Pixel Watch leak shows Google taking a leaf out of the Apple Watch's book

Google Pixel Watch
(Image credit: Google)

While the Google Pixel Watch was teased at Google IO, we only heard select details about the watch, and more information is coming out from leaks and reports in the build-up to the wearable's full launch.

For example, we've just heard about the watch's straps. This comes from 9to5Google, which has apparently received information regarding the different bands and straps that Google is preparing for the watch.

Apparently, the company is preparing at least seven different types of watch band for its upcoming smartwatch, though 9to5Google does say that not all of them could actually come to market. These seem to be variants that you can buy afterward, not the in-box ones.

The website mentions some of the options that Google is preparing. These include an equivalent to the Apple Watch's Milanese Loop, which would likely be the most premium option to go on sale (likely with a high price). There's also silicone, link, stainless steel and two leather options.


Analysis: different straps are important

Different types of strap are useful for different smartwatch users and situations, so it makes sense that Google would be working on a range of them.

For example, straps made of synthetic materials are often better for exercise, as they grip well and are often more breathable. Metal or leather straps are generally preferred as fashion statements for their looks, but aren't as useful for exercise.

It's also possible that Google could be working on different color variants of the above straps, giving people even more choice for fashion or preference reasons.

Since Samsung and Apple already make loads of straps for their smartwatches, Google would be lagging behind if it didn't also do the same, so to a degree, this news was expected. But it's good to know that the company is covering its bases - this gives the Pixel Watch a better chance of hitting our list of the best smartwatches.

Tom Bedford
Contributor

Tom Bedford joined TechRadar in early 2019 as a staff writer, and left the team as deputy phones editor in late 2022 to work for entertainment site (and TR sister-site) What To Watch. He continues to contribute on a freelance basis for several sections including phones, audio and fitness.

Read more
Pixel Watch 3
Google Pixel Watches may be about to get a battery-extending charging feature - and it's one Pixel owners already love
Google Pixel Watch 3 on TechRadar background
The best Android smartwatch 2025: Wearables by Google, Samsung and more
A Google pixel Watch 3 on a green background with text saying Don't Miss next to it.
The Google Pixel Watch 3 falls to under $300 at Amazon
OnePlus Watch 3 on wrist with rotating digital crown
Exclusive: OnePlus Watch 3 revealed, with an Apple Watch-style rotating digital crown and Galaxy Watch-beating battery life
Google Pixel 8a in aloe green showing
The latest Google Pixel 9a leak may have revealed all the official wallpapers
Huawei Band 10
The Huawei Band 10 is here, and it's packing a secret mood-tracking weapon
Latest in Smartwatches
Apple Watch Series 9 with Snoopy
Please, Apple, don't add a camera to the Apple Watch – it's not the change we're hoping for
Apple Watch Ultra 2 timer
The Apple Watch is getting a sleep alarm upgrade it probably should have had 10 years ago
Google Pixel Watch 3
Google Pixel Watches hit with delayed notifications, crashing, and performance issues following Wear OS 5.1 update
Apple Watch Ultra 2 move data
Apple is reportedly planning a huge future Apple Watch upgrade to turn it into an AI device with onboard cameras
Apple watch pair with iphone
The Apple Watch SE 3 is apparently in 'serious jeopardy', and the news isn't much better for the Ultra 3 or Series 11
Oppo Watch Mini X2 teaser
Oppo Watch X2 Mini teaser could be our first glimpse of the smaller OnePlus Watch 3
Latest in News
DeepSeek
Deepseek’s new AI is smarter, faster, cheaper, and a real rival to OpenAI's models
Open AI
OpenAI unveiled image generation for 4o – here's everything you need to know about the ChatGPT upgrade
Apple WWDC 2025 announced
Apple just announced WWDC 2025 starts on June 9, and we'll all be watching the opening event
Hornet swings their weapon in mid air
Hollow Knight: Silksong gets new Steam metadata changes, convincing everyone and their mother that the game is finally releasing this year
OpenAI logo
OpenAI just launched a free ChatGPT bible that will help you master the AI chatbot and Sora
An aerial view of an Instavolt Superhub for charging electric vehicles
Forget gas stations – EV charging Superhubs are using solar power to solve the most annoying thing about electric motoring