When looking at the Pixel Watch and Pixel Watch 2, the design is almost identical. Although Google has mostly avoided changing the design of this year’s model, a new patent could hint at a design change for the Pixel Watch 3. Indeed, Google has filed a patent for new sensor technology that could be used to monitor smartwatches by gestures.
The patent, entitled “ Gesture recognition on watch bezel using strain gauges “, describe a system of sensors that could be integrated into the housing of a smartwatchin order to detect gestures such as pressing, tapping, pressing and swiping.
The patent filing, first noticed by Wearable, claims that current methods of controlling smartwatches, such as rotating crowns and rotating rings, are “reasonably effective” but have a number of disadvantages. For example, they can make the manufacturing process more complex, complicate the waterproofing of the device and harm the aesthetics of the watch.
The sensor system proposed by Google would solve all these problems. The sensors would be integrated into the watch case, making them invisible to the user and eliminating any moving parts. The watch would thus be easier to waterproof and more durable. Additionally, sensors would enable a more seamless and intuitive user experience.
Of course, the existence of this patent opens the discussion on the possibility that this is what Google has planned for its nextsmartwatchthe Pixel Watch 3. Particularly the possibility of a buttonless model, since the patent filing provides a number of examples of how strain gauge sensors could be used to control a smartwatch. For example, a user could tap the side of the watch to play or pause music, tap the top of the watch to open a specific app, squeeze the sides of the watch to zoom in or out, or Slide the side of the watch to scroll through a list.
Pixel Watch gesture patent
In its filing, Google also suggests that the sensors could be used to control other devices, such as connected home devices. For example, a user could squeeze the sides of their watch to turn on the lights or slide the side of their watch to dim the thermostat.
As we know, patent filings are not always an indication of the features of a product that will ultimately be delivered to consumers. However, it’s fun to speculate on what Google has in the pipeline when it comes to its hardware. Hopefully this technology will be integrated into the next Pixel Watch.
