Wear OS from Google: everything you need to know about the platform for wearable electronics

Smartwatches on the Wear OS platform

In March 2020, Wear OS replaced the Android Wear OS; watches on the updated platform perform the following functions: show the time, receive notifications and reminders, and monitor physical activity. Some of them have fitness tracker options, including a pedometer, heart rate and calorie counting. Many gadgets are equipped with a navigation unit and are compatible with absolutely any smartphone. In terms of functionality, smartwatches based on Wear OS differ little from a smartphone. Most devices have enough RAM and internal memory to run any application. The only limitation is the screen size.

Strava

Strava is one of the most comprehensive fitness apps in the fitness game, whether you're running on the pavement or jumping on your mountain bike. It also moves away from the smartphone in order to freely interface with wrist gadgets. Using GPS for precise tracking, it brings all the usual metrics of heart rate, distance and calories to the forefront.

The unique addition here is Route, a smart feature that allows you to save your current route for a later date or load a new one that another app user has already posted.

Adding a competitive element to your fitness routine, Strava also allows you to set records on your regular routes. If you drive to and from work the same way every day, your route will be divided into several blocks. Now this strip between the two traffic lights is your race track for the new PB.

There are currently standalone Strava apps for Apple Watch, Wear watch and Fitbit Ionic that take advantage of GPS. It may not be the best option, but there are certainly many more features than stock apps offer.

Free for: watchOS, Wear OS, Fitbit

Huawei Watch: elegance and style

The Huawei Watch is one of the most stylish wearable gadgets on the Wear OS platform. This is a good choice for those for whom appearance is a top priority. Their lightweight body looks sophisticated and elegant compared to most of the massive counterparts of other brands.

The smart gadget is characterized by an elegant design that matches any outfit and high-tech electronics. Main characteristics of Huawei Watch:

• energy-intensive battery;
• cardio load controller;
• voice assistant Google Assistant;
• Google Fit app;
• ability to use the Play Store.

One of the disadvantages is the lack of an NFC chip, so you won’t be able to make payments. Screen diameter is 42 mm with a diagonal of 1.4 inches. The metal bracelet can be easily replaced with a strap that fits the size. The watch is lightweight and comfortable to wear on your wrist while jogging or taking a long walk.

Huawei Watch 2 Sport 4G, advantages

Huawei Watch 2 Sport 4G is a watch with great functionality and an excellent sporty design. Advantages of the model:

1. The Amoled-based screen matrix supports high-quality images and color contrast.
2. The reinforced protective glass can withstand sufficient stress and makes the watch one of the most durable gadgets on the market.
3. Good performance, on par with most smartphones.
4. A powerful 4-core processor, 768 MB RAM and 4 GB memory allow for greater speed in browsing the Internet and many applications.
5. The built-in SIM card slot allows you to use the watch without a phone.
6. Built-in microphone and speaker, which means you can make and receive calls yourself.
7. Moisture resistance according to IP68 standard.
8. Economical battery and fast charging support.
9. GPS module and heart rate monitor, indispensable for jogging, swimming, long walks and training.
10. NFC for making payments.

The name of the model indicates its orientation. Huawei Watch 2 Sport 4G is an excellent choice for people who are interested in sports. A special Huawei Wear application is installed for them, displaying parameters such as distance traveled, current heart rate, and calories burned. After fitness, all information is sent to the application and can be easily viewed from a smartphone. The disadvantage of the model, according to user reviews, is the thickness of the case.

Universal model Genuine Leather Strap

The model combines the design of classic Swiss watches and modern technologies. Such an accessory will harmoniously fit into a business image and will become a useful addition to a smartphone, performing a set of functions, such as:

• viewing information from Google Now;
• control your smartphone's music player;
• transferring music to the watch's memory for listening via a Bluetooth headset;
• installation of watch faces and additional applications;
• receiving notifications;
• control notifications using voice or gesture commands;
• instant heart rate measurement using the built-in heart rate monitor;
• fast charging.

The manufacturing company traditionally paid a lot of attention to the appearance of the gadget. The round case made of durable jewelry steel is equipped with a 1.4-inch AMOLED screen with sapphire crystal. The set includes a strap made of genuine leather or stainless steel, which can be easily changed to another bracelet. The downside of the Genuine Leather Strap is the lack of an ambient light sensor. This means that the watch cannot automatically adjust the brightness.

Classic model 2 Classic

The stylish Huawei Watch 2 Classic smartwatch looks appropriate in any situation. Like most models from this manufacturer, they are distinguished by their elegant appearance and comfort to wear on the hand. The model is suitable for those who prefer traditional classics and do not need advanced functionality for fitness training.

The watch case is made of plastic with a stainless steel bezel. It is visually thinner than other models. To the right of the screen are two protruding buttons that are programmable as desired. By default, the top button is designed to open the application menu, the bottom button is for sports training. If the watch owner is not interested in fitness, he can easily reprogram the button for another application. The advantages of the model include:

• presence of NFC module;
• long operating time thanks to energy savings;
• high resolution screen;
• moisture and dust protection according to IP68 standard;
• resistance to mechanical stress and cracking;
• sapphire glass protecting the screen;
• possibility of replacing the original strap.

Negative points include the lack of a SIM card slot and LTE support, which makes it impossible to make and answer calls. This means that a watch cannot fully replace a smartphone.

Google Maps

The Google Maps application probably does not need advertising; almost every user has used it, if not on a watch, then on a smartphone for sure. By installing the application on a watch with built-in GPS, you can easily and quickly find your way almost anywhere in the world, without the need to connect to a smartphone.

The app supports approximately 220 countries and regions around the world with millions of different businesses and points of interest, transportation routes, restaurants and attractions. The function of viewing photographs of streets and premises allows you to get acquainted with the interior and exterior without even being in this place.

For free.

What attracts Sony SmartWatch 3

The model on the Wear OS platform stands out from a number of competing products with its original screen. Smartwatch Android Wear SmartWatch 3 surprised fans of the previous Sony model. In fact, this is a new device, not related to SmartWatch 2 in any way except the manufacturer. The main feature of the model is the built-in GPS program, which is missing in most smartwatches on the Wear OS platform. The design of SmartWatch 3 was chosen without a focus on high style: a silicone strap and a simple rectangular metal case with a single power button.

Such a gadget does not attract attention and will easily fit into a business, sports, or everyday look. The company logo is hidden on the back surface of the case. In silicone version, in addition to the classic black and white strap colors, there are bright color options, which competitors do not have. The manufacturer also presented a modification with a metal strap. Some characteristics:

• 4-core ARM A7 processor clocked at 1.2 GHz;
• 512 MB OP;
• 4 GB storage;
• Bluetooth 4.0;
• charging via microUSB cable included in the kit;
• NFC for contactless payments and synchronization with other gadgets equipped with this module;
• GPS with voice input;
• a pedometer that tracks the distance traveled;
• standard set of sensors: accelerometer, gyroscope, light and compass;
• alert mode;
• simple, intuitive swipe controls;
• waterproof.

The lack of a heart rate sensor is frustrating. One of the disadvantages is also a design feature - to connect the cable you need to remove the watch case from the strap. Frequent repetition of such manipulation will lead to stretching and wear. Smart Watch 3 is compatible with a tablet or smartphone running Android 4.3 and higher.

Wear OS from Google: everything you need to know about the platform for wearable electronics

We decided to collect the most interesting information about Wear OS in one review. What kind of system is this, its strengths and weaknesses. In addition, we will talk about smart watches that use it, as well as much more...

Google's Wear OS platform has undergone significant changes in recent years.

However, the core of the operating system remains the same as it was back in 2014, and despite its shortcomings, it is one of the best options for those who have an Android phone. Oddly enough, for an iPhone, a smartwatch on this operating system is a very good option.

Before you dive into the wonderful world of Wear OS, you need to know more about it. And in this guide, we'll detail exactly what it is, how it works, the best smartwatches running Wear OS, and more.

What is Wear OS from Google?

Almost all smartwatches have a specific software platform. For Apple Watch, this is watchOS. For Samsung it's Tizen. For Fitbit it's FitbitOS. Well, you understand.

Wear OS works a little differently, however, as Google partners with third-party smartwatch makers. Thus, instead of smart watches from Google, watches from brands such as Fossil, Michael Kors, Skagen, TicWatch and Casio are carriers of this OS. This means there is a much greater variety of designs in the Wear OS catalog. However, just like the Android smartphone platform, the software is pretty much the same from device to device.

What can smartwatches on Wear OS do?

It is important for any user to know what the platform is capable of. Especially if you want to buy your first smart watch.

Gadgets on this platform are much more than just a second smartphone screen. Here is a list of some of the most prominent features (depending on the specific model):

* Track daily activity and workouts; * Heart rate data; * Google Assistant; * Google Pay; * GPS location tracking; * Synchronization of Google Calendars; * Google Maps navigation; * Smart features, notifications and calls; * Alarm clock and stopwatch.

Which Wear OS smartwatch is best?

Below we've rounded up the five best, in our opinion, Wear OS smartwatches you can buy in 2020, but we recommend checking out our detailed Wear OS watch review so you'll have plenty to choose from.

Best Men's Wear OS Watch: Fossil Carlyle HR

The new generation of Fossil Gen 5 watches, which appeared in 2020, contains the features of the Gen 4 models, a speaker and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 3100 chip.

With its mid-range price and simple, classic smartwatch design, it's an ideal choice for men in need of a Wear OS watch.

The best women's Wear OS watches: Michael Kors Access Sofie

The popular gadget offers a much-needed heart rate sensor, GPS, and Google Pay support.

It's still a smartwatch with a great design above all, but now there's the ability to use it as a full-fledged sports monitoring companion.

Best Wear OS for Exercise: Fossil Sport

One of the first Wear OS smartwatches to feature the Snapdragon 3100 chip is also a great example of how the platform can be used primarily for sports and exercise.

They come in two sizes, several different colors, and the lightweight body and strap make it ideal for swimmers, runners, and more.

Learn more about Fossil Sport

The best unisex watch on Wear OS: Skagen Falster 2

Perhaps the most elegant smartwatch on Wear OS is the Skagen Falster series, which was updated at the end of 2020.

Like other fourth-generation Wear smartwatches, it gains GPS, NFC, heart rate support and water resistance that were missing from the first iteration, and the improvements make it a versatile option for both men and women.

Find out more about Skagen Falster 2

Best budget Wear OS watch: TicWatch E2

Perhaps one of the best representatives of budget watches in the Wear OS collection. The TicWatch E2 is packed with features, has a great screen and is ideal for sports enthusiasts.

The design is not too original and is quite simple compared to more expensive watches on this operating system. In our opinion, this is an excellent option in terms of price/quality ratio.

Downloading apps on Wear OS

The ability to download applications directly from the watch, without using a smartphone, will not surprise anyone. And Wear OS is quite convenient in this regard. You can browse the Google Play Store on your smartwatch screen and install what you want instantly. Of course, the ability to download via phone (via Bluetooth) remains.

Don't forget that many apps, like Spotify and Cardiogram, come pre-installed on most Wear watches.

You can use our guide to installing Wear OS apps, and we've rounded up five apps to get you started:

1. UV Index Now

2. Strava

3. FourSquare

4. Google Keep

5.Facer Watch Faces

Changing watch faces on Wear OS

After you've read the instructions, downloaded a couple of apps, and figured out the basic functions and capabilities of Wear OS, you'll probably want to customize what you'll look at the most—the watch face.

It doesn’t matter whether you prefer digital or analogue options, or just want to change the widgets of the already selected watch face, you can do this simply from the watch itself:

1. Activate the screen on the smart watch;

2. On the main screen, click on the display itself and hold for two seconds;

3. Viewing the dials available on the watch is possible by swiping from left to right;

4. Click on the option that you want to set as a new watch face.

Well, we have collected a very small part of the beautiful dials here.

Wear OS for iPhone

One of the most common questions we get asked is: “Can Wear OS watches work with iPhone?”

The answer is yes.

While Apple does not allow Android smartphone users to use the Apple Watch, iPhone users can use Wear OS smartwatches.

And for a long time, the Wear OS iPhone app was extremely basic and feature-less. However, recent updates have allowed Apple phone users to access Tiles, notification settings, calendar syncing, Google Assistant, Google Fit and a huge collection of watch faces.

This solution is still far from the capabilities that are available to owners of Android smartphones, but it is quite enough to not feel discomfort in daily use.

Activity tracking on Wear OS

Wear OS is gradually getting better in terms of physical activity monitoring. Especially since fourth-generation devices received GPS and built-in heart rate monitors.

However, having sensors is only half the job, and every second of recorded activity is uploaded to the application in which it is stored. In the case of Wear OS, this application is Google Fit. Google Fit, available on both your phone and smartwatch, breaks down your daily activity into two key components: Activity Minutes and Heart Rate Points.

This is also where your exercise stats, step count history, sleep data, and weight information are stored (under a tab called Log).

Wear OS and voice assistant

Google has always placed more emphasis on the older platform than Wear, which is why the search giant believes Google Assistant is an important addition to smartwatches.

With the addition of a built-in speaker to fifth-generation Wear OS devices, Assistant plays an even more important role.

In terms of watch experience, Google Assistant is more consistent, logical and relevant than Alexa (which is only available on the Fitbit Versa 2 and now on some Amazfit devices), offering strong app integration and serious functionality.

Google Pay on Wear OS

Despite the fact that Google Pay was not the first to enter the contactless payment market, the system is supported by almost all Wear OS smartwatches of the 2020 model year and newer gadgets.

As you might guess, this works similarly to Google Pay on smartphones - or any other payment platform.

We've covered all the features of Google Pay on Wear OS in detail in a large guide, but if your watch supports this feature, then just follow these step-by-step instructions to add a card to your wrist and use it to pay.

Add a payment card to your smartwatch: 1. Open the Google Pay application on the smartwatch;

2. Click on the “Start” button;

3. Set up a screen lock if you have not already done so;

4. On your phone, follow the instructions to add a credit or debit card. This will only add them to the watch, not to the phone;

5. The map will appear on the watch.

How to make a payment using Google Pay on a smart watch: 1. On the watch, open the Google Pay application and select a card;

2. Debit card transactions may require you to enter a PIN.

3. Hold the watch over the contactless payment terminal until you hear a sound or feel vibration from the watch.

We will be adding more information and instructions on using this operating system, so stay tuned!

Source: wear-gadget

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Key Features of ASUS ZenWatch 2

The ASUS ZenWatch 2 smart watch is available in 2 versions: for men (WI501Q) and women (WI502Q). They are equipped with different straps, differ in case design and some technical characteristics. In terms of external design, the watch looks more like a classic one thanks to the smooth contours of the case and the small on/off button on the right side.

Users are offered 3 case design options and 9 types of straps. Both versions use AMOLED displays with concave protective glass coated with an oleophobic film. The display diagonal of the WI501Q is slightly larger - 1.63 inches versus 1.45 inches for the WI502Q. The watch OS has changed little compared to previous models. A few features of ASUS ZenWatch 2:

1. Change of dial design. It’s easy to find dozens of designs on Google Play, and you can also come up with your own version.
2. Ability to control the watch manually or with gestures using the built-in gyroscope and accelerometer.
3. Using voice commands it is easy to control applications, send SMS and write notes, search for information, initiate calls.

The battery capacity allows the watch to operate autonomously for one day. It is worth emphasizing that in this model the developer abandoned the heartbeat sensor. That's why none of the apps measure your heart rate.

strong

When you go to the gym, you can bypass the treadmills and ellipticals entirely and sweat in the weights section instead. If this sounds like you, Strong is one of the strongest options you can consider as your partner.

It can't spot you on the bench, but it can help you plan your workouts and monitor your lifting patterns over time. Once you've synchronized the exercises and number of sets you want to perform, you can enter the weight and number of reps you've been managing on the go, with preset rest periods between sets.

To the point

All Apple Watch Models: Choose the Right Model, Size and Style for You!

And since Apple has yet to use the Watch's built-in sensors to automatically count your reps and identify your exercise routines, this is one of the most effective apps for helping you improve your workouts. As for Wear OS users, although the app has a smartphone version, it unfortunately hasn't made it to the wrist yet.

It's worth noting that there is a subscription option for those who want to add more sessions and access charts, but most will find the free version to be up to the task.

Free, watchOS

LG Watch Style review

Users who place great importance on appearance and comfort will love the Wear Os platform gadget - the LG Watch Style. Design Features:

• The round case is made in 3 colors: titanium, silver and rose gold;
• the side edges and frames around the display are made of stainless steel;
• the back side adjacent to the hand is made of plastic for wireless charging;
• The screen glass is super durable and is not afraid of mechanical damage;
• rotating side button for moving through the menu, turning pages, calling Google Assistant;
• Snap-and-Swap mechanism for attaching straps, allowing them to be separated from the case with a slight movement;
• strap made of soft Italian leather with a standard clasp.

Externally, the watch looks stylish and neat. They will look great on both women's and men's wrists. The LG Watch Style compares favorably with analogues from other brands in several ways of control. The user can choose a touch screen or a side button for this, which is indispensable in subzero temperatures. The latest models also have a wrist control option, allowing you to view and read a message using the movement of your hand. Other advantages of the LG Watch Style smartwatch:

1. Availability of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
2. Protection against dust and moisture according to IP67 standard.
3. Wireless charger.
4. Software with useful functions.

Among the disadvantages, we can note the rapid discharge of the battery when working in offline mode (1 day), as well as the lack of a heart rate sensor and GPS navigator.

Photo Gallery for Android Wear

Since you can already take photos from your watch using PixtoCam, why not consider taking photos from your watch too? Photo gallery for Android Wear is great for smartwatches. Just launch it and you'll see a scrollable list of all the folders containing images on your phone. Opening individual photos allows you to pinch them to enlarge them and move them around to take a closer look at the details. The application is free only for the latest photos, and if you want to view old ones, you have to pay $3 and they will be unlocked. A very clever system.

You can download it here.

Review of Ticwatch watches from Mobvoi

The Chinese company Mobvoi is known for creating several models of Ticwatch smart watches. The first versions were released on our own TicWear OS. In 2020, the following modifications TicWatch S and TicWatch E were released on the Wear OS platform. They quickly gained popularity among fans of the brand and a high rating among similar gadgets. This year a new version of the TicWatch Pro watch was released. A characteristic feature of this model is the use of 2 displays placed one on top of the other.

This feature saves energy and thereby increases the operating time of the gadget. Some characteristics:

• sensors for monitoring sports activity and heart rate;
• NFC module for contactless payments;
• the first color OLED display is designed to display Wear OS information;
• The additional FSTN LCD display is transparent and is located on top of the first one. When disabled, information displayed on the main screen is visible through it. When you change the operating mode, you switch between displays.

A new product from the developer is a special Essential Mode, when turned on, TicWatch Pro performs the functions of a simple electronic watch and works without recharging for 30 days. The smartwatch options are deactivated and the device switches to the secondary display. Only the pedometer and heart rate sensor remain active.

Semi - 7 minute workout

Sure, you can go to your local gym and risk getting completely beaten up by a personal trainer, but your self-esteem will thank you for ditching that idea and tying a workout regimen to your wrist.

Following the popular seven minute workout plan, this app offers access to your workout plan on your wrist. Offering visual reminders of what's coming next, Seven will also count down your remaining reps to make sure you don't feel like cheating your way through.

Once your quick workout is complete, the app will display your workout results, and your average heart rate map will help show how your fitness level is improving week after week. It is so simple.

Free for: watchOS, Wear OS

To the point

How to Use Spotify on Apple Watch

Smart Watch with GPS based on Wear Os By Google Polar M600

The Polar M600 smart watch is an indispensable assistant for a professional athlete. They allow you to stay connected while training without a smartphone. The gadget has a laconic design, decorated in a sporty style in black or white. The square case is built into a silicone bracelet. The material is hypoallergenic and does not cause discomfort when worn. Main features of Polar M600:

1. An optical heart rate monitor with 6 LEDs built into the body, with hypersensitive touch sensors.
2. Autonomous operation provided by a rechargeable battery with a capacity of 500 mAh.
3. Own OP, allowing the gadget to work independently.
4. Waterproof housing.
5. Two connection modules.
6. Menu support in 14 languages.
7. Navigation system – GPS and GLONASS.
8. A set of functions necessary for fitness: determining the load level, drawing up an individual training plan, building running and cycling routes, determining location, switching the training profile depending on the type of sport.

Users are attracted by the simple control, which is carried out using 2 round buttons. One of them is responsible for turning on, the second for the training mode. Another plus in favor of the Polar M600 is its reasonable price.

Smartwatch FOSSIL Gen 3 Smartwatch Q Explorist

Smart watches from the famous American brand are traditionally made in a classic design with a round screen with a diameter of 46 mm and 3 functional buttons. The case is made of stainless steel, its thickness is 12.5 mm.

Modern technologies were used in the development, thanks to which the watch has the following functional features:

1. Automatic display of received notifications on the screen: SMS, calls, emails, reminders.
2. Several ways to respond to incoming notifications: through voice commands, emoticons, quick replies.
3. Transfer music tracks to the watch's memory and listen to them using a Bluetooth headset without having to take your phone with you.
4. Bluetooth Smart technology, which synchronizes watches with smartphones on the Android and iOS platforms, controls the camera, music playback, and notifications.
5. Personalization in the Google Play Store.
6. The built-in fitness tracker option is used to count the number of steps taken, distance and calories burned.
7. Voice assistant Google Assistant.
8. Update time according to the current time zone automatically.
9. One day of offline operation.
10. Moisture protection according to IP67 standard.

The functionality of the gadget can be easily expanded by downloading applications available on Google Play.

KingWear KW88

Unlike many similar devices with Android OS, KW88 allows you to surf the Internet, watch videos, listen to music, and even take photos.

A small two-megapixel camera will allow you to get normal image quality.

And the ability to install a SIM card allows you to use them like a regular phone - make calls, receive calls and SMS, and type messages (although with such a relatively small screen this is not so easy to do).

Options:

• screen: 1.39";
• processor: MTK6580 1.39 GHz;
• operating system: Android 5.1;
• memory: 512 MB RAM and 4 GB ROM;
• camera: 2 megapixels;
• functions: calls, pedometer, connection with Android smartphones;
• battery: 400 mAh;
• price: from 7000 rub.

KingWear KW88

Luxury TAG Heuer Connected smartwatch

TAG Heuer Connected is the first smartwatch from the Swiss luxury brand. Therefore, they enjoy increased attention from a wide audience. The class of watches begins with packaging, which looks expensive and is radically different from what other manufacturers offer.

The design follows the Carrera model, so visually the TAG Heuer Connected looks like a traditional watch. The case is made of lightweight titanium and features a large working screen covered with sapphire crystal. The stylish look is completed by a rubber strap, available in 6 colors in addition to black.

The smart gadget is based on Wear Os By Google and can do everything that its analogues can. Main characteristics:

• receiving notifications on the screen;
• communication on social networks;
• voice control;
• translator;
• built-in navigation program that tracks location;
• dial collection;
• support for multi-finger recognition;
• displaying incoming updates on the screen;
• developer company applications;
• standard applications.

The disadvantages are the lack of a SIM card slot, speakers, sleep monitoring, steps, and heart rate. The inconvenience can be easily eliminated by downloading the Google healthcare app. The price of the device corresponds to the brand name and starts from $1,500 on the Russian market.

Selection of watches based on functions

The watches differ in design and orientation. The user chooses a model depending on preferences: use without a phone, paying for purchases in a store, monitoring physical activity, stylish design. Before purchasing it is recommended:

1. Explore a selected list of smartwatch models from different manufacturers.
2. Read the detailed characteristics of the gadget and find out the pros and cons, analyze sales ratings and owner reviews.
3. Pay attention to the presence of an NFC chip if you plan to make payments.
4. Find out the presence of additional applications, for example Heart Rate and Daily Tracking, which show the current heart rate, changes in heartbeat and help plan physical activity, aimed at sports fans.
5. Check the battery characteristics and battery saving mode, which is important for long hikes.

When choosing a smartwatch on the Wear OS platform, it is recommended to note that some models only work in certain countries.