Google confirms new Pixel Watch features in June 2023 Feature Drop and long-awaited metal bracelet release

Google has announced a new Feature Drop for the Pixel Watch, a few days after the company started enabling the SpO2 sensors of some units. Rolling out alongside equivalent updates for Pixel smartphones, the June 2023 Feature Drop is arguably the largest update packing for the Pixel Watch since December 2022. In a blog post, Google explains that this month's Feature Drop activates the Pixel Watch's SpO2 sensor, which allows it to monitor bloody oxygen saturation levels when a wearer is asleep.

Previously, the Pixel Watch could only estimate these values. Google has also added the option of the Pixel Watch notifying wearers whether their heart rate is unusually high or low. However, this feature is not available in all markets, is not intended to diagnose a medical condition and may cause higher battery drain.

Elsewhere, Google has introduced three new Spotify tiles for accessing Spotify DJ, podcasts or frequently listened to music. Please see Google's blog post for full details about the changes contained within its June 2023 Feature Drop. Separately, Google is finally ready to start selling metal watch straps for the Pixel Watch as of June 16, first showcased during the smartwatch's launch. As expected, the straps will be available in matte black and silver finishes, both for US$199.

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