Here’s a bold statement: Google’s Pixel Watch 4 has just set a new standard in smartwatch design—one that Apple Watch 11 can’t even dream of matching. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about sleek looks or advanced features; it’s about something far more practical—repairability. In a world where tiny devices like Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 seem virtually impossible to fix without causing damage, the Pixel Watch 4 stands out as a game-changer. But here’s where it gets controversial: could this be the start of a shift in how tech companies approach device design, prioritizing sustainability over disposability? 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 achieved. What’s the secret? Google has completely reimagined smartwatch design, focusing on ease of repair and serviceability. And this is the part most people miss: the entire watch is held together with screws, not glue. That’s right—no heat guns, no complicated tools, just a simple screwdriver. Even the exterior screws come with their own O-rings to maintain the watch’s IP68 water and dust resistance. It’s a masterclass in thoughtful engineering.
Inside, you’ll find more screws, a press connector, and a few ribbon cables—nothing overly complicated. There’s also an internal gasket that seals off the screen and chipset, further ensuring that IP68 rating. iFixit even compared it to the design of dive watches, highlighting how Google has borrowed from traditional watchmaking to create something truly innovative. But here’s where it gets controversial: does this mean other smartwatch makers have been cutting corners, prioritizing aesthetics over practicality?
Compare this to other smartwatches, and the difference is stark. The Pixel Watch 2, for instance, scored a mere 4/10 due to its reliance on custom adhesive, making it nearly impossible to reassemble. Google even admitted that the Pixel Watch 3 was so difficult to fix that they’d replace broken units instead of repairing them—a wasteful approach, to say the least. Apple’s latest, the Watch Series 10, scored a disappointing 3/10, plagued by the same issues: difficult-to-access parts, lack of official repair instructions, and excessive use of glue. Even the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra, which scored a 7/10, falls short due to its use of tri-point screws that complicate the repair process.
And this is the part most people miss: the Pixel Watch 4 isn’t just easier for technicians to fix—it empowers you to make repairs yourself. Once spare parts become available, you’ll have the option to extend the life of your device rather than tossing it in favor of a new one. It’s a refreshing change in an industry where planned obsolescence often feels like the norm.
So, here’s the big question: Will other smartwatch makers follow Google’s lead? Or will they continue down the path of disposable, hard-to-fix devices? The Pixel Watch 4 proves that it’s possible to create a sleek, functional smartwatch that’s also easy to repair. Now, it’s up to consumers to demand better—and to companies to listen. What do you think? Is repairability a feature you’d prioritize when buying a smartwatch? Let’s start the conversation in the comments!
