For its upcoming smartwatch, Google is reportedly working on an improved suite of wireless connectivity features that will help with remote device unlocking and enhance location tracking precision.
After examining the code of the most recent Play Services app update, tipsters discovered details about ultra-wideband (UWB) for unlocking devices.
The Google Pixel Watch 2 already has a device unlock feature that allows a smartphone to remain unlocked when it is in close proximity to the smartwatch.
It was constructed on top of Bluetooth proximity sensing, which pairs a "trusted device" with the phone when the user is close by and maintains the phone unlocked.
All WearOS smartwatches now have access to the feature, however Bluetooth does have certain drawbacks, such as slower bandwidth and less accurate location detection. These will be fixed with ultra-wideband, giving centimeter-level accuracy.
For a few years now, Apple smartwatches have been shipping UWB facilities. These facilities are also available on AirTags and phones dating back to the iPhone 11.
Both Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel phones have the feature; however, it hasn't been implemented for the Pixel Watch to keep a phone unlocked.
Perhaps the Pixel Watch 3 will see things differently. The Active Unlock app's codebase discloses UWB ranging. The feature is known as Watch Unlock by Google.
According to the code, the watch will become faster and more accurate, and given Apple's track record, this makes sense.
A specific UWB chip for Precision Finding is included with a number of Apple products, including the Apple Watch. When another misplaced device with a UWB chip is present, it enables the watch to offer direction and distance guidance to locate it.
It's crucial to remember that this is only a code change, so the forthcoming Pixel Watch 3 may or may not include it.
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