Google Pixel Watch to Gain ‘Forgotten Device’ Notifications
- Your phone may soon alert you if you’ve left your Google Pixel Watch behind, according to an Android Authority teardown
- This mirrors another rumored feature, which would have your Pixel Watch alert you in the opposite scenario
- Apple has provided this sort of feature for years, but Google is quietly catching up
I recently reviewed the Google Pixel Watch 4, and I was quite impressed. With its sleek design and innovative capabilities, it stands out in the smartwatch market. Features like replaceable batteries, a domed display, and satellite connectivity elevate its appeal.
However, the Pixel Watch has room for improvement, particularly when compared to competitors like the Apple Watch and Samsung Galaxy Watch. One such missing feature is ‘forgotten device’ notifications—alerts that notify users if they’ve left one device behind while carrying another within its ecosystem. For instance, if you mistakenly leave your phone at a café, your smartwatch would remind you before you venture too far. Currently, the Pixel Watch lacks this function.
According to a recent teardown by Android Authority, lines of code in the Pixel Watch’s companion app indicate that this much-anticipated feature may soon become a reality. The code reveals that your phone will alert you if your Pixel Watch is mistakenly left behind. Interestingly, another recent teardown suggested that the feature could work in reverse, notifying users if they accidentally leave their phone behind.
How Will It Work?
Compatibility appears limited to specific models of the Pixel Watch, and both devices will need Bluetooth enabled for the feature to operate. Additional security measures are being implemented as well; the feature is expected to automatically lock the left-behind device, a precaution that can help mitigate the risk of unauthorized access.
While it remains uncertain when this feature will roll out, the fact that it has been in development for several months raises the likelihood that it might debut with the Google Pixel Watch 5. This could serve as a strong incentive for users considering an upgrade.
Google’s Competitive Edge Against Apple
The addition of ‘left behind’ notifications and other enhancements signifies a substantial leap in user experience for Google. These refinements are essential for transitioning more users into the Android ecosystem, especially as Google strives to compete more aggressively with Apple.
Interestingly, while much of Google’s recent focus has been on its AI advancements, the potential of its smartwatch offerings seems to have been overshadowed. The Google Pixel Watch is gradually improving and has reached a stage where it could be a strong contender in the smartwatch segment. For many Android users, the Pixel Watch is a compelling option, thanks to its diverse sizing, longer battery life, and robust fitness features powered by Fitbit.
With unique design choices and a commitment to repairability, the Pixel Watch is evolving into a genuine rival to the Apple Watch, both in terms of functionality and overall quality.
For further reading and updates on the Google Pixel Watch and its features, you can find more information here.
Image Credit: www.techradar.com
