In the rapidly evolving world of wearable technology, Google’s Pixel Watch has recently been under scrutiny due to a peculiar issue experienced by several users – the watch’s back panel has been reported to spontaneously detach. User experiences and photographs posted on the PixelWatch subreddit provide a firsthand account of this surprising phenomenon.
The adhesive substance, identified as a “liquid gasket”, seems to be the culprit. Unveiled during an iFixit teardown of the Pixel Watch, this innovative adhesive provides a clean seal but also has the unexpected property of peeling off easily, leading to the back panel falling away. This liquid gasket, previously unseen in the industry, leaves virtually no residue when it detaches from the watch’s rear glass.
It’s noteworthy that this is not the first time a watch manufacturer has encountered such an adhesive issue. Fossil, a well-known watch brand, experienced similar challenges with the back panels of their “Gen 6” versions. Upon recognizing the problem, Fossil promptly addressed it and implemented a fix.
The back panel detaching is not merely an aesthetic or structural issue; it also raises concerns about the watch’s water resistance, a feature that is now considered standard for most wearable devices. Google, aware of the problem, has been handling most of these cases under the device’s warranty. Although some users initially faced a $300 repair fee, Google later waived this charge.
Interestingly, the traditional approach to securing the back panel of watches may provide a solution to Google. Traditional watches often incorporate visible screws or have back panels that screw directly into the watch body. This mechanical fastening method could offer a more secure alternative to adhesive methods.
In light of the feedback from users, it’s anticipated that Google will address this issue in their Pixel Watch 2, potentially revisiting their adhesive choice or even opting for a different fastening method. As technology continues to evolve, so too must the approaches to design and manufacturing. This incident serves as a reminder that the path of innovation often includes unexpected challenges that demand creative solutions.
