Google Launches Android Wear 2.0; Comes With Play Store, Updated Google Fit And More

Google has finally launched Android Wear 2.0 after being delayed multiple times after it was first revealed last year. The updated smartwatch operating system brings in some improvements to its existing software, while also adding some nifty new features.

Probably the most sought after new feature on Android Wear 2.0 is that it brings the Google Play Store right into smartwatches. This allows users to browse, download and install apps right on their device without it being connected to a smartphone. The apps are of course simplified versions of their smartphone counterparts, but it does make the smartwatch experience feel more untethered.

Google Play Music for example will let users listen to their playlists without a connected smartphone. However, users will need a wireless pair of headphones. That said, some apps still require a connected smartphone in order to fully function, as pointed out by Business Insider.

Android Wear 2.0 also makes smartwatches more like standalone devices. The updated OS supports WiFi and 3G or LTE cellular connectivity. This makes it possible for users to leave their smartphones at home and just rely on their smartwatches for taking calls, reading and replying to messages while they workout.

For responding to messages, Android Wear 2.0 allows users to dictate, type or handwrite their replies. This works on a lot of commonly used apps like Facebook Messenger, Google Messenger, Hangouts and WhatsApp. Their’s also the Smart Reply feature which automatically provides users with suggested responses so they’ll be able to reply with just a tap.

Smartwatches running Android Wear 2.0 are now also compatible with iPhones running iOS 9 or later. The only problem with this is that the new OS doesn’t support Apple’s iMessage, according to The Verge.

Android Wear 2.0 also comes with an improved fitness features thanks to the new Google Fit app. “[Google Fit] now lets you track your pace, distance, calories burned and heart rate as you’re walking, running or cycling,” Google said on its blog. “You can also measure weight-lifting reps, in addition to push-ups, sit-ups and squats.”

Android Wear 2.0 also bring in Google Assistant, the same powerful voice-activated digital assistant that’s on the Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones. Users will simply have to say “Ok Google” to activate the feature handsfree, or they can also hold down the power button. Android Pay is also added into the mix, but it will only work on devices that have an NFC chip.

Android Wear 2.0 will first be available on the newly announced LG Watch Style and the LG Watch Sport. IBT recently published an article detailing the features of the new LG Watches. The update will also be arriving on older smartwatches, but Google hasn’t given an exact date on when it will be available.

Here’s a list of older smartwatches compatible with the Android Wear 2.0 update: