At the recent Made by Google 2024 event, the Pixel Watch 3 was unveiled, offering consumers more choice when it comes to wearables. Unlike its predecessor, which only came in a 41mm size, the Pixel Watch 3 is now available in both 41mm and 45mm options. This expansion in sizes caters to the diverse range of shapes and sizes of human bodies, acknowledging that one size does not fit all.
One of the standout features of the Pixel Watch 3 is its larger and brighter display. Both the 41mm and 45mm models sport larger screens with smaller bezels compared to the previous generation. The AMOLED display boasts a 320 ppi density and a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, making it easier to check the watch in bright daylight conditions. Additionally, the refresh rate of the display has been improved to up to 60 Hz, providing smoother visuals. The device is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 5100 chip, accompanied by a Cortex M33 co-processor for enhanced performance.
Despite the enhancements in display and performance, the Pixel Watch 3 maintains a similar battery life to its predecessor. The 41mm model features a 306 mAh battery, while the 45mm version comes with a larger 420 mAh battery. Google claims that both models can last up to 24 hours with the always-on display enabled, and up to 36 hours with Battery Saver mode activated. While the battery life is competitive with other smartwatches in the market, such as the Apple Watch, it falls short when compared to devices like the OnePlus Watch 2, which offers up to 100 hours of battery life.
Fitness remains a core focus of the Pixel Watch 3, leveraging Google’s Fitbit acquisition to enhance its capabilities. The smartwatch is designed to appeal to the running community, offering features like motion sensing and machine learning to track metrics such as cadence, stride length, and vertical oscillation. The new running dashboard provides a comprehensive overview of these metrics, allowing users to customize their running routines and receive real-time guidance during their workouts. Google is also promoting its Fitbit Premium membership, which leverages AI to create personalized workout goals based on past runs.
The Pixel Watch 3 is priced competitively in the market, with the 41mm Wi-Fi model starting at $350 and the LTE version at $450. The larger 45mm model is slightly more expensive, with the Wi-Fi version priced at $400 and the LTE version at $500. These price points make the Pixel Watch 3 an attractive option for consumers looking for a versatile and feature-rich smartwatch.
The Pixel Watch 3 offers a compelling blend of design, performance, and features, making it a strong contender in the wearable tech space. With its range of sizes, enhanced display, advanced fitness capabilities, and competitive pricing, the Pixel Watch 3 is poised to make a significant impact in the smartwatch market.