at around 534.97 US Dollar. It enters an increasingly competitive smartwatch landscape, squaring off against the likes of Samsung and Apple, both of whom are also prepping new releases. As with previous iterations, the community’s response has been mixed. On platforms like Reddit, some users prioritize battery life and Google ecosystem integration, while others continue to hope for a more robust performance upgrade year over year.
Ultimately, how the Pixel Watch 4 is received will hinge on whether Google can refine its current formula just enough to keep users engaged—even if it’s not rewriting the playbook this time around.
FAQ
Q1: When is the Google Pixel Watch 4 expected to be released?
A1: It’s expected to launch in August 2025, likely alongside the Pixel 10 smartphone lineup.
Q2: Will the Pixel Watch 4 have a new processor?
A2: Probably not. Most leaks suggest it will keep using the Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 processor, the same one found in Pixel Watch 2 and 3.
Q3: How much will the Pixel Watch 4 battery improve?
A3: The 41mm model might see a 7% boost (327mAh), and the 45mm version could get about a 9% bump (459mAh) over the Pixel Watch 3.
Q4: Will the Pixel Watch 4 support wireless charging?
A4: That seems likely. Rumors suggest Qi2 wireless charging might replace the previous magnetic pogo-pin system.
Q5: What are the expected size options for the Pixel Watch 4?
A5: Two sizes are anticipated: 41mm and 45mm, matching the range offered by the previous generation.
