Google Pixel Watch 2 may include temperature and stress management hardware

Google Pixel Watch 2 may include temperature and stress management hardware

We know that the Google Pixel Watch 2 will appear at the Made by Google event on October 4. While we don't have a lot of information about this smartwatch, several rumors make it clear that significant changes will be made to this smartwatch. One of them could be carried over directly from the Fitbit Sense 2.

According to sources speaking to 9to5Google, the Pixel Watch 2 will feature the same skin electrical activity (EDA) sensor as the Fitbit Sense 2, along with a skin temperature sensor. The idea is that the Pixel Watch 2 will allow users to manage their stress levels and check their skin temperature in real time.

We have previously heard rumors that stress management will be included in the watch, which is a useful upgrade. On top of that, the fact that it can check current and historical skin temperatures will make the Pixel Watch stand out from the Sense 2; since Fitbit only tracks temperature changes at night, the Pixel Watch 2 should give a more accurate picture of how your body temperature changes throughout the day.

9to5Google mentions that this could also help track menstrual cycles, like Samsung's Galaxy Watch 5 and 6, but sources could not seem to confirm if this is the case.

Interestingly, it is speculated that the Pixel 8 will also have a built-in thermometer, and leaked videos have confirmed its operation. However, it is not clear at this time if this is intentional or how the two temperature sensors will work for users with both devices.

That's not all sources told 9to5Google. Apparently, Fitbit's devices will be redesigned and the software will be more in line with the style of the Pixel Watch. Apparently this includes making the heart rate "more attractive" to encourage users to reach their desired zone, while other design elements will be sized to more closely resemble Wear OS.

The Pixel Watch 2 will also upgrade the Personal Safety App, which will add a new feature that works with the Pixel phone's Car Crash Detection. Sources say that when a crash is detected, core medical information will be displayed on the wrist for emergency personnel.

Also said to be coming is full emergency sharing support for trusted contacts and location sharing, which the LTE-enabled Pixel Watch 2 can manage without a smartphone connection. The "Schedule a Safety check" feature found on Pixel phones is also expected to be included on the new watch, which counts down to a set time and asks, "Are you okay? If not, the watch will alert emergency contacts to your location.

Finally, the launch of the Pixel Watch 2 may also coincide with the re-launch of translation on Wear OS. Rather than having a dedicated Google Translate app, it will be available through Google Assistant's interpreter mode.

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