The Google Pixel Watch 2 has officially been revealed, and it comes equipped with better performance, improved battery life and a new aluminium design.
Announced at the Made by Google event, along with the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, the search giant’s second-generation smartwatch comes with a few essential upgrades, even though it largely looks the same as the previous model.
While the original Pixel Watch is a favourite among Pixel owners, it’s not without its faults. From its new Snapdragon W5 chipset and increased battery life, it seems Google’s second-gen Pixel Watch may solve many of the original’s setbacks.
As with all Pixel devices, there’s no sign of the Pixel Watch 2 launching in New Zealand. If you’re set on it, though, then there are a few ways to nab one (check out how to get the Google Pixel 7a and Pixel Buds Pro for a few pointers).
Here’s everything you need to know about the Google Pixel Watch 2, from its price and release date to its new upgrades.
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Pixel Watch 2: Price
The Pixel Watch 2 is priced from $349 / £339 / AU$549, which is the same price as the original Pixel Watch. No surprises there, as the wearable is already pricey for a Wear OS smartwatch.
It also comes with cellular connectivity, with prices at $399 / £379 / AU$659.
If the price difference is accurate, the Pixel Watch 2 should be from NZ$599.
Pixel Watch 2: Release Date
The Pixel Watch 2 is available to pre-order today, from October 4, 2023. As with its Pixel 8 counterpart, it will be available to purchase and on store shelves from October 12.
Pixel Watch 2: What’s new?
The Pixel Watch 2 isn’t a significant departure from the smartwatch’s first outing last year, but the more significant changes should bring a better experience.
From a design standpoint, don’t expect any noticeable changes. It still rocks a circular, domed design with a digital crown at the side. However, it now comes in an aluminium housing rather than the stainless steel casing. This should be lighter, but it may be prone to scratches. The click-in-place watch straps are also making a comeback. However, the glass doesn’t extend as far down the watch, possibly giving more room for the different colour cases to shine.
There’s also three new sensors, including a stress monitor and a temperature sensor.
Speaking of, the Pixel Watch 2 comes in Champagne Gold with a Hazel (green/grey) band, Matte Black with an Obsidian (black) band and Polished Silver in a new Bay (blue) or Chalk (white) band. That’s the same as last year’s, except for the new blue option. We’re also getting another sports band with holes for breathability, including in Coral, Moondust, Porcelain and more.
Another important note is that the second-gen Pixel Watch has an IP68 rating, making it dust- and water-resistant. The first smartwatch is also, but has a 5ATM rating).
As for under the hood, the Pixel Watch 2 is equipped with a quad-core CPU (Snapdragon W5) chipset. That should increase performance and battery life, which is something the original Pixel Watch is sorely in need of. Moreover, the battery is also getting a boost, with 24 hours of use in a single charge and a 12-hour charge in 30 minutes. How will this truly be handled out in the wild? Only time will tell.
Like last year, Google’s collaboration with Fitbit and YouTube Music Premium is on full display – offering six months of Fitbit Premium and three months of YouTube Music Premium for anyone who purchases a smartwatch. The Fitbit app has also been redesigned, and it comes with AI tech to help you figure out your workout, such why you didn’t perform as well on a run (although, this won’t be available until early 2024).
There’s also a few new features, including Safety Check, which will share your location with your emergency contacts if you don’t check-in in a certain amount of time.
Is Google Pixel Watch 2 coming to NZ?
Google Pixel devices still aren’t officially available in New Zealand, and that extends to the Pixel Watch 2. There’s no official word the Pixel Watch 2 will be arriving in NZ. While unfortunate, there are still ways to get the new Pixel devices, as they can be imported.
The smartwatch should pair with other smartphones, and should work on New Zealand’s carriers like 2 Degrees, Vodafone and Spark (according to Kimovil). However, since the Pixel Watch 2 isn’t officially launching in NZ, don’t expect much customer support.
Pixel devices are tricky to get in NZ, but if you’re after other smartwatches, check out the best smartwatches in NZ.
