Upgrade to SI Premium - Free Trial

Google Pixel Watch 5 launches at $399 with new health features

August 12, 2026 10:07 AM

Google announced the Pixel Watch 5, a new smartwatch featuring updated health monitoring tools, enhanced GPS tracking, and an on-device AI processor. The device is available for pre-order starting Aug. 12, with retail availability set for Aug. 20.

The watch starts at $399 for the 41mm model and $429 for the 45mm version. A Stephen Curry Special Edition in the 45mm size is priced at $579, with pre-orders beginning Aug. 12 and shelf availability on Sept. 3.

According to the company, the Pixel Watch 5 is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 Accelerated processor with a dual-chip architecture, offering 50% more RAM and a 12% CPU boost compared to its predecessor. Google claims the device is 20% faster overall.

The watch includes a feature called Breathing Emergency Detection, which Google describes as an industry first for wrist-worn devices. Using sensors including PPG, accelerometer, and barometer alongside on-device AI, the watch monitors for severe drops in blood oxygen levels. If a breathing emergency is detected and the user is unresponsive, the device can automatically contact emergency services and share the user's location. The feature is set to launch first in Europe.

Additional health features include monthly trend summaries for blood pressure, sleep breathing quality, and insulin resistance, which Google says are built on health models trained on sensor data from opted-in users. These summaries become available after one month of continuous wear.

Google also claims the Pixel Watch 5 delivers GPS route accuracy that is two times greater than previous generations, and states it outperforms the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Garmin Fenix 8 Pro in GPS tracking during exercise.

The device features a 3,000-nit Actua 360 Display, up to 30 hours of battery life on the 41mm model and 40 hours on the 45mm, and color options including Fog, Canyon, and Olive with a Pyrite housing.

Categories

Corporate News