We have been hearing for a while now that Google could be interested in launching their own Pixel-branded smartwatches, known as the Pixel Watch. When you think about how Google has their own Pixel brand of smartphones, tablets, laptops, and even headphones, it does feel odd that smartwatches aren't on that list, especially since Google created Wear OS.
That could change soon, at least that's what many are now speculating thanks to Google spending $40 million purchasing "smartwatch technology" from Fossil. We had pointed out before that as far as Wear OS smartwatch makers are concerned, Fossil is the only company that seems to be making any serious effort.
Google's $40 million purchase will not only be purchasing intellectual property related to smartwatch technology, but it will also include a portion of Fossil's R&D team. If this sounds familiar, it is because it was similar to Google's deal with HTC, where Google acquired HTC's hardware team.
No one knows for sure (except for Google) what this purchase means, but it does seem logical that this could be a step towards Google making their own smartwatch. It was rumored last year that Google could debut several Pixel-branded smartwatches, but they were all a no-show, but maybe this purchase could change that and we might finally see a Pixel Watch this year.
Of course whether or not people still care about a Pixel Watch by then is a different story. According to Stacey Burr, Vice President of Product Management, Wear OS by Google:
"Wearables, built for wellness, simplicity, personalization and helpfulness, have the opportunity to improve lives by bringing users the information and insights they need quickly, at a glance. The addition of Fossil Group's technology and team to Google demonstrates our commitment to the wearables industry by enabling a diverse portfolio of smartwatches and supporting the ever-evolving needs of the vitality-seeking, on-the-go consumer."
Source: Fossil
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