Google's latest smartwatch, the Pixel Watch 3, is set to hit the market on September 10th with some exciting new features, but also a few limitations to consider.
UWB Chip: New Capabilities and Constraints
The Pixel Watch 3 is making history as the first Wear OS smartwatch to incorporate an ultra-wideband (UWB) chip. This addition enables:
- Precise location tracking with Android's Find My Device
- The ability to unlock and start compatible cars
- Improved Watch Unlock feature when paired with a Pixel phone
However, there's a catch: these UWB features won't function when your phone is in Airplane mode. In this case, the watch will default to Bluetooth for Watch Unlock, resulting in slower and less accurate performance. This limitation is similar to UWB behavior in Pixel and Galaxy phones.
Nest Cam Integration: Coming to Other Wear OS Devices
Another standout feature is the integration with Google's Nest Cam, allowing users to:
- View live camera feeds directly on the watch
- Receive notifications to check live footage
- Use quick actions like 2-way talk and sending Quick Responses
While initially exclusive to the Pixel Watch 3, Google has confirmed that these Nest Cam features will be rolled out to other Wear OS smartwatches, including older Pixel Watch models, in the near future.
Pricing and Availability
The Pixel Watch 3 will be available in two sizes:
- 41mm: Starting at $349
- 45mm: Starting at $399
Both sizes will offer LTE and Wi-Fi-only options, with various pre-order deals available from the Google Store and other retailers.
Final Thoughts
The Pixel Watch 3 brings exciting new capabilities with its UWB chip and Nest Cam integration. However, potential buyers should be aware of the Airplane mode limitations on UWB features. As for the Nest Cam integration, while initially exclusive, its upcoming availability on other Wear OS devices may influence purchasing decisions for those primarily interested in this feature.
