Google has announced the Pixel Watch 4, introducing major design changes, advanced health and fitness tools, and expanded AI capabilities. The smartwatch is being positioned as the most significant update to the Pixel Watch line to date, offering features such as a domed Actua 360 display, the first-ever standalone satellite communication for a smartwatch, and on-wrist access to Gemini, Google’s AI assistant.
Redesigned display and improved performance
The Pixel Watch 4 retains the familiar circular design but introduces a domed Actua 360 display with a 10% larger active area and slimmer bezels for a more edge-to-edge look. The screen is 50% brighter, reaching 3000 nits for improved visibility in direct sunlight. It also introduces Material 3 Expressive, with richer colours, customisable clock faces and more dynamic interfaces.
Google has upgraded the internal hardware with the Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 Wearable Platform and a next-generation co-processor that is 25% faster while using half the power. The watch also features a stronger haptic engine, louder speakers, and a longer-lasting battery, delivering up to 30 hours on the 41mm model and 40 hours on the 45mm model. With the new Quick Charge Dock, the watch can reach 50% charge in just 15 minutes.
Durability has also been improved with aerospace-grade aluminium housing and custom Corning Gorilla Glass, alongside water resistance up to 50 metres. For the first time, the watch is serviceable, allowing the battery and display to be replaced if needed.
Health, fitness and satellite safety features
Google has expanded its health and fitness tracking, promising the most accurate measurements yet. Sleep tracking is now 18% more accurate, while a new skin temperature sensor detects changes in wellbeing. Dual-frequency GPS provides precise route tracking, even in dense urban or natural environments, while real-time cycling stats can now be streamed to the Fitbit app as a heads-up display.
The watch now offers more than 50 exercise modes, including new additions such as pickleball and basketball. AI-powered automatic workout detection ensures users do not miss recording their activity. These updates add to existing Fitbit-powered features, including stress management tools, ECG readings, and personalised health dashboards.
The Pixel Watch 4 LTE model introduces emergency satellite communications, connecting users to geostationary satellites to reach emergency services even when outside mobile coverage. Google highlighted this as the first time standalone satellite safety has been built into a smartwatch.
AI integration and availability
AI plays a bigger role in this generation, with Gemini providing hands-free assistance directly on the wrist. The Raise to Talk feature lets users activate Gemini simply by lifting their wrist, enabling quick help while multitasking. Smart Replies also offer context-aware suggestions for messaging.
Google is previewing a new personal AI health coach later this year in the United States. Built with Gemini, it will provide proactive coaching based on individual goals and health data from Fitbit devices and Pixel Watches.
The Pixel Watch 4 is available for preorder now and will be in stores from 9 October. Prices remain unchanged from the previous model, starting at US$349 for the 41mm Wi-Fi version and US$449 for the LTE variant. The 45mm model starts at US$399 for Wi-Fi and US$499 for LTE. Customers can choose from a range of colours and new accessory bands designed to complement Pixel phones.
