PRE-ORDER NOW: Google announced its new Google Pixel Watch 2 at the Made by Google event on Oct. 4. Pre-order it now starting at $349.99 for shipping that starts on Oct. 12.

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The Made by Google event on Oct. 4 completed a trifecta of fall tech events, following September festivities from Apple and Meta. Here, Google confirmed that it is still attempting to keep up with the Apple Watch and Samsung Galaxy Watch with the launch of the Google Pixel Watch 2. The new Pixel Watch is available to preorder at several retailers: get the WiFi version for $349.99 at Google, Fitbit, Amazon, and Best Buy or the cellular LTE version for $399.99 at Google, Fitbit, Amazon, and Best Buy. Wherever you buy, shipping begins Oct. 12.

Google's smartwatch can be pre-ordered from Fitbit because, like its predecessor, the Pixel Watch 2 is closely aligned with the Fitbit ecosystem. The watch comes with a six-month Fitbit Premium membership and operates on an interface similar to what you'd see on a Fitbit screen, but obviously more elevated.

SEE ALSO: How to preorder the Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro

Google has incorporated several new features into the Pixel Watch 2 to push it past glorified Fitbit territory. With features like a new multi-sensor heart rate monitor and an AI heart rate algorithm, automatic workout detection, pace training, a skin temperature sensor, and the ability to keep tabs on your sweat beads (electrodermal activity), the Pixel Watch 2 strengthens its potential as an active Android user's sidekick during both casual workouts and intense training.

Alongside existing safety features like fall detection and emergency SOS, Google announced that the Pixel Watch 2 will benefit from the Safety Check feature first seen on older Pixel phones. Battery life is also seeing a much-needed improvement, now upped to 24 hours on one charge.

Naturally, Google decided to stick with the chic round watch face that is deeply appreciated by anyone who thinks a rectangular one looks too smartwatch-y. That thin, bezel-less design will now also feel lighter on your wrist thanks to a shift to 100% recycled aluminum.