The Google Pixel Watch 2 stands out as one of the best Android-compatible smartwatches available today. Among its noteworthy features is Watch Unlock, initially hinted at over a year ago and officially rolled out to both the first-generation Pixel Watch and the Pixel Watch 2 last December. This feature allows the Pixel Watch to unlock a nearby Pixel phone by simply being nearby, using Bluetooth for smartphone communication. Recent insights suggest that Google may enhance the Watch Unlock feature with the anticipated Pixel Watch 3 by incorporating UWB (ultra-wideband) technology.
Analysis of the Google Play Services app has uncovered code snippets related to UWB. While this doesn’t directly verify UWB’s inclusion in the Pixel Watch 3, it strongly hints at the possibility. References in the code to “ActiveUnlock__enable_uwb_ranging” and “ActiveUnlock__enable_uwb_ranging_validation” indicate how Pixel Watch users might be able to activate UWB ranging for the Watch Unlock feature.
Integrating UWB in the Pixel Watch 3 would be a logical step, especially considering Google’s prior consideration of such technology for the Pixel Watch 2. However, it’s worth noting that currently, only the Pro versions of the Pixel 6, 7, and 8 phones come equipped with UWB. This means many users with standard Pixel models will still rely on the existing Watch Unlock technology.
The code also hints at certain restrictions regarding UWB’s use, likely due to its prohibition in various countries, including Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Indonesia, and Kazakhstan, among others. Should users attempt to activate the UWB-based Watch Unlock feature in these regions, they would encounter an error message indicating the unavailability of ultra-wideband technology in their country, suggesting that they can continue using Watch Unlock with potential minor delays and reduced accuracy.
This implies that the ultra-wideband powered Watch Unlock will offer a speedier and more precise experience compared to the current Bluetooth-based method.
Details about the Pixel Watch 3 are still sparse, but rumours suggest it might come in 41mm and 45mm sizes, marking a significant upgrade as the series has previously only offered a 41mm option. If Google follows its previous release schedule, the Pixel Watch 3 is expected to launch in the fall, leaving enthusiasts eagerly waiting for its arrival.
