Google Won't Repair Cracked Pixel Watch Screens, Despite Repairability Push

Google confirms it does not provide repairs for cracked Pixel Watch screens.
iFixit teardown shows repairs are possible but difficult for Pixel Watch.
Google offers repairs for Pixel phones but not the Pixel Watch currently.
Lack of repairability goes against upcoming right-to-repair legislation like California's bill.
With Pixel Watch 2 incoming, Google needs to address repairability issue for smartwatches.

androidcentral.com

Relevant topic timeline:

8/18/2023

Google's new way to unlock your phone with your Pixel Watch may be coming soon

- Topic: Google's Watch Unlock feature for Pixel phones - Key points: 1. The Watch Unlock feature allows users to unlock their Pixel phones using their Wear OS device. 2. The feature is convenient for situations where other unlocking methods may not work, such as wet hands or unrecognized face. 3. It is unclear when exactly the Watch Unlock feature will be rolled out, but it is being tested and may be released soon.

9/11/2023

Google Rolls Out Minor September Update for Pixel Watch

The Pixel Watch's September 2023 update, which includes the latest security patch, has been delayed and will be rolled out starting on September 11, with Canadian devices receiving the update on September 18.

9/15/2023

Google Offers No Screen Repair Options for Pixel Watch, Contrasting Phone and Tablet Policies

Pixel Watch owners have discovered that Google does not have a screen replacement policy in place, leading to concerns about electronic waste and raising questions about why the smartwatch is excluded from Google's repairability policy.

9/20/2023

Google Adding 'Repair Mode' to Pixel Phones in Android 14 to Protect User Data During Repairs

Google is planning to introduce a "repair mode" for Pixel phones, similar to Samsung's "Maintenance Mode," to ensure the security of sensitive data when the phone is being repaired.

9/26/2023

Leaked Video Reveals Major Upgrades for Google's Pixel Watch 2, Including New Health Tracking Features and Faster Performance

The Pixel Watch 2 is expected to have advanced health features, a safety check feature, faster internals, and new watch bands, making it a significant upgrade over its predecessor.

9/30/2023

Pixel Watch 2 Design Prevents Repairs, Limiting Options for Consumers

Google's repair policy for the Pixel Watch is being criticized as unacceptable, as the company does not offer any official or unofficial repair options for the smartwatch, leading to concerns about the device's durability and environmental impact.

10/4/2023

Original Apple Watch Models, Including $17K Gold Edition, Now Classified as 'Obsolete' and Ineligible for Repairs

Apple has classified the original Apple Watch as obsolete, meaning it is no longer eligible for repairs, and customers may not find parts available at Apple Stores and Authorized Service Providers.

10/6/2023

Pixel Watch 2 Design Means Incompatibility with Original Cases

Despite looking nearly identical to the original model, the Google Pixel Watch 2 has slight hardware tweaks that render accessories for the original Pixel Watch incompatible with the new model.

10/8/2023

Google Launches Pixel Watch and Phone; Spotify Adds Audiobooks; Tips for Using Orion App

Google has released its new Pixel Watch, which features more battery life, advanced sensors, and Fitbit software, making it a strong competitor to the Apple Watch in the Android market.

10/8/2023

Original Google Pixel Watch Now 70% Off, A Great Budget Smartwatch

The Google Pixel Watch offers stylish design, extensive health tracking features, and NFC payments, making it a better option than the Pixel Watch 2 which comes with upgrades but at a higher price.

10/9/2023

Pixel Watch 2 Repairs Limited Like Original Model, Google Pushes Insurance Plans Instead

The Pixel Watch 2 will not be repairable, but Google is offering an insurance policy called Preferred Care that covers accidental damage and mechanical issues for a monthly fee of $4 or a one-time fee of $89 for two years.

10/13/2023

Google Slows Original Pixel Watch Charging in Firmware Update, Pixel Watch 2 Charges Faster

Google has released a firmware update for the original Pixel Watch that slows down its charging speed in order to address overheating issues and potentially increase its lifespan.