Unlocking Google’s Digital Dominance: How Apple-Beating Pixel Smartwatches Could Revolutionize Wearable Tech

The Future of the Pixel Watch: What’s Next?

The Pixel Watch 3 is barely two weeks old, and I’m already thinking about what comes next. This year’s update, driven by software, has left me wondering what the future holds for this innovative smartwatch.

A New Qualcomm Chip?

I think it’s about time for a new Qualcomm chip, with Google partnering on a RISC-V SoC for Wear OS. However, I’d be happy if the Pixel Watch 4 just introduced an updated co-processor that’s much more modern and capable. Google has stuck to the Cortex-M33 for three generations now, while continuing to offload more functionality (health tracking, AOD, connectivity, and ML algorithms) to it. How would battery life improve with a more efficient chip?

Design Tweaks

Design-wise, I think the 45mm model could definitely fit a second side button that end users can customize to launch apps or activities. I feel like the 41mm case could also squeeze that in if both band ejection buttons — along with the microphone hole — were placed on the same side.

What’s in an Ultra?

Looking at the smartwatch landscape, "Ultra" variants are all the rage, with Apple finding success in a rugged tool watch that’s billed for more extreme instances of running, cycling, swimming, hiking, and driving. That required the addition of a more durable case, longer battery life, and bigger screen.

Pixel Watch Pro

I think those two specs are the main takeaways and what a hypothetical new Pixel Watch variant would focus on. The 45mm PW3 can easily last 1.5-2 days on a single charge, with the 41mm firmly meeting 24 hours and going a little bit over as a nice buffer. However, Google officially says both sizes get 24 hours and up to 36 hours with battery saver mode.

Possible Features

Meanwhile, I think any Pixel Watch variant would let Google step away from the dome shape and do something more conventional without ever abandoning the iconic water droplet-inspired design in the "main" line.

• Flat screen: Could open the door to more durable sapphire cover glass.
• Alternates to the rotating crown: Like physical bezels. Personally, I think getting rid of the crown for even a virtual bezel would make for a cleaner device, but I’m sure most people are happier with a tactile approach of some sort.
• Materials: Titanium is associated with Ultra. It is more durable, but I think Google is prioritizing lightness in already switching from stainless steel to aluminum, while keeping the same polished and matte finishes.
• Internal specs: UWB (ultra-wideband) would be a "Pro" feature, but it’s already available on the Pixel Watch 3. The Pro could also be how Google debuts and tests new health sensors before a wider launch on the main line.

Other Possibilities

Other things I’d throw in as remote possibilities given the bigger case and higher cost:

• Soli: Gesture control as that has been part of concepts for ages.
• Fingerprint sensor: Either on the body or under the display as 4-digit PINs are increasingly insufficient
• Camera: World-facing lens instead of a selfie cam for video calls