Pixel Watch 4 Render Leak Shows Same Design, Potential Return Of Wireless Charging

While it is not surprising that Google is planning to release the Pixel Watch 4 soon, new leaks suggest a couple of small changes that may set this apart from every other watch. The leaked renders provide a detailed look at the familiar design.

In generational changes, the Pixel Watch lineup doesn’t seem to differ from traditional design. The watches all have a circular chassis with a rounded display. While not the thinnest smartwatches out there, they tend to sit nicely on the wrist and offer a measure of comfort for most users. Overall, the lineup has been a welcome addition to Wear OS.

In it’s first images, the Pixel Watch 4 has appeared in renders that showcase a few key changes to the lineup (via 91mobiles x @OnLeaks). The first head-on image showcases the display and facade of the watch, which offers no immediate changes. It does appear that the bezel might be thinner, and according to the source, the watch comes in thicker than the previous model at 14.3mm.

There are plenty of reasons the chassis of the Pixel Watch 4 might be larger, but a battery change seems to rule as the lead option. It’s also unclear whether this model comes in a pair with another 41mm or 45mm option. That would play into different sizes as well, but without reference, it’s difficult to determine just how chunky it is based on renders.

The sensor array on the underside of the Pixel Watch 4 looks to have taken on a couple of changes. The sensors look unchanged, though we won’t know for sure until detailed specs leak. The charging pins found on the Pixel Watch 2 and 3 are missing. This was a notable change when Google switched to a pinned system for charging. The series has always lacked conventional Qi wireless charging, though the lack of pins might suggest Google switches over. Nothing else would suggest wireless charging, but it could allow for reverse wireless charging and further third-party accessories.

On the other hand, Google could revert back to a different form of charging without pins that still eaves Qi out of the picture. In any case, it’s impossible to know what the company is planning for this watch in terms of battery and charging.

A curious change is also found around the speaker. There looks to be two bumpers on either side. It’s unclear whether those are buttons or a dampening feature like the rubber padding found inside proprietary watch band connectors. The change could also be born of a need for more health sensors, like ECG contact points; though the left might be an uncomfortable spot if Google were to approach it like Samsung does in the Galaxy Watch series. Still, it’s an interesting add that should become clear as we get closer to launch.

A further 360-degree video showcases the entire rendered device.

The black model shown likely won’t be the only colorway, with Google generally releasing a couple of other metal finishes. The Pixel Watch 4 could be announced sometime in August or September if history has anything to say about it. The Made by Google 2025 event will be when the watch gets an official announcement.

Add 9to5Google to your Google News feed.