The slightly larger battery capacity and enhanced charging are some improvements introduced on the new Pixel Watch 2 (review). But apart from these, Google is planning to add a software-based feature to keep the Pixel Watch 2 from overcharging, and that the original Pixel Watch (review) would benefit as well.
As discovered in the decompiled codes from the just-released Pixel Watch app update with version 2.1 (via 9to5Google), Google is working on a new feature in the app relating to the charging on Pixel Watch. Notably, the feature is inactive by default despite being included in the app, but it might be fully accessible in the next app update.
The new app feature works by notifying users via smartphone if their Google Pixel Watch or Pixel Watch 2 has been fully charged to a 100 percent. Developer Dylan Roussel even found a way to test the feature and showed that his handset received a notification after the connected Pixel Watch was charged to a full.
It should be noted that Samsung has the same feature on its Galaxy Watch for years now. The South Koreans even have the options for users to select LED indicator in some Watch models as well as have an on-device notifications without relying on connected smartphones.
Custom charging level on Google Pixel Watch
Aside from the basic function, it’s unclear whether the feature will also support notifications when selecting a different charging percentage. This customization would be useful for those who prefer not fully charging their Pixel Watch.
At the same time, it would also be a welcome addition if Google could enable threshold charging to prolong the battery health of its smartwatches, such as setting the maximum charging level to 85 percent, which is common in most smartphones.
If you own a smartwatch, how do you charge it and how frequent? Do you also set notifications for full charging? We’d like to hear your opinion in the comments.
