Google’s Pixel Watch 4 (41mm) introduces a captivating design evolution with its Actua 360 display, featuring a domed screen that enhances both tactile interaction and visual appeal. This design, inspired by water droplets, offers a unique aesthetic that sets it apart from competitors. The curvature of the display facilitates smoother swipes and improved visibility from various angles, providing a depth reminiscent of traditional watch dials.
The domed display not only contributes to the watch’s sleek appearance but also increases the active screen area by 10% and reduces bezels by 16%, enhancing the overall user experience. This expansion allows for more information to be displayed, making interactions more intuitive and glanceable.
Despite these advancements, the Pixel Watch 4’s battery life remains a concern. The 41mm model houses a 325 mAh battery, offering approximately 30 hours of usage with the Always-On Display (AOD) enabled. While this is a 25% improvement over previous models, it still necessitates daily charging, which may not meet the expectations of all users.
To address charging needs, Google has introduced a new Quick Charge Dock, capable of charging the watch from 0 to 50% in under 15 minutes. This dock provides a more stable and efficient charging experience compared to previous methods. Additionally, the Pixel Watch 4 is designed with repairability in mind, featuring accessible screws that allow for battery and display replacements without the need for adhesives, aligning with Google’s sustainability goals.
In terms of performance, the Pixel Watch 4 is powered by the Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 processor, coupled with 2 GB of RAM and 32 GB of storage. The updated co-processor enhances machine learning tasks, contributing to a smoother user experience. Health and fitness features have also been improved, with more accurate sleep tracking, a next-generation skin temperature sensor, and AI-powered activity recognition that personalizes workout summaries over time.
The Pixel Watch 4 is available in two sizes: 41mm and 45mm, with the 41mm model priced at $349 for the Bluetooth/Wi-Fi version and $399 for the LTE variant. Color options include Matte Black Aluminum with Obsidian Active Band, Polished Silver Aluminum with Porcelain Active Band, Champagne Gold Aluminum with Lemongrass Active Band, and Polished Silver Aluminum with Iris Active Band.
In conclusion, the Pixel Watch 4 (41mm) stands out with its innovative design and enhanced display, offering a unique and immersive user experience. However, the need for daily charging remains a drawback. Future iterations could benefit from increased battery capacity to complement the watch’s impressive features.