Two years after Google acquired Fitbit, the Pixel Watch, the first smartwatch from Google has finally been released. It comes in a circular shape and is available in only 41mm size. It features an AMOLED display and is packed with 32GB storage, a microphone, a speaker and a long list of health-tracking features powered by Fitbit.
While the Pixel Watch comes in only 41mm size, it is available in two models; Wi-Fi and LTE model. The difference between these two is that the LTE model is equipped with an eSIM that enables cellular connectivity. Thus it can make and receive calls without a phone and this makes it a standalone smartwatch. In this article, we’ll discuss the features of the Pixel Watch and the difference between the Wi-Fi and LTE model to help you decide which is best for you.
Google Pixel Watch LTE vs Wi-Fi Full Specifications Comparison
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Google Pixel Watch LTE vs Wi-Fi – The Difference
The Wi-Fi and LTE models of the Pixel Watch are the same in every aspect except for the cellular capabilities of the LTE model. The difference here is that while the Wi-Fi model relies on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for connectivity, the Cellular has Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and LTE.
The LTE capability is the only difference. As a result of LTE, the Pixel Watch LTE will make and receive calls without connecting to a phone. It will also receive and reply to messages without your phone. On the Other hand, the Wi-Fi model can do all these, it just needs your phone to be nearby.
Meanwhile, both LTE and Wi-Fi models will allow you to stream music, access Google Assistant, and install watch faces and apps once you’re connected to a Wi-Fi network.
How Pixel Watch LTE Works
The Pixel Watch LTE comes unlocked. To activate LTE on the watch, it needs an android phone running on Android 8.0 and above and the carrier must be the same carrier as your phone carrier. Once LTE is activated on the Pixel Watch, it will share the number with your phone number. What this means is that both phone and watch will have the same number. So, you can leave your phone at home and still be able to make a call from the watch using the same phone number.
Pixel Watch LTE – What You Should Know?
Before deciding to get the Pixel Watch LTE, you need to note the following.
- The Pixel Watch isn’t yet available in all countries. It’s available in the US, UK, Canada, Germany, Japan, and Australia. Supported carriers in the US include Verizon, AT&T, Cellcom, and Google Fi. Google has listed the supported carriers in the aforementioned countries here. I’ll advise that before you choose to settle for the LTE model, you should call your current carrier to find out if they have any cellular plan for the Pixel Watch LTE.
- Secondly, as I mentioned earlier, the Pixel Watch LTE must be on the same network as your phone. Both the watch and phone will share the same number.
- There is a subscription fee for LTE on Pixel Watch. This fee is an average of $10 in the US.
Google Pixel Watch Wi-Fi or LTE – Which is Right For You?
As far as I’m concerned, the Pixel Watch is one of the best smartwatches released in 2022. It’s very compact, sturdy, and has quite an adorable design. It’s equally packed with many features, it has a microphone, speaker and 32GB storage capacity. It can also track your daily activities like steps, sleep, heart rate, calories, ECG, blood oxygen and many more. Though 24hrs battery life is quite abysmal.
In summary, the Pixel Watch is a decent smartwatch. The LTE model is recommended for seniors and anyone who engages in outdoor workouts. While the Wifi model is a cheaper alternative and the best bargain for most consumers.