No one will make smartwatches that do not support detachable straps. So that’s not surprising that Google is said to be working on a few straps for its upcoming Pixel Watch product. As 9to5Google reported, the manufacturer is currently working on at least seven straps. Frankly, one of them we have seen at the I/O keynote. However, we will learn more about the watch features and straps when the launch date gets closer in the fall.
Well, according to the source, Google is working on a Milanese-style mesh band, two types of leather bands, a link bracelet, a fabric band, and a silicone band. More interestingly, the company is also thinking of launching a stretchable strap like the Apple Solo Loop. However, this doesn’t sound odd because the Pixel Watch will make a direct competition to the Apple Watch products. That’s even clearly seen from the spotted and rumored specs of the forthcoming Google smartwatch. Many of them resemble Apple Watch features. So the variety of straps and their identity to the Apple’s straps play into that strategy.
We guess you won’t argue if we say that watches and smartwatches are more part of our style rather than essential products. If we forget our watches at home, nothing terrible will happen. We can’t say the same for smartphones. So that’s quite reasonable that Google is trying to bring as many straps as possible. It will allow the company to capture a larger auditory and help users emphasize their individuality.
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Will Google Pixel Watch Use Standard Size Straps?
In this sense, it’s better for Google to use a standard 20-22mm strap. This will allow its customers to purchase separate straps from third-party sellers and use them with the Google Pixel Watch. Unfortunately, it seems Google won’t follow this advice. From what we’ve seen at the Google I/O, the company will offer its own proprietary straps. But we have the same confidence as Google designers do. If they create something identical to the Pixel 6 cases, the competition between Apple Watch and the Pixel Watch will end even not started.
Generally talking, none of the smartwatch makers are good at creating straps. Most of them can be used in concrete scenarios. But users want something that will meet most of their expectations. For instance, if using silicone straps, you can wear them only when doing sports; leather straps are good for everyday use but not for sports. So we guess this is the best place where the smartwatch manufacturers should leave more options to users.
We understand that you hope the third-party manufacturers will offer their variants of the Google Pixel Watch straps. But this is a new product and it’s still unknown how many customers there will be. If there are not many, no serious company will invest in straps that don’t have high demand.