Google Pixel Watch 3 vs. Pixel Watch 2: Biggest expected upgrades

We're just a few weeks from the August 13 Made by Google event where we expect the Google Pixel Watch 3 to be officially unveiled alongside the latest Pixel 9 smartphones .

We've been monitoring all the Google Pixel Watch 3 rumors since the start of the year and have a relatively clear picture of what to expect at launch time, including details on the design, battery life, display, and health features.

Based on these whispers and murmurs — and some good old-fashioned time spent pondering into the TG crystal ball of future tech — here are all the biggest expected Google Pixel Watch 3 upgrades and how they compare to the current Pixel Watch 2.

Pixel Watch 3 vs. Pixel Watch 2: Two sizes, higher price

The most notable change about this year's Pixel Watch launch is the likelihood of two sizes instead of one. While brands like Apple and Samsung have long offered wearables in multiple sizes, the original Pixel Watch and Pixel Watch 2 only came in 41mm.

For those who appreciate a beefier device, we expect Google to introduce a Pixel Watch 3 XL model this time around. With a likely diameter of 44mm or 45mm, it will be roughly the same size as the larger Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 model.

We may also see the Pixel Watch line get its first major price hike since the product line debuted. Both the original Pixel Watch and Pixel Watch 2 cost $349 for the Bluetooth/GPS model and $399 for added LTE connectivity.

Unfortunately, the Pixel Watch 3 likely won't be so wallet-friendly . Recent leaks suggest that the non-LTE 41mm may start at €399, which converts to roughly $435. The LTE edition could cost as much as $545; the larger model with Bluetooth/GPS may start at $489 and jump as high as $599 for cellular connectivity.

We all know inflation is real but these hikes seem rather significant. They'd also make the Google Pixel Watch 3 a pricier device than its nearest competitor, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7, which starts at $299.

So, what exactly is Google changing the Pixel Watch to warrant potentially higher price tags? Read on.

Pixel Watch 3 vs. Pixel Watch 2: Thinner bezel, brighter screen

The design of the Pixel Watch hasn't changed much since first hitting the scene in 2022. And while I don't foresee any major design shifts — it'll almost certainly still be a circular device with a digital crown at the right — leaks suggest that it will boast a thinner bezel and possibly a much brighter display.

While it may not sound like an earth-shattering improvement, the bezel on Pixel Watch 3 is rumored to be a full 1mm thinner than previous models: 4.5mm compared to 5.5mm. This should give the new model a sleeker overall feel and possibly contribute to a lighter case.

We may also see the maximum screen brightness jump from 1,000 nits to 2,000 nits, which would make the Pixel Watch 3 much easier to see in bright daylight than the OG model or the 2. This would put the Pixel Watch 3 in line with the Apple Watch Series 9 and the new Galaxy Watch 7.

Pixel Watch 3 vs. Pixel Watch 2: Better battery life and latest OS

The 41mm Pixel Watch may use the same 310 mAh battery as its predecessor, while the 45mm size may sport a heftier 420 mAh battery. Even though there's no change in capacity for the former, I expect the 41mm Pixel Watch 3 to outperform its predecessor, which offers up to 24 hours of battery life on a good day.

Both versions of the new watch will debut with the latest Wear OS 5 software , which, among other upgrades, should bring about better power management. Google notes that these improvements will be most noticeable when using the device to track outdoor workouts, like a long run.

Ultimately, Google says that you can expect up to 20% improved battery life when running a marathong on a Wear OS 5 device compred to the last version of the wearable software.

Pixel Watch 3 vs. Pixel Watch 2: Improved health and fitness tracking

Wear OS 5 also brings about some tweaks to fitness and health tracking. For one, users will be inundated with fewer unnecessary alerts while fitness tracking is engaged. There are also new stats for runners , like ground contact time, stride length, vertical oscillation, and vertical ratio.

We don't know yet whether or not the Pixel Watch 3 will boast any new wellness tech. While the Pixel Watch 2 has the basic sensors covered (and then some), including heart rate, movement, EDA, and skin temperature, that list could be expanded once the new hardware debuts.

Given how impressive Samsung's new BioActive sensor is, it will be especially intriguing to see how Google responds.

Pixel Watch 3 vs. Pixel Watch 2: Support for Find my Device and ultra-wideband

Google's Find My Device offline network is still in its infancy but we fully expect the new Pixel Watches to support the feature. This would allow you to find, lock, or wipe your smartwatch remotely even when offline.

I also anticipate the new devices supporting ultra-wideband (UWB) connectivity. This would allow users to use their smartwatch for all sorts of nifty tasks like unlocking a car door or your smartphone from afar.

Samsung's current Watch Unlock feature uses Bluetooth but with the help of UWB, it could in theory be used from much further away.

Pixel Watch 3 vs. Pixel Watch 2: AI features

We also expect the latest Pixel Watch to heavily promote new AI-powered features. The invite for the launch event notes that they'll "showcase the best of Google AI, Android software, and the Pixel portfolio of devices." What form might these AI bells and whistles take?

If the latest Samsung Galaxy Watches are an indication, AI may underpin the Pixel Watch's wellness insights, like sleep and fitness tracking.

Pixel Watch 3 vs. Pixel Watch 2: Should you upgrade?

As noted in our Pixel Watch 2 review , the device felt more like a "half-stepping stone to grab the attention of first-gen holdouts," than an entirely new smartwatch. This makes expectations for the Pixel Watch 3 even higher.

If Google meets these expectations, the Pixel Watch 3 sounds like it will be a worthwhile upgrade to the Pixel Watch 2, particularly if there's a generous trade-in program.

However, I still have some hesitations, most significantly around battery performance — will it really be noticeably improved? — processor power, rumors suggest the same Snapdragon W5 chip as Pixel Watch 2, and no mention of wireless charging capability.

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