Google Pixel Watches have a Phone Unlock feature which unlocks Pixel phones automatically as long as they're connected. However, Google seems to be working on a reverse Phone-to-Watch unlock feature that would let Pixel phones unlock Pixel Watches as well.
No More Entering Codes After Taking Off Pixel Watches
Recent code teardowns by Android Authority suggest that Google is working on a Phone-to-Watch unlock feature. Based on the hidden text strings found within the app, this functionality will require a quick, one-time setup process.
Like Watch Unlock, users will first need to confirm their current smartwatch PIN or pattern on the wearable to establish the trusted connection with their phone. Once configured, the strings indicate that automated status prompts like "Unlocking your watch" and "Watch unlocked" will be displayed in the background whenever the connected phone is opened.
While initially believed to be coming to all Wear OS smartwatches, Watch Unlock remains Pixel-exclusive, and the new feature will be, too. These text strings were located inside the Pixel Watch app, so it will probably be restricted to Pixel Watch and Pixel phones only.
Interestingly, the code strings also hint that Google is streamlining the ecosystem upgrade process. The secure connection established between the two devices might be fully transferable if a user buys a newer model of the smartwatch, eliminating the need to constantly repeat the initial authentication setup.
These features are not yet active, and an official rollout timeline remains unknown. However, the reverse Watch Unlock is one of the Apple Watch ecosystem features that I've been waiting to see on Pixel watches.
Since Pixel Watches need to be locked when tap-to-pay is enabled via Google Wallet, getting them off your wrist will instantly lock them. When putting the watch back on, users may forget to unlock it, leading to missed notifications and features like the Always-on display not working.
The reverse Watch Unlock feature should fix the issue, leading to a more seamless experience in line with the Apple ecosystem. Since the feature has already been spotted, it won't be too long until it rolls out to the masses, so stay tuned.
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