# Anticipate Significant Hardware Enhancements in Pixel Watches by 2026
Google’s Pixel Watch series has been steadily creating buzz in the wearable technology sector, and based on recent leaks, the outlook for Pixel Watches appears even more thrilling. Insider information indicates that Google is developing a proprietary Tensor chip for its upcoming Pixel Watches, anticipated to be released in 2026. This innovative step is set to deliver major hardware improvements, solidifying the Pixel Watch as a formidable player in the smartwatch market.
## Key Points to Consider
– **Tailored Tensor Chip for Pixel Watches**: A fresh leak reveals that Google is crafting a proprietary Tensor chip, codenamed “NPT,” intended for its future Pixel Watches, expected to be unveiled in 2026.
– **Chip Details**: The NPT chip is predicted to include one ARM Cortex A78 core and two ARM Cortex A55 cores, which, although not the latest CPU advancements, are still adequately equipped for wearable tech.
– **Possible Modifications Prior to Launch**: Given the leak is from 2023, it’s likely that the specifications of the NPT chip may see revisions before its official launch in 2026.
## The Leak: A Peek into the Future of Pixel Watches
The leak, stemming from Google’s gChips team and reported by *Android Authority*, has disclosed that Google is in the process of creating a custom Tensor chip tailored for wearables. This chip, codenamed NPT, is set to combine ARM Cortex A78 and A55 cores. While these cores may not represent the forefront of CPU design, they are certainly suitable for the efficiency and performance demands of a smartwatch.
The NPT chip is believed to be gearing up for a 2026 release, but since this leak is from 2023, there remains ample opportunity for Google to refine the chip’s architecture and features. As with any early information, the final product could differ significantly from current expectations.
## Transitioning from Third-Party to Proprietary Chipsets
Until now, Google has depended on third-party chipsets for its Pixel Watch range. The inaugural Pixel Watch, launched in 2022, utilized Samsung’s Exynos 9110 chipset, an older processor also featured in Samsung’s Galaxy Watch series. Although it performed adequately, the Exynos 9110 was not particularly energy-efficient, resulting in concerns regarding the Pixel Watch’s battery longevity.
Conversely, the Pixel Watch 2 and the forthcoming Pixel Watch 3 have transitioned to Qualcomm’s Snapdragon W5+ chipset. This enhancement has radically transformed the Pixel Watch series, delivering significantly better battery life and performance in contrast to the Exynos-powered predecessor.
Yet, the shift to a custom Tensor chip for forthcoming Pixel Watches marks a substantial change in Google’s approach. Much like Apple’s strategy with its bespoke silicon for the Apple Watch, Google seems to be advancing towards a more unified hardware-software framework for its wearable devices. This could lead to enhanced optimization, improved battery longevity, and superior performance for future Pixel Watches.
## What Might the NPT Chip Entail for Pixel Watches?
Although the leaked information lacks exhaustive details about the NPT chip, we can make some informed hypotheses based on Google’s larger hardware strategy. For instance, recent reports indicate that Google plans to move away from Samsung-manufactured Tensor chips for its Pixel smartphones, starting with the Pixel 10 and 11 models. Instead, Google is expected to partner with TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) for in-house chip production, utilizing state-of-the-art 3nm process technology.
If Google adopts a comparable path for its wearable chips, the NPT chip could also leverage advanced node technology, such as the 3nm process. This move would generate notable advancements in energy efficiency, vital for wearables prioritizing battery life. A more energy-efficient chip could enable future Pixel Watches to boast extended battery performance without sacrificing capability or features.
## The Future of Google’s Wearable Strategy
While the leaked insights regarding the NPT chip are promising, many uncertainties still permeate Google’s overarching plans for its wearable devices. For example, it remains to be seen whether Google will continue to lean on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chips for its more affordable wearables or if the entire range will transition to custom Tensor chips.
Moreover, we are yet to discover what additional hardware improvements may accompany the new Tensor chip in upcoming Pixel Watches. Could we see enhancements in display technology, health monitoring sensors, or fitness tracking functionalities? Might Google unveil new designs or formats to rival the likes of the Apple Watch and Samsung Galaxy Watch?
## Conclusion: A Bright Horizon for Pixel Watches
The revelation concerning Google’s tailored Tensor chip for Pixel Watches suggests a promising future for the brand’s wearable offerings. If the NPT chip
