Google Pixel Watch Matte Black with Obsidian Active Band
Google's Watch Debut Doesn't…
28/11/2022 15:45
Being a fan of the Google ecosystem and the owner of three Pixel phones over the past few years, like many I've been waiting for the Pixel watch for some time now. Google's Pixel watch is a very solid first attempt at delivering that premium flagship device Google fans have been waiting for. Summary of the main points:
Setup:
Setting up was seamless - starting downloading the Pixel watch app on to your phone and following the prompts to get you up & running with the basic apps.
Design:
Google have nailed the premium look & feel - the stylish round, sleek and minimalistic watch sits comfortably alongside only the most premium watches on the market. That said, the screen could be slightly larger (or a larger version available). The watch's bezels are quite chunky & restrict the screen to only 31mm which is small compared to other watches, yet doesn't detract too much from the experience. Hopefully version 2 will open the screen up at least another 4-5mm.
User interface:
The Wear OS is snappy & quick, providing a familiar experience for Android phone users. It takes a little while to get which swipes perform which functions. I do find that the tilt to wake is a bit hit & miss - quite often it won't wake without me having to tap on it. There is no way to calibrate this - perhaps on a future release Google? Another slight annoyance is the requirement to enter your PIN all the time - yes you can disable the PIN, however that excludes you from being able to use Google Wallet, which is understandable. Looking forward to future versions that may have fingerprint unlock capability on the screen.
Apps:
- Fitbit functionality offers some great fitness tracking features. Fit offers six months premium access free of charge, however although I find many of the basic features useful, I can't see myself paying $15 per month for the extra features once the free offer expires.
- Google Assistant is my favourite feature so far with the watch. Being a pretty consistent user of reminders, Google Home and Nest doorbell, being able to access the Google Assistant on my wrist is super convenient.
- Google Wallet is also a handy (and expected) feature.
Battery life:
So far has been OK, lasting 24 hours with always-on turned off. Charging is fast, approx an hour or less which helps. Now we just need a Google Pixel stand that can charge the phone & watch simultaneously.
All in all a solid - and pleasing - entrance from Google.
Grubbadubb
Claremont , Austrálie
Age: 46
Gender: Female