Google offers seven years of software support for smartphones like the Pixel 8a, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. This is an unprecedented commitment for the mobile world, and the company should be congratulated for it. However, it’s not hard to predict that most users will replace their phones before the seven-year mark. Google is taking a different path when it comes to smartwatches. Both the original Pixel Watch and the Pixel Watch 2 were offered with only three years of software support. This also applies to the Google Pixel Watch 3.
Despite the Pixel Watch 3 being introduced in August, interestingly its software support ends in October 2027. Google may choose to release some updates after this date, but it should be noted that this is not certain.
This reveals a significant difference in software support between smartphones and smartwatches. While both devices are described as “smart,” Google clearly has a different approach.
Google’s different approach may be driven by the expectation that users will replace their smartwatches more often than their phones. In addition, the lower retail prices of smartwatches may have led to a shorter software support period. Regardless, it’s important to remember that a Pixel Watch’s software lifespan will be shorter than a Pixel phone’s.
Google may change its strategy for Pixel Watch 3
The need for smartwatches to adapt more quickly to technological innovations may be one reason for this short software support period. However, applying the long support period that Google offers for smartphones to smartwatches may increase user satisfaction and extend the life of these devices. Google’s strategy in this area may be shaped by user experiences and market dynamics in the future.