Android Wear 2.0 It's the only operating system that currently has the potential to compete with watchOS. However, it needs a significant number of improvements if it truly wants to rival Apple's smartwatch operating system. These improvements will come with Android Wear 2.0. And the new version will arrive the 9 of February.
Android Wear 2.0 on February 9
Android Wear 2.0 This will be the major update that the operating system for smartwatches will receive very soon. Development versions of the system have been released for some time now, and although it was expected sooner, the decision was finally made to update it. polish the experience and postpone its arrival. Google has asked developers to prepare their apps for beginning of February, which fits with a presentation on February 9The date is not official, but that's what he claims. Evan Blass, one of the most reliable sources in the Android landscape.
Furthermore, everything suggests that she will arrive surrounded by two watches developed in conjunction with LG, known as LG Watch Style y LG Watch Sportdesigned to launch the platform and serve as a benchmark. The context is ideal: on the eve of a major mobility congress, where the sector's biggest innovations are usually showcased.
Key new features in Android Wear 2.0
The new version represents a significant leap forward in terms of functionality and usability. Among the most relevant changes are: standalone applications that are installed and run on the watch, direct access to Google Play from the wrist and improved watch support with LTE / 3GWiFi and Bluetooth, which enhances the experience without the phone nearby.
Also comes the mobile payments compatibility through Android Pay in models with NFC, along with new options for security, (PIN, pattern, or password). And finally, it's natively integrated. Google Assistant, which provides quick answers, actions and context throughout the day.
The interface has been redesigned with a dark theme and adapted Material Design, better app drawer organization and notifications clearer and richer. The watch faces They gain prominence thanks to more flexible complications that display data from any app, in the form of customizable “widgets”.
The text entry includes more methods: keyboard with swipe typing, handwriting recognition, voice dictation and smart answers Suggested depending on the context. For health and sports, Google Fit It improves automatic exercise detection and displays metrics such as calories, distance, pace, and heart rate, in addition to strength exercises.
More autonomy for watches
One of the features of the new version of the operating system is that Smartwatches will become even more independent of smartphonesIf smartwatches are ever to truly replace smartphones, they must first become completely autonomous and not depend on a smartphone's mobile connection. Standalone AppsWith the on-watch store and integrated connectivity, it's possible to play music and record routes. GPS, pay with NFC or answer messages without taking out your phone, as some promise Huami watches.
Google clock?
Besides this, we cannot forget that we had heard of the possibility of Google launching its own smartwatchesIf so, the launch of the new version of the operating system for smartwatches could be the ideal moment to announce these two new smartwatches. For now, though, we don't know for sure. We do know that other companies are working on new watches with this version of the operating system, such as ZTE and LG. Even so, we'll confirm all the features of this new version on February 9th.
Of the most talked-about models, LG Watch Sport y LG Watch Style They target different audiences. The Sport would be the most complete: 1,38-inch screen (480Ă—480), 768 MB of RAM4 GB of storage, 430 mAh battery, heart sensorLTE, GPS, NFC, WiFi and Bluetooth, with durability IP68KThe Style prioritizes comfort: 1,2 inches (360Ă—360), 512 MB of RAM4 GB, 240 mAh battery, WiFi/Bluetooth and durability IP67KA digital crown to navigate the interface.
Availability and updates on compatible watches
Google anticipates a phased deployment Following the launch, Android has confirmed a long list of devices that will receive Android Wear 2.0. These include:
- Moto 360 Gen 2
- Moto 360 Sport
- LG Watch Urbane 2nd Edition LTE
- LG Watch Urbane
- LG G Watch R
- polar M600
- Casio Smart Outdoor Watch
- Nixon Mission
- Tag Heuer Connected
- Fossil Q Wander
- Fossil Q Marshal
- Fossil Q Founder
- Michael Kors Access Bradshaw
- Michael Kors Access Dylan
- Huawei Watch
- Huawei Watch Ladies
- Asus ZenWatch 2
- Asus ZenWatch 3
Arrival dates and questions to clarify
The big unknown is the exact schedule For each model: Google speaks of "coming weeks" for all compatible models, a standard process that also depends on manufacturers and in some cases, operatorsWhat does seem clear is that with Wear 2.0, Android will be able to compete in equal footing Compared to alternatives like Tizen and watchOS, with a more mature focus on payments, health, and personalization, this version will play a significant role if general interest in smartwatches picks up.
