Google Commits to Replacement-Only Option for Pixel Watch 3

What You Need to Know:

Google has confirmed in a new report that consumers cannot pursue repair options for the Pixel Watch 3.

If you need a replacement device, just reach out to our support team. We also recommend considering the Preferred Care insurance plan to help cover any damages.
No official repair services were offered by Google for the original Pixel Watch or Pixel Watch 2, and a teardown video revealed the nightmare of attempting to repair it yourself.

Consumers still lack proper repair options for Google’s Pixel Watch series—even with the release of the third version.

The Pixel Watch 3 features a unique dome-shaped glass design for the watch face, making it prone to damage. Android Authority reached out to ask about repair options for Google’s latest smartwatch, but unfortunately, the response wasn’t encouraging.

A Google representative stated that if your Pixel Watch 3 gets damaged, you can “reach out to the Google Pixel Watch customer support team to check your replacement options.”

As the report notes, this information is not encouraging for those interested in repairing the device rather than getting a new one. An option like this would help consumers extend the life of their devices, especially in the case of accidental scratches or a faulty crown.

However, Google mentioned that those interested in purchasing the Pixel Watch 3 are encouraged to get Preferred Care. This device insurance will cover damages they receive, including “out-of-warranty issues.” It’s worth noting that if you seek a replacement device through the insurance, Google will charge a $49 service fee.

Not that we were holding our breath, but Google has not offered repair options for its smartwatch from the start. Users took to Reddit to express their frustration that the only option back then (and now) was to replace the entire device. Moreover, the idea of Google repairing the watch or doing it yourself has proven difficult in the past.

Self-repair parts provider iFixit performed a teardown of the Pixel Watch and demonstrated its complete lack of repairability. Breaking the screen and attempting to install a new one was a grueling process, and there was no way to replace the crown or button.

Google’s lack of repair options continued with the Pixel Watch 2, where it (again) encouraged consumers to purchase the Preferred Care insurance plan.

Google introduced the Pixel Watch 3 at their hardware event on August 13. The device debuted loaded with plenty of health and fitness tools that would make runners feel great—and maybe a little frustrated. However, the watch comes in two sizes: 41mm and 45mm, with an estimated 36 hours of battery life when the “battery saver” mode is enabled.