We’ve been getting multiple looks at the upcoming Google Pixel Watch, but it’s possible that there will still be one or two new announcements when the device is finally unveiled – which should be on October 6.
One such ad might be about the Google Photos watch face for the Pixel Watch. As spotted by 9to5Google (Opens in a new tab)There is now a hidden icon in the Google Photos app for Android that hints at support for adding photos to the wearable device’s screen.
Multiple images can apparently be selected, although there will be a limit that has yet to be determined. Presumably, if more than one image is selected, the watch face will scroll through them, although the details of how this works are not entirely clear yet.
Pictures for everyone
There’s no indication that this Google Photos watch face will be exclusive to the Pixel Watch: Although Google may be introducing the feature alongside the Pixel Watch, it’s likely to make its way to other Wear OS 3 smartwatches eventually.
However, it is worth keeping in mind that features come and go in app development all the time. The code outlined here will likely be turned into a full feature, but there is no guarantee.
We’ve heard quite a few rumors about the Pixel Watch since Google confirmed its existence. It will obviously come with two chipsets, and come at a price that doubles the Apple Watch – although it may not go on sale for a while.
Analysis: Google play catch up
The ability to use your choice of photos as a smartwatch face is a very basic functionality – however it’s a feature that isn’t currently there for Wear OS device owners, without the help of a third-party app.
It’s something the Apple Watch has been able to do for years, of course. You choose your favorite pictures – your kids, your pets, your trip around the world – and they appear on the small screen on your wrist.
While this may not seem like the most important feature of a smartwatch, it highlights the catch-up that Google has to do. It’s a long way from Apple in the wearable market right now, both in terms of hardware and software.
Introducing Fitbit into Google should help: There are now steps to integrate Fitbit and Google accounts, and from now on we should see more polished and attractive hardware. For now, we are waiting to see what the Pixel Watch will offer and at what price.