Along with the new Pixel 10 smartphones, Google introduced the refreshed Pixel Buds 2a and the new Pixel Watch 4 with some unique features. In fact, Google says the Pixel Watch 4 is the biggest upgrade to date in its watch lineup, bringing satellite connectivity (beating Apple to the punch).
Pixel Watch 4
The watch's display is naturally curved, a change that Google says offers 10% more active screen area and 16% smaller bezels. The company also claims it brings 50% improved performance in sunlight. There's a stronger haptic mechanism for better physical feedback, while the battery lasts up to 30 hours on the 41mm model and up to 40 hours on the 45mm. Inside, it uses a Snapdragon W5 and an AI co-processor.
See also: Google's new Pixel Sense assistant is coming to the Pixel 10
Google says the screen and battery are replaceable, significantly improving repairability. The device has a special Gorilla Glass cover and the watch is made of aluminum.
The LTE version of the Pixel Watch 4 offers support emergency, so users can call for help even when there's no Wi-Fi or cellular data available. Apple is rumored to be planning to add the same feature to the Apple Watch Ultra 3, which is set to launch in September.
On the new Pixel Watch 4, sleep tracking is more accurate, there's a better skin temperature sensor , and dual-frequency GPS allows for more accurate route tracking. Google even copied Apple's Workout Buddy, introducing a personal health coach with artificial intelligence based on Gemini. It offers fitness and sleep guidance, as well as on-demand support.
See also: Apple Watch: Google withdraws the Keep app
The Pixel Watch 4 starts at $349.
Pixel Buds 2a
The Pixel Buds 2a come in at $129, which means they're cheaper than Apple's AirPods with ANC, but they still offer premium features. These are the first A-series earbuds from Google to feature Active Noise Cancellation, and Google says the sound quality has been improved with a custom speaker driver and high-frequency chamber.
Battery life has been extended, and Gemini AI is available when the earbuds are paired with a Pixel smartphone. The Pixel Buds 2a are designed to be lighter and more comfortable than previous models, with an in-ear fit and no protruding stem. Google added a twist-to-adjust stabilization feature for a tighter fit, and there's water and sweat resistance with an IP54 rating.
See also: Google retires Android Instant Apps
Google is also adding new features to the Pixel Buds Pro 2, which launched last year. The earbuds get features straight from the AirPods, like Adaptive Audio and Loud Noise Protection. Adaptive Audio adjusts the volume based on your environment to let in important sounds, while Loud Noise Protection protects your hearing when there's a sudden loud noise.
The Pixel Buds 2a and Pixel Watch 4 are available for pre-order from Google's website.
In addition to the technical features presented by Google, the launch of the Pixel Watch 4 and Pixel Buds 2a shows the company's strategy to establish itself more dynamically in the wearables market and the ecosystem of devices around Pixel smartphones. The Pixel Watch 4, with its satellite connectivity, is perhaps the most important feature we have seen in a smartwatch, as it paves the way for true independence from mobile networks. In emergency scenarios, especially in remote areas, the ability to call for help without any other connection is an advantage that can save lives and differentiate the product from the competition.
