Exploration of the Google Pixel Watch 3's Preliminary Impressions
I had to step away for a while, but I returned with a new companion - the Pixel Watch 3. I utilized this time to delve into its inner workings. I enjoyed it so much that I exchanged my Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 in the 45mm size for the Pixel Watch 3. This is the largest smartwatch I've ever owned, and surprisingly, I preferred it over the 41mm variant. The expanded screen is a delight, offering approximately 40% more space for text, images, and my favorite app, FlightRadar. It also fits comfortably on my wrist.
If you already own a Pixel Watch, regardless of its generation, you might find this review redundant. Upon its release a few months ago, the Pixel Watch 3 offered unique metrics without the need for a monthly subscription. Its battery life is slightly improved as well, although I still find myself charging it after a day and a half of use, especially when tracking sleep, which I no longer do due to my smart ring. Nonetheless, the Pixel Watch 3 continues to be an enjoyable experience for Android users who aren't satisfied with other options. The enlarged screen only enhances this experience.
Entering the Apple Watch Age
The Pixel Watch 3 has officially entered its "Apple Watch" era. This isn't due to any new features or a desire to instigate conflict between Android and Apple users (I've seen those comments!). Rather, the new Pixel Watch 3 resembles the previous Pixel Watches in design, from the curved circular display to the protruding digital crown. This time, there is an option for a larger size. However, unless you prefer it, there's no immediate reason to upgrade.
This is reminiscent of the Apple Watch. Each year, a new model is released, often maintaining the same shape, either smaller or more rugged. Apple Watch users can count on a new model every year, and its design is instantly recognizable. The same goes for the Pixel Watch: it embodies the watch to wear if you're an avid Google user, representing a commitment to a specific aesthetic and choosing the Fitbit suite over Samsung Health or another third-party option.
Bigger display, longer battery life
Since the design remains largely unchanged from the previous Pixel Watches, the main takeaway from the Pixel Watch 3 launch is the availability of two size options. The 41mm and 45mm models boast the smallest bezels in the line's history. They have been updated with a new Actua display that is twice as bright as before, reaching up to 2,000 nits. This is beneficial for the flashlight feature, especially useful when navigating dark areas or searching in the dark.
The larger Pixel Watch 3 boasts a 420mAh battery, compared to the 307mAh battery of the 41mm version. Google claims up to 24 hours of battery life for the larger Pixel Watch 3 with the always-on display and 36 hours without it. During my brief usage, I noticed a difference in battery life between the third-generation and second-generation Pixel Watches. After nearly two days off the charger, I was at 43% on the 45mm Pixel Watch 3. While this is satisfactory, unlike the OnePlus smartwatches, which have a system to take the blame off the battery-draining processor for basic tasks, the Pixel Watch 3 requires its proprietary charging cable for extended use away from home.
I attempted to take advantage of the larger battery, even for a hike. Unfortunately, I forgot to charge it the morning after and didn't notice its low battery until I got dressed for the workout in the late evening. The 45mm Pixel Watch was at 13% when I left the house, and it shut down about a mile and a half into my route. Fortunately, I was wearing the Samsung Galaxy Ring, so I didn't lose track of my workout. However, I was annoyed when the watch alerted me of its impending shutdown.
Updates in Fitbit
Fitbit is a useful tool, but I barely use it now that I wear a smart ring. I've enjoyed tracking my routine with the health and wellness suite and the Pixel Watch 2 over the past year, but Samsung Health offers more flexibility in data sharing. Fitbit recently started integrating with Peloton workouts, counting them toward the daily totals.
New, free wellness features have been added to the Fitbit ecosystem as well. The Morning Brief is the latest significant addition, summarizing how you might feel for the day ahead and your energy levels based on the quality of your sleep. The watch provides a gentle reminder, and the Fitbit app offers more detailed information. The watch then calculates your Cardio Load, the primary metric for the Morning Brief. This factors in your sleep quality, overall readiness score based on logged activities, and your target load for optimal performance.
The latest upgrade to Wear OS 5 on the Pixel Watch makes it even more appealing with the addition of a built-in Chromecast remote. This handy tool can be accessed through its icon on the watch's app launcher or as a tile in the quick settings shade. With this feature, you can manage playback, volume, and content on a nearby screen, just like you would with the Chromecast Remote app on your phone. I personally use it to cut off the TV in the living room and gain my daughter's attention, making it worth the inclusion in my opinion.
The functionality of Google Home shortcuts has also been enhanced. Now, you can view real-time footage from your security cameras directly on your watch, avoiding the inconvenience of having to fetch your phone to check the feed, only to find nothing of interest. This feature works best when you're at home and everything is connected to Wi-Fi.
The last feature on the Pixel Watch 3 is Call Assist. Although, I haven't encountered it yet as nobody calls me except for spam callers. Google explains it as a feature allowing you to answer calls on your watch, but with an automated voice, informing the caller that you're unavailable but keen to chat whenever you retrieve your phone. This should reduce missed calls from the watch.
Should You Invest in a Pixel Watch 3?
Google's smartwatch platform has seen significant progress in recent years, however, you don't necessarily need the Pixel Watch 3 to join this revolution. The Pixel Watch 3 essentially serves as a handy extension of the Android ecosystem, offering convenient controls for smart home devices and media, as well as notifications. While it isn't essential, its larger screen and enhanced functionality might be tempting if you're looking to upgrade your current watch.
If you own an earlier model of the Pixel Watch, there's probably no pressing need to upgrade to the Pixel Watch 3. However, if the larger screen appeals to you and offers added value due to its information density, you might consider trading in your old watch. The additional screen space is incredibly useful for going through notifications and monitoring wellness data. Spending some time with larger smartwatches from Samsung and OnePlus this year has eased my concerns about the wrist space required for a larger display. Unfortunately, you'll have to start afresh with your watch band collection as none of my existing bands fit the 45mm Pixel Watch 3 due to its proprietary connectors.
The Pixel Watch 3's design resemblance to the Apple Watch in its "Apple Watch" era has sparked discussions about its potential to attract Apple users who prefer a larger screen. This shift in size has been a popular feature requested by users, offering more space for text, images, and apps.
In terms of technology advancements, the new Wear OS 5 update on the Pixel Watch 3 introduces a built-in Chromecast remote, allowing users to control media playback and volume from their wrist. This feature, along with the enhanced Google Home shortcuts, adds a new level of convenience to daily routines.
In the realm of future reviews, the Pixel Watch 3's larger screen and improved battery life continue to make it a compelling choice for Android users looking for a smartwatch that complements their lifestyle. With its unique features and commitment to the Google ecosystem, the Pixel Watch 3 remains an enjoyable and practical device for many.
