Google’s lofty ambitions for its Pixel Watch are finally coming closer to reality. Following its debut at CES 2023, the tech giant has been silent about its Watch Unlock feature – until now.
A recent post on X, formerly known as Twitter, reveals insight into the tool and what it looks like. Thanks to this new information, consumers can expect to unlock their Android phones with a simple click of their Pixel Watch.
Fingerprint scans and face activation are no longer necessary – all users need to do is sync their watch with their Android phone and they’re ready to go.
Google hasn’t officially announced the launch of the long-anticipated feature yet – however, assuming these new findings are correct, users should be able to utilize the tool in the near future. In the meantime, consumers will just have to stay tuned for updates!
Google is rolling out a new feature which allows Pixel smartphone owners to unlock their devices with their smartwatch. The Watch Unlock feature is available in the “More security settings” section on Pixel smartphones and, according to screen recordings from AssembleDebug, if the user’s hands are wet or face isn’t recognized for some other reason, they will be able to use their smartwatch to unlock their phone.
The function requires that the user’s device be connected to their smartwatch, and within reach of the phone. After successfully unlocking the device, the smartwatch will send a notification to notify the owner. This new technology is similar to Apple Watch’s own version of this feature to unlock iPhones. For all Pixel smartphone owners, it looks like convenience may soon become even more convenient.
Android 13 is getting an upgrade with its Watch Unlock feature, which uses the Active Unlock API that already exists on the phone. Although it’s unclear if this feature will be limited to Pixel Watches or other Wear OS devices like Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 6 series, one thing is certain – it’s more secure than the rebranded Extend Unlock.
Google has yet to release the feature to users, but it’s currently undergoing testing, so its launch may not be too far away – possibly alongside the upcoming Pixel 8 launch later this year.