Qualcomm has revealed its latest advancements in wearable technology with the Snapdragon W5+ Gen 2 and W5 Gen 2 platforms. The announcement was made during the Made by Google event, where the new Pixel Watch 4 was also introduced. According to the company, the updated platforms bring significant improvements in connectivity, efficiency, and safety features for smartwatches and other wearables.
Satellite connectivity reaches wearables
The Snapdragon W5+ Gen 2 and W5 Gen 2 are the first wearable platforms to integrate support for satellite communication through Skylo’s Narrowband Non-Terrestrial Network. This feature allows users to send and receive emergency messages in locations with no mobile network or Wi-Fi access, which could be a vital addition for outdoor enthusiasts and travellers.
Unlike traditional wearables, the technology ensures communication even in remote regions. The W5+ version includes a low-power co-processor, while the W5 Gen 2 does not, giving manufacturers flexibility in design and battery optimization.
In addition, the platforms are built on a 4nm system-on-chip design. They come with the new Location Machine Learning 3.0 system, which can improve GPS accuracy by up to 50 percent compared to earlier generations. Qualcomm has also introduced an optimized RF Front End that reduces component size and power requirements by around 20 percent, enabling slimmer designs and longer-lasting batteries.
Pixel Watch 4 features Snapdragon W5 Gen 2
The first smartwatch to feature the Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 is the Pixel Watch 4, running Wear OS 6. Qualcomm says the platform is designed to enhance multi-device experiences while maintaining high levels of performance and power efficiency. The collaboration with Google and Skylo highlights the growing push to expand satellite connectivity beyond smartphones and into wearables, potentially transforming how safety and communication features are delivered to users worldwide.
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