Google’s recent event wasn’t just about the shiny new Pixel phones; we covered those in detail in our article on the Pixel 9 series. The tech giant also unveiled the much-anticipated Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2, signaling their continued commitment to creating a seamless ecosystem of devices. Let’s explore what these new gadgets have to offer.
Pixel Watch 3: A Smarter, Sleeker Companion
Google’s Pixel Watch 3 isn’t just an incremental upgrade; it’s a significant step forward in the evolution of their smartwatch line. Let’s break down what makes it stand out.
Notable Upgrades from the Pixel Watch 2
- Bigger & Brighter Display: The Pixel Watch 3 comes in two sizes – 41mm and 45mm – offering more display than its predecessor. Plus, the display is brighter, featuring Google’s Actua OLED technology, and boasts slimmer bezels, making for a more immersive viewing experience.
- Enhanced Performance: A faster processor and improved battery life mean smoother operation and less time spent tethered to a charger. Google claims up to 24 hours of battery life with the always-on display enabled, a definite plus for those with busy schedules.
- Advanced Health Tracking: Beyond the standard heart rate monitoring and step counting, the Pixel Watch 3 offers a comprehensive suite of health features. These include SpO2 tracking, ECG functionality, and new metrics like “Readiness Score” to help you optimize your workouts and recovery.
- Emergency SOS: A potentially life-saving feature, the Pixel Watch 3 can detect a sudden loss of pulse and automatically call for help, providing peace of mind for those with heart conditions or active lifestyles.
- Deeper Google Integration: You can control your smart home devices, access your voice notes, and even unlock your Pixel phone or compatible car – all from your wrist. The Pixel Watch 3 seamlessly integrates with the Google ecosystem, making your life easier and more connected.
Key Features
- Workout Builder & Real-Time Guidance: Create personalized workout plans and receive real-time coaching during your runs, ensuring you stay on track and motivated.
- Advanced Motion Sensing: Analyze your running form and receive insights to improve your efficiency and reduce the risk of injury.
- Customizable Watch Faces: Personalize your watch face to match your style or mood with a variety of options and complications.
- Fast Charging: Get a full day’s charge in 60 minutes, perfect for those always on the move.
- Water Resistance: With an IP68 rating, the Pixel Watch 3 can withstand swimming and other water activities.
- Morning Brief: Start your day right with a personalized summary of your sleep, fitness goals, and other important information, all conveniently displayed on your watch face.
Cons
- Fitbit Premium Required: While the watch offers a range of health features, some advanced metrics and insights require a Fitbit Premium subscription.
- LTE Version Pricey: The cellular-enabled LTE version comes at a premium, making it a pricier option for those who want to stay connected without their phone.
- Limited Third-Party App Support: While Wear OS has improved, the selection of third-party apps is still not as extensive as on other platforms.
Pricing
The Pixel Watch 3 is available for pre-order, with the 41mm model starting at $349 and the 45mm model at $399. LTE versions are priced higher, at $449 for the 41mm and $499 for the 45mm. Regular sales are expected to begin on September 10, 2024.
Pixel Buds Pro 2: A Refined Audio Companion
Google’s Pixel Buds Pro 2 aims to deliver a premium audio experience with enhanced features and improved comfort. Let’s look into the details.
Notable Upgrades from the Pixel Buds Pro
- Enhanced Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Google claims the Pixel Buds Pro 2 offer up to twice the ANC performance of their predecessor, effectively blocking out even more ambient noise for a truly immersive listening experience.
- Improved Transparency Mode: The transparency mode has been refined, allowing you to hear your surroundings more naturally while still enjoying your music.
- Crystal-Clear Calls: Upgraded beamforming microphones and AI-powered noise suppression ensure your voice comes through loud and clear during calls, even in noisy environments. The Tensor chip also plays a role in enhancing call quality.
- Longer Battery Life: Enjoy up to 11 hours of listening time on a single charge with ANC off, or up to 7 hours with ANC on. The charging case provides an additional 20 hours of battery life.
- Spatial Audio with Head Tracking: Experience immersive 3D audio that adapts to your head movements, creating a more realistic and engaging listening experience.
- Improved Fit: The Pixel Buds Pro 2 have been redesigned for a more comfortable and secure fit. The new twist-to-adjust stabilizer ensures they stay in place during workouts or other activities.
Key Features
- Adaptive Sound: Automatically adjusts the volume based on your surroundings, ensuring a consistent listening experience.
- Multipoint Connectivity: Seamlessly switch between your phone, tablet, and other devices without having to reconnect.
- Fast Pair: Quickly connect to your Android devices with a single tap.
- Find My Device: A new feature includes a speaker in the charging case, so you can ring your earbuds if misplaced using the Find My Device app.
- Customizable Touch Controls: Control playback, volume, and other functions with intuitive touch gestures.
- Sweat and Water Resistance:
- Earbuds: IP54 rating, protecting them from dust and water splashes.
- Case: IPX4 rating, protecting it from water splashes.
- Google Tensor Chip: The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are the first earbuds to feature Google’s custom Tensor chip, enabling enhanced Active Noise Cancellation, improved call quality, and potentially other smart features in the future.
- Real-Time Language Translation: Break down language barriers with real-time translation capabilities, allowing you to have conversations with people who speak different languages. To learn more about how to use this feature and its supported languages, check out our comprehensive guide on real-time translation with Google Pixel Buds.
Cons
- No aptX or LDAC support: While the Pixel Buds Pro 2 offer great sound quality, they lack support for high-bitrate audio codecs like aptX or LDAC.
- Limited EQ customization: The sound profile is well-balanced, but there are limited options for fine-tuning the EQ to your preferences.
Pricing
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are priced at $229 and are available in multiple colors, including Porcelain, Hazel, Peony, and Wintergreen. They are set to be available in retail stores starting September 26, 2024.
Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2: Your Gateway to a Smarter, More Connected Life
Google’s new Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2 aren’t just gadgets; they’re your gateway to a smarter, more connected life. Packed with intuitive features, improved performance, and seamless integration with the Google ecosystem, they’re designed to make your everyday life easier and more enjoyable.
And with their user-friendly design and intuitive controls, even those who aren’t tech-savvy can easily make the most of their features. So go ahead and embrace the future of tech – it’s right there on your wrist and in your ears!
FAQs
When will the Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2 be available for purchase?
The Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2 are currently available for pre-order. Regular sales are expected to begin on September 10, 2024, for the Pixel Watch 3 and September 26, 2024, for the Pixel Earbuds Pro 2.
What are the key differences between the Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Watch 2?
The Pixel Watch 3 boasts several upgrades over its predecessor, including a larger, brighter display, enhanced performance, advanced health tracking features like SpO2 and ECG, emergency SOS functionality, deeper Google integration, and improved battery life.
Do I need a Fitbit Premium subscription to use all the health features on the Pixel Watch 3?
While the Pixel Watch 3 offers a range of basic health tracking features without a subscription, some advanced metrics and insights, such as the Readiness Score and personalized workout plans, require a Fitbit Premium subscription.
How does the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) on the Pixel Buds Pro 2 compare to other earbuds?
Google claims the Pixel Buds Pro 2 offers up to twice the ANC performance of its predecessor, the Pixel Buds Pro. While independent reviews are still pending, this suggests a significant improvement in noise-blocking capabilities.
Can I use the Pixel Buds Pro 2 for workouts and outdoor activities?
Yes, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 are sweat and water-resistant, with an IPX4 rating for the case and an IP54 rating for the earbuds themselves. This means they can handle sweat, light rain, and splashes, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor use.
Will the Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2 work with non-Pixel phones?
Yes, both the Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2 are compatible with most Android and iOS devices. However, some features, particularly those requiring deeper Google integration, may be limited or unavailable on non-Pixel phones.
Can I track my sleep with the Pixel Watch 3, and how accurate is it?
Yes, the Pixel Watch 3 offers comprehensive sleep tracking, including sleep stages, sleep duration, and sleep quality insights. While its accuracy is generally considered good, individual experiences may vary.
Photo credits: Google
