The Pixel Watch 4 marks the biggest step in Google’s smartwatch development to date. With a completely revamped design, brand new health and fitness functions and integrated satellite communication for the first time, the new model sets new standards. Particularly exciting: Gemini, Google’s AI assistant, can now be called up directly by hand movement. The watch will be officially available from October 9.
- New Actua 360 display with 50% higher brightness
- First smartwatch with independent satellite communication
- Improved health and fitness functions including AI coaching
- Up to 40 hours of battery life and 25% faster charging
A new display experience
The Pixel Watch 4 comes with the so-called Actua 360 display – a first in the industry. It is not just the glass that is curved, but the entire display. This provides 10% more active display area and an almost borderless look. With a peak brightness of 3000 nits, the watch is easy to read even in direct sunlight. The whole thing is complemented by Material 3 Expressive, which brings new, dynamic interface elements, colorful dials and clearer widgets.
In addition, a revised haptic motor ensures clearer vibrations, while a more powerful speaker makes interaction with Gemini feel more natural. Google has also improved the battery: 30 hours of battery life for the 41 mm model and 40 hours for the larger version. Thanks to the new dock, the watch charges from 0 to 50 % in just 15 minutes. An optimized battery saver mode also ensures longer endurance.
First smartwatch with satellite communication
The integration of satellite communication is a real highlight. In an emergency, the LTE model of the Pixel Watch 4 can connect directly to geostationary satellites to call for help – even far away from the mobile network. This makes the watch particularly interesting for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers or athletes who are often out and about in remote regions. This feature underlines Google’s claim to bring not only a lifestyle gadget but also a safety tool to the wrist.
In addition to this function, the watch runs on the new Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 wearable platform and an ML-based co-processor that works 25% faster with half the energy consumption. For users, this means more performance with more efficient use.
Smart health and fitness companion
The Pixel Watch 4 scores particularly well in the area of fitness and health tracking. With over 50 sports modes – including pickleball and basketball – it covers a wide range. Thanks to AI, the watch now also automatically recognizes activities if you forget to start them manually.
New sensors and algorithms provide additional functions: A temperature sensor continuously measures skin values and can detect deviations from the normal range – a useful indication in the event of emerging illnesses. Dual-frequency GPS ensures more precise route recording, even in urban canyons or densely wooded areas. Cyclists have the option of displaying live data directly in the Fitbit app.
The new personal health coach, which is based on Google’s Gemini AI, is particularly interesting. This offers individual sleep and fitness advice based on the data collected. The feature will be available from October in a preview version for Fitbit and Pixel Watch users in the USA.
Conclusion
The Pixel Watch 4 is more than just an incremental update – it brings real innovation to the launch. With its brilliant display, longer battery life, precise fitness functions and unique satellite communication, it clearly stands out from the competition. The price remains stable: 41 mm from 349 dollars (Wi-Fi) or 449 dollars (LTE), 45 mm from 399 dollars (Wi-Fi) or 499 dollars (LTE). Sales start on October 9, pre-orders are now possible.
