Imagine never having to fumble with your phone or wallet again just to pay for your morning coffee. Google’s latest update for the Pixel Watch is making this a reality—and it’s a game-changer for anyone who values convenience. Now, Pixel Watch users can simply tap their watch on a retail terminal to make payments, no Wallet app required. This new feature, dubbed express pay, is rolling out to the Pixel Watch 2 and later models, streamlining the way we handle everyday transactions.
But here’s where it gets interesting: unlike Apple’s express mode, which works even when your Apple Watch is locked, Google’s version requires your Pixel Watch to be unlocked to complete a payment. Is this an extra layer of security or an unnecessary step? Google also notes that users will need to opt in to use this feature, which might leave some wondering why it’s not enabled by default. What do you think—convenience or security? Let us know in the comments!
And this is the part most people miss: Google isn’t stopping at payments. The March update introduces a slew of other features designed to make the Pixel Watch a more seamless companion to your Pixel phone. For instance, your phone will now automatically lock when you’re out of range, and you’ll get an alert if you accidentally leave it behind. These features, however, only work with the Pixel 8 and newer models. Are these additions enough to make the Pixel Watch a must-have for Pixel phone users?
Google is also speeding up identity checks when your watch and phone are connected, allowing you to perform sensitive actions—like disabling Find My Device—with a PIN. This feature, though, is limited to the Pixel Watch 3, Pixel Watch 4, and the Pixel 8 Pro and newer (excluding the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8A). Is this exclusivity a smart move or a missed opportunity?
Beyond these updates, Google is expanding the Pixel Watch’s capabilities with the addition of Find Hub to the original Pixel Watch and other Wear OS devices, new one-handed gestures for the Pixel Watch 3, and an expanded Satellite SOS feature for the Pixel Watch 4, now available in Europe, Canada, Hawaii, and Alaska. With so many enhancements, it’s clear Google is doubling down on its wearable tech. But will these updates be enough to challenge the dominance of the Apple Watch? Weigh in below—we’d love to hear your thoughts!
