The Google Pixel Watch 4 (45mm) represents the fourth generation of Google’s smartwatch line, and it arrives refined and feature-packed for the modern Android user. Launched in late 2025, this watch carries Google’s latest software and hardware improvements into 2026. It caters to a wide range of users – from busy professionals needing on-wrist notifications and hands-free assistance, to fitness enthusiasts tracking workouts, and even students who want a sleek tech accessory that complements their Android phone. In this review, we’ll explore the Pixel Watch 4’s design, performance, battery life, and smart features to determine whether it’s worth buying in 2026 for you.
Design and Build Quality
At first glance, the Pixel Watch 4 maintains Google’s signature minimalist design language. If you’ve seen previous Pixel Watches, the look will be familiar – a round, domed glass face and an aluminum body that’s both modern and classy.
The 45mm model introduces a larger case option (alongside a smaller 41mm version), giving those with bigger wrists or a preference for larger screens a perfect fit. Despite the increased size, the watch sits comfortably on the wrist. The weight is about 36.7g (without the band) for the 45mm, which feels light compared to many steel-bodied competitors.
The included Active Band (made of soft fluoroelastomer) is comfortable for all-day wear, though Google’s proprietary band mechanism means you can swap in various Pixel Watch bands to suit different styles or activities.
In terms of build, the Pixel Watch 4 exudes premium quality. The aluminum casing feels solid yet lightweight, and the crown on the side provides satisfying tactile feedback when scrolling or pressing (it even has subtle haptic responses). There’s also a flush side button above the crown for accessing recent apps or Google’s new AI features. The overall aesthetic is sleek and versatile – it looks just as appropriate in the office with business attire as it does at the gym or on a casual day out.
Durability, however, is a mixed bag. The watch is rated 5ATM water-resistant and IP68 dustproof, meaning it can handle swims, showers, and dusty hikes without issue. Underwater up to 50 meters is fine for swimming or snorkeling, but it’s not meant for high-pressure water sports or deep diving. The front is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5, which is tough but not scratch-proof or shatter-proof like sapphire crystal. In everyday use, the domed glass may pick up fine scratches over time if you’re not careful.
The good news is Google made the Pixel Watch 4 user-repairable – a first for the series. If you do crack or scratch the glass badly, it’s actually possible to replace the screen (and even the battery) with proper tools, rather than replacing the entire watch. This repairability adds some long-term confidence in the build, even if the watch isn’t designed as an ultra-rugged device. Overall, the Pixel Watch 4’s design is a refined evolution: no radical changes from prior models, but thoughtful improvements that solidify its place as one of the best-looking smartwatches for Android users.
Display and Performance
One of the headline upgrades in the Pixel Watch 4 is its Actua 360 AMOLED display. This new screen design stretches further to the edges, reducing the bezel by around 15% and creating a truly immersive look. The 45mm variant has a 1.49-inch display (the 41mm has 1.33-inch), both with sharp 320 ppi resolution. The glass cover is beautifully domed, which makes watch faces and UI elements appear to curve toward the edges – a striking “all-screen” effect that many will love. Colors are vibrant and the contrast is excellent, as expected from an OLED panel.
Importantly, brightness is vastly improved: the Pixel Watch 4 can reach up to 3,000 nits at peak brightness. In practical terms, this means you’ll have zero trouble reading the watch face or notifications under bright sunlight. Whether you’re out on a jog at noon or checking the time on a sunny drive, the screen stays easily visible.
The always-on display mode is also bright enough in daylight while intelligently dimming indoors to save power. Some users might need a little time to adjust to the domed display, as it can cause slight distortion at the extreme edges and a subtle magnifying effect on content.
However, most find that it adds a unique charm – the Watch 4’s screen almost feels like content is floating to the surface of a glass droplet. Scrolling through notifications or swiping through apps is smooth and responsive, thanks to a 60Hz refresh rate and Google’s refined animations in Wear OS 6.
Read more
Under the hood, the Pixel Watch 4 runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 chipset, paired with 2GB of RAM. This is a welcome upgrade from previous models. The new processor isn’t a night-and-day leap in raw speed (it uses a similar architecture as the Gen 1 chip), but it does offer better efficiency and a modest bump in performance. In daily use, the watch feels snappy. Apps open without lag, transitions are fluid, and interactions like swiping or using Google Maps on the watch are generally hassle-free. Even voice responses from the new AI assistant feel quick and on-point. Google also included a Cortex M55 co-processor that handles low-power tasks in the background.
This means things like heart rate monitoring, step counting, and the new on-device AI processing can happen without draining the battery or taxing the main CPU. The watch comes with 32GB of internal storage, which is plenty for installing apps and even downloading music or podcasts for offline listening.
You can, for example, store a playlist from Spotify or YouTube Music on the watch and go for a run without your phone, if you have Bluetooth headphones connected. Overall, the combination of the vibrant Actua 360 display and the improved internals makes the Pixel Watch 4 a pleasure to use – it’s responsive, eye-catching, and capable of handling typical smartwatch tasks with ease.
Google Pixel Watch 4 45mm Smartwatch Full Specifications
| NETWORK | |
|---|---|
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| LAUNCH | |
| Announced | 2025, August 20 |
| Status | Available. Released 2025, October 09 |
| BODY | |
| Dimensions | 45 x 45 x 12.3 mm |
| Weight | 31 g or 37 g |
| Build | Glass front (Corning Gorilla Glass 5), aluminum frame |
| SIM | eSIM |
| Water Resistant | Yes, IP68, water resistant up to 50m (5ATM) |
| ECG | ECG certified |
| DISPLAY | |
| Type | LTPO AMOLED |
| Size | 1.4 Inch |
| Resolution | 456 x 456 pixels |
| Brightness | 3000 nits peak |
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 |
| PLATFORM | |
| OS | Android Wear OS 6 |
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 (4 nm) |
| CPU | Quad core 4×1.7 GHz Cortex A53 |
| GPU | Adreno A702 |
| MEMORY | |
| Card Slot | No |
| Internal Storage | 32GB |
| RAM | 2GB |
| Storage Type | eMMC |
| CAMERA | |
| Camera | No |
| SOUND | |
| Loudspeaker | Yes |
| 3.5mm Jack | No |
| COMMS | |
| Wi Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual band |
| Bluetooth | 6.0, A2DP |
| Positioning | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS, GALILEO (E1+E5a) |
| NFC | Yes |
| Radio | No |
| USB | No |
| Ultra Wideband | Yes |
| Satellite SOS | Yes (LTE models only) |
| FEATURES | |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, altimeter, compass, SpO2, skin temperature, skin conductance |
| BATTERY | |
| Type | Li Ion |
| Capacity | 455 mAh |
| Charging (45mm) | Wired, 50% in 15 min, 80% in 30 min, 100% in 60 min |
| MISC | |
| Colors | Matte Black, Polished Silver, Champagne Gold, Satin Moonstone |
| WARRANTY & ORIGIN | |
| Warranty | — |
| Country of Origin | — |
Battery Life and Efficiency
Battery life has historically been a sore point for many smartwatches, but the Pixel Watch 4 makes significant strides here. With the larger 45mm model, Google promises around 40 hours of use on a single charge with the always-on display active. In real-world terms, that means you can comfortably get about two days of moderate use on the 45mm Pixel Watch 4, or roughly one and a half days if you’re using the smaller 41mm version (which is rated for ~30 hours with always-on).
Many users will experience even longer runtime by turning the always-on display off – stretching close to 48 hours (two full days) on the big watch under light use. For context, previous Pixel Watches often struggled to last beyond one full day, so this is a noticeable improvement. You can finally wear the Pixel Watch 4 all day, track your sleep overnight, and still have some battery left the next morning.
Of course, battery life always varies with usage: if you’re frequently using GPS for tracking long workouts, streaming music over LTE, or utilizing the new AI assistant heavily, you’ll consume the battery faster. But thanks to underlying efficiency improvements (a more efficient chip, Bluetooth 6.0, and a smarter Wear OS 6), the watch manages power much better than before.
A true star feature of the Pixel Watch 4 is its charging speed and new charging dock. Google switched to a new magnetic Quick Charge Dock that props the watch up sideways (turning it into a little desk clock while charging). This charger is blazing fast: you can go from near empty to 50% charge in just about 15 minutes, which is amazing for a smartwatch. A full 100% charge takes roughly 45–60 minutes.
In practical use, this quick charging means you don’t need to worry about overnight charging schedules as much. For example, if you’re in a rush, a short charge during your morning routine or a quick 15-minute top-up while you shower can power the watch for the rest of the day. It reduces “battery anxiety” significantly – even if you forget to charge the watch overnight, a brief charge while you have breakfast can add many hours of use. Additionally, the watch has smart battery management features: there’s a Battery Saver mode that can extend the battery up to 3 days by turning off non-essential functions (great for when you’re traveling without the charger).
Unlike some competitors, the Pixel Watch 4 does not yet proactively warn you at night if it predicts the battery won’t last through your whole sleep – so you’ll still want to check the battery before bed if you plan to use it as a sleep tracker.
That said, the combination of a larger battery, efficiency tweaks, and super-fast charging make the Pixel Watch 4 far more convenient day-to-day. It finally delivers all-day (and then some) battery life, which was a key weakness in earlier models.
Smart Features and Connectivity
As a flagship smartwatch, the Google Pixel Watch 4 is loaded with smart features and connectivity options. Firstly, it runs Wear OS 6, Google’s latest smartwatch operating system, which brings a polished interface and plenty of apps. You get the usual suite of Google apps: Google Maps on your wrist for navigation, Google Wallet for contactless payments (thanks to NFC built-in), Gmail and Calendar notifications, and more.
One of the biggest changes this year is the introduction of Google’s new AI assistant, Gemini. In fact, Google has replaced the traditional “Hey Google” voice assistant on this watch with the more advanced Gemini AI. The experience is designed to be more natural and context-aware. The Pixel Watch 4 debuts a truly handy gesture called “Raise to Talk.” Instead of saying a wake word, you simply lift your wrist and bring the watch toward your face, and the assistant activates listening mode. It feels seamless – for instance, if you’re cooking and your hands are messy, you can just raise your arm and say, “Set a timer for 10 minutes,” and the watch will do it without a single button tap.
You can ask Gemini to send texts, provide weather updates, start a workout, control smart home devices, or even dictate a quick note or reminder. In our experience, this hands-free gesture quickly becomes second nature and makes the Pixel Watch 4 feel like a truly smart companion.
It’s not perfect (you might occasionally trigger it by an exaggerated movement or have to tweak the sensitivity), but it’s a glimpse into a more convenient, voice-driven wearable experience. The watch also supports smart replies and on-device AI suggestions. For example, if you get a message, the watch might suggest contextually relevant replies or actions right on the notification – leveraging Google’s AI to save you time.
Connectivity-wise, the Pixel Watch 4 covers all the bases expected from a modern smartwatch. It pairs with your phone via Bluetooth 6.0, which provides a stable connection and better energy efficiency than previous Bluetooth versions. With your phone nearby, you’ll get call alerts and can even answer calls on the watch itself – there’s a built-in microphone and speaker, so you can have quick conversations Dick Tracy-style without pulling out your phone. The speaker is a bit louder and clearer than last year’s model, making calls and Google Assistant voice responses easier to hear.
If you opt for the LTE model of the Pixel Watch 4, you gain the ability to stay connected even when your phone is not with you. The watch can make and receive calls, send texts, stream music, or use maps on its own using a mobile data connection (this requires adding the watch to your cellular plan). This is great for runners or cyclists who want to leave their phone at home but still be reachable and track everything.
A standout new safety feature on the LTE version is Satellite SOS. In emergencies where you don’t have cell coverage, the Pixel Watch 4 can connect to emergency services via satellite (for two years this feature is included free). It’s a reassuring backup if you’re out hiking in a remote area and something goes wrong – you can still call for help through your watch even without phone signal.
Beyond communications, the Pixel Watch 4 serves as a comprehensive health and fitness tracker. It’s deeply integrated with Fitbit’s health platform (Google owns Fitbit), which means the watch benefits from years of fitness tracking expertise. Right out of the box, it can continuously monitor your heart rate, track your steps and calories, and auto-detect many workouts. There’s a full range of exercise modes – running, cycling, swimming, strength training, yoga, and more (50+ activities).
New to this model, the Pixel Watch 4 features dual-frequency GPS. This means when you track outdoor activities (like runs or bike rides), the location tracking is more accurate, even in challenging environments like city streets with tall buildings or dense forests. Your distance and pace measurements will be more reliable, which runners and hikers will appreciate. Despite this higher GPS accuracy, the battery drain during GPS workouts is efficient – the watch only sips about 8-10% battery per hour of GPS use, which is impressive for a smartwatch.
The Watch 4 also includes advanced health sensors like ECG (electrocardiogram) for on-demand heart rhythm readings (you can take an ECG via the watch to check for signs of AFib), SpO₂ blood oxygen monitoring, and even a new skin temperature sensor. The skin temperature sensor runs in the background, looking for deviations from your baseline that might indicate fever or illness – a helpful early warning if you’re getting sick.
Another notable addition is a feature called “Loss of Pulse” detection: the Pixel Watch can detect if your heart rate drops dangerously low or stops (for example, during a serious medical event) and can trigger emergency protocols. It’s similar to how some devices detect falls or irregular heart rhythms – here it’s looking for the worst-case heart issue to get you help quickly if needed. Thankfully, that’s a feature you’ll likely never need, but it’s good to know it’s there.
On the software side for fitness, the Pixel Watch 4 currently uses the Fitbit app on your phone to display detailed health metrics and workout history. Fitbit’s platform provides things like sleep scores (yes, the Pixel Watch 4 tracks your sleep stages and quality each night), stress management tools (using a continuous EDA sensor that measures stress responses), and even a Daily Readiness Score if you’re a Fitbit Premium subscriber.
It’s worth noting that Google is previewing a new Fitbit Personal Health Coach that uses AI (Gemini) to create personalized workout plans and health insights. This software update is expected in 2026 and will integrate tightly with the Watch 4, offering custom training plans across various sports, adaptive coaching, and deeper trend analysis of your health data. In short, the Pixel Watch 4 is poised not only as a current fitness companion but also as a platform that will get even smarter about your health over time.
Finally, being a Wear OS device, you have access to a broad ecosystem of apps and watch faces. You can download popular apps like Spotify, Strava, Google Keep, Outlook, or WhatsApp directly onto the watch. Google’s Play Store for Wear OS has grown significantly, so you’re not limited to built-in functions – third-party apps expand what the watch can do (from controlling your smart home lights to translating languages on the go).
The inclusion of Ultra-Wideband (UWB) in the Pixel Watch 4 is a forward-looking addition. While its uses are nascent, UWB could allow precise device-to-device communication; for example, in the future you might use your watch to unlock a car or locate a lost item tag with high precision. Right now, UWB in the watch mainly helps with quick device pairing and might tie into features like using your watch to automatically unlock your Pixel phone when it’s nearby.
In summary, the Pixel Watch 4 brings a full toolbox of smart features: robust connectivity (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, optional LTE with satellite), voice-assistant conveniences, extensive health tracking, and an ever-growing ecosystem of apps. It’s an easy watch to live with daily, as it seamlessly bridges the gap between your digital life and your physical activities.
Compatibility and Ecosystem Fit
The Google Pixel Watch 4 is designed squarely for Android users. You will need an Android smartphone (running Android 8.0 or above) to set up and use this smartwatch – it is not compatible with iPhones or iOS. This makes it essentially the Android equivalent of an Apple Watch, and in that role, it shines. One big advantage of the Pixel Watch 4’s approach is that no key features are locked behind specific phone brands.
Whether you pair it with a Google Pixel phone, a Samsung Galaxy, OnePlus, or any other Android device, you’ll get the full feature set. For instance, Samsung’s Galaxy Watches offer ECG and blood pressure features only if you use a Samsung phone, but the Pixel Watch 4’s health features (like ECG) work with any Android phone through the Fitbit app. This makes the Pixel Watch 4 a versatile choice across the Android ecosystem, ensuring you don’t miss out on functionality because of your phone choice.
If you are already in Google’s hardware ecosystem (say you own a Pixel phone or Pixel Buds), the Watch 4 will fit in naturally. Pairing is straightforward via the Google Pixel Watch app, and settings or data can sync with your Google account. You can use the watch to control Pixel-specific features like the phone’s camera shutter (great for taking group photos or selfies by using your watch as a remote).
Integration with Google’s services is tight: your Google Assistant (now Gemini AI) reminders or notes sync across devices, Google Photos watch faces bring your favorite pictures to your wrist, and notifications from Android are actionable on the watch. If you use Google Home devices, the Pixel Watch can act as a handy controller for your smart home – adjust your thermostat, turn off lights, or view a Nest doorbell alert right from the watch.
Another aspect of compatibility is with third-party fitness platforms and accessories. Since the Pixel Watch 4 uses Bluetooth, you can connect wireless earbuds (like Pixel Buds or any Bluetooth headphones) directly to the watch. This is perfect for phone-free runs: track your run with GPS, listen to music stored on the watch via earbuds, and even grab a coffee afterward using Google Wallet on the watch – all while your phone stays at home. The watch syncs with the Fitbit app for health data, but you can also link your data to other services if needed (for example, sharing runs to Strava, or syncing steps to Google Fit if you prefer).
When it comes to software updates and support, Google has been providing software updates to its Pixel Watches for at least a few years beyond release. The Pixel Watch 4 launches with Wear OS 6 and should receive future Wear OS updates that bring new features or security improvements. Google hasn’t explicitly promised a specific number of years for updates, but you can likely expect around 3 years of software support (based on past Pixel device patterns). This means the watch will stay current in terms of software well into the time you’d reasonably use it.
In summary, as long as you have an Android phone, the Pixel Watch 4 plays very nicely in the ecosystem. It is arguably the most well-rounded smartwatch for Android users in 2026 because it doesn’t force you into a specific brand’s phone to get full functionality. It’s a strong choice for someone who might change Android phone brands in the future or who just wants a high-end smartwatch without switching to a specific phone-maker’s ecosystem.
If you’re an iPhone user, however, the Pixel Watch 4 unfortunately won’t be an option – those users would still need to look at an Apple Watch or other iOS-compatible wearable. But for Android folks, Google’s integration and broad compatibility make the Pixel Watch 4 an easy fit into your tech life.
Pros and Cons
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Build & Design | Premium sleek design; lightweight aluminum build; comfortable fit with multiple band options. | Not a rugged watch (no sapphire crystal); domed glass can scratch and isn’t ideal for extreme outdoor use. |
| Display | Gorgeous 1.49” AMOLED with 3000 nits brightness; nearly bezel-free look with vibrant colors; always-on mode available. | Curved “droplet” display might feel unusual to some; no traditional flat screen option if you dislike domed glass. |
| Performance | Smooth Wear OS 6 experience; snappy app performance; ample storage (32GB) for music/apps; robust app ecosystem. | Iterative processor upgrade (not a huge leap from last gen); still requires occasional phone use for certain setups or deeper settings. |
| Battery | ~2-day battery life on 45mm model with normal use; dramatically faster charging (50% in 15 min); convenient battery saver options. | 41mm model has shorter battery life (~1 day with always-on); heavy LTE or GPS use will still drain battery by end of day; no wireless charging (uses proprietary dock). |
| Health & Features | Comprehensive fitness tracking (GPS, heart rate, ECG, etc.); new safety features (Loss of Pulse alerts, fall detection, SOS); innovative AI assistant integration (Gemini). | Some advanced health insights require a paid Fitbit Premium subscription after the trial; not as specialized for hardcore athletes as Garmin or dedicated sports watches (e.g., no multi-week battery for ultras). |
| Compatibility | Works with any Android phone with full features; strong Google services integration and app support; LTE option for standalone use. | No iPhone support at all; uses proprietary watch bands and charger (accessories must be Google’s or compatible third-party). |
Buyer’s Recommendation
Still wondering if the Google Pixel Watch 4 is the right smartwatch for you? Here’s a quick rundown of who should consider buying it and who might want to pass:
● Ideal for Android users seeking a premium all-in-one smartwatch. If you value a blend of style, smart features, and fitness tracking, the Pixel Watch 4 delivers a balanced experience. It’s great for those who want a watch that looks professional by day but can track workouts by night. Busy professionals will love the notification handling and voice assistant, while casual athletes will appreciate the improved GPS accuracy and health tracking.
● Great for Pixel phone owners and Google ecosystem fans. If you’re already using Google services (Gmail, Google Home, etc.) or own other Pixel devices, this watch integrates seamlessly. You’ll get the most out of features like the Google Assistant (Gemini) and instant syncing with Google apps. The watch effectively becomes an extension of your Pixel phone.
● Recommended for those who need quick-charge convenience. Are you someone who forgets to charge devices? The Pixel Watch 4’s fast charging means even forgetful folks or frequent travelers can keep it going with short top-ups. In 2026’s busy world, the ability to gain hours of use from a 15-minute charge is a game-changer.
● Not ideal if you require multi-day battery or rugged durability. If you’re looking for a smartwatch that you can take on a week-long adventure without charging, or one that can survive very harsh conditions, the Pixel Watch 4 might fall short. Its battery life is much improved, but heavy GPS usage will mean daily charging. Likewise, the design favors urban style over military-grade toughness – outdoor adventurers or those in rough environments might prefer a dedicated sports watch or a model with sapphire glass and extra protection.
● Think twice if you don’t want subscriptions or are on iOS. While the Pixel Watch 4 works great out of the box, keep in mind that some of its deeper health features (like detailed wellness reports or advanced coaching) will require a Fitbit Premium subscription after the free trial. If you’re not interested in any ongoing service fees for fitness insights, you might not fully utilize all the watch’s capabilities. And as mentioned, iPhone users are excluded entirely – the Pixel Watch 4 won’t pair with iOS, so Apple’s ecosystem loyalists should stick to the Apple Watch or consider other options.
Buy Google Pixel Watch 4 45mm Smartwatch on Amazon:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is the Google Pixel Watch 4 compatible with iPhones or only Android phones?
A: The Pixel Watch 4 is designed to work only with Android smartphones. You’ll need an Android device (Android 8.0 or newer) and the Google Pixel Watch app to set it up. It is not compatible with iPhones or iOS, so iPhone users would need to look at other smartwatch options.
Q: How long does the Pixel Watch 4’s battery last, and does it charge fast?
A: Battery life on the Pixel Watch 4 (45mm) is around one and a half to two days of typical use per charge. This assumes some health tracking, notifications, and always-on display active part of the time. The smaller 41mm model lasts around one day (30 hours with always-on). The good news is the watch charges very quickly. Using the included fast charging dock, you can get about 50% charge in just 15 minutes, and a full charge in under an hour. This quick-charge ability makes it easy to top up the battery whenever you have a short break.
Q: Can the Pixel Watch 4 be worn while swimming or in the shower?
A: Yes. The Pixel Watch 4 is rated 5ATM for water resistance and also has an IP68 rating. This means it’s water-resistant up to 50 meters deep. It’s perfectly fine for swimming in the pool or ocean, wearing in the shower, or getting caught in the rain. Just avoid high-pressure water activities (like jet skiing or scuba diving) as those aren’t covered by the rating. After swimming in salt water or a pool, it’s a good idea to rinse the watch with fresh water and dry it off.
Q: What health and fitness features does the Pixel Watch 4 offer?
A: The Pixel Watch 4 is a full-fledged fitness smartwatch. It continuously tracks your heart rate and can even take an ECG reading on demand to help detect irregular rhythms. It has built-in GPS for tracking outdoor exercises (runs, bike rides, hikes) accurately without needing your phone. Other sensors include blood oxygen (SpO₂) monitoring, sleep tracking (with sleep stage breakdowns), and a new skin temperature sensor that can flag potential fevers or changes in your baseline.
It also offers stress tracking via a physical response sensor and can alert you to unusual heart activity (like very low or high heart rate). All your data syncs with the Fitbit app, where you can see daily steps, workout summaries, and health metrics. Plus, Google is introducing an AI-powered Fitbit Personal Coach that will create custom workout plans and give insights – the Watch 4 is ready to support that when it fully launches in 2026.
Q: Do I need a subscription to use the Pixel Watch 4’s features?
A: The core features of the Pixel Watch 4 do not require a subscription – you can track workouts, see your heart rate, use Google Assistant (Gemini), get notifications, and more without paying extra. However, some advanced health insights and workouts are part of Fitbit Premium, which typically comes with a free trial for new watch buyers (often around 6 months). After the trial, Fitbit Premium is optional but provides deeper analysis (like wellness reports, readiness scores, and more personalized coaching).
If you choose not to subscribe, you’ll still retain the standard tracking and basic insights, just not the premium content. LTE connectivity on the watch (if you bought the LTE model) will require adding the device to your cellular plan, which usually comes with a monthly cost from your carrier – but that’s only if you want the watch to work independently of your phone for calls/data.
Q: How well does the Pixel Watch 4 work without my phone nearby?
A: If you have the Wi-Fi/GPS only version of the Pixel Watch 4, it can still do quite a bit away from your phone as long as it’s connected to Wi-Fi or has cached music and apps. You can track workouts with GPS, listen to offline music with Bluetooth headphones, make contactless payments, and use some apps on Wi-Fi.
However, you won’t receive phone call alerts or real-time notifications without a connection to your phone or a known Wi-Fi network. If you have the LTE model, the watch can function very independently – you can receive and reply to texts, get notifications, stream music, and even make calls directly on the watch when you’re out of Bluetooth range from your phone. Essentially, the LTE model turns the Pixel Watch 4 into a standalone communication device when needed (useful for runs, quick errands, or travel where you’d rather leave your phone behind). Keep in mind that using LTE will use more battery, so the overall longevity will be a bit shorter on cellular.
Final Verdict
So, is the Google Pixel Watch 4 45mm Smartwatch worth buying in 2026? In our analysis, the answer is yes – for most Android users looking for a high-end smartwatch, the Pixel Watch 4 is an excellent choice. Google has delivered a masterclass in refinement with this device. It may not reinvent the wheel, but it polishes the Pixel Watch formula to its best version yet.
The design remains one of the most stylish in the smartwatch world, ideal for someone who wants tech that doesn’t look geeky. With the larger display and edge-to-edge glass, the screen is both beautiful and functional, making every glance at your wrist enjoyable. Importantly, Google addressed key past complaints by boosting the battery life into the two-day range (on the 45mm model) and introducing ultra-fast charging that alleviates battery concerns.
Performance is smooth, and while the processor upgrade is modest, the overall user experience feels snappier and more fluid, especially with Wear OS 6’s improvements. Health and fitness enthusiasts will find a lot to like: reliable tracking, more accurate GPS, and the promise of even smarter coaching features around the corner.
The integration of Google’s AI (Gemini) sets the Pixel Watch 4 apart from other Android watches – features like raise-to-talk make interacting with your watch feel natural and futuristic. It truly enhances convenience in day-to-day scenarios (timers, notes, quick info checks) in a way that becomes hard to give up once you’ve tried it.
That said, it’s important to know what not to expect: the Pixel Watch 4 is not aiming to be a multi-week endurance champ or a hardcore adventure watch. It is “here for a good time, not a long time” on your wrist – meaning it prioritizes smart capabilities and a sleek profile over a massive battery or ultra-rugged build. If you understand that trade-off and it fits your lifestyle, the Pixel Watch 4 will likely delight you.
It’s arguably the best smartwatch for the entire Android ecosystem heading into 2026, especially for those who want a bit of everything: style, smarts, and sport. Google has hit a sweet spot between functionality and form.
In conclusion, the Google Pixel Watch 4 45mm is worth buying in 2026 if you’re an Android user seeking a top-tier smartwatch experience. It brings enough improvements (especially in battery life and display tech) to justify choosing it over older models or other competitors, unless you have very niche needs. With its user-friendly features and Google’s software smarts, the Pixel Watch 4 feels like the first Pixel Watch that truly lives up to the promise of an all-around excellent Android smartwatch.
It’s a device that can make everyday tasks easier, help you stay healthy, and keep you connected – all while looking great on your wrist. If those qualities are what you value, the Pixel Watch 4 is a purchase you won’t regret in 2026.
Leave a comment