Tag: pixel

  • Google Pixel Watch update schedule: timeline and what to expect

    Google Pixel Watch update schedule: timeline and what to expect

    We keep a close watch on the Google Pixel device update schedule, so we’ll notify you before anybody else when those upgrades are coming out and when your Pixel device may cease getting them. Although Pixel phones have received most of our attention over the years, we believed that as Google’s line of smartwatches approaches its first end-of-life moment, a dedicated space for Pixel Watch updates might be necessary.

    In contrast to Pixel phones, the Pixel Watch line is only eligible for three years of updates rather than seven. Depending on your watch, you may still have years of support left or the end may be very close. That 3-year countdown begins “when the gadget initially became accessible on the Google Store in the US.”

    google pixel watch update

    Google decided to stop producing the first Pixel Watch in October 2025. Although they recently released an October update that might be the final one, they have not yet announced that the Pixel Watch 1 is finished. We still have months or years left before the remaining Pixel Watch models – the 2, 3, and 4 – are discontinued.

    Pixel Watch update schedule

    • Pixel Watch 1: October 2025
    • Pixel Watch 4: October 2028
    • Pixel Watch 3: October 2027
    • Pixel Watch 2: October 2026

    You may check if a build is available on your Pixel Watch by going into Settings>System>System updates. To force an update to download and install, you can also attempt this time-tested tapping method.

  • Google Pixel Watch 4 stays at lowest price ever as year-end clearance continues

    Google Pixel Watch 4 stays at lowest price ever as year-end clearance continues

    Are you still shopping for Christmas? There are a few discounts that might come in time, even though the deadlines for the majority of things have passed. The 41mm Google Pixel Watch 4 is a good option for anyone searching for a reliable Android smartwatch.

    Amazon has reduced the price by 14%, bringing it down to $300 from its usual selling price of $350. You can guarantee that your orders will arrive before Christmas by placing them today. For an additional $15, you may also choose same-day delivery. All customers can take advantage of the offer, which is valid for all color choices. Do you prefer simple wearables? The obsidian band on the matte black aluminum case is gorgeous.

    Do you want to add a splash of color? The lemongrass-banded champagne case is sure to draw attention. In addition, the merchant is including a complimentary two-month Audible trial with your purchase. Please be aware that the price is only available for a little period of time, so it’s better to place your orders without

    google pixel watch 4

    Google Pixel Watch 4

    The Google Pixel Watch 4 is a stunning display of precision craftsmanship, with Gemini, your built-in AI assistant, Google’s longest-lasting battery, and comprehensive tools for next-level health and fitness performance.

    $449.99$349.99Amazon

    Pixel Watch 4 – one of the best smartwatches on the market

    google pixel watch 4 features

    Google has included a number of fitness and health-related features in the Pixel Watch 4. We’re talking about more than 40 activity modes that allow you to log a variety of activities and receive real-time performance data on your wrist. Light stretches should be done first thing in the morning, cardio should be done at midday, and after work, you should do a fast run. Additionally, the watch has high-precision dual-frequency GPS, which allows you to trace your journey more precisely while hiking and running.

    In terms of health, the watch offers important health measures like SpO2, HRV, and more, coupled with Google’s most precise heart rate tracking and sleep insights. The best part is that it’s intelligent enough to recognize a lack of pulse and instantly alert emergency personnel via geostationary satellites, which can be useful in distant areas. The aerospace-grade aluminum housing, which shields it from normal wear and tear, provides stability. The Pixel Watch 4 is ideal for certain aquatic excursions because it can withstand water up to 50 meters.

    Gemini is integrated, making it simple to use the smart assistant for a number of purposes without taking out your phone. Throughout the day, you may use it to make playlists, conduct fast searches, receive suggestions for replies, and much more. The battery lasts about 40 hours on a single charge, which is relevant to day-long use. That is more than sufficient to avoid having to top it off for a few days.

    google pixel watch 4

    Google Pixel Watch 4

    The Google Pixel Watch 4 is a stunning display of precision craftsmanship, with Gemini, your built-in AI assistant, Google’s longest-lasting battery, and comprehensive tools for next-level health and fitness performance.

    $449.99$349.99Amazon

    In terms of compatibility, a variety of Android devices work well with the watch. You can use it to see your Nest Cam or Nest doorbell stream, manage your Pixel camera from your wrist, and connect your headphones to enjoy your favorite music while on the road! This well regarded Android smartwatch has much more to offer, especially now that it is $50 off. It’s one of the greatest options available, and you can get them before Christmas if you place your orders now. The deal is probably going to end shortly, so act quickly to take advantage of it.

  • Pixel Watch 4 drops to $299.98, making it a perfect holiday gift #dealalert

    Pixel Watch 4 drops to $299.98, making it a perfect holiday gift #dealalert

    One of the greatest smartwatches of the year is the Google Pixel Watch 4, which is particularly beneficial for owners of Pixel smartphones—especially during sales like the current one. Currently available for $299.98, the 41mm Bluetooth/WiFi version of this watch would normally cost $349.99. This is both the lowest price on Amazon in the last 30 days and the lowest price ever. In actuality, it is one cent less than it was a few weeks ago. Savings!

    google pixel watch 4

    Google Pixel Watch 4 (41mm)

    The Google Pixel Watch 4 is a stunning display of precision craftsmanship, with Gemini, your built-in AI assistant, Google’s longest-lasting battery, and comprehensive tools for next-level health and fitness performance

    $349.99 $299.98Amazon

    Google hasn’t altered the Pixel Watch 4’s ever-elegant design, which is what makes it so great. With the exception of the magnetic charging pins on the side of the watch casing rather than the bottom, the watch resembles the previous three models, which is ideal because those models look fantastic. If you don’t wear the watch to bed, you may use it as an alarm clock thanks to the new magnetic charging pins on the side.

    The Pixel Watch 4 also boasts a 30-hour battery life. That’s more than enough to get you through the day, but if you don’t wear the watch all day, the battery might last you a few days or longer. The Gemini Raise-To-Talk functionality is one incredibly useful feature that you will adore. Once this is enabled, you may ask Gemini anything by simply raising your wrist to communicate with it. It’s quite handy for asking a straightforward query or receiving directions.

    google pixel watch 4

    Google Pixel Watch 4 (41mm)

    The Google Pixel Watch 4 is a stunning display of precision craftsmanship, with Gemini, your built-in AI assistant, Google’s longest-lasting battery, and comprehensive tools for next-level health and fitness performance

    $349.99 $299.98Amazon
  • Google releases Android 16 QPR2, introducing 3 notable new features

    Google releases Android 16 QPR2, introducing 3 notable new features

    Your phone may be ready for an update as Google is releasing its Android 16 Quarterly Platform Release (QPR) 2.

    Numerous new features that should enhance performance, usability, and other aspects are included in the Android 16 QPR2 release. Check out these three new features.

    Lockscreen widgets

    With the latest version of Android 16 QPR2, you can add widgets that show up when you swipe left on your lock screen. 9to5Google according to Google, you may activate the functionality by going to “Settings > Display & touch > Lock screen > Widgets on lock screen.” This implies that you will have easy access to your camera, calendar, and other devices.

    Android 16 QPR2 lockscreen widgets

    Manage alerts with notification organizers and smart summaries

    We all get overloaded with notifications, so pay attention. Android 16 QPR2 claims to use AI to control those annoying alerts. A lengthy message in a group chat, for example, will be summarized by the upgraded software, which will also automatically prioritize more significant notifications.

    “Your lower-priority notifications (including news, promotions, and social alerts) are automatically grouped and silenced by Notification Organizer, which helps you focus on what really matters with fewer distractions. The notification organizer will be accessible in the upcoming weeks and is being released in phases, according to Google.

    Improved parental controls

    With Android 16 QPR2, parents may monitor their children’s devices from a single spot thanks to the “parental controls” option in settings. It will enable parents to regulate app usage, set screen time limits remotely, and schedule when a child’s device locks.

  • Android 16 December update brings major upgrades to Google Pixel devices

    Android 16 December update brings major upgrades to Google Pixel devices

    Android 16 QPR2 has made Google’s Pixel smartphones safer and smarter. Discover why you should get this update immediately, including new lock screen widgets, AI-powered notifications, and an essential security fix.

    Google is finally releasing Android 16 QPR2 to compatible Pixel devices after much testing. Based on the most recent version of Android, this is the second quarterly release. It offers well-considered features and modifications, much like the initial release. More significantly, it contains the security update from December, which fixes a number of worrisome vulnerabilities.

    The Pixel 10, Pixel 9, Pixel 8, Pixel 7, Pixel 6, Pixel Tablet, and Pixel Fold are all compatible with Android 16 QPR2. On my Pixel 9 Pro XL, the update is roughly 800 MB+ in size.

    Improved screen customizations

    Google is still improving Android 16 QPR2’s user interface. Users may now add new shape options for app icons on the home screen, such as circle, squircle, four-sided cookie, seven-sided cookie, and arch.

    android screen customization

    Additionally, users of Pixel phones now add widgets to the lock screen—a function that was previously exclusive to tablets. Although there are fewer widgets and layouts than on the home screen, you can still access them by swiping left on the lock screen.

    A new low-light setting for the screen saver, which turns on a dim clock in dull scenes to conserve battery life, is one of the other lock screen modifications. Furthermore, fingerprint scanning can now operate on a switched-off display without requiring the screen to be woken.

    We highlighted in the beta the ability to minimize or eliminate blur effects in background components like the quick settings and alerts panel. All users can now utilize this functionality. For better accessibility, blur can be disabled under the Color and Motion area and replaced with plain color.

    Expanded dark mode, which compels apps that don’t support dark themes to switch to dark mode, is another accessibility improvement. Better yet, you can program expanded dark mode to activate on its own.

    Additionally, Android 16 QPR2 has an upgraded HDR feature that allows you to change the HDR intensity. You can select brightness levels from dimmer to more vibrant using a slider.

    More usability and productivity

    In addition to 50:50, 70:30, and 30:70 ratios, the update offers a more adaptable split-screen arrangement that supports ratios like 90:10.

    Additionally, Google is adding two new features to its AI-powered notifications: a notification organizer and notification summary. While the organizer automatically organizes alerts in the panel, summaries condense lengthy messages from apps. The apps that are included can be customized by users. The Pixel 9 and more recent variants with Gemini Nano support these functionalities.

    Additionally, parental controls have been reinforced. More apps now allow parents to set secure PINs, set screen-time limits, plan downtime, and control timers right from the settings.

    Additional accessibility-related features include Expressive Captions, which are real-time captions in social media apps and video communications that are enhanced with emoticons and ambient sound overlays. Google has improved Circle to Search to allow users to flag and report problematic messages in order to fight spam and scams. Additionally, the new Call Reason function will alert suspected spam calls or classify calls according to urgency.

    New security patch

    The December security patch for Android 16 QPR2 addresses a number of issues. The update fixes vulnerabilities ranging from high to critical severity, some of which have already been exploited by attackers, according to Google’s security alert.

    In addition to the eye-catching new features, Pixel owners should apply this update right now to lower the chance of attacks and keep safe from threats.

    Other companies, including as Samsung, Xiaomi, and OnePlus, will also implement the December security patch, though the exact release date may differ.

  • This hidden Pixel feature can significantly boost battery life

    This hidden Pixel feature can significantly boost battery life

    Is this the end of battery issues on Pixel smartphones? The November update includes a power‑saving mode that employs the always‑on display to conserve energy, providing greater screen time for navigation and daily use. Here’s how it works.

    Compared to other competing smartphones, Pixel handsets are not known for having the best battery life. However, Google has progressively added intelligent features over the years to help stretch screen time. The most recent is a new Google Maps power-saving function that was added with the November update and is currently being made available to more Pixel 10 owners.

    How to save battery while using Google Maps

    The addition, as its name suggests, offers a power saver mode to Google Maps. In theory, it makes use of the Pixel 10’s always-on display when navigating. This saves battery compared to fully utilizing the normal OLED panel, since most elements transition to black and white with inactive pixels switched off.

    In addition, the mode lowers the screen refresh rate and brightness to further preserve power. Some UI components and metrics in Google Maps won’t be available when enabled, and only portrait orientation is supported.

    Google Maps Power Saver: how to turn it on

    If the feature is accessible on your Pixel 10 or Pixel 10 Pro, you’ll see a pop‑up card pointing you to the option in driving settings. Alternatively, you may manually activate it by going into Maps settings and finding it under driving choices.

    It’s unclear why Google is limiting the feature to the Pixel 10 series, especially given earlier versions like the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro use the same LTPO OLED displays. However, it’s feasible that Google will increase support later on.

    Google is also working on another battery‑saving feature for Pixel and Android devices: a smarter always‑on display that automatically shuts off when the device isn’t in use or after a specified duration.

  • Pixel Watch 4: battery life takes center stage

    Pixel Watch 4: battery life takes center stage

    The battery life would be the main justification for purchasing a Pixel Watch 4. Yes, this device has many useful features, but since I reviewed it, the battery life has improved, and I’ve seen a lot of positive reviews for Google’s newest wristwatch.

    Referring back to my evaluation from early October, I found that the Pixel Watch 4‘s battery life (on the 45mm variant) was as good as Google had promised, with some days being shockingly long. Thus, we’re talking about using the always-on display for around 40 hours and turning it off for about 48 hours. However, there were a few crazy days when I used the watch extensively—5.5 hours of exercise and complete sleep tracking—and it lasted more than 48 hours.

    pixel watch 4 battery

    As I said in my review, the moment I switched on the “Raise to talk” feature, which activates Gemini, the battery life dropped from that high. I subsequently reduced the sensitivity significantly before turning it off entirely. Both of those have been beneficial. I’m not sure if I’m back to that degree of battery madness, but I’ve noticed that I think about battery life far less and that the watch is on the charger much less frequently each week.

    Google Pixel Watch 4

    The Google Pixel Watch 4 is a stunning display of precision craftsmanship, with Gemini, your built-in AI assistant, Google’s longest-lasting battery, and comprehensive tools for next-level health and fitness performance

    $399.99Amazon

    I’m not by myself either. A user displayed a 76% battery left status in a Reddit discussion after 16 hours without a charger and with AOD activated. Some were dubious, but after looking at my own stats in the last few weeks, I think it’s true. In same discussion, another user attested to the fact that their usage was either comparable to or significantly less than that of the Pixel Watch 3.

    One user described battery life as “amazing” in another discussion before praising the excellent charging conditions. I also discussed that in my review. Compared to earlier Pixel Watch versions, nearly all of which took more than an hour to fully charge, I was able to charge from 20% to 100% in about 40 minutes. According to a different Redditor, they tested the charger twice between 0 and 100% and essentially reached the 40-minute threshold. Additionally, the innovative magnetic charger transforms your tiny watch into a little desk or bedside clock and is incredibly easy to use.

  • Best Google Pixel Watch 4 alternatives you can buy right now

    Best Google Pixel Watch 4 alternatives you can buy right now

    One excellent watch is the Google Pixel Watch 4. You could even claim that it’s the greatest Wear OS watch of the year. It’s about as complete a package as you could wish for, with its new Acuta 360 display, extended battery life, enhanced repairability, and superb Gemini integration.

    If you’re currently shopping for a smartwatch, it’s important to remember that there are other options available, even if we highly recommend purchasing the Pixel Watch 4. Actually, there are actually a ton of alternative fantastic timepieces that you ought to think about.

    Even if we adore the Pixel Watch 4, you might want to consider these five other smartwatches.

    Google Pixel Watch 3

    google pixel watch 3 with grey and green wristband

    The Google Pixel Watch 3 is designed for performance, with advanced fitness from Fitbit; the 45mm screen is twice as bright and 40% larger than before, making it easier to see your stats and info

    $299.99$199.99Amazon

    The Pixel Watch 3 from last year is the best option if you believe the Pixel Watch 4 looks fantastic but can’t afford to spend more than $350 on it. Is it as remarkable or beautiful as the Pixel Watch 4? No, but you can now purchase it at a fantastic price, and it’s still a really fine smartwatch.

    As someone who still wears a Pixel Watch 3, I can assure you that it’s well worth the money if you want to enjoy the Pixel Watch experience without going over budget. Its screen still looks amazing even though it lacks the latest Acuta 360 display. Its battery life is still sufficient for a full day of use, it has already been updated to the same Wear OS 6 software as the Pixel Watch 4, and its health-tracking functions are the same as those of the Pixel Watch 4.

    OnePlus Watch 3

    Unmatched Battery Life: Experience up to 120 hours of uninterrupted use on a single charge.

    $349.99Amazon

    Easily lasting a day and a half on a single charge, and occasionally even two full days, the Pixel Watch 4 has the longest battery life of any Pixel Watch to date. However, the OnePlus Watch 3 is a superior choice if you place a high value on battery life. Why? due to the fact that one charge might last up to five days. That’s right—five days on a single charge.

    At that point, all of the OnePlus Watch 3‘s smartwatch functions are activated. You can get closer to two weeks of use before you have to find your charger if you switch on power-saving mode. The OnePlus Watch 3 has some of the fastest charging rates of any wristwatch, moving from 0% to 100% in roughly 30 minutes when the watch does eventually die.

    Nevertheless, there are several drawbacks to this kind of battery life. Although the OnePlus Watch 3’s fitness and health features are useful for everyday use, they fall short of those of Samsung or Google. The OnePlus Watch 3 is a large smartwatch as well. It is available in a smaller 43mm size, however the battery life is reduced, which somewhat contradicts the point.

    I believe you will be quite pleased with the OnePlus Watch 3 if you don’t mind the size and don’t require the most advanced fitness monitoring. Additionally, it is slightly less expensive than the Pixel Watch 4 at $330.

    Fitbit Charge 6

    COMPLETE ALL-IN-ONE-BUNDLE: Includes Fitbit Charge 6 Black/Obsidian, rapid USB charger, and a premium microfiber cleaning cloth, – everything you need to start tracking in style.

    $149.95Amazon

    I am aware that this isn’t a smartwatch in the traditional sense. However, I believe there is a compelling case for the Charge 6 as a Pixel Watch 4 substitute.

    With the exception of the subscription need, Fitbit is a very powerful health platform, and the planned makeover of the Fitbit app only seems to improve it. The Charge 6 is a far more cost-effective entry into the Fitbit ecosystem than the Pixel Watch 4 if you already have a lot of data in the Fitbit app from prior devices or if you’re just getting started.

    The Fitbit Charge 6 offers many of the same health tracking features as the Pixel Watch 4, including all-day activity tracking, sleep tracking, irregular heart rhythm notifications, ECG scanning, SpO2 tracking, a skin temperature sensor, and more, despite lacking the Play Store, Gemini, call screening, LTE, and other smart features. In addition, the seven-day battery life is fantastic and the compact size is really comfortable.

    The finest aspect? The Fitbit Charge 6 is only $160 at retail, and it’s frequently on sale for even less.

    Samsung Galaxy Watch 8

    galaxy watch 8

    WHY GALAXY WATCH8: Advanced health and sleep tracking features. A lighter, more snug design for all day comfort. Improved user interface. Personal AI assistant for hands free help.

    $349.99$329.99Amazon

    You might be better suited with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 if cost isn’t a concern but you want to think over other options before committing to the Pixel Watch 4. The Galaxy Watch 8 may be a better option for some of you reading this, but it starts at the same $350 as the Pixel Watch 4.

    The Galaxy Watch 8’s extensive health tracking suite is one of its best features. The new Running Coach tool really helped me improve as a runner this summer, and Samsung’s Energy Score is a great way to understand how prepared your body is for the day. Samsung’s activity monitoring is excellent, the Samsung Health app is incredibly well-designed, and its sleep tracking is among the most reliable for Wear OS. The finest aspect? In contrast to Fitbit on the Pixel Watch 4, Samsung Health offers all of its health functions without requiring a monthly subscription.

    Furthermore, the Galaxy Watch 8 is not limited to health tracking. The smartwatch’s AMOLED display is stunning, its watch band system is far simpler than the Pixel Watch 4’s, and it is incredibly comfy.

    When it comes to battery life, the Pixel Watch 4 is superior, and the Galaxy Watch 8’s absence of a digital crown or rotating bezel is a drawback. However, the Galaxy Watch 8 is a great option if you have a Samsung phone or don’t want your watch to come with a monthly subscription.

    Garmin Venu 4

    Garmin Venu 4, 45mm, Advanced Health and Fitness GPS Smartwatch, Silver with Silver Gray Silicone Band + USB3.0 to type-c female adapter Space Gray + USB Wall Charger + 6Ave Microfiber Cleaning Cloth

    $555.49Amazon

    The OnePlus Watch 3 has outstanding battery life, but the Galaxy Watch 8 is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a wristwatch with subscription-free health tracking. You might want to think about the Garmin Venu 4 if you’re looking for a Pixel Watch 4 substitute that offers both of those features.

    The Venu 4‘s most notable feature is that it runs Garmin’s proprietary operating system rather than Wear OS. Notifications, phone calls, offline Spotify downloads, and a Google Maps app are just a few of the standard wristwatch features you still have, but you are unable to access the Play Store or Gemini.

    Garmin claims that the Venu 4 may be used for up to 10 days on a single charge, making it the watch with the longest battery life on this list. In addition, the Garmin Venu 4 has a beautiful metal design, 41mm and 45mm size variants, and an integrated LED flashlight.

    The starting price for all of this is $550, which is a lot more than the Pixel Watch 4. However, the Garmin Venu 4 might be worth the cost if you’re looking for a well-made smartwatch with superior fitness tracking and a long battery life.