Google Pixel Watch: Google announces its first flagship watch

We can finally put Google Pixel rumors to rest because the hard facts are in. This morning Google used I/O 2022 to preview the highly-anticipated Pixel Watch. The company also shared updates about its Wear OS software and teased its plan for future integration with acquired Fitbit tech and features.

See also: The best smartwatches you can buy

Everything we learned about the Google Pixel Watch

After years of wait and see, we finally have official eyes on the Google Pixel watch. Unfortunately, interested parties will have to wait a bit to get their hands on Google’s new consumer wearable. According to the announcement, the Google Pixel Watch will arrive this fall alongside the Google Pixel 7.

Exclusively round

As seen in leaked images, the device features a sleek, round watch case and rotating digital crown. For strapping in, the Pixel Watch features customizable bands. We had hoped to see Google offer a rectangular device in addition to the round option, but for now, users will only find the same round shape we’ve seen from Samsung, Mobvoi, and others.

Wear OS and Google features

In addition to the typical Wear OS experience, the watch will support Google Assistant as well as the Google Home app and the newly announced Google Wallet. This feature allows users to tap to pay, and also stores cards and documents like a student ID, boarding passes, vaccine cards, and more. Since there will be an LTE model of the Pixel Watch available, users will be able to use these features without a phone nearby.

In a further effort to keep our pockets less cluttered, Google is also working with state governments to bring digital driver licenses to Google Wallet later this year. The company also stated that Google Assistant will feature on the Pixel Watch, something Galaxy Watch 4 users are still waiting to see arrive.

Fitbit Integration

Perhaps the most exciting part of the tease is Google’s promises regarding Fitbit. Google’s acquisition of Fitbit added a great deal of potential to the company’s prospects within the wearables market.

We are happy to share that the Google Pixel Watch will showcase “deep integration with Fitbit.” We will have to wait to find out more but for now, expect continuous heart rate tracking, advanced sleep monitoring, and comprehensive fitness tracking.

While we had our fingers crossed for an official launch with more specs and details, we are at least happy to get a sneak peek. The Pixel Watch is no longer just a stubborn rumor.

See also: The best Wear OS watches you can buy