The first-generation Pixel Watch finally received the Pixel Watch 2’s Do Not Disturb (or DND, for short) and Bedtime Mode syncing tools after several weeks of waiting.
These were originally announced in early December as part of the Pixel Feature Drop, but for some reason, they didn’t appear alongside everything else. As 9To5Google points out in its report, perhaps Google simply wanted to wait until the new year to release the patch, as the post confirms that both are currently rolling out.
If you’re not familiar with either, DND and Bedtime Mode work very similarly with a few minor differences. The first allows users to silence all app notifications and incoming calls with the option to create exceptions for certain contacts or alarms. Bedtime mode does the same thing while also turning off the always-on display at night so you can rest without having a bright light next to you.
What’s more, these features will “sync across all your devices” so you can also silence notifications on your smartphone by simply turning on DND or Bedtime mode. To turn them on, you’ll first need to open the Pixel Watch companion app and then go to the Notifications option in the Do Not Disturb & Bedtime section. It will be after the list of “on/off app alert alternatives,” according to 9To5Google.
Possible updates
The post goes on to say that this update is a “server-side addition,” meaning the tools will be automatically added to your smartwatch. You won’t have to download anything. Just keep an eye out for the patch when it arrives.
What’s interesting is that according to the report, the Pixel Watch is supposed to receive a “trio of Pixel Watch 2 features,” however, we’re only seeing two. It’s entirely possible we’ll see a third one added to the older wearable device; could be an expansion of the Safety Check tool. However, as Android Central claims, the third missing feature may be Watch Unlock, which came out on time in early December. This allows owners to unlock their Pixel smartphone with their Pixel Watch without needing to use their biometric credentials.
It is unknown if the previous model will receive anything more from the Pixel Watch 2. The rest of the December update consisted mainly of cosmetic changes, such as new watch faces and complications.
If you’re looking for a Google wearable but don’t want to spend almost $400 on one, you can get the original Pixel Watch for $280. It can offer a user experience comparable to that of the Pixel Watch 2 thanks to this recent update. For other options, check out TechRadar’s guide to the best smartwatches for 2024.
