Google is working on enhancing Watch Unlock with ultra-wideband (UWB) connectivity, suggesting exciting possibilities for Pixel Watch 3 users.
About APK Insight:
In our exploration of the latest app version Google released on the Play Store, we’ve delved into the code to uncover potential upcoming features. It’s important, and our understanding might not be flawless. Nonetheless, we aim to showcase features that are nearing completion to offer a glimpse into what could be coming soon. So, let’s dive in.
Last year, Google introduced Watch Unlock as a unique feature tailored for the Pixel Watch lineup. This nifty function employs Bluetooth technology to seamlessly unlock your Android phone when it’s in close proximity Watch. While Bluetooth does the job adequately, it sometimes takes a few moments to determine the exact distance between your watch and phone.
In recent updates to the Play Services app, Google has been rolling out enhancements for Watch Unlock (also known internally as “Active Unlock”), integrating ultra-wideband connectivity into its functionality.
This update includes: Pixel Watch 3
– Activation of ultra-wideband ranging capabilities.
– Validation processes for ensuring accurate ultra-wideband ranging.
Moreover, it’s worth noting that in certain countries like Indonesia and Ukraine, the use of UWB technology hasn’t been authorised yet. To address this, Google has devised a solution to automatically deactivate the advanced version of Watch Unlock when you’re in these regions. If you find yourself in a country where UWB isn’t supported, you’ll receive a notification regarding Watch Unlock:
“Downgrade: Shown when Watch Unlock is temporarily unavailable due to ranging method restriction.”
“Watch Unlock is temporarily off: Ultra-wideband is unavailable in this country. You can still use Watch Unlock but may experience a slight delay and less accuracy.”
The reference to “a slight delay and less accuracy” indicates that the UWB-powered Watch Unlock is anticipated to be quicker and operate with greater predictability.
It’s important to note that for Watch Unlock to leverage UWB, both your watch and phone must be equipped with the required hardware. While the “Pro” editions of Google’s Pixel phones have incorporated UWB support since the Pixel 6 Pro, the Pixel Watch series has yet to adopt this feature.
Considering this and the current exclusivity of Watch Unlock to the Pixel Watch series at the inclusion of ultra-wideband connectivity in the upcoming Pixel Watch 3, expected to launch this fall.
Over the past months, insights into the Pixel Watch 3 have surfaced, including rumours of two size variants, with a new 45 mm option. Additionally, evidence points towards an upcoming Android 14-based “Wear OS 5” update, likely preceding the Pixel Watch 3 release.
Special thanks to JEB Decompiler, which has greatly aided in our APK Insight teardowns.
Will there be Pixel Watch 3?
While I don’t have real-time information, the article suggests strong indications that the Pixel Watch 3 is expected to launch this fall, featuring ultra-wideband connectivity and potential upgrades such as new size variants and an Android 14-based “Wear OS 5” update.
How old are Pixel 3?
The Pixel 3 was released in October 2018, making it around 5 years old as of 2024.
Is Pixel 3 Water ?
Yes, the Pixel 3 is water-resistant with an IP68 rating, meaning it can withstand being submerged in water up to 1.5 metres deep for up to 30 minutes.While your Pixel 3 or Pixel 3 XL phone is water-resistant with an IPX8 rating according to the IEC standard 60529, it’s important to note that water resistance doesn’t equate to being fully waterproof. Normal wear and tear or damage to the phone may and other accessories are not designed to be water-resistant.