Setup and Pairing
Pairing the Pixel Watch 4 with a non‑Pixel device such as the Asus Zenfone 10 is fast and straightforward. The Google Watch app and Fitbit install without issue, and fast‑pair prompts guide you through the process in seconds.
User Interface and Navigation
The watch uses a touchscreen, a rotating crown, and a side button. Swipe up for notifications, down for quick settings, and left/right for Tiles. The crown also opens notifications and settings, while the side button launches Fitbit workouts, Gemini, or Google Wallet with long‑press and double‑tap gestures.
Health and Fitness Features
All Fitbit health functions work regardless of the phone brand. You can take ECG readings, monitor sleep, track steps, cardio load, body temperature, blood oxygen, and stress levels. Premium Fitbit subscriptions unlock additional insights.
Limitations When Not Paired with a Pixel Phone
- Camera remote app works only with Pixel phones; it disappears on other devices.
- Watch Unlock (phone unlock via smartwatch) is unavailable on non‑Pixel phones.
- Call Screen feature requires a Pixel device and is limited to certain regions.
- Do Not Disturb and Bedtime sync may be inconsistent, though recent updates have improved it.
- Timers set on the phone do not sync to the watch.
- Remote control of Google Nest products may be restricted.
Overall Verdict
After a week of daily use with the Zenfone 10, the Pixel Watch 4 proves to be a highly recommended purchase even without a Pixel phone. It offers a streamlined Wear OS experience, robust health tracking via Fitbit, and Google Wallet as a default payment method. While it lacks a few Pixel‑exclusive tricks, it outperforms the Galaxy Watch 8 for users who don’t own a Samsung phone, making it the safer, more versatile smartwatch choice.