The highly anticipated Google Pixel Watch 2 is set to steal the spotlight at the upcoming Made by Google event on October 4. While details have been scarce, tantalizing rumors suggest significant improvements and features, some of which are reminiscent of the Fitbit Sense 2.
Stress Management and Skin Temperature Sensing
Insiders, sharing insights with 9to5Google, hint at the inclusion of an electrodermal activity (EDA) sensor and a skin temperature sensor in the Pixel Watch 2. These sensors aim to empower users to manage stress levels effectively and monitor their skin temperature in real-time.
The integration of stress management aligns with previous speculations, promising a valuable addition. Additionally, the ability to track both current and historical skin temperatures sets the Pixel Watch 2 apart from the Fitbit Sense 2, which primarily records nighttime temperature variations. This feature offers a more accurate understanding of your body temperature fluctuations throughout the day.
It’s worth noting that these sensors might also contribute to tracking menstrual cycles, similar to the capabilities of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 and 6. However, sources haven’t confirmed this aspect.
Pixel 8’s Thermometer Integration
Interestingly, the Pixel 8 is rumored to feature a built-in thermometer, as showcased in a leaked video. The relationship between these two temperature-sensing devices and how they may collaborate for users with both gadgets remains unclear.
Software Updates and Design Refresh
Intriguingly, insiders suggest that Fitbit devices will undergo a design refresh to align more closely with the Pixel Watch’s style. This refresh includes making the heart rate monitoring interface more engaging to encourage users to achieve their desired heart rate zones. Other design elements are also expected to be resized to resemble the aesthetics of Wear OS.
Enhanced Personal Safety App
The Pixel Watch 2’s Personal Safety App is poised for an upgrade. It’s anticipated to support Car Crash Detection on Pixel phones. In the event of an accident, the watch will display essential medical information on your wrist for emergency responders.
Moreover, full Emergency Sharing support is on the horizon. Users will have the ability to share their location with trusted contacts directly from their Pixel Watch 2, a feature especially valuable for LTE-enabled watches that can operate independently of a smartphone. The watch will also introduce a “schedule a Safety check” feature, counting down to a predefined time when it will inquire about your well-being. If you don’t respond, it will notify emergency contacts of your location, contingent on having LTE and an active data connection.
Wear OS Translation Revamp
Lastly, the launch of the Pixel Watch 2 might coincide with the reimagining of translation capabilities on Wear OS. Rather than a standalone Google Translate app, users can expect integration with Google Assistant’s interpreter mode, a feature already accessible on various devices, including phones, tablets, and Nest products.
Stay tuned for the Google Pixel Watch 2 unveiling on October 4, where these exciting features and enhancements will take center stage.
Kristine Andersen is a highly-regarded health journalist with over a decade of experience in covering a wide range of health-related topics. She has a deep understanding of the latest developments in medicine and has a talent for making complex medical concepts accessible to a general audience.