Design and Build
The Pixel Watch 2 retains the elegant and captivating design elements that have become its hallmark. The curved glass display and pebble-like form factor make this smartwatch one of the most visually appealing in the Android ecosystem. While there’s much to praise, the recurring black bezels around the screen can be a minor drawback. They tend to be noticeable on certain watch faces and colorful backgrounds, which, in turn, can make the screen feel smaller than it actually is. Despite this minor quirk, the design remains eye-catching and sure to please many, especially those with smaller wrists.
Performance and User Experience
One of the most significant improvements with the Pixel Watch 2 lies beneath the surface. This smartwatch now boasts a new quad-core processor, translating into quicker app loading times and a generally smoother user experience compared to its predecessor. While it’s not entirely devoid of minor lags, the overall feel is undeniably more seamless. The standout upgrade here is the new crown – a subtle yet impactful enhancement. The improved crown now glides effortlessly, providing an enhanced navigation experience. In contrast, the previous model had a noticeable level of resistance, making this particular change a valuable addition.
Health and Fitness Tracking
The Pixel Watch 2 continues to raise the bar in health and fitness tracking. It builds upon the successes of its predecessors by introducing several new sensors found in the Fitbit Sense 2. These sensors include skin temperature monitoring and continuous electrodermal activity tracking, which contribute to a broader range of health observations. The standout feature in this department is passive stress monitoring, a trend sweeping the industry. The watch can detect signs of stress and excitement, prompting users to log their mood and offering helpful suggestions for stress relief, such as going for a walk or engaging in breathing exercises. In addition, the blood oxygen sensor now plays a more significant role in sleep data analysis, providing users with additional insights into their well-being.
(Image credit : GOOGLE)
Battery and Charging
Battery life on the Pixel Watch 2 aligns with its predecessor in most respects. However, a noteworthy improvement is that the device now boasts a 24-hour battery life even with the always-on display activated, a feature missing from its predecessor. It’s worth noting that this extended battery life might not hold up for extended GPS-powered workouts. Charging efficiency has also received a boost. After one hour of charging, the watch reaches a remarkable 97% charge. Charging efficiency has also received a boost. After one hour of charging, the watch reaches a remarkable 97% charge.
Safety Features
With safety being an increasing focus across the industry, Google introduces the Safety Check feature to the Pixel Watch 2. This feature allows users to set timers for specific situations, such as walking home alone at night or hiking solo. Once these timers expire, the watch prompts users to check in with an emergency contact or contact emergency services if necessary. This feature, originally available on Pixel phones, is a valuable addition to the Pixel Watch 2, providing an extra layer of security in various scenarios.
User-Friendly Features
One of the standout features of the Pixel Watch 2 is its user-friendliness. The watch seamlessly integrates with various Android devices, providing a unified and intuitive experience for users. Google Assistant is readily accessible, allowing users to ask health-related questions and receive quick answers. The Pixel Watch 2 also offers automatic workout detection, a much-anticipated feature, and a valuable addition. The watch can recognize specific exercises, including walking, running, elliptical training, rowing, outdoor biking, and spinning, and prompt users to start tracking the workout. This user-friendly feature ensures that you never miss out on recording your physical activities.
(Image credit : GOOGLE)
Customization and Personalization
The Pixel Watch 2 offers a multitude of customization options to make the device truly your own. Users can choose from various watch faces, allowing them to select the one that suits their style and preferences. The availability of third-party apps further enhances the watch’s functionality. The user can use apps such as WhatsApp, Spotify, Strava, and more to customize their smartwatch experience. The Pixel Watch 2 is all about making it your own.
Final thoughts
The Google Pixel Watch 2 is a commendable addition to the Android smartwatch ecosystem. It takes the best features of its predecessors and builds upon them, providing a well-rounded, user-friendly, and visually appealing wearable. While the inclusion of advanced health insights may require a Fitbit Premium subscription, Google’s free tier offers substantial functionality. The watch’s emphasis on mental health and safety is a valuable trend in the industry, making it a compelling choice for Android users seeking an alternative to the Apple Watch. With the Pixel Watch 2, Google continues to raise the bar in the world of Android smartwatches, setting new standards for innovation and user experience. As Google refines its smartwatch offerings, the Pixel Watch 2 is a clear statement that they are not just meeting expectations but pushing the boundaries of what a smartwatch can be.
