Google Just Did the Unthinkable with the Pixel Watch 4 – And It’s a Game-Changer for Smartwatch Repairs
Here’s a bold statement: the Pixel Watch 4 has achieved something no other smartwatch has even come close to—it’s designed to be easily repairable. In a world where tiny devices like Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 seem practically impossible to open without causing damage, Google has flipped the script. But here’s where it gets controversial: could this be the start of a revolution in how we think about tech repairs, or is it just a one-off experiment? Let’s dive in.
The team at iFixit recently tore down the Pixel Watch 4 and awarded it an unprecedented 9/10 repairability score—a feat no other smartwatch has managed. What’s the secret? Google has completely reimagined smartwatch design, prioritizing repairability and serviceability. And this is the part most people miss: there’s zero glue in this year’s model. Instead, the watch is held together with screws, making it a breeze to open with just a screwdriver. No heat gun required—a refreshing change in the world of tech repairs.
But it doesn’t stop there. The Pixel Watch 4’s exterior screws come with their own O-rings to maintain its IP68 water and dust resistance, ensuring durability even after repairs. Inside, you’ll find more screws, a press connector, and ribbon cables—nothing overly complicated. An additional internal gasket seals off the screen and chipset, further preserving that IP68 rating. iFixit even compared it to the design of dive watches, highlighting how Google has thought through every detail.
Why Does This Matter?
Smartwatches, like many small devices, are notoriously difficult to repair. Take the Pixel Watch 2, which scored a mere 4/10 due to its custom adhesive, or the Pixel Watch 3, which Google refused to repair, opting to replace broken units instead. Apple’s latest smartwatch, the Series 10, scored a dismal 3/10 for similar reasons: hard-to-access parts, reliance on glue, and lack of official repair resources. Even the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra, which scored a 7/10, falls short due to some design quirks like tri-point screws.
The Pixel Watch 4 stands out because Google has deliberately made it user-friendly for repairs. This isn’t just a win for technicians—it’s a win for consumers who want the option to fix their devices themselves. Of course, this depends on spare parts becoming available, but if Google’s track record with Pixel phones is any indication, that shouldn’t be far off.
The Bigger Question: Will Others Follow Suit?
Google’s approach raises a thought-provoking question: why aren’t more companies designing their devices with repairability in mind? Is it a matter of cost, convenience, or simply a lack of consumer demand? The Pixel Watch 4 proves it’s possible to create a sleek, functional smartwatch that’s also easy to fix. But will Apple, Samsung, and others take note, or will they stick to their hard-to-repair designs?
What do you think? Is repairability a feature you’d prioritize when buying a smartwatch, or is it a non-issue? Let’s spark some debate in the comments—I’m curious to hear your take!
