The second generation of the Google Pixel Watch has finally launched, and it’s standing ready to snatch center stage from other Android-based smartwatches. Packed full of generously upgraded features, many of which are due to its continued Fitbit integration, it also includes a new heart rate sensor and even better heart rate tracking using advanced Google AI.
Of course, the Google Pixel Watch 2 is a lifestyle device at heart, and though it comes in only one size (unlike the Apple Watch, which offers a more varied selection), you will get a few more choices in terms of color (we love the new Silver/Bay shade) and bands. It’s also packed with new safety features and easier on-wrist experiences with the most popular Google apps — we’re looking at you, Gmail.
Interested in finding out more about Google’s newest smart timepiece? Here’s what you need to know about the Pixel Watch 2, and where you can preorder it now.
The Pixel Watch 2 is the anticipated second generation of Google’s smartwatch, and it brings even tighter integration with all your favorite Fitbit features while offering even more access to your favorite Google apps. The new Pixel Watch 2 also comes with advanced safety features, more colors to choose from and a more streamlined design. And the promise of a full day of battery life is an upgrade we’re looking forward to putting to the test.
How to preorder the Pixel Watch 2
The Pixel Watch 2 was unveiled alongside Google’s new Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro smartphones on Oct. 4 — and you can preorder it now on the Google Store for $399 LTE and $349 Wi-Fi. The Pixel Watch 2 will be available to purchase in stores starting Oct. 12.
In addition, you can preorder the new Google Pixel 8 Pro and receive the Pixel Watch 2 free. Plus, save up to $800 with qualified trade-in.
Even more Fitbit
Google purchased Fitbit in 2019, and the Pixel Watch 2 is even more tightly integrated with the software for advanced fitness and health features. The new heart rate monitor pairs with AI to do everything from sleep tracking to alerting you to both high and low heart rate notifications, and offering a more overall glance at your health with what Google is calling a Daily Readiness Score.
The new multi-path heart rate sensor also better measures your workouts by adjusting to how hard you’re working, which means you’ll get a more accurate look at all those daily health metrics. Yup, no more guessing on whether you REALLY walked that far or shed that many calories. And to help you get in the groove with your daily move goals, it also comes with automatic workout start and stop reminders (I could use more start, less stop) that detects seven simple workouts, such as running, walking and cycling.
And Fitbit does what Fitbit does best like guiding you through a workout with voice and haptic cues, and Pace Training in case you start to fall behind.
New safety features on the Pixel Watch 2
If you’re just trying to allow folks to see where you are, maybe during a long drive or at night, you can also use Emergency Sharing for a designated amount of time. Plus, it can also enable Medical Info to share personal health information with emergency services — like blood type, allergies or special health conditions.
More Google app access and new watch face
Yes, yes, you’ll have access to faves like Gmail and Calendar. And with that extra Fitbit push, now health and fitness queries are also easier to obtain with Google Assistant. Plus, the At a Glance watch face can be set to deliver info exactly when you need it — think weather and traffic updates in an instant.
Battery, charging and design
Google is promising a whopping 24 hours of battery life with just a 75-minute charge — even with the always-on display — which sounds like a stretch, but we’re looking forward to testing it out.
And, in terms of design, the back of the watch now houses three new sensors, and the domed cover glass is (finally) thinner and sits a bit more flush to the screen. The 100% recycled aluminum housing makes the Pixel Watch 2 even lighter and more comfortable.
You can nab the Pixel Watch 2 in four color combinations: Polished Silver/Bay, Polished Silver/Porcelain, Matte Black/Obsidian and Champagne Gold/Hazel — and we dig the new Metal Slim and Active Sport bands.
Final thoughts
It’s been a year since the original Pixel Watch was announced, and the Pixel Watch 2 is indeed a solid upgrade — not incremental as with other companies’ smartwatches (like Apple and Samsung). Would we like to see at least one more shape or size? Yes, we would. But the circular design is well thought out for most people, as well as being lighter and thinner than the previous iteration.
And if you’re a fan of Fitbit and want to better integrate your health into your watch, these updated features will surely please. However, it would be nice if the Pixel Watch 2 could do everything a stand-alone Fitbit could do — like sync up to your fitness products.
And lastly, it only makes sense that Google should be able to use its AI intelligence to ramp up safety features, and give moms like me a little boost. Also great for anyone who wants to make sure they’re staying safe when traveling or commuting alone.
More to come when we have a Google Pixel Watch 2 in hand for a full review.
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