Google has officially launched the Pixel Watch 3, and while the design may look familiar, the latest iteration brings significant upgrades and new features to the lineup. Although it might be easy to mistake it for the Pixel Watch 2 at first glance, the Pixel Watch 3 introduces two size options: 41mm and 45mm, catering to different wrist sizes and preferences.
Google Pixel Watch 3: Now with UWB and Bluetooth LE Audio Support
Under the hood, the Pixel Watch 3 is powered by the same Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 SoC as its predecessor and retains a robust set of health sensors, including a heart rate monitor, ECG readings, SpO2 tracking, a skin thermometer, and GPS. However, the most notable addition is the UWB (Ultra-Wideband) chip, making the Pixel Watch 3 the first Android smartwatch to offer UWB connectivity.
This UWB chip enables the Pixel Watch 3 to provide enhanced functionalities like unlocking your phone or helping you locate it through Google’s Find My Device feature. Additionally, if your car is equipped with UWB technology, you can use the watch to unlock it as well.
Both the 41mm and 45mm variants of the Pixel Watch 3 feature upgraded displays with 2,000 nits peak brightness, a significant improvement over the Pixel Watch 2’s 1,000-nit display. The screen bezels have also been trimmed down by a full millimeter, offering a sleeker look. The 41mm model retains a 1.2-inch display, while the 45mm version boasts a 1.4-inch screen.
Battery life remains consistent with last year’s model, with the 41mm variant housing a 310mAh battery and the 45mm version equipped with a 420mAh cell. Google claims both models can achieve 24 hours of battery life even with the always-on display enabled. The Pixel Watch 3 also features 20% faster charging, ensuring you spend less time tethered to the charger.
For those who enjoy listening to music or podcasts during workouts, the Pixel Watch 3 now supports Bluetooth LE Audio, a low-energy Bluetooth protocol that conserves battery life while streaming. This makes the Pixel Watch 3 the first Android smartwatch to offer this feature.
In addition to improved audio capabilities, Google has introduced new fitness and health-tracking features. The Pixel Watch 3 now includes a readiness score, which assesses your recovery and helps you determine whether you’re ready for your next workout or need more rest. Other notable features include enhanced running tracking, the ability to control your Pixel phone’s camera, access to your Nest Cam or Nest Doorbell directly from the watch, and offline navigation via Google Maps.
Color Options and Pricing
The Pixel Watch 3 is available in several stylish color options. Both the 41mm and 45mm models come in Matte Black Aluminum with an Obsidian strap and Polished Silver Aluminum with a Porcelain strap. The 41mm variant also offers a Champagne Gold Aluminum finish with a Hazel band, while the 45mm version includes a Matte Hazel Aluminum option with a matching Hazel band.
Pricing for the 41mm Pixel Watch 3 with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi starts at $349, while the 45mm model is priced at $399. Adding LTE connectivity will cost an additional $100. In the UK, the prices are £349/£399, with £100 extra for the LTE model. In continental Europe, the prices are €399/€449, with an extra €100 for the cellular version. Shipping for all models begins on September 10.
Pokdepinion: I have a friend who always wanted one but ended up going for OPPO. Now I’m wondering if they’ll end up selling it off in favor of this.
