Highlight
- Google upgrades to Plastic-Free Packaging.
- The Pixel Watch 3 comes in a recyclable cardboard box with a speckled texture and uncoated surface, featuring a tamper-evident sleeve.
- The Pixel Watch 3 remains a “replacement-only” device with no repair options but offers an insurance program.
Google Explains New Sustainable Packaging
In a detailed official blog post, Google has shared its new Pixel 9 series packaging metrics.
Under the title “How we made our hardware packaging 100% plastic-free”, the tech giant revealed the strategy and philosophy behind its new packaging designs.
Google has now 100% plastic-free packaging.
The company announced the goal with a 2025 deadline way back in October 2020.
It was 94% free at the time.
The company is now, however, a year early in developing “fibre-based alternatives” to shrink wrap, plastic tape, and labels.
The blog mentions, “Back in October 2020, we pledged to make our hardware packaging plastic-free by 2025. At the time, our packaging was already 94% plastic-free, but those last few pieces of plastic were the trickiest parts to replace. From shrink wrap and plastic tape to labels and more, we researched, prototyped and developed fibre-based alternatives to replace those final plastic components.”
Retail boxes for the latest Google Pixel 9 series, which includes the 9 Pro Fold, Pixel Watch 3, Google TV Streamer, 4th-gen Nest Learning Thermostat, Pixel Buds Pro 2, and 45W Charger are made of new paper material.
As per the brand’s claim, this new material is “three times stronger and approximately 70 per cent more stretchable” than the previous paper used for similar purposes.
Google blog reveals, “Inside the box, our new molded fiber pulp formula — which helps keep your device safe — is made in part from recycled newspaper. And its speckled look perfectly complements the new paper.”
In the video campaign, the Google packaging team even highlights the new packaging design.
The company believes that this new natural look makes it easier for people to recognize that the box is recyclable.
Earlier this year, Google released a Plastic-Free Packaging Design Guide to help other companies adopt similar eco-friendly practices.
This guide has been updated with design, engineering, and operational insights from the latest box design.
Google Pixel Watch 3 – Unboxing Reveal
As Google shared its 100% plastic-free packaging marketing campaign video, we have managed to take a quick peek into the Pixel Watch 3 unboxing.
The packaging for the Pixel Watch 3 comes in a simple cardboard brown box with a “visually speckled texture and an uncoated surface.”
The box is covered by a sleeve that has a “peelable closure label,” allowing you to quickly tell if the package has been tampered with.
When unboxing the Pixel Watch 3, you’ll first remove the outer sleeve to reveal another layer with two smaller boxes inside.
The bottom box contains the Pixel Watch 3, which is wrapped in a clear, rectangular piece of protective paper, giving it a “gift-like reveal.”
Beneath the watch is the charging puck.
The top box contains the watch band, and any additional accessories are similarly packaged.
Each Pixel Watch generation has introduced a new box design.
Google Confirms Pixel Watch 3 Repairability Issues Persist
Image credit – gizchina
We now have a confirmation that the repairability issues with Google’s Pixel Watch series problem continue with the new Pixel Watch 3.
When the original Pixel Watch was first released, it became a talking point that Google did not offer repairs.
If your Pixel Watch broke down, the only option was to replace it.
There were no options for screen replacements, battery swaps, or other repairs.
Though many users expected that with the introduction of new materials in the Pixel Watch 2, things would change.
However, Google still didn’t provide repair services, instead introduced an insurance program to address damage.
As the Watch 3 was getting launched, users were apprehensive about its repairability once again.
And now, to many users disappointment, Google has confirmed that this approach remains unchanged with the Pixel Watch 3.
In a statement to Android Authority, Google confirmed that the Pixel Watch 3 is a “replacement-only” device.
This means there will be no repair options available.
If a Pixel Watch 3 gets damaged, customers are advised to “contact the Google Pixel Watch Customer Support Team to check your replacement options.”
Similar to previous generation watches, Google has again offered an insurance program called “Preferred Care.”
This program ensures that customers can get a replacement smartwatch even if the damage occurs outside of the warranty period.
However, there is a $49 service fee for approved claims, in addition to the $4/month (or $89 for two years) insurance cost.
FAQs
Q1. What are the key features of the Google Pixel 9 series?
Answer. The Pixel 9 series includes the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL.
Key features include the new Google Tensor G4 chip, advanced AI capabilities, improved camera systems, and longer battery life.
The Pro models also come with a Super Actua display and a 42 MP front camera.
Q2. When will the Google Pixel 9 series be available?
Answer. The Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL will be available starting August 22, 2024, while the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro Fold will be available from September 4, 2024.
Q3. What are the new features of the Pixel Watch 3?
Answer. The Pixel Watch 3 features a slimmer bezel, brighter screen, advanced fitness tools, and better integration with Google products.
It also introduces a new Loss of Pulse Detection feature and offers improved battery life with a new dual-chip architecture.
Q4. What sizes are available for the Pixel Watch 3?
Answer. The Pixel Watch 3 is available in two sizes: 41mm and 45mm. Both sizes offer enhanced display brightness and battery efficiency.
Q5. What is unique about the new packaging for Google Pixel products?
Answer. The new packaging for Google Pixel products is 100% plastic-free, made from a new paper that is three times stronger and 70% more stretchable than previous materials.
It features a visually speckled texture and an uncoated surface, making it easier to recycle.
Q6. How to handle accidental damage to google pixel watch 3?
Answer. Google suggests the Pixel Watch 3’s Preferred Care program to handle accidental damage.
It allows for a replacement for a $49 service fee.
This program is only available in certain regions, so users in unsupported areas could face high replacement costs, even outside of warranty.
Also Read: Google Pixel Watch 3 Leaks Show Refined Design, Enhanced Features
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