Google’s upcoming Pixel Watch 2 will feature a pin-based charging connector instead of wireless charging, similar to Fitbit devices. The back of the watch will have a grid of circular points, with the center holding new health sensors and the corners serving as contact pins for power. Users will be able to use existing Fitbit chargers with the Pixel Watch 2, thanks to the same arrangement of pins. The pin-based charging method is faster than wireless charging and generates less heat, allowing the watch to reach 80% battery in just 43 minutes.
The decision to switch to pin-based charging is driven by the desire for faster and more efficient charging. The new charging cable will help users go from 0-80% battery in 43 minutes, compared to nearly an hour with the original Pixel Watch. This change is made possible by the Pixel Watch 2’s 306 mAh battery and the new 4 nm Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 SoC. With these upgrades, the watch can now provide 24 hours of power with the always-on display enabled. Overall, the pin-based charging connector offers a more convenient and efficient way to charge the Pixel Watch 2.