The new Snapdragon W5+ Gen 2 and W5 Gen 2 are set to deliver longer battery life, more precise location tracking, and the ability to send emergency messages without mobile coverage.
Qualcomm has made a historic leap in the smartwatch arena by unveiling the Snapdragon W5+ Gen 2 and W5 Gen 2 platforms. These are the first designed for wearables with satellite connectivity support via Skylo’s NB-NTN (Narrowband Non-Terrestrial Network). This breakthrough allows users to send and receive messages even in areas with no cellular or Wi-Fi coverage, a potentially life-saving feature in critical situations.
The announcement was made during the Made by Google event, where it was also revealed that the new Google Pixel Watch 4 will be the first device to feature the Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 platform.
Satellite connectivity: a game-changer for wearables
Until now, smartwatches depended solely on cellular networks or Wi-Fi to transmit data or make emergency calls. With Snapdragon W5+ Gen 2 and W5 Gen 2, that limitation is gone.
The integration of NB-NTN enables users to stay connected in remote environments like mountains, deserts, or maritime routes, sending text messages if they experience an accident or lose signal.
Qualcomm states that this innovation does not compromise the device’s battery life, thanks to the power efficiency of the new chip, built on 4-nanometer technology.
Enhanced battery life and accuracy
In addition to satellite connectivity, these platforms bring two key improvements:
Machine Learning Location 3.0: an AI-based system that boosts GPS accuracy by up to 50% in dense urban areas or deep canyons compared to previous generations.
RF System Optimization: reduces the module size by 20% and lowers power consumption, enabling thinner designs and longer battery life in smartwatches.
The Snapdragon W5+ Gen 2 features a low-power co-processor to handle secondary tasks, while the W5 Gen 2 does not include this component, providing manufacturers more flexibility depending on their device design.
Pixel Watch 4: pioneering this technology
Google will be the first partner to utilize this innovation with the Pixel Watch 4, which will incorporate Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 alongside Wear OS 6.
The company emphasizes that this combination not only offers smooth, efficient performance but also adds a vital safety layer through satellite emergency communication.
“Being able to send an SOS from a smartwatch without cellular coverage is a huge safety leap for users,” said Sandeep Waraich, Senior Director of Product Management for Google Wearables.
Partnership with Skylo: bringing NTN to wearables
Skylo’s satellite connectivity NB-NTN technology has been instrumental in this development. According to Tarun Gupta, Skylo’s co-founder and Chief Product Officer, “This innovation changes how consumers and companies perceive NTN connectivity, making it available in small devices with minimal battery impact.”
This technology opens up new use cases—from adventure expeditions and extreme sports to professional applications in logistics, emergency response, and civil defense.
A step forward in Qualcomm’s strategy
This launch aligns with Qualcomm’s broader strategy to position its chips as central to connectivity across various devices beyond smartphones. With this new generation, the company expands its influence in the growing wearables sector, where consumers seek longer battery life, enhanced safety, and real utility beyond notifications or fitness tracking.
Dino Bekis, VP and GM of Wearables at Qualcomm, stated, “With Snapdragon W5+ and W5 Gen 2, we’re making Wear OS the first smartwatch OS with native satellite connectivity integration. We want users to stay safe and connected even in the most remote locations.”
Conclusion
The Snapdragon W5+ Gen 2 and W5 Gen 2 mark a turning point in the evolution of smartwatches. They improve in efficiency, size, and location accuracy while introducing a critical safety feature: satellite communication during emergencies.
With Google as the initial partner and Skylo as a strategic collaborator, Qualcomm is opening a new chapter in wearables, where security and limitless connectivity become top priorities.
FAQs
What’s the difference between Snapdragon W5+ Gen 2 and W5 Gen 2?
W5+ Gen 2 includes a low-power co-processor that enhances battery life, whereas W5 Gen 2 omits this feature for a simpler, lighter solution tailored to manufacturers prioritizing size and cost.
What is NB-NTN and why is it important?
NB-NTN stands for Narrowband Non-Terrestrial Network—a technology enabling devices to connect to low-orbit satellites for sending and receiving messages. For smartwatches, this means users can request help or share their location even without cellular or Wi-Fi coverage.
Which devices will be the first to adopt this technology?
The Google Pixel Watch 4 will be the first smartwatch to incorporate Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 with satellite support. Other manufacturers are expected to follow in the coming months.
How does this innovation affect watch battery life?
Thanks to 4 nm architecture and RF system optimizations, watches with Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 can enjoy longer battery life compared to previous models, even with added satellite connectivity.
via: Qualcomm