Pixel Watch 4 brings a brighter display, longer battery, AI features, and health upgrades in a sleek design.
A Quick Take
The Pixel Watch 4 arrives as Google’s boldest step yet into the smartwatch world, taking everything fans loved about the previous models and pushing it further. At first glance, the design is familiar with its signature domed display, but the improvements are easy to spot once you start using it. This generation brings a brighter and more fluid “Actua 360” display, slimmer bezels, faster performance thanks to the Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 paired with a machine-learning co-processor, and a fresh take on Wear OS with version 6. Battery life is finally longer, lasting more than a full day with ease, and for the first time, the LTE model includes standalone Satellite SOS, which is a potential lifesaver. Add new health tracking features, Gemini AI right on your wrist, and a repairable build, and it’s clear Google is making a serious play for the smartwatch crown.
Release Date and Pricing
Google officially announced the Pixel Watch 4 on August 20, 2025, with pre-orders going live the same day. The watch will hit stores on October 9, 2025. Pricing is refreshingly consistent with the previous generation, which is a surprise considering the amount of upgrades packed inside. The smaller 41 mm version starts at $349 for the Wi-Fi model, while the larger 45 mm version is $399. If you want LTE connectivity for standalone calling and data, you’ll need to add another $100. By keeping the price steady while delivering major enhancements, Google is showing confidence in its smartwatch lineup.
Design and Sizes
One of the most noticeable changes this year is the introduction of two sizes. The Pixel Watch 4 now comes in 41 mm and 45 mm versions, making it more versatile for different wrist sizes. Both keep the domed look that has become iconic to the Pixel Watch series, but refinements in the materials and structure give it a sleeker and more premium feel. The casing is crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum, which keeps it light while still ensuring durability. The watch remains slim at 12.3 mm thick, weighing just 31 grams for the smaller version and 36.7 grams for the larger one, not including the bands. For fitness enthusiasts and swimmers, the water resistance rating is 5 ATM with IP68 dust protection, which means you can wear it in the shower, at the pool, or while sweating through a workout without worry.
Actua 360 Display and Visual Improvements
The showpiece of the Pixel Watch 4 is the Actua 360 display. This innovation isn’t just marketing jargon. In earlier models, the display panel was relatively flat beneath the domed glass. Now, the OLED itself curves, creating an edgeless effect that feels futuristic and more natural. This design not only looks stunning but also offers a 10 percent larger active area without making the watch itself bigger. Bezels are slimmer by 16 percent compared to the previous model, which gives watch faces more room to breathe. Brightness has taken a major leap too, now peaking at 3,000 nits, which is 50 percent brighter than before. Whether you are outdoors in direct sunlight or indoors at night, the watch remains easy to read, smooth, and vibrant.
Materials and Durability
Durability has been improved without compromising elegance. The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5, while the aluminum casing strikes a perfect balance between sturdiness and comfort. Everyday accidents like bumps, splashes, and drops are far less of a concern. The water resistance of 5 ATM combined with dust protection ensures the Pixel Watch 4 is ready for whatever your day throws at it, whether it is a run in the rain, a swim, or just regular use in tough conditions.
Performance and Platform
Under the hood, the Pixel Watch 4 is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon W5 Gen 2, supported by a dedicated machine-learning co-processor. This dual-chip approach means the main processor handles heavy tasks while the co-processor quietly manages smaller, continuous processes like notifications, activity tracking, and AI features without draining much battery. The result is smoother performance, quicker response times, and better power efficiency. Apps launch faster, scrolling feels more fluid, and the watch handles multitasking with ease.
Wear OS 6 and Material 3 Expressive
Alongside the hardware upgrades, the Pixel Watch 4 debuts Wear OS 6. This update brings a fresh design language known as Material 3 Expressive. The interface uses bold colors, fluid animations, and typography that matches the curved edges of the watch. Functionally, Wear OS 6 focuses on efficiency. Tiles are more useful, notifications are smarter, and navigation feels natural with fewer swipes needed to get where you want. It’s a combination of beauty and practicality, making everyday use enjoyable rather than clunky.
Battery and Charging
Battery life has long been a sore spot for smartwatches, but the Pixel Watch 4 finally addresses this issue head-on. Google rates the 41 mm model at up to 30 hours of use with the always-on display turned on, while the 45 mm version stretches that to around 40 hours. In real-world use, this means you no longer need to charge the watch every single night. With Battery Saver mode, you can even push it to two or three days depending on usage. Charging is faster too, thanks to the new quick-charge dock. A short top-up provides hours of use, and the redesigned charging contacts on the side ensure a secure and efficient connection.
Connectivity and Safety
Perhaps the most exciting addition this year is standalone Satellite SOS, which is available on LTE models. This feature allows you to reach emergency services even when you are outside of cellular coverage, a game-changer for hikers, campers, or anyone who spends time in remote areas. The watch also supports precise GPS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC for contactless payments, and even UWB for advanced location and connectivity features. These upgrades make the Pixel Watch 4 a safer and smarter device for everyday life.
Health and Fitness
Fitness and health tracking remain central to the Pixel Watch 4, and this generation pushes the boundaries further. New sensors improve heart rate accuracy, track skin temperature, and offer more detailed insights into your body’s daily rhythms. Sleep tracking is smarter with enhanced detection and personalized insights, helping you understand how rest impacts your energy levels. Auto-activity detection is faster and more accurate, so whether you are jogging, cycling, or lifting, the watch recognizes it without you needing to tap a button. Fitbit integration remains strong, but now it includes an AI health coach powered by Google’s Gemini, offering tailored suggestions and motivation to help you hit your goals.
Gemini on Your Wrist
Speaking of Gemini, the AI assistant now lives right on your wrist in a much more natural way. With the new Raise to Talk feature, you don’t even have to say “Hey Google” anymore—simply lift your wrist and start speaking. Gemini understands context better than ever, delivering smart replies, summarizing notifications, and helping with tasks on the go. It feels like having a mini AI companion that learns your habits and adapts to your needs.
Repairability and Serviceability
Another important change is that the Pixel Watch 4 is designed with repairability in mind. Previous generations were nearly impossible to fix, often requiring full replacements for minor issues. This time, Google has made the watch more serviceable, which means longer product life and potentially lower repair costs. It is a move that aligns with sustainability goals and gives peace of mind to users who plan to keep their device for years.
Colors, Bands, and Personalization
Google knows personalization is key, so the Pixel Watch 4 comes in multiple colors and finishes with a wide range of bands. Whether you prefer a sporty look, a classic leather strap, or a sleek metal bracelet, there’s something to match your style. The improved display makes customizable watch faces pop more than ever, letting you make the watch feel uniquely yours.
Everyday Experience
All these features come together to make the Pixel Watch 4 not just a gadget but a true daily companion. From handling calls and texts to tracking workouts and guiding you with AI-powered insights, it integrates seamlessly into your lifestyle. Whether you are rushing to work, relaxing on a weekend, or exploring the outdoors, the Pixel Watch 4 feels like it is always one step ahead.
Pixel Watch 3 vs Pixel Watch 4
Compared to the Pixel Watch 3, the fourth-generation model is a clear upgrade. It is faster, brighter, more durable, and finally delivers on battery life. The new health sensors, Gemini integration, and Satellite SOS give it features that go beyond just being a smartwatch—they make it a genuine health and safety tool.
Pixel Watch 4 vs Galaxy Watch 8
When placed against rivals like Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 8, the Pixel Watch 4 holds its ground. While Samsung still has advantages in certain fitness features, Google’s integration of AI and the cleaner Wear OS 6 experience make the Pixel Watch 4 highly competitive. The choice may come down to whether you live in the Google ecosystem or Samsung’s, but for Pixel phone owners, the Watch 4 feels like a perfect match.
Pros and Cons
The Pixel Watch 4 has plenty going for it: stunning design, bright and spacious display, longer battery life, better performance, and features like Satellite SOS and Gemini AI. Downsides? The battery life, while improved, still may not satisfy heavy users seeking week-long endurance, and LTE models do carry a higher price tag. Still, the pros heavily outweigh the cons.
Verdict
The Pixel Watch 4 is the smartwatch Google fans have been waiting for. It strikes the right balance between design, performance, health tracking, and smart AI features. With its repairable build, improved battery, and powerful new software, it feels ready for the mainstream. If you are in the market for a smartwatch that blends elegance with intelligence, the Pixel Watch 4 is one of the best choices available right now.
FAQs
Q1: How long does the Pixel Watch 4 battery last?
The smaller 41 mm model lasts up to 30 hours with the always-on display, while the larger 45 mm version lasts around 40 hours.
Q2: Can I swim with the Pixel Watch 4?
Yes, the watch has a 5 ATM water resistance rating, making it safe for swimming, showering, and sweaty workouts.
Q3: What makes the Actua 360 display different?
The OLED itself curves along with the glass, creating a more seamless look and a larger active screen area with thinner bezels.
Q4: Does the Pixel Watch 4 work with iPhones?
The watch is optimized for Android and especially Pixel phones, but core features may not be fully available on iOS devices.
Q5: Is the Pixel Watch 4 worth upgrading from Pixel Watch 3?
Yes, if you value better battery life, a brighter display, new health features, and AI integration, the upgrade is well worth it.
