The Pixel Watch 3 from Google is set to bring new features and hardware upgrades, but it also comes with higher compatibility requirements for Android phones. Unlike previous models, the Pixel Watch 3 necessitates a slightly newer Android phone for use.
Android Headlines recently revealed promotional materials that showcase the Pixel Watch 3 series’ enhancements, such as advanced fitness features, updated apps, and modifications in Wear OS. These materials also underscore the need for a newer Android smartphone to use the Pixel Watch 3.
Specifically, Google has indicated that the Pixel Watch 3 will need an Android smartphone running at least Android 10.0. This is an increase from the Pixel Watch 2, which required Android 9.0 (Pie), and the original Pixel Watch, which needed Android 8.0 (Oreo).
This change is not expected to impact the majority of Pixel Watch buyers, as a small percentage (around 13-14%) of active Android devices are still running on Android 10. The Pixel Watch 3 is anticipated to launch with Wear OS 5, similar to Samsung’s latest Galaxy Watch models, which also support Android 9.0, albeit without explicitly listing it as a minimum requirement.