With its latest product announcements, Google is signaling a shift in philosophy towards longer-term device ownership through improved durability and repairability. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold and Pixel Watch 4 are key examples of this new, more sustainable approach.
The Pixel 10 Pro Fold’s IP68 rating is a direct investment in longevity, protecting a high-cost device from common accidents involving water and dust that could otherwise lead to a premature demise. This makes the foldable a more practical long-term investment for consumers.
Even more explicit is the design of the Pixel Watch 4, the first Google smartwatch built for serviceability. By enabling screen and battery repairs, Google is providing a path for users to extend the life of their watch well beyond the typical two-year cycle, a win for both consumers’ wallets and the environment.
This focus on durability is also seen in the Pixel Buds 2a case, which has a replaceable battery. While the Pixel 10 phones are powered by cutting-edge AI, this underlying commitment to building products that last may be one of the most significant and welcome changes in Google’s hardware strategy.