The Google Pixel Watch 3 has become a pioneer in technology by supporting a new Bluetooth feature called Channel Sounding. This feature enhances the precision of tracking connected devices, offering an alternative to methods like Ultra-wideband (UWB), which can be costly and complicated. Not only is the Pixel Watch 3 the first to introduce Channel Sounding, but it may also receive a unique update that could change the game in device tracking.
Channel Sounding is part of the Bluetooth 6.0 system, which was announced in September 2024. Previously, Bluetooth tracking relied on signal strength, which often led to inaccuracies due to various interferences. In contrast, UWB employs high-bandwidth radio waves for increased accuracy but requires specialized equipment.
Channel Sounding, however, strikes a balance by measuring the time it takes for signals to bounce between devices, providing a more precise tracking solution without the need for expensive hardware. Until recently, no devices supported Bluetooth 6.0 or Channel Sounding, rendering the feature essentially unavailable. However, a recent update to the Pixel Watch 3 was noticed, revealing a mention of “FEATURE_BLUETOOTH_LE_CHANNEL_SOUNDING” in the WearOS 5.1 update.
This discovery suggested that the Pixel Watch 3 became the first device to utilize this new feature. There’s more to explore regarding the Pixel Watch 3’s capabilities. It is believed that Channel Sounding necessitates Bluetooth 6.0, and with no devices currently on the market using this version, it was assumed that adoption would require waiting for the next generation of devices.
Remarkably, it seems the Pixel Watch 3 has been upgraded to Bluetooth 6.0, potentially marking the first instance of a significant Bluetooth update delivered over-the-air. This development is exciting, even if it turns out that Channel Sounding is functional on Bluetooth 5.3, as it signifies progress for numerous devices.
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