Google Pixel Watch 3 set for major display upgrades, new colors, UWB, and much more
The Google Pixel Watch 2 brought significant improvements over its predecessor, tackling almost all the major issues that plagued the first-generation smartwatch, especially the poor battery life and slow charging. It also introduced a host of new features, making it a much more attractive choice for many users. However, there were still some drawbacks that deterred a few potential buyers.
Fortunately, Google is addressing some of these remaining issues with its upcoming update, the Pixel Watch 3.
Pixel Watch 3 series: Specs and battery size
As previously rumored, the device will be available in 41mm and 45mm sizes, with both cellular and Wi-Fi variants. We can't confirm the official names for these sizes yet, but some rumors suggest the larger model might be called the Pixel Watch 3 XL. The basic specifications remain the same as the Pixel Watch 2: both models use the Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 platform with a custom co-processor.
The smaller 41mm Pixel Watch 3 will keep its 310mAh battery, while the larger 45mm model will have a 420mAh battery, offering a longer battery life.
Smaller bezels, finally!
One of the most common complaints about the original Pixel Watch, which also applied to the Pixel Watch 2, was its relatively large bezels. However, the Pixel Watch 3 addresses this issue by reducing the bezel size and enhancing display brightness.
The Pixel Watch 3 models now feature 4.5 mm bezels, a notable improvement from the 5.5 mm bezels of their predecessor. While these bezels might still seem somewhat large, especially when compared to the Apple Watch Series 9, this reduction is a significant upgrade. To better illustrate the difference, we've included a graphic below showing the bezel sizes.
Both new watches boast a 2,000-nit display, as stated in the watch's software, though Google's final marketing materials might list a different value. In comparison, the Pixel Watch 2 only reached up to 1,000 nits. This means the upcoming watches should be significantly easier to use in direct sunlight.
| Pixel Watch 2 - codename eos/aurora | Pixel Watch 3 (41 mm) - codename selene/helios | Pixel Watch 3 (45 mm) - codename luna/sol | |
|---|---|---|---|
Display size | 30x30 mm | 32x32 mm | 36x36 mm |
Bezel width | 5.5 mm | 4.5 mm | 4.5 mm |
Screen resolution | 384x384 px | 408x408 px | 456x456 px |
Brightness (declared) | 1,000 nits | 2,000 nits | 2,000 nits |
UWB (this time for real)
Last year, we reported that the Pixel Watch 2 would include UWB support, but this turned out to be inaccurate. The feature was removed at the last minute, which our source failed to catch.
However, it appears the Pixel Watch 3 will finally include UWB support. Our source has confirmed this, and recent FCC listings also mention it.
We can only guess what features this addition might bring, but we have some good ideas. A clear use case is precise device finding, whether it’s the watch or another device. As we recently reported, Google might be adding UWB support to the Find My Device app.
Another potential use is unlocking your car with Digital Car Key. This technology is already supported by BMW, Hyundai, and Kia, and many other manufacturers are working on their implementations. If your watch supports UWB, you could unlock your car without needing your phone, even if your phone doesn’t have UWB. Currently, UWB support is only available on a few flagship Android phones.
New colors
| Pixel Watch 2 | Pixel Watch 3 (41 mm) | Pixel Watch 3 (45 mm) |
|---|---|---|
Silver case / Bay band | Silver case / Rose Quartz | Hazel case / Hazel band |
Black case / Obsidian band | Black case / Obsidian band | Black case / Obsidian band |
Gold case / Hazel band | Gold case / Hazel band | - |
Silver case / Porcelain band | Silver case / Porcelain band | Silver case / Porcelain band |
Google typically launches a color option that complements the Pixel phones released simultaneously. For instance, we anticipate the "Rose Quartz" band to pair perfectly with the pink Pixel 9 Pro, as seen in a recent video leak (and shown above).
Pretty Pixel Watch 3 animation that reveals nothing, but it’s pretty
Lastly, we got a sneak peek at a retail animation that will play on demo units of the Pixel Watch 3. While it doesn't reveal any features or details about the watch, it's designed to catch customers' eyes (it's even called an "attract loop"). Still, it's a nice animation in the Material style, which we know some of you appreciate.
That's the end of our early preview of the Pixel Watch 3 upgrades. What do you think of the new changes? Share your thoughts in the comments and vote in our poll below.
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