The Pixel Watch 4 could use an entirely different charging system when its officially announced in a few weeks, according to leaked renders from Android Headlines. Rather than charging through fiddly pogo pins like past Pixel Watches, the renders suggest Google might finally adopt a simpler form of wireless charging.
The renders show the new Pixel Watch charging in a stand on its side, while displaying the current charge, the time and an upcoming alarm, not unlike an Apple Watch. The stand reportedly powers up the smartwatch through conductive metal contacts on the left side, opposite the Pixel Watch 4's crown. The new charging contacts were visible in an earlier leak of the Pixel Watch 4, which also suggested the new smartwatch could be thicker than the Pixel Watch 3.
Android Headlines reports that Google's decision to change how the watch charges could unlock several new benefits. The Pixel Watch 4 will reportedly have a "25 percent faster charging speed," room for new sensors and a design that's easier to repair than past Pixel Watches, thanks to a removable back plate.
The new watch is also rumored to feature a brighter display and come in new colors. You can buy the Pixel Watch 3 in Polished Silver, Champagne Gold or Matte Black, in both 41mm and 45mm sizes. The Pixel Watch 4 will reportedly come in black, silver, gold and a blueish-gray "Moonstone."
Google is expected to debut the Pixel Watch 4 alongside several new Pixel 10 phones on August 20. You can read Engadget's preview of what Google might announce for an overview of what to expect at the event.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/wearables/the-pixel-watch-4-might-charge-via-a-wireless-charging-stand-193621297.html?src=rss
