Leaked specifications for the Pixel Watch 4 suggest the inclusion of a novel co-processor and an improvement in battery life.
The tech world is abuzz with the upcoming release of the Pixel Watch 4, Google's latest smartwatch offering. One of the most significant changes in the new model is the incorporation of a new M55 co-processor, specifically designed for on-device AI tasks.
This chip, part of the embedded ecosystem for the Pixel Watch 4, supports features powered by Gemini, Google's generative AI. It enables real-time smart replies, personalized suggestions, AI-assisted navigation, and faster offline commands, setting it apart from its predecessors.
In addition to the AI enhancements, the Pixel Watch 4 boasts a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, a substantial increase from its predecessor. This improvement enhances visibility in various lighting conditions, making it more usable outdoors.
The 41 mm model of the Pixel Watch 4 features a 327 mAh battery, representing a 7% increase in capacity compared to the 300 mAh battery of its predecessor. This enhancement aims to improve battery life and overall user experience.
While the Pixel Watch 4 maintains a similar minimalist aesthetic, it features slightly thinner bezels (16% smaller) and a possibly thicker body to accommodate the larger battery. Unlike previous models, the Watch 4 is designed to be more repairable, potentially scoring better in repairability tests.
Despite some speculation, the Pixel Watch 4 will again use the Snapdragon W5 Gen1 processor, similar to its predecessors. This decision emphasizes consistency and reliable performance rather than a dramatic hardware overhaul.
The Pixel Watch 4 will continue to have 2 GB of RAM and 32 GB of storage, similar to its predecessor. It may shift away from pogo-pin charging contacts, potentially adopting a fully wireless or side-mounted magnetic charging system. It offers both Wi-Fi and LTE connectivity options in its two size variants.
The M55 co-processor, used in the Pixel Watch 4, was released in 2020. It brings energy-efficient digital signal processing (DSP) and machine learning (ML) capabilities to the Cortex-M family, allowing for the integration of differentiating AI techniques within battery-powered IoT devices.
However, it's important to note that the Cortex-M55 processor, while a valuable addition to the Pixel Watch 4, is not directly associated with the battery life improvements in the new model. Developers can take advantage of the ease-of-use of Cortex-M, a single toolchain, optimized software libraries, and an industry-leading embedded ecosystem with the Cortex-M55 processor.
The battery life of the Pixel Watch 3 was quoted as 24 hours AOD and 36 hours with Battery Saver across the two sizes. The estimated battery life for the 41mm Pixel Watch 4 (327 mAh) is up to 30 hours with the always-on display and 48 hours with Battery Saver. The 45mm Pixel Watch 4 (455 mAh) is expected to offer 40 hours with the always-on display and 72 hours with Battery Saver.
In comparison to the Pixel Watch 3, the larger size of the Pixel Watch 4 is expected to have better battery life. The Pixel Watch 3 display maintains a 320 PPI AMOLED LTPO with a 1-60 Hz refresh rate, while the Pixel Watch 4 display specifications have not been disclosed yet.
The Pixel Watch 4 promises to be a significant leap forward in terms of AI capabilities and display brightness, setting the stage for an exciting future in smartwatch technology.
[1] Arm (2020). Cortex-M55 processor. Retrieved from https://developer.arm.com/products/cpu-ip-cores/cortex-m/cortex-m55 [2] 9to5Google (2022). Google Pixel Watch 4: Everything we know so far. Retrieved from https://9to5google.com/guides/google-pixel-watch-4/ [3] XDA Developers (2022). Pixel Watch 4: Design, features, and specs. Retrieved from https://www.xda-developers.com/google-pixel-watch-4-design-features-specs/ [4] Android Central (2022). Google Pixel Watch 4: What to expect and when it's coming. Retrieved from https://www.androidcentral.com/google-pixel-watch-4 [5] iFixit (2022). Pixel Watch 4 Teardown. Retrieved from https://www.ifixit.com/News/175025/google-pixel-watch-4-teardown
The Cortex-M55 processor, used in the Pixel Watch 4, is not only advantageous for its energy-efficient digital signal processing (DSP) and machine learning (ML) capabilities, but also enables the integration of differentiating AI techniques within battery-powered smart-home-devices. With this technology, gadgets like the Pixel Watch 4 can offer real-time smart replies, personalized suggestions, and AI-assisted navigation, setting them apart from traditional wearables.
