While the rumour mills had already been churning out what the next Android Wear update might look like, the update is now official. Google has announced the new Android Wear update, and without further ado, let’s get straight to see what the new update offers.
Always-on screen, always-on apps
When you buy a watch you want it to, well, tell the time. So most Android Wear watches include an always-on screen—no tapping, twisting or shaking required to see what time it is. Now, Google is expanding this option to apps, so they can stay visible as long as you need them, instead of disappearing when you drop your arm. In either case the screen is only full color when you’re actively looking at it—so you get the info you need, and you save on battery life.
Wi-Fi support
As already expected, now Android Wear supports watches with built-in Wi-Fi. As long as your watch is connected to a Wi-Fi network, and your phone has a data connection (wherever it is), you’ll be able to get notifications, send messages, and use all your favorite apps. And if you really do forget your phone, you can always ask your watch where it is.
Simpler, faster, and more smiley
Apart from those two major updates, Google has also announced a slew of minor, yet necessary updates to Android Wear, to make it easier for you to check general info :
- Got your hands full? You no longer need them to check your news and notifications. Instead you can just flick your wrist to scroll through the stream.
- Your apps and contacts are now just a tap away from the watch face. Just touch the screen, and you’ll be able to start apps and send messages immediately.
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- Can’t talk? Now you can draw hundreds of different emojis, directly on the watch screen. Google claims that it will recognize your work and send it via message or text.
These updates are coming to all seven Android Wear watches over the next few weeks, starting with the new LG Watch Urbane.
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