If you're planning on getting the new Google Pixel Watch 3, you should know one important fact Like the Pixel Watch and Pixel Watch 2 before it, Google told Android Authority that it is maintaining a “replacement only” policy for its third-generation smartwatch

This information came directly from a Google customer support representative, who confirmed that damaged Pixel Watch 3s will need to be replaced If the damage is still covered under warranty, the expense will not be too great; Google told Android Authority to “contact the Google Pixel Watch customer support team to see what your replacement options are”

Similarly, it appears that US buyers can purchase an $89 Preferred Care insurance package that covers accidental damage and out-of-warranty repairs for two years However, this must be purchased with the Pixel Watch 3 or within 30 days of ordering

Still, it is disappointing to hear that Google's attitude toward the damaged Pixel Watch 3 watch is to throw a new device at customers while the original device could end up in a landfill somewhere People should be more aware of the environmental impact of consumer electronics and how people happily throw away their gadgets when new ones arrive

Google itself knows that this is a concern for people and showed off its confidence in the environment at the Made by Google event by commenting on the higher percentage of recycled materials in new devices and packaging And given their nonchalance regarding what happens to broken smartwatches, their concern for the environment may be just a facade

And don't get me started on how this will affect the ongoing Right to Repair campaign There has been a lot of pressure on tech companies to allow users to choose where and how to repair their devices, and there has been a lot of progress in phones and laptops Google itself has confirmed that it will guarantee the supply of parts for the Pixel 8 for seven years

Would it have been so difficult to design a repairable smartwatch, even if it was a tricky and complicated process? That way, at least, people would be able to keep using their smartwatches for a long time, even if something unfortunate happened to the smartwatch Google does not seem to be too concerned about repairability unless it gets a lot of pushback from the public

So, if you're picking up a Pixel Watch 3 next month, be careful how you handle it Otherwise, you'll have to go through a lot of hoops to get Google to send you a new one