Google’s Pixel Watch 5 hasn’t changed much, but this time almost everything works
Google isn’t revolutionising its smartwatch, but it is making improvements where it counts:
The Pixel Watch 5 is one of those products that doesn’t reveal much in photos but says a great deal more when worn on the wrist. At first glance, it looks almost identical to the previous model: the same circular shape, the same glass dome, the same concept of a smartwatch. But that’s precisely the point. Google hasn’t tried to reinvent it. It has tried to iron out the flaws.
The most interesting new feature is Gemini, which is now more fully integrated into the watch. Some simple tasks, such as setting a timer, starting a workout, managing music or activating a routine, can be carried out directly from the Watch. It’s a small difference on paper, but an important one in everyday use: fewer steps, less reliance on your smartphone, and a greater sense that the watch understands what you want to do.
The second improvement concerns the GPS. The dual-frequency system, combined with correction algorithms, reduces errors, particularly in urban areas, amongst tall buildings and narrow streets. For those who run or cycle, this is probably the most practical new feature.
The Actua 360 screen is also impressive, reaching 3,000 nits and remaining perfectly legible in direct sunlight. The gesture controls are good too: a double pinch between your thumb and forefinger allows you to scroll through or reply to notifications without touching the screen, and it works better than you might expect.
Then there’s charging. Google promises 50 per cent in around 15 minutes. And that’s important, because battery life remains the real limitation. With Always-On Display enabled, you’re looking at around 30–40 hours. In practice, that still means charging it almost every day. Fast charging alleviates the problem, but it doesn’t solve it.
