Latest Pixel Watch 5 leak reveals another possible plot twist
Google's new wearables are arriving very soon, with a potential surprise in tow.
Google Pixel Watch 4 for illustrative purposes. | Image by PhoneArena
Google's upcoming devices are getting closer to launch, and a fresh leak proves it. The Pixel Watch 5 initially popped up in the most unusual place, and now an FCC listing suggests the announcement is imminent. With this step now behind Google, all that's left is to see the smartwatch in real life.
The launch is almost here
FCC listing of the Pixel Watch 5. | Image by FCC
On June 29, 2026, an FCC filing revealed Google's upcoming wearables, giving us four concrete models to expect. These are G25QD, G1XJ6, G0F3Y, and GFW3R, likely referring to two size variants.
What's particularly curious here, as shown in the above image, is that there appears to be no Wi-Fi-only variant. If that's indeed the case, it suggests that Google may be removing the "stripped-down" version of its smartwatches altogether.
As if that's not enough, the official regulatory listing reveals the tested variants (or at least the G25QD model) are packing premium connectivity that you'd normally find in a smartphone, just like the previous generation.
According to the official FCC report, the wireless device supports the multiple WLAN frequency ranges up to 802.11ax. This confirms support for Wi-Fi 6, which is also available in the Pixel Watch 4. The upcoming Google Pixel watch will also support satellite connectivity, just like its predecessor.
What's particularly curious here, as shown in the above image, is that there appears to be no Wi-Fi-only variant. If that's indeed the case, it suggests that Google may be removing the "stripped-down" version of its smartwatches altogether.
As if that's not enough, the official regulatory listing reveals the tested variants (or at least the G25QD model) are packing premium connectivity that you'd normally find in a smartphone, just like the previous generation.
According to the official FCC report, the wireless device supports the multiple WLAN frequency ranges up to 802.11ax. This confirms support for Wi-Fi 6, which is also available in the Pixel Watch 4. The upcoming Google Pixel watch will also support satellite connectivity, just like its predecessor.
Do you think Wi-Fi-only smartwatches are unnecessary?
Wi-Fi-only era gone?
Counterpoint Research global smartwatch shipment share 2024 vs 2025. | Image by Counterpoint Research
Google's solution to omit Wi-Fi-only variants seems logical at first glance. After all, it's the kind of cost-cutting measure that allows the company to streamline its assembly lines and reduce component fragmentation.
And yet, it'll probably impact the end user negatively. If Wi-Fi models are out for good, virtually everyone would be forced to pay an extra $100 for the Pixel Watch 5. And that's if we assume the new model doesn't introduce a price hike.
Forcing a price hike on consumers is a bold move for a brand that isn't even the driving force in the market. Counterpoint Research global smartwatch shipment data shows that Google doesn't make it into the top five dominant global manufacturers.
While the research company has noted a six percent increase in cellular smartwatch shipments in 2026, it's hard to see how Google will emerge as a bestseller, especially if the newer wearables are pricier on top of everything else.
And yet, it'll probably impact the end user negatively. If Wi-Fi models are out for good, virtually everyone would be forced to pay an extra $100 for the Pixel Watch 5. And that's if we assume the new model doesn't introduce a price hike.
Forcing a price hike on consumers is a bold move for a brand that isn't even the driving force in the market. Counterpoint Research global smartwatch shipment data shows that Google doesn't make it into the top five dominant global manufacturers.
While the research company has noted a six percent increase in cellular smartwatch shipments in 2026, it's hard to see how Google will emerge as a bestseller, especially if the newer wearables are pricier on top of everything else.
Will this move change everything?
The obvious answer would be a potentially higher baseline price for the wearable. That won't actually impact its day-to-day usability, though. In fact, even if Google ditches standalone Wi-Fi models and packs everything with LTE and Wi-Fi, that doesn't mean you're forced to purchase an eSIM card or sign a carrier plan to use it.
You'll still be able to connect it over Bluetooth and sync it through Wi-Fi; the wearable would function exactly like a regular Wi-Fi-only variant. Still, the cellular support will be there, sitting in the background and waiting for you to activate it whenever you need.
My advice: if you're planning to upgrade to the Pixel Watch 5 and it turns out that all variants are cellular-ready, I'd recommend checking out network compatibility. That way, you'll have a better idea of which carrier to select when you wish to activate cellular service.
The smartwatch to obsess about
Will the Pixel Watch 5 look better than its predecessor? | Image by PhoneArena
The Google Pixel Watch 5 is arriving very soon, and honestly, I can't wait. Since the FCC listing doesn't reveal anything about the specs, and earlier rumors have been inconclusive so far, I'm really curious to see what the wearable brings to the table.
And frankly, if the package is good enough, I wouldn't even mind a slight price increase.
And in case you missed it:
- The first Pixel Watch 5 leak was wild!
- Check out this review of the Pixel Watch 4
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