Google Pixel Watch teardown reveals extent of repairability and cost savings

The Pixel Watch has received the iFixit's teardown treatment, revealing what lies inside Google's modern-looking smartwatch. While Google has already confirmed that the Pixel Watch ships with an outdated processor and without some of the advanced features found in recent Fitbit smartwatches, there are a few unique aspects about its first smartwatch.

For example, Google has used an adhesive on the back panel that does not leave any residue. As such, opening the Pixel Watch is easy enough, simplifying display and battery replacements. As iFixit shows in the video below, you must remove the display to replace the 1,132 Wh battery. Unfortunately, Google has not encased the small battery as some of its competitors do, increasing the risk of puncture.

Still, iFixit remarks that there should be no trouble with replacing the speaker or vibration motor should either fail. Conversely, swapping the digital crown or the buttons is seemingly only possible if you also buy an entire watch body. Similarly, Google has soldered the heart rate sensor and the wireless charging coil to the motherboard, further reducing repairability. Overall, Google has left plenty of room for improvement when it comes to repairability. There are some high points though, such as the inclusion of a replaceable back panel and the unique adhesive securing it to its body.

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