The Google Pixel Watch, whether it’s the first-generation model from 2022 or the latest iteration launched recently, lacks repair options through official channels. If a warranty claim is successful, Google provides a replacement unit rather than repairing the existing device. This policy underscores Google’s relative inexperience in the smartwatch domain. In contrast, other companies like Apple and Samsung offer repair services for issues such as cracked screens or battery replacements for their wearables.
However, there is some promising news. During a panel at Climate Week NYC focused on repairable technology, hosted by Back Market and moderated by One5c, Nicole Azores, Google’s manager of Government Affairs and Public Policy, mentioned that the company is currently exploring ways to make the Pixel Watch more repairable.
“Watches and wearables are still fairly nascent, and we are thinking through how to make this repairable,” Azores stated. “We’re thinking about repairability on a broader scale, not just on phones and tablets, and we want to make sure that all of our products eventually become repairable. I think watches being so new as a category, there are some design elements that need to be considered on how we make them repairable.”
Azores did not provide a timeline or specific details. Generally, consumer tech products have a development cycle of two to three years, so it is uncertain if these changes will appear in the upcoming Pixel Watch 4 or a later model. Google has maintained a consistent design for the Pixel Watch across its three generations, though the latest model, Pixel Watch 3, was introduced in two sizes for the first time.
This marks the first public acknowledgment from Google regarding the irreparability of its smartwatch. Previously, company representatives have offered no comments on repairability concerns.
The Pixel Watch is a relatively new entrant in the smartwatch market, although its operating system, Wear OS (formerly known as Android Wear), has been around for a decade. Initially, manufacturers like Fossil and LG produced the smartwatches running Wear OS. Google’s direct involvement began in 2022 with the release of their own smartwatch, a move aimed at revitalizing the platform with Samsung and Fitbit.
In the fourth quarter of 2022, following the launch of the first Pixel Watch, Google captured approximately 8 percent of the wearable band market share. According to research group Canalys, the company shipped 880,000 Pixel Watches during this period, alongside Fitbit devices.
The lack of repairability leads many smartwatches to end up as electronic waste, contributing to a growing environmental crisis. According to a recent UN climate report, e-waste totaled around 137 billion pounds in 2022, with less than a quarter recycled. This figure is expected to grow by 33 percent by 2030, surpassing the current recycling rate.
Efforts to enforce repairability in tech are ongoing. The European Union has passed regulations requiring smartphones and tablets to feature longer-lasting batteries or easier battery replacement methods starting in June 2025. Even though Apple is not bound by this legislation, the latest iPhone 16 includes an adhesive that makes the battery easier to replace.
Any design changes enhancing the repairability of future Pixel Watches will significantly benefit consumers. Google must also prioritize improving the repairability of Fitbit’s wearables, as the company currently lacks repair centers to handle device repairs.
