What to Expect from the Pixel Watch 4
We’re less than a month away from the unveiling of the Pixel Watch 4 at the Made by Google 2025 event. In the meantime, several leaks have given us a glimpse into what to expect from this new model. While some updates are promising, others may not meet expectations. With the Pixel Watch 3 being discounted to clear stock, it’s a good time to consider whether to wait for the new model or go with the current one.
We found this resource helpful: Will AI Replace Your Job? Most Malaysians Not Yet Affected
Performance and Processor Upgrades
The Pixel Watch 4 is rumored to use the Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 chip, which was first introduced in the Pixel Watch 2. This means it will retain the same four Cortex-A53 cores as its predecessor. In comparison, the latest Galaxy Watches use a more powerful combination of one Cortex-A78 and four Cortex-A55 cores. If this leak is accurate, it could be a reason to stick with the Pixel Watch 3 or even the older Watch 2, as they offer similar performance levels.
Despite this, the Pixel Watch 3 has already shown strong capabilities, including running Gemini on Wear OS and smoothly handling Wear OS 6. The question remains: why hasn’t Google upgraded the processor? It could be due to a lack of perceived need for more power or potential issues with RISC-V plans with Qualcomm. Either way, it’s a letdown if true.
Another leak confirmed that the Pixel Watch 4 will replace the 2016 Cortex-M33 co-processor with the 2020 Cortex-M55. This upgrade is expected to deliver “5x the AI workload at a fraction of the power.” However, whether this matters depends on how often you use Gemini. For those who primarily use AI on their phones, the Wear OS version might feel like a limited novelty.
Battery Life and Design Improvements
One of the most significant upgrades is the battery life. The Pixel Watch 4 is said to last 30 hours with AOD active for the 41mm model and 40 hours for the 45mm model. This is a noticeable improvement over the Watch 3’s 24-hour estimate. While it still falls short of some competitors, it positions the Pixel Watch 4 to compete with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 in terms of longevity.
However, 30–40 hours still means daily charging, especially if you’re using AOD. If AOD is turned off, the larger model might stretch to two full days. But for those who charge every night, the Watch 3 will still last the full day without any issues. The Watch 4 offers more flexibility as the battery capacity fades over time.
Design Changes and New Features
The design of the Pixel Watch 4 is expected to remain consistent with previous models. However, leaked renders suggest it may be 2mm thicker than the Watch 3. While this might seem minor, it could affect the overall comfort and aesthetics. A 14mm thickness is considered thick for a fitness watch, and a bulging bezel might detract from the sleek look.
On the positive side, one leak suggests the Pixel Watch 4 will be fully repairable, unlike earlier models that couldn’t be disassembled for repairs. Another leak indicates the possibility of satellite SOS capabilities, which could add an extra layer of safety. Fitting an antenna for such features might explain the increased thickness.
Additionally, the Pixel Watch 4 is expected to feature a side-mounted charging stand instead of the current bottom charging pin system. This could improve convenience, though it remains to be seen if it offers any real benefits over the existing setup.
Should You Wait for the Pixel Watch 4?
At this point, waiting for the Pixel Watch 4 makes sense, even if it doesn’t meet all your expectations. However, it’s not the right choice for everyone. The Pixel Watch 3 is currently available at a discounted price, making it a compelling option for those who don’t want to wait.
If the leaks are accurate, the Pixel Watch 4 could offer additional battery life, a brighter display, a more convenient charger, faster Gemini commands, and some safety features. Whether these improvements are worth $100 more depends on your personal needs and preferences.
The Pixel Watch 3 remains one of the best Android watches today, and the Watch 4 is expected to maintain similar app speeds, storage, and health sensors. It will also receive Wear OS 6 in the near future. So, if you’re not excited about what the newer model has to offer, there’s no harm in grabbing the current one at a discounted price.
