Google’s next smartwatch appears to be taking a conservative approach on the outside while adding more meaningful upgrades underneath. The clearest signal so far is a prototype that surfaced in an unusual place, and it suggests Pixel Watch 5 will focus on refinement rather than a dramatic redesign.
That direction matters because the watch is expected to arrive alongside the Pixel 11 family at Google’s Made by Google event in New York City on 12 August 2026. With launch day approaching, leaks from the supply chain, regulatory paperwork, and an unexpected underwater discovery are giving the clearest picture yet of what Google is preparing.
A familiar round body with stronger durability signals
The most unusual leak came from Randy Pitchford, co-founder of Gearbox Software, who said he found a prototype while diving near St. Martin in the Caribbean. Photos shared by Pitchford show the same round shape and domed glass that have defined the Pixel Watch line from the start.
The prototype also appears to work in low-power mode even after being underwater, and the markings on the back point to a 45mm version with IP68 water and dust resistance. They also indicate UWB support, along with the standard health sensors for heart rate, SpO2, and skin temperature.
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Design | Round shape with domed glass |
| Size | 45mm |
| Durability | IP68 water and dust resistance |
| Additional Features | UWB, heart rate, SpO2, skin temperature sensors |
Two sizes return, and a new color stands out
Google is still expected to offer the Pixel Watch 5 in two sizes, 41mm and 45mm. That keeps the lineup close to the Pixel Watch 4 strategy, giving buyers a choice based on wrist size and screen preference.
The most visible change may be the finish options. According to a Dealabs leak, Google plans to add a new color called Pyrite, described as a muted golden yellow with a matte finish.
| Size | Color Options | Finish |
|---|---|---|
| 41mm | Dark Anthracite, Natural Silver, Pyrite, Warm Gold | Matte and polished |
| 45mm | Dark Anthracite, Natural Silver, Pyrite | Matte and polished |
Inside the watch, the chip question remains open
The internal hardware is still the least certain part of the story. The previous generation used Qualcomm’s Snapdragon W5 Gen 2, which improved battery life and day-to-day performance.
For Pixel Watch 5, the rumor mill is split between Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear Elite and a custom Google Tensor chip for wearables. Even so, UWB now looks increasingly likely, and the feature could improve precise location tracking, make Find My Device more accurate, and eventually support digital car key functions on compatible vehicles.
Pricing is expected to move higher across the lineup
Pricing is another area where Google appears ready to change course. Pixel Watch 5 is expected to receive a higher starting price across all models, marking the first base-price increase since the original Pixel Watch launched in 2022.
In the U.S. and Europe, leaked pricing points to $399 for the 41mm Wi-Fi model and $429 for the 45mm Wi-Fi model. LTE versions are said to start at $499 for the 41mm model and $529 for the 45mm model.
| Model | Leaked Price |
|---|---|
| 41mm Wi-Fi | $399 |
| 45mm Wi-Fi | $429 |
| 41mm LTE | $499 |
| 45mm LTE | $529 |
Those prices are tied to higher component costs, especially memory and storage, at a time when demand is rising across the technology sector. At that level, Pixel Watch 5 would sit in the same bracket as the base Apple Watch Series 11.
The launch timeline is already taking shape
Google’s hardware event in New York City is set for 12 August 2026, and pre-orders for Pixel Watch 5 and the Pixel 11 lineup are expected to open the same day. Shipments and in-store availability are projected to begin on 20 August.
For now, the message from the leaks is clear: Pixel Watch 5 is shaping up as a refinement-focused update, with more attention on hardware, connectivity, and everyday durability than on a radical redesign. The full picture should become clearer when Google takes the stage next month.