The upcoming Pixel Watch 4 is generating buzz due to anticipated enhancements in battery capacity and charging speeds, although it will continue to use the same processor. According to reports, the 41mm model, internally referred to as Meridian or FME23, will see a 7% increase in battery capacity from 307 mAh to 327 mAh. Similarly, the larger 45mm version, codenamed Kenari or FK23, is expected to boast a 9% rise in battery size, moving from 420 mAh to 459 mAh.
This improvement in battery capacity is promising, especially since Google previously marketed the Pixel Watch 3 with a battery life of up to 24 hours, even with the Always-on Display feature activated. The report also suggests that charging speeds will be improved for both models. For context, the Pixel Watch 3 had specific charging times, including 24 minutes to reach 50% for the 41mm variant and 28 minutes for the 45mm model.
Even with the larger battery capacities, these new Pixel watches are anticipated to have reduced charging times due to advancements in speed. However, it is noted that larger batteries often require longer charging sessions. Nevertheless, a significant aspect of disappointment for some consumers lies in the processor, as the Pixel Watch 4 will continue to utilize the Snapdragon W5 Gen 1, maintaining the same chipset for a third consecutive year.
While the chip has performed adequately since its introduction with the Pixel Watch 2, prospective buyers may desire a newer processor. Unfortunately, Qualcomm appears to be in the process of developing a next-generation wearable chip, which limits Google’s options in upgrading the hardware. The Pixel Watch 4 is expected to debut alongside the new Pixel 10 series on August 20, with a possible release date of August 28.