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There’s a big chance we’ll be getting a new Google smartwatch soon — and I mean tomorrow soon, as we’re just a night away from the August Made by Google event, the tech giant’s annual hardware showcase. Leading up to it, rumors and leaks of what’s coming on this next generation of AI-infused devices are swirling.
Also: I’ve owned every Google Pixel since the first – here’s why 2025’s will be different
What can we expect from the Pixel Watch 4?
Google could debut new Pixel phones (including a foldable if the rumors are true), Pixel Buds, and maybe even a Google Pixel Watch 4, if I’m lucky. As ZDNET’s wearables editor, I’m keeping my eye on the Pixel Watch 4 chatter.
Also: Google will announce its next lineup of Pixels on August 20 – here’s what we know
While Google has kept the details of its next hardware release discreet, a few leaks give hints about what to expect with the fourth-generation smartwatch. I’ve contacted the company for comment and will report back if I get any confirmation.
Keep in mind that these rumors are, well, exactly that. Simply rumors. The true confirmation will only come on August 20 at Made By Google, so be sure to tune in to the livestream at 1 p.m. ET for the latest. For now, let’s dive into the most exciting and notable features we could see in the Pixel Watch 4.
1. Sizing and colors
According to rumors, the Pixel Watch 4 is expected to ship in the same sizes as its predecessor: 41 mm and 45 mm.
While sizing is staying the same, the smartwatch’s colors are new this year. 9to5Google’s Arsene Lupin unveiled a list of the Pixel Watch 4’s colorways. They include Black/Obsidian, Gold/Lemon, Moonstone, Silver/Iris, and Silver/Porcelain.
2. Same chipset, new processor
Another rumor suggests that the Pixel Watch 4 will keep the chipset from the Watch 3, the Snapdragon W5 + Gen 1. However, there are murmurs of a new processor entering the smartwatch: Google’s M55 processor.
Also: The best smartwatches 2025: I wore these for weeks and found the perfect one for your wrist
This processor should enable the Watch 4 to handle five times the AI power, according to Android Headlines. The Watch 4 is going to need all the AI-processing power it can get, as Gemini arrives on the new smartwatch after debuting on the Galaxy Watch.
3. New and faster charging
Google is switching up its charging port, according to Android Headlines. Instead of a charger that rests on the bottom of the watch, Google is debuting a side-mount charger. The charging contact moved from the back to the left side of the watch, and this position switch might contribute to faster charging.
The 41mm model is slated to get 30 hours of battery life, and the 45mm model 40, according to serial leaker Evan Blass, who posted Pixel Watch 4 leaks on X. The smartwatches will also get 25% faster charging rates, according to Blass.
4. Thicker watch (but bigger battery)
The Pixel Watch 3 is a hefty smartwatch already — and the thickest I’ve worn. It could get even thicker, according to 91mobiles, to make room for a larger battery. The site says the fourth-gen watch has a thickness of 14.3 mm.
As someone with a small wrist, this is one unwelcome change I hope won’t come to fruition. The major smartwatch competitors, Samsung and Apple, have gone slimmer with their Galaxy and Apple Watches to make the devices more comfortable to sleep in, exercise in, and wear anywhere. That thinness and levity directly relate to comfort and wearability.
Also: 8 settings to change on your Pixel phone to extend battery life
However, battery life is a major wearability factor as well, and it’s a draw for some users, so what we may sacrifice in chunkiness we make up for in an extended battery.
5. Breathing emergencies feature
According to the folks at Android Headlines, Google will expand its personal safety features with Emergency Satellite Communications and a Breathing Emergencies feature. The SPO2 sensor on the Pixel Watch 4 will monitor blood-oxygen levels and wave the red flag when they’ve gone too low. Blass’s X post also reports heart rate variability monitoring.
6. Two new buttons
91mobiles also spotted two new buttons on each side of the Pixel Watch 4’s speaker. If I had to guess their function, I’d bet one is for a health monitor. We’re seeing more on-device health functionalities debut on smartwatches.
Also: Best Android smartwatches: I tested every popular watch so you can find the perfect fit
Earlier this month, Samsung debuted an Antioxidant Index that is activated by pressing a thumb on the smartwatch’s BioActive Sensor.
7. Brighter display
The Pixel Watch 4 could be back and brighter than ever, according to Blass. A 3,000 nits display is coming to the smartwatch, Blass reports. This places its brightness on par with the recently debuted Galaxy Watch 8 and the Apple Watch Ultra 2.
8. Repairable (at long last)
One common frustration among wearable health tech users is the device’s absolute un-repairability. That could soon change. Android Headlines says that the Pixel Watch 4 could (finally) be repairable, so you won’t have to replace the entire watch if your display or battery breaks. This is a great step forward for environmental consciousness, customer satisfaction, and longevity.
Also: Google just gave the Pixel Watch its most important update yet – how US users can opt in
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