The initial two versions of the Pixel Watch were seen as average compared to their competitors. As the release of new Pixel smartphones and watches approaches, detailed renders of both the Pixel 9 series and the Watch 3 series have emerged. According to recent leaks and rumors, the Pixel Watch 3 series will feature two models — the Pixel Watch 3 and the Watch 3 XL. Here are the known differences between the Pixel Watch 3 and 3 XL.
Pixel Watch 3 vs 3 XL: Display and Design Comparison
Since the debut of the first Pixel Watch, there has been a demand among users for a larger size option. Both the original Pixel Watch and its successor featured a 1.2-inch OLED 60Hz display housed in a 41mm enclosure, a size that drew criticism for being too small, exacerbated by the large bezels.
According to recent renders, distinguishing between the Pixel Watch 3, Watch 2, and its predecessor might be challenging as they all retain similar bezel sizes and a 41mm form factor. In contrast, the new Pixel Watch 3 XL is rumored to boast a larger 1.45-inch display housed in a 45mm enclosure.
Notably, the bezels on the XL variant appear noticeably slimmer compared to those on the standard Pixel Watch.The overall design of the Pixel Watch 3 series has remained largely unchanged. A CAD drawing shared by user @xBeVendetta highlights the difference in bezel sizes, affirming that the Watch 3 XL indeed features slightly slimmer bezels. The rotating crown and the button above it are retained in this iteration.
The Pixel Watch 3 XL will introduce a larger band attachment system to accommodate its increased size compared to the regular Pixel Watch. This means that bands from older Pixel Watch models will not be compatible.
Additionally, according to the renders, both the Pixel Watch 3 and 3 XL may be slightly thicker, potentially to accommodate additional hardware, details of which will be discussed later.
Another notable change is in the band design that accompanies the watch. The bands included with the Pixel Watch 3 series will feature a buckle closure, in contrast to the latching mechanism seen on previous Pixel Watches.
Pixel Watch 3 vs 3 XL: Battery Comparison
The Pixel Watch 3 was recently listed on a safety website, where the battery size mentioned was 307 mAh, representing a modest increase of just 3 mAh from its predecessor. While this may not significantly enhance the Pixel Watch 3’s battery life compared to the Pixel Watch 2, the Pixel Watch 3 XL is expected to benefit from a larger battery due to its increased size.
If Google manages to incorporate a 420-450 mAh battery into the Pixel Watch 3 XL, it could substantially improve standby time and potentially extend battery life by at least half a day or more. This enhancement would position the Pixel Watch 3 XL as a robust two-day Wear OS smartwatch. Another critical factor influencing battery life is the System-on-Chip (SoC), which leads us to the next consideration.
SoC and Hardware Variations
Google is likely to continue using the Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 SoC from the Pixel Watch 2 in the upcoming Pixel Watch 3 series. This choice strikes a good balance between performance and efficiency, which is advantageous for Wear OS smartwatches.
We anticipate that the RAM and eMMC storage will remain unchanged at 2 GB and 32 GB, respectively. However, there is speculation that Google might increase the RAM, particularly if future Wear OS updates, such as the Gemini enhancements, require more memory. If so, we hope Google will offer additional RAM options for both the standard and XL variants of the Pixel Watch 3.
The decision regarding RAM expansion will likely hinge on whether Wear OS will integrate Gemini onboard or rely on smartphone processing. If Google opts for onboard integration, prioritizing a larger battery over more RAM could be necessary to accommodate the expanded functionality without enlarging the motherboard footprint.
The greater thickness of the Pixel Watch 3 series hints at Google possibly integrating more hardware components. One notable feature expected is an Ultrawide Band radio, facilitating precise tracking through Google’s new Find My Device network. There are also rumors about additional sensors, although specific details remain undisclosed.
More information about the hardware specifics is anticipated as we approach the launch of the Pixel Watch 3 series and Pixel 9 series, expected around September or October this year.
Pixel Watch 3 vs 3 XL: Software Comparison
Both the Pixel Watch 3 and Watch 3 XL will come equipped with Wear OS 5 out of the box. Wear OS 5 introduces several enhancements and features, including improvements aimed at enhancing battery life.
Additionally, Google is expected to introduce new Pixel-exclusive features for the Pixel Watch 3 series as the launch date approaches. It’s unlikely that Google will limit any software features to the XL version over the regular model.
This summarizes the current information available about Wear OS on the Pixel Watch 3 series. As more details emerge, we will continue to update this information.
Google Pixel Watch 3 vs 3 XL: Price Comparison
Google has consistently positioned its Pixel Watch series at higher price points compared to competitors. The Bluetooth-only variant of the Pixel Watch 2 launched at $349, with the LTE variant priced at $399. In contrast, the Galaxy Watch 6 debuted at a lower starting price of $299, making Google’s offerings comparatively expensive.
While specific pricing for the Pixel Watch 3 series has not been confirmed yet, past trends suggest that the Bluetooth-only and LTE variants of the Pixel Watch 3 could be priced similarly at $349 and $399, respectively. The Pixel Watch 3 XL, being a larger model, may carry a higher price tag with the Bluetooth-only and LTE variants potentially starting at $399 and $449, respectively.
Considering consumer reluctance to spend over $400 on smartwatches, Google might adjust prices within six months of the launch. One strategy could involve setting the Pixel Watch 3 prices at $279 and $329 for the Bluetooth-only and LTE variants, while pricing the Pixel Watch 3 XL at $349 and $399, making it more competitive in the market.
What are your expectations and desired features for the Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Watch 3 XL? Let us know in the comments below.
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