The upcoming Google Pixel Watch 4 has leaked in a set of official-looking images, showing not just its color options but also a quiet redesign that changes how it charges — and how it looks while doing so.
The renders reveal the Pixel Watch 4 in two sizes — 41mm and 45mm — each one shown with new color finishes and bands. The watch cases come in Black, Silver, Gold, and a softer tone called Moonstone. But the real variety shows up in the bands, with both Active and Sport styles displayed in a mix of colors that stand out more than before.
Three colors of each band type are clearly seen: the Active band shows up in Obsidian, Porcelain, and Moonstone, while the Sport band appears in Indigo, Limoncello, and Iris. These choices seem to set a different tone than earlier models — more expressive, more personal.
But there’s another shift under the surface. According to the leak, the Active bands use a new material this year. Google hasn’t confirmed what it is, but the implication is clear: more comfort, less irritation, especially for all-day wear. It’s also confirmed that the Stretch band, another style, will only be available for the smaller 41mm version, giving that size a bit of exclusivity.
The charger now sits on the side
Possibly the most curious change is the way the Pixel Watch 4 charges. Instead of the usual back-mounted connectors, leaked images show no contacts on the rear of the watch at all. Instead, the connectors are now positioned on the side, next to the speaker — directly opposite the crown.
This means the watch will rest sideways in its charger, not flat like before. That may sound small, but it changes how you’ll use it on a nightstand. Now, when you drop it into the dock at night, you’ll see the watch face tilted toward you — a subtle but thoughtful shift that could turn the watch into a better bedside display.
What’s more, the Pixel Watch 4 is expected to charge 25% faster than the previous version. That makes a noticeable difference if you’re topping up before a run or between work and a night out. It’s still unclear whether this faster charging comes from the new charger design or changes inside the watch itself, but the outcome is the same — less waiting.
All these signs point to small, focused improvements rather than a radical redesign. The charger is new, but it still uses a connector rather than going fully wireless. The bands are more colorful, but they stay within familiar styles. And the new comfort-focused material for the Active band could become one of those unspoken upgrades that ends up being more important than any spec sheet.
One interesting detail from the images is how clean the back of the watch looks now — with no contacts, no exposed metal. That not only gives it a sleeker look but might also help with durability, reducing wear over time. It’s not a flashy change, but for a wearable, it matters.
The Pixel Watch 4 will be shown officially alongside the Pixel 10 phones. But with this leak, it feels like the design story is already out. The watch isn’t trying to break new ground in dramatic ways. Instead, it’s shifting just enough — new colors, side charging, better comfort — to make people look twice.
The band colors will catch eyes. The sideways dock will raise questions. And the cleaner back might not even get noticed at first — until someone wears it, charges it, and feels the difference. This is the kind of design update that doesn’t shout for attention but quietly invites it.