Google Pixel Watch 2 LTE smartwatch in review – Where are the improvements?

The Pixel Watch 2 is only compatible with Android devices. Upon powering on the new smartwatch, a pop-up appears on nearby smartphones, initiating the setup process. The app guides users through various setup steps, requesting permissions, such as for sending notifications.

The setup process is quite detailed, including in-depth tutorials explaining how to operate the smartwatch and change the straps, for example. After transferring a Google account (mandatory), the next step involves registering with Fitbit. However, Fitbit accounts must be integrated into Google to access all functions.

This means that the setup takes longer compared to many other smartwatches, with intermittent actions required. Unlike with the predecessor, the Pixel Watch 2 offers a smooth setup experience with minimal problems or interruptions during setup. The watch was reset once after the initial setup for no apparent reason, requiring reconfiguration.

The mobile connection on the LTE version of the smartwatch that we used is facilitated through an eSIM. The SIM can be installed either during the initial setup process or later, but a connection is only possible with a multi-SIM.

Google continues to rely on a solution involving two to three different apps. The Google Pixel Watch app is necessary for the initial setup. It controls Pixel Watch 2 settings, such as managing which apps are allowed to send notifications. Additionally, it provides access to the Play Store, mobile connection and display settings. Notably, Google Fit is no longer automatically populated with data from the Pixel Watch 2. Instead, a detour via Health Connect is required.

The “Safety & emergency” menu is also available. The Pixel Watch 2 offers quick access to the user’s emergency information and can send an alert to stored contacts or emergency services. A new feature is the “Safety Check,” which sets a timer; upon expiration, the user must confirm their well-being. Otherwise, the location is shared, and an emergency call can be initiated. The location can also be shared with emergency contacts during the timer.

The Pixel Watch app allows users to choose from a wide selection of free watch faces. Notably, most watch faces are extensively customizable, allowing users to modify colors, arrangement, and content of additional information displayed. 

The order and content of the tiles can also be personalized. The Pixel Watch 2 benefits from an extensive range of apps due to Wear OS and the Google Play Store. Additionally, with NFC, the smartwatch supports contactless payments, and Google Wallet comes pre-installed. A distinctive feature of the Pixel Watch is its capability to directly operate smart home devices. Google Home is pre-installed, enabling control of all paired devices such as speakers, lamps, thermometers, etc., through the smartwatch.