Since the launch of the original Pixel Watch in 2022, Google has consistently prioritized battery life enhancements in its smartwatch lineup. Newly leaked renders of the upcoming Pixel Watch 4 suggest this trend may continue, with design changes that could signal further optimizations.
According to images shared by 91mobiles via leaker OnLeaks, the Pixel Watch 4 appears slightly thicker than its predecessor—measuring 14.3mm compared to the Pixel Watch 2’s 12.3mm. The increased thickness could indicate a larger battery or additional internal components. The renders also reveal two small, unidentified buttons on either side of the speaker, while the sensor array no longer displays the four charging pins introduced in the Pixel Watch 2. This omission suggests Google may have developed a new, pin-free fast-charging solution.
Battery life has been a persistent challenge for Google’s smartwatches. The original Pixel Watch faced criticism for its short battery endurance, prompting the company to refine its approach with subsequent models. The addition of charging pins in the Pixel Watch 2, though controversial, aimed to improve charging efficiency. However, pins can degrade over time and require proprietary chargers, making their potential removal a welcome change if Google has found an alternative.
Recent WearOS updates, including versions 4 and 5, have also focused on power efficiency, helping Pixel Watches achieve reliable all-day battery performance. Despite these improvements, Google’s devices still lag behind competitors like the OnePlus Watch 3, Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra, and Apple Watch Ultra 2, which offer multi-day battery life.
While these leaks provide intriguing clues, final specifications remain uncertain. Design renders do not confirm internal hardware or software optimizations, and further details may emerge at Google’s upcoming I/O event next month. For now, the Pixel Watch 4’s thicker profile and possible charging refinements suggest Google remains committed to addressing one of its smartwatch’s biggest shortcomings.
