Google has set an August date for the Pixel 9 series reveal, and we might also see the Pixel Watch 3 around that time: the smartwatch just cleared a major regulatory hurdle in the US, and it appears to be getting at least one major upgrade.
The Pixel Watch 3’s arrival at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the US was noted by Android Policeand these applications are typically filed close to the launch of the respective devices, making an August debut now very likely.
There are four models in total, codenamed GBDU9, GRY0E, GG3HH, and GGE4J. Two will have LTE connectivity, while the other two stick to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, so it looks like we’ll be getting 41mm and 45mm variants of the watch (as rumored).
Apparently there will be support for both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi bands, plus Wi-Fi 6. These are further improvements over the current Pixel Watch 2, which should improve connectivity and performance when connected to wireless networks.
Suitable for ultra-wideband
Importantly, all four models feature ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, which improves short-range connectivity and location tracking. It’s a handy feature that’s already available in the Apple Watch 9, Apple’s AirTags, and the latest iPhones.
One way UWB could be used is to be more precise when locating a lost device, though Google’s Find My Device network unfortunately doesn’t support this yet. It could also help with improved integrations with other devices, potentially including Chromebooks and Pixel phones — an upgrade that’s been rumored before, too.
Most of the Pixel Watch 3 leaks so far have focused on the new, larger model that’s rumored to be coming this year, giving Pixel Watch users a choice of size options for the first time. There’s also been talk of new sensors packing into the smartwatch.
The big event day is set for Wednesday, August 13, and along with the Pixel Watch 3, we should be getting a few other shiny new gadgets too. We’ll, of course, bring you all the news from the show – and any other Pixel Watch 3 leaks that surface in the meantime.