Google Pixel Watch 5 Starts at $399 and Launches on August 20

Google unveiled today the new Pixel Watch 5 alongside the Pixel 11 smartphone series. With a $399 starting price, the new smartwatch is $50 more expensive than the previous model, but it comes with new software and workout features. There’s also a Stephen Curry Special Edition with an exclusive sweat-wicking performance loop band.

Google said today that its Pixel Watch 5 is “designed for Gemini Intelligence, advanced fitness features with Google Health, and breakthrough new Health Guardian features.” Just like on the Pixel 11 series, Gemini Intelligence on the Pixel Watch 5 will display proactive suggestions and allow users to perform multi-step actions with just one tap.

Gemini Intelligence leverages the new Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 chip, which features 50% more RAM and a 12% faster CPU than its predecessor. The more powerful hardware allows Gemini to process more actions locally even without internet connectivity. Google said that the Raise to Talk and one-handed gestures have been enhanced to make interactions with Gemini even more efficient.

On the health tracking front, the Pixel Watch 5 introduces Breathing Emergency Detection, which will initiate an emergency call if the watch detects severe, persistent drops in oxygen saturation (SpO2). This feature will launch first in the EU.

The Pixel Watch 5 also uses new AI models to track blood pressure trends, sleep breathing quality trends, and insulin resistance. “These reports illuminate metabolic, respiratory and cardiovascular shifts early, giving you clear insights to help you take control of your long-term health,” Google explained today.

Regarding fitness tracking, the Pixel Watch 5 will introduce a new Strength Training workout experience with step-by-step guidance. The company also said that its new smartwatch offers its most accurate GPS route tracking yet with 2x greater accuracy compared to previous generations.

The Pixel Watch starts at $399 for the 41mm model and $429 for the 45mm model, and both of them will start shipping on August 20. The Stephen Curry special edition model with its unique loop band costs $579 and will launch later on September 3.