As Google’s highly anticipated Pixel launch event, rumored for August 20th, draws closer, a flurry of leaks continues to emerge, offering tantalizing glimpses into the company’s upcoming hardware. Following recent disclosures regarding the Pixel 10’s color and storage configurations, as well as confirmation of the Pixel Buds 2a and a new wireless charging accessory, fresh information has now surfaced detailing the Pixel Watch 4’s size, color palettes, and an extensive array of band options. These leaks provide a comprehensive preview of what consumers can expect from Google’s next iteration in the competitive smartwatch market.
Size and Color Variants: Expanding Aesthetic Choices
Consistent with its predecessor, the Pixel Watch 3, Google is reportedly set to offer the Pixel Watch 4 in two distinct sizes: 41mm and 45mm. Both size variants will be available in both Wi-Fi-only and LTE-enabled configurations, providing connectivity flexibility for users.
The leak specifies a diverse range of color options for each size. The 41mm Pixel Watch 4 is expected to launch in sophisticated shades including Black, Gold, Moonstone, and Silver. Meanwhile, the larger 45mm Pixel Watch 4 will reportedly be offered in Obsidian, Lemon, Moonstone, Iris, and Porcelain. Intriguingly, Moonstone is purportedly the sole color that will be common across both the 41mm and 45mm models, indicating Google’s intent to differentiate the aesthetic offerings based on watch size. This varied color selection aims to cater to a broader spectrum of consumer preferences and personal styles.
New Band Options: Customization at the Forefront
Google is also planning to introduce an array of fresh band options for the Pixel Watch 4 family, further enhancing customization possibilities. Notable additions include a visually appealing Gradient Stretch Band and a new two-tone Leather Band in Jade color. The leaked list provides a comprehensive overview of the expected band selections:
- 2-Tone Leather Band: Jade
- Active Band: Iris, Lemongrass, Moonstone
- Active Sport Band: Indigo, Lemongrass, Moonstone, Peony
- Crafted Leather Band: Moonstone
- Metal Mesh Band: Matte Black, Polished Silver
- Performance Loop Band: Moonstone
- Woven Band: Indigo
- Gradient Stretch Bands: Lemongrass/Frost, Moonstone, Obsidian/Hazel, Peony/Iris (available in Sizes 1 through 5)
A key advantage for existing Pixel Watch users is that, since the Pixel Watch 4 is expected to retain the same sizes as the Pixel Watch 3, all current and new watch bands should remain interchangeable between the two generations. This ensures backward compatibility and allows users to continue using their existing band collections while also exploring new styles.
Design and Internal Hardware: Subtle Tweaks with a Major Charging Shift
Leaked CAD renders have already provided an early look at the Pixel Watch 4’s design, confirming that it will largely maintain the familiar aesthetic of its predecessors. The iconic circular, domed glass look will remain, albeit with some minor refinements. The renders suggest slightly thinner bezels around the screen, which could enhance the display area and overall visual appeal, even if the watch itself is rumored to become incrementally thicker.
The most significant upgrade in terms of hardware, however, is the rumored switch to wireless charging. Google is reportedly moving away from the POGO pin charging solution used in previous models, adopting a more conventional wireless charging method. This change, while convenient for users, is also speculated to contribute to a thicker overall “waistline” for the Pixel Watch 4 compared to the Watch 3, potentially accommodating the necessary wireless charging coils and possibly a larger battery to offset increased power demands or offer extended endurance. Some leaks suggest the Watch 4 could be 14.3mm thick, up from the Pixel Watch 3’s 12.3mm.
Internally, the Pixel Watch 4 is not anticipated to feature any groundbreaking upgrades in terms of its core processor. Rumors suggest it may continue to utilize the same Qualcomm W5 chip that powered the last two Pixel Watch generations. While this chip has proven capable, its continued use might imply that Google is prioritizing software optimization and integration with its Wear OS platform, along with new sensor technology, over raw processing power for this iteration. However, other reports hint that Google might be considering the new Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 chipset for the Pixel Watch 4, which could offer significant performance and battery life improvements. There’s also speculation about Google eventually adopting its own Tensor chipset for future Pixel Watches, aligning with its smartphone strategy.
The leaked details paint a picture of the Google Pixel Watch 4 as an evolutionary upgrade rather than a revolutionary one. Google appears to be refining the successful design, expanding color and customization options, and implementing a crucial wireless charging solution. While the internal hardware might see more subtle enhancements, the collective improvements aim to deliver a more polished and user-friendly experience. With the rumored August 20th launch date fast approaching, these leaks build significant anticipation for what Google hopes will be another compelling contender in the fiercely competitive smartwatch market.
