The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Some links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
The June 2024 renders were broadly right about the headline: Google was preparing a larger Pixel Watch 3, later released in a 45mm size. But “Pixel Watch 3 XL” was leak-era shorthand, not the product’s official name. Google announced the Pixel Watch 3 in 41mm and 45mm sizes on August 13, 2024, and it went on sale September 10.
What the Pixel Watch 3 “XL” leak showed
Renders attributed to @OnLeaks and reported by 9to5Google on June 12, 2024 depicted a larger version of Google’s round smartwatch. The report put the case at about 45mm across and the display at roughly 1.45 inches. It also described slimmer-looking bezels, a thicker body—about 13.89mm—and a modified, larger-looking band attachment.
Those were leaked renders and reported measurements, not specifications confirmed by Google. The apparent larger case addressed a common practical limitation of the first two Pixel Watch generations: they each came in one relatively compact size. A bigger watch can make workout figures, maps, notifications, and watch faces easier to read, though it will not suit every wrist.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →“XL” was not the final product name
Coverage used “Pixel Watch 3 XL” to distinguish the rumored larger watch from the smaller model. Google did not announce an XL-branded edition. Its official product name is Pixel Watch 3, available in 41mm and 45mm sizes. Google’s August 13 announcement described the 45mm as a new size, not an XL model.
#1 Best Overall
- The Google Pixel Watch 3 is designed for performance, with advanced fitness from Fitbit[1,2]; the 45mm screen is twice as bright and 40% larger than before, making it easier to see your stats and info[1]
- Maximize your performance with advanced running features; build custom run workouts and get real-time guidance and advanced form tracking[3]
- Enhance your run routine with Fitbit Premium; Google AI uses your goals, past runs, and readiness to power personalized run recommendations[3]
- Know what your body is ready for each day with readiness; it uses sleep, resting heart rate, and heart rate variability to show if you’re ready to take on a workout or prioritize recovery[3]
- Cardio load measures how hard your heart works so you can see how hard you’ve pushed; compare trends to see if you’re under- or over-training[3]
Leak versus the official 45mm Pixel Watch 3
| Detail | June 2024 leak | Official 45mm model |
|---|---|---|
| Case size | About 45mm | 45mm diameter |
| Display | About 1.45 inches, according to the report | Google says it has 40% more screen area than Pixel Watch 2; both Pixel Watch 3 sizes use an Actua display rated up to 2,000 nits |
| Thickness | About 13.89mm | 12.3mm |
| Battery | Not known | 420mAh typical capacity |
| Name | “XL” used as a leak label | Pixel Watch 3, 45mm |
| Band connection | Reportedly modified; compatibility was uncertain | Google lists bands for Pixel Watch 3, but compatibility varies by accessory |
| Availability | Unconfirmed | Released September 10, 2024 |
The thickness figures do not match: the leak reported approximately 13.89mm, while Google’s official specifications give 12.3mm. The available sources do not establish why. The renders may have involved measurement assumptions, or the reported figure may not have matched the final hardware; it is better to preserve the discrepancy than treat the leak number as an official measurement.
Likewise, 1.45 inches was a leaked display estimate, not the official specification presented on Google’s product page. Google instead promotes the screen-area comparison: the 45mm model offers 40% more screen area than Pixel Watch 2, while the 41mm model offers 10% more. Both are rated for up to 2,000 nits peak brightness.
What Google confirmed about battery and hardware
The leak had no battery information. The final 45mm watch has a 420mAh typical battery, and Google rates it for up to 24 hours with the always-on display or up to 36 hours in Battery Saver mode. Its estimated charging times are about 28 minutes to 50%, 50 minutes to 80%, and 80 minutes to full. These are manufacturer figures, not independent real-world test results; a larger case or battery capacity does not guarantee proportionally longer use.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Rank #2
- The Google Pixel Watch 3 is designed for performance, with advanced fitness from Fitbit[1,2]; the 45mm screen is twice as bright and 40% larger than before, making it easier to see your stats and info[1]
- Maximize your performance with advanced running features; build custom run workouts and get real-time guidance and advanced form tracking[3]
- Enhance your run routine with Fitbit Premium; Google AI uses your goals, past runs, and readiness to power personalized run recommendations[3]
- Know what your body is ready for each day with readiness; it uses sleep, resting heart rate, and heart rate variability to show if you’re ready to take on a workout or prioritize recovery[3]
- Cardio load measures how hard your heart works so you can see how hard you’ve pushed; compare trends to see if you’re under- or over-training[3]
Other official 45mm specifications include a recycled-aluminum case, 37g weight without the band, a 320ppi AMOLED LTPO display, Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 with a Cortex-M33 coprocessor, Wear OS 5.0, 32GB storage, and 2GB of memory. It has Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi, NFC, GPS, 5 ATM water resistance, and an IP68 rating; LTE is an optional configuration. Google lists compatibility with most Android phones running Android 10 or newer and does not list iPhone support.
The Pixel Watch 3’s larger display also made the watch’s fitness and Google ecosystem features easier to view. The launched model includes Fitbit features such as Daily Readiness, Cardio Load and Target Load, plus running tools including Workout Builder and real-time guidance. Google also introduced Loss of Pulse Detection. That feature can potentially contact emergency services in supported circumstances; it is not a guarantee that every medical event will be detected or that help will be reached.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Will older Pixel Watch bands fit?
The leak’s report of a changed, larger band attachment raised the possibility that earlier bands would not fit. That concern should not be turned into a blanket rule either way. Google’s band catalog lists some accessories as compatible with both Pixel Watch 3 sizes, while others are limited by size or model. Before reusing an older band or ordering a replacement, check the compatibility details for that exact band.
Rank #3
- The Google Pixel Watch 3 is designed for performance, with advanced fitness from Fitbit[1,2]; the 45mm screen is twice as bright and 40% larger than before, making it easier to see your stats and info[1]
- Maximize your performance with advanced running features; build custom run workouts and get real-time guidance and advanced form tracking[3]
- Enhance your run routine with Fitbit Premium; Google AI uses your goals, past runs, and readiness to power personalized run recommendations[3]
- Know what your body is ready for each day with readiness; it uses sleep, resting heart rate, and heart rate variability to show if you’re ready to take on a workout or prioritize recovery[3]
- Cardio load measures how hard your heart works so you can see how hard you’ve pushed; compare trends to see if you’re under- or over-training[3]
Choosing the 41mm or 45mm Pixel Watch 3
- Choose 45mm if a larger display is your priority, you have a larger wrist, or the earlier Pixel Watch sizes felt too small. Its case weighs 37g without the band and has a 420mAh typical battery.
- Choose 41mm if you prefer a smaller, lighter watch or have a smaller wrist. It weighs 31g without the band and has a 307mAh typical battery.
- Consider LTE only if you want phone-free connectivity. Google says LTE can support calls, texts, music, Google Pay and other functions away from the phone after pairing and carrier activation. Carrier support and monthly charges depend on your location and plan.
- Check the exact band listing before buying. Do not assume every Pixel Watch band fits every generation or size.
At U.S. launch, the 45mm Bluetooth/Wi-Fi version started at $399.99 and LTE at $499.99. Those are historical launch prices, not a statement of today’s price or availability; Google Store offers and stock can vary by date, configuration, and country.
Recommended Free Tools
What the leak got right—and what it did not settle
The renders were directionally accurate about the key development: Google released a 45mm Pixel Watch 3 alongside a smaller 41mm option. They did not establish the final product name, battery capacity, thickness, or band compatibility. Those answers came with the official product and accessory listings, and the final thickness differed from the leak’s reported measurement.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
