It’s hard to believe that Google released the first Pixel Watch just under two years ago. While it was a significant milestone as the first smartwatch bearing the Pixel name, the watch itself left much to be desired. The Pixel Watch 2 arrived a year later, offering a significant improvement over its predecessor. The Pixel Watch 2 was a genuinely good device, making it a more compelling choice. Now, with the newly announced Pixel Watch 3, Google seems to have delivered the Pixel Watch we’ve all been waiting for.
After spending some initial time with the Pixel Watch 3, I’m convinced that it might be Google’s best Pixel Watch yet. Two major hardware changes stand out: the introduction of a larger size option and the dramatic reduction of bezels.
At first glance, the Pixel Watch 3 might appear similar to its predecessor, the Pixel Watch 2. The domed glass display, seamless watch bands, and the crown on the side remain familiar elements. However, two significant design changes elevate the Pixel Watch 3.
The first, and perhaps most impactful, is the addition of a larger size option. Previous Pixel Watch models were only available in a diminutive 41mm case size, appealing primarily to those who prefer smaller watches. For many, including myself, the Pixel Watch felt rather dainty. Now, you can still choose the 41mm size if you prefer, but a larger 45mm option is also available. While it’s noticeably bigger than the 41mm case, it remains significantly smaller than the behemoth 49mm case of the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra. After wearing the 45mm Pixel Watch 3 for a while, I believe it strikes a fantastic balance, feeling more substantial without being overly bulky.
The second noteworthy change concerns the bezels. Or, more accurately, the lack thereof. The Pixel Watch and Pixel Watch 2 were plagued by bulky, thick, and frankly comical-looking bezels. Thankfully, this is no longer an issue with the Pixel Watch 3. Google has shrunk the bezels by 16% compared to the Pixel Watch 2. When combined with the larger size of the 45mm model, this translates to a 40% increase in screen real estate. You can clearly see how thin the bezels are in photographs. They’re still present, but they now appear appropriately sized for a smartwatch in 2024. This was a significant annoyance with the Pixel Watch 2, so it’s a welcome improvement to see Google finally address this issue in the Pixel Watch 3.
During my hands-on time with the Pixel Watch 3, I also had the opportunity to explore some of its new health features. The most notable addition is the enhanced running experience. Google has crafted a truly impressive suite of running features for the Pixel Watch 3, and as an avid runner, I find them incredibly promising. The Fitbit app now boasts a new run-planning interface that allows for complete customization of your desired run, including warm-ups, intervals, recovery time, and more. Once you start running, the Pixel Watch 3 provides real-time guidance on the next stages of your run, your progress towards your current goal (pace, distance, or other metrics), and additional insights. Upon finishing your run, the Fitbit app provides a wealth of post-run metrics to analyze, including step cadence, ground contact time, running performance history comparisons, running trends, and more.
For Fitbit Premium subscribers, there are also daily run recommendations powered by AI. The Fitbit app now incorporates two new health metrics: Readiness and Cardio Load. The Readiness score, determined by your heart rate variability (HRV), resting heart rate, and recent sleep, provides a quick assessment of your body’s readiness to tackle the day ahead. The Cardio Load metric offers deeper insights into your body’s training capacity, providing a daily workout load to strive for. As you track exercises and activities throughout the day, they contribute to your Cardio Load. Your Cardio Load goal automatically adjusts daily based on your Readiness score and previous day’s activities. This sounds like a more intuitive approach to activity tracking compared to basic step/calorie goals, and I’m excited to personally experience its benefits.
While the design and health features have received considerable attention, there’s much more to the Pixel Watch 3. This is the first Pixel Watch to feature Google’s Actua display technology, the same technology found in the Pixel 9 series. This results in a display that’s twice as bright as the Pixel Watch 2. Google also promises improved battery life, with the 45mm model boasting a 35% larger battery. Charging is faster, and a new Auto Bedtime Mode automatically activates Bedtime Mode on the Pixel Watch 3 when it detects that you’ve fallen asleep.
The Pixel Watch 3 remains a Pixel Watch at its core, but it also feels like the Pixel Watch we’ve all been waiting for. The combination of improved and larger hardware, an enhanced display, new health features, and advancements in battery life and charging creates a compelling package. I’m eager to spend more time with it and fully explore its capabilities. Preorders for the Pixel Watch 3 are now open, with prices starting at $349 for the 41mm model and $399 for the 45mm size.
