How Google can make the Pixel Watch 2 stand out in the crowded smartwatch market

The Pixel Watch marked Google’s first foray into the smartwatch market, and while it is not perfect, it did leave a strong impression on us. Assuming Google continues to develop the Pixel Watch line (which is likely), the Pixel Watch 2 could be the Android equivalent of the Apple Watch that many have been waiting for.

However, Google still has some work to do before the Pixel Watch 2 can truly compete with the Apple Watch. But there are ideas on how Google can improve and create a smartwatch that customers will want to purchase.

More options for size

The Pixel Watch is a smartwatch that comes with a 41mm stainless steel case which some people find too small and dainty for their wrist. Unlike other smartwatch makers such as Samsung and Apple that offer multiple size options, the Pixel Watch only comes in one size, making it difficult for some people to find the right fit. For example, Samsung offers multiple size options such as 40mm, 44mm, and 45mm case sizes, while Apple offers 41mm, 45mm, and even a 49mm Titanium Apple Watch Ultra. The Pixel Watch only comes in one size, so it might not fit everyone’s wrist comfortably. It’s worth noting that the Pixel Watch has a small and large band size included, with the small size fitting wrists between 130-175 mm around, and the large size fitting wrists between 137-203 mm around.

Better battery life

Battery life is an essential consideration when purchasing any device, particularly a smartwatch. While many of the newer watches have made strides in this area, the Pixel Watch falls short. According to a review, the Pixel Watch has subpar battery life, particularly when the always-on display is in use. It’s not uncommon to have to charge the watch twice daily, which is unacceptable for a smartwatch in 2023. This shortcoming becomes even more significant when you compare it to other smartwatches that can last more than a day on a single charge.

Non-proprietary watch bands

Using the Pixel Watch’s band mechanism may require some getting used to. While it is not impossible to master, it would be preferable to avoid dealing with proprietary straps altogether. The watch becomes more complicated to use with these straps and limits the availability of other bands, making them both expensive and hard to find.

Google provides a range of options for bands, but they can be quite expensive, especially when purchasing multiple units. Though a regular 20mm watch strap can be adapted to work with the Pixel Watch, the process is overly complex. It would be ideal to have a universal strap mechanism instead, to simplify the process and expand the range of options available.

Slimmer bezel

It would also be great if Google could reduce the size of the bezels around the screen. Although they’re not too distracting, having the same elegant curved display design with relatively thin bezels would be an excellent enhancement. We can already appreciate the high quality of the 1.2-inch OLED panel, and we should expect more of it. It would also be wonderful if we could obtain a Pro or an active edition with stronger construction materials, although I’m uncertain whether that’s a current priority for Google.

Health and fitness tracking

While the Pixel Watch has some health and activity tracking features, it falls short compared to similarly priced smartwatches that offer more advanced tracking features such as continuous SpO2 monitoring and temperature sensors. The lack of automatic workout detection is a significant omission for a smartwatch that commands a high price and competes against the best in the market. Although the Pixel Watch is not designed primarily for fitness tracking like Garmin, it is disappointing that it doesn’t offer more considering it’s backed by the Fitbit platform.

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