Google details Pixel Watch 4 repair process, teases more chargers

One of the long-awaited changes with the Pixel Watch 4 is that, finally, the smartwatch can actually be repaired. In an interview, Google details how that was made possible, and is also teasing that more third-party chargers are in the pipeline.

For the first three generations of Pixel Watch, a broken smartwatch meant that you were out of luck. Unless you were paying for an extended warranty, your only option was to just buy a new one. Even if Google replaced it, it was a full replacement, not a repaired device. It was a gaping hole in the brand’s sustainability goals, and it’s great to see that, with Pixel Watch 4, it’s been fixed.

With the help of a “tremendous collaboration” between its design and engineering teams, Google has finally cracked the case on making its Pixel Watch 4 repairable as Wired reports. Through a pair of T2 screws found inside of the mounting location for bands, the Pixel Watch 4 can be disassembled to access its internals. There’s no adhesive to mess around with, which seems like a pretty huge accomplishment given the Pixel Watch 4 retains 5ATM / IP68 water resistance.

This allows for both battery and display replacements which, again, was not possible on past generations, and does so using a simple T2 Torx screwdriver. At the Made by Google event, 9to5Google was also able to see the insides of a disassembled Pixel Watch 4, with the easy-to-access screws clearly visible (pictured above).

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The interview describes the process of tearing down Pixel Watch 4 as follows:

There are two T2 screws located under the watch band pocket—unscrew those, and you can access the internals of the Pixel Watch 4, no need to fuss with any adhesives. At this stage, the Biosensor Hub, which houses the heart rate monitor and other sensors on the back of the watch, is still connected. Google intentionally made it so that this connector doesn’t need to be removed for battery replacements.

To remove the battery, remove the haptic motor with the T2 head on a Torx screwdriver. Two more screws hold the battery, but once they’re out, you can disconnect the battery from the board and be done. You’ll notice that Google used T2 screws throughout that entire process. This is intentional, as you can use the same Torx screwdriver for battery replacements, reducing the number of tools needed for repairs.

To replace the display, you’ll need to unplug the Biosensor Hub. Then disconnect the battery brackets, unplug the display connector, and unscrew the four screws that hold the glass to the housing.

Spare parts for Pixel Watch 4 will be sold through iFixit. It’s mentioned that a demo of the process detailed above took just 13 minutes to complete, showing how easy it is to repair the Pixel Watch 4.

In that same interview, Google confirms that “we’ll see more options” in terms of third-party Pixel Watch 4 chargers.

For the past couple of generations of Pixel Watch, charging accessories have been almost nonexistent. You might find something here or there, but quality is often lacking. There’s nothing available just yet, but it seems that Google has plans to work with partners in releasing new charging accessories for its smartwatch. Hopefully, that includes some 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 docks, as that’s something that’s common for Apple Watch owners.

Pixel Watch 4 starts shipping in October.

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