Wear OS: News
Wear OS, formerly known as Android Wear, is an Android-based operating system designed by Google specifically for smartwatches and wearables. This operating system was coded in C, C++, and Java. It remains open-source, although its components are confidential. Just like Android, it supports the installation of applications via APK files. Wear OS allows smartwatches to interface with Android and iOS smartphones using Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, 3G, 4G, and LTE connectivity. It is estimated that in the first six months of its availability, 720,000 Android Wear smartwatches were shipped. As of 2021, Wear OS directly rivals Apple's Watch OS. Wear OS also integrates Google Assistant and allows users to execute commands on their smartwatch and phone using just their voice. Wear OS was first introduced in March 2014. Today, the operating system is used by several popular third-party manufacturers including ASUS, Broadcom, Fossil, HTC, Intel, LG, MediaTek, Motorola, Qualcomm, Samsung, Skagen, Polar, and Tag Heuer. In January 2021, Google acquired popular variables manufacturer Fitbit, opening up more opportunities to incorporate Wear OS into the company's wearables.
Google just made your smartwatch a lot smarter: Know how
Google has started rolling out its advanced AI assistant, Gemini, to Wear OS smartwatches.
Don't update! Wear OS 5 is bricking some Pixel smartwatches
Google has temporarily halted the rollout of its Wear OS 5 update for older Pixel smartwatches.
Google Maps now finally works offline on Wear OS smartwatches
Google Maps has finally introduced the offline maps feature for its Wear OS app, two years after initially announcing plans to do so.
This Android feature can help you track stolen devices, accessories
Android's Find My Device is a versatile service designed to locate, secure, and manage your lost or stolen Android phone.
Google Wallet takes over transaction notifications from Google Play
Google Wallet is set to assume control over transaction notifications, a role previously held by Google Play services.
Google's new Android update lets you edit RCS messages
Google has introduced seven new features aimed at enhancing convenience and efficiency in everyday routines for users of Android phones, tablets, and Wear OS watches.
Android 15 update promises extended standby battery life
The forthcoming Android 15 update, announced at the recent Google I/O 2024 developer conference, is expected to enhance standby battery life by up to three hours on certain devices.
Google Fit developer APIs to shut down by June 2025
Google has officially announced the discontinuation of its Google Fit developer APIs, a process that began with the launch of Health Connect in 2022.
Google Wallet may require PIN for Wear OS-based payment transactions
Google Wallet, the widely-used payment app on Wear OS, may soon necessitate users to input a PIN code before executing tap-to-pay transactions.
Samsung Galaxy Watch FE in the works: What we know
Samsung is gearing up to expand its smartwatch collection with the introduction of the "Galaxy Watch FE."
Apple's Shazam now works independently on Wear OS smartwatches
Shazam, a music identification app owned by Apple, has rolled out a significant update for Wear OS smartwatches.
Samsung Galaxy Watch7 series could offer double the internal storage
Samsung is predicted to double the internal storage on its forthcoming Galaxy Watch7 series, according to SamMobile.
Now access transit directions on Google Maps for Wear OS
Google revealed at the Mobile World Congress 2024 that Wear OS users can now access public transit directions on Google Maps.
This app can turn smartwatches to PC mouse
Doublepoint Technologies has introduced an innovative gesture-detection app for Wear OS-powered smartwatches at CES 2024.
OnePlus Watch 2 design and specifications leaked: What to expect
Two years ago, OnePlus launched its inaugural smartwatch, the OnePlus Watch, and since then, the brand has been notably absent from the smartwatch market.
How to create Google Assistant shortcuts on Wear OS smartwatches
Google has rolled out a new tile for Google Assistant on Wear OS smartwatches, making it easier for users to access their favorite commands.
How to take screenshots on your Pixel Watch 2
Google's second-generation smartwatch, the Pixel Watch 2, now features a handy option for users to take screenshots using the device's physical buttons.
Google Calendar arrives on Wear OS smatwatches with new features
Google is rolling out its Calendar app for Wear OS smartwatches.
Audible app arrives on Wear OS devices: How to download
Amazon has officially launched Audible, its online audiobook and podcast service, on Wear OS. The app was first revealed back in July, right alongside the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 series and Wear OS 4.
Google brings Gmail app to Wear OS smartwatches
Google is releasing the Gmail app for Wear OS, allowing smartwatch users to access their mail right from their wrist.
You can now use WhatsApp on your WearOS smartwatch
WhatsApp has released a dedicated app for WearOS smartwatches. It is now rolling out globally.
Google releases new Android and WearOS features: Check what's new
Google is releasing a bunch of new Android features in celebration of the upcoming holiday season.
Google Pixel Watch will get 3 years of WearOS updates
Just a few days after its debut, Google has now released a short document on the software updates for its first-ever smartwatch.
Google Pixel Watch to be priced at around $400
Google will launch the Pixel Watch at around $399 (nearly Rs. 31,700) in the US, according to 9to5Google.
Fossil Gen 6 Venture Edition smartwatch goes official in India
Fossil has introduced a new Gen 6 series smartwatch in India, called the Gen 6 Venture Edition.
Google Pixel Watch bags Bluetooth certification; launch imminent
Google is gearing up to introduce the Pixel Watch soon.
Google Pixel Watch tipped to debut on May 26
Google is expected to launch its first smartwatch, the Pixel Watch, later this year. In the latest development, tipster Jon Prosser has revealed that the tech giant is planning to announce the wearable on May 26.
Fossil Gen 6 smartwatch, with AMOLED touchscreen, launched in India
Fossil has launched the Gen 6 model in India as its latest smartwatch. It carries a starting price-tag of Rs. 23,995 and will go on sale from September 27 via Amazon and the company's official website.
Google finally brings YouTube Music app to Wear OS
In September 2020, Google said it would phase out the Play Music app and YouTube Music would replace it. However, users of the Wear smartwatch operating system lost access to Play Music even before that.
Facebook could be secretly developing a smartwatch for 2022 launch
Social media giant Facebook is reported to be developing a smartwatch that is likely to launch next year. The device could be Android-based, although there is no confirmation if that will be the OS of choice.
Xiaomi launches smart speaker, smartwatch, soap dispenser, shoes, and more
Xiaomi has launched a flurry of products today in India.
OPPO Watch to launch on March 6: Details here
OPPO is all set to launch its first-ever smartwatch, the OPPO Watch on March 6, alongside the Find X2 and Find X2 Pro flagship smartphones.
Puma launches first smartwatch in India: Here's all about it
Leading sports brand Puma has launched its first-ever smartwatch in the Indian market.
Xiaomi launches Apple Watch lookalike for Rs. 13,000
Xiaomi has ventured into the wearables segment with its first-ever smartwatch, the Mi Watch.
Google acquires secret smartwatch tech for $40 million: Details here
Building on its ambitions to deliver an ideal Apple Watch competitor, Google has decided to invest $40mn in a mysterious smartwatch technology.