The Google Pixel Watch 4 made me like smartwatches again | TechCrunch

The Google Pixel Watch 4 made me like smartwatches again | TechCrunch

By Ivan Mehta
Publication Date: 2025-12-28 16:00:00

For the last few years, I wore either an analog watch or Xiaomi Band 6 for basic step tracking and time. I didn’t opt for an Apple Watch because I wasn’t constantly active, I didn’t feel the need to check my notifications, and I didn’t want to think about charging the watch every day.

This year, I got a chance to test the new Google Pixel Watch 4, which made me feel like I might start wearing smartwatches again.

I have always had a soft spot for circular watches. One of the first smartwatches I owned was the Moto 360, and I loved its rounded design.

The Pixel Watch 4 has a curved domed Actua 360 display with thinner bezels as compared to last year’s watch. I have the 41 mm watch as the test unit, but I would personally opt for the 45mm size for battery and a bigger display. The display is also brighter with 3,000 nits of peak brightness, and that makes it easier to use in daylight.

The battery life is great on the Pixel Watch 4, even with the smaller size. I…