Google increased the quoted charging speeds for the first-generation Pixel Watch in a past firmware update. This means that it now takes longer to charge the watch than it did when it was first released.
As reported by 9to5Google, the company quietly updated the support page for the device to reflect the new charging times. Additionally, the company confirmed the change directly to the publication by stating "a firmware update for Google Pixel Watches required us to review the charging times, the new times are what the average user will experience," with no further explanation.
Basically, if you own the original Pixel Watch, you may have noticed that it now takes at least 15 minutes longer to charge than it did before. Charging times have increased from 30 minutes to 45 minutes to go from 0% to 50%, 55 minutes to 75 minutes to go from 0% to 80%, and 80 minutes to 110 minutes to go from 0% to 100%. It is important to note that these are just estimated charging times, dependent on a number of factors, such as the ambient temperature and the condition of the battery.
Since Google has not explained why the charging times have been increased, we can only speculate that this re-assessment came about due to the release of the Pixel Watch 2. The new watch sports a newer processor and a slightly larger battery, as well as a new magnetic charging puck that uses a pin mechanism instead of just relying on magnets. Google claims that the Pixel Watch 2 lasts longer between charges and it's possible the company arrived at this conclusion while testing this claim.
The Pixel Watch 2 and its new charging puck. Image credit - PhoneArena
Another possibility is that thermal concerns after a full charging session may be to blame. As a Pixel Watch owner I do find that it can get pretty warm while charging, to the extent that I usually opt to wait about a minute or two to wear it after removing it from the charger. Similar reports from users, plus complaints of the glue that holds the backplate coming undone, may have prompted Google to make changes to the firmware which brought about this change.
Johanna 'Jojo the Techie' is a skilled mobile technology expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience, specializing in the Google ecosystem and Pixel devices. Known for her user-friendly approach, she leverages her vast tech support background to provide accessible and insightful coverage on latest technology trends. As a recognized thought leader and official member of #TeamPixel, Johanna ensures she stays at the forefront of Google services and products, making her a reliable source for all things Pixel and ChromeOS.
A discussion is a place, where people can voice their opinion, no matter if it
is positive, neutral or negative. However, when posting, one must stay true to the topic, and not just share some
random thoughts, which are not directly related to the matter.
Things that are NOT allowed:
Off-topic talk - you must stick to the subject of discussion
Offensive, hate speech - if you want to say something, say it politely
Spam/Advertisements - these posts are deleted
Multiple accounts - one person can have only one account
Impersonations and offensive nicknames - these accounts get banned
Moderation is done by humans. We try to be as objective as possible and moderate with zero bias. If you think a
post should be moderated - please, report it.
Have a question about the rules or why you have been moderated/limited/banned? Please,
contact us.
FCC OKs Cingular\'s purchase of AT&T Wireless
Things that are NOT allowed: