Do you think Petey is behind this? #Vergecast

The Pixel Watch 4 features improved repairability, including user-replaceable screens and batteries, a change jokingly attributed to a cat named Petey who damaged an earlier Pixel Watch 2.

• Pixel Watch 2 damage led to a Google investigation.

• Petey the kitten is humorously blamed for the Pixel Watch 2's demise.

• Pixel Watch 4 is now repairable, with iFixit kits available for DIY fixes.

A Pixel Watch 2 was severely scratched, prompting Google to investigate and internally blame a mischievous kitten named Petey. This incident, combined with broader user complaints about the lack of repairability in previous Pixel Watch models, is playfully credited with influencing Google's decision to make the Pixel Watch 4 significantly more repairable. The new model includes standard screws and support for DIY repairs via iFixit kits.

Petey's Accidental Impact

• 00:00:00 A Pixel Watch 2 experienced significant damage, leading Google to collect the watch for lab investigation, which concluded that 'abrasions happened.' Google's internal communications team attributed this damage to Petey, a kitten known for chewing on smartwatches. This playful accusation suggests Petey's actions highlighted a critical design flaw, contributing to future improvements.

Pixel Watch Repairability

• 00:01:00 The Pixel Watch 4 now features significantly improved repairability, including non-proprietary screws and the availability of iFixit manuals and repair kits for battery and display replacements. This enhancement directly addresses widespread online complaints about the unrepairable nature of earlier Pixel Watch models, a change humorously credited to Petey's destructive curiosity.