Google Pixel Watch 5 leaks with NFC, UWB, and satellite connectivity

The Google Pixel Watch 5 was already certified by the BIS in India. Now, Droid-LifeDroid-Life spotted the smartwatch at the FCC. A total of four variants with the model numbers G25QD, G1XJ6, G0F3Y, and GFW3R were certified. As with the Pixel Watch 4 ($349 on Amazon), these are likely two sizes, each offered with and without an activated LTE modem.

Surprisingly, the certification lists an LTE modem for all four models, but it’s possible that Google will disable it via software on the most affordable version. In addition, the Pixel Watch 5 supports Wi-Fi 6 (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), Bluetooth, NFC for contactless payments, and ultra-wideband (UWB). Among other things, an UWB chip enables precise location tracking of compatible devices and allows the smartwatch to be used as a car key with compatible vehicles. The Google Pixel Watch 5 also supports LTE NTN band 23 and band 255 for making satellite emergency calls, just as was possible with the Pixel Watch 4.

The FCC certification confirms that the Google Pixel Watch 5 supports the same wireless standards as the Pixel Watch 4. A leaked photo recently showed that the design of the Pixel Watch 5 won’t change significantly. That doesn’t have to be bad news, since the Pixel Watch 4 is one of the most repairable smartwatches in the world. It’s still unclear what new features the smartwatch will receive, but it’s conceivable that the smartwatch gets upgrades to the new Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear Elite chip. The Pixel Watch 5 is expected to be officially unveiled in August alongside the Pixel 11 series.