The Google Pixel Watch comes with a smart connector for its bands, but the unique connector means third-party bands won’t work. At least not officially. But Google’s “Crafted Leather” band actually supports using a third-party 20mm band on the Pixel Watch.
Most smartwatches sold for Android users, including Samsung’s Galaxy Watch series and the vast majority of Wear OS smartwatches, have supported the use of a traditional pin connector for the band. The use of quick-release bands has become commonplace with this standard, but that hasn’t stopped Apple from using its own connector with the Apple Watch, and Fitbit has also used its own connectors on its smartwatches and trackers.
We’re generally fans of Google’s connector on the Pixel Watch. A quick release button on the watch allows you to slide the band into place much faster than a pin, and it also makes for a nice seamless look for bands.
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However, it is very frustrating that it is so difficult to get alternative bands for the Watch. Google only sells the Pixel Watch bundled with several colors of the “Active” band, and many bands are currently heavily delayed or sold out.
Dan Seifert of The Verge found that the “Crafted Leather” band for the Pixel Watch actually supports the use of a 20mm band using the classic pin connector. The connector for the “Crafted Leather” band adds lugs on both sides of the Pixel Watch to hold the band in place, but it just uses a typical pin connector. However, there is no easy way to remove the pre-installed band. You will need a pin removal tool to remove the band from the holder, but after that a 20mm band can fit into place.
Unfortunately, the “Crafted Leather” band for Pixel Watch is currently largely out of stock. The color “Ivy” is completely sold out and does not even qualify for a waiting list, while “Obsidian” is currently only available in the smaller size. That won’t be a problem for the band adapter, but if you need the larger size it would certainly be a waste to spend $80 on a band you can’t use.
Hopefully, some more affordable third-party adapters will arrive in time.
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