Android Wear 5.1.1 Lollipop It is one of the most relevant firmware updates that will reach all watches with the Google operating system, and it activates a very important feature: WiFi connectivity. Now, this new version is coming to all the watches that were waiting for it, starting with the Asus ZenWatch. In addition to the wireless connection, it provides interface, accessibility and security improvements that elevate the everyday smartwatch experience.
First for the LG Watch Urbane
Google has already announced that this new version would land first on the LG Watch Urbane, the South Korean company's watch with a metallic finish and a circular screen that currently seems to be the Apple Watch's biggest rival. It was logical that it would be the first watch, given that it came with this version of the operating system after being recently launched. Regarding those watches that would get the latest version through an update, which would be all others released with Android Wear, we were still waiting for the new firmware versions to arrive. And it seems the updates have started, as the Asus ZenWatch is now receiving its dose of updated software to Android Wear 5.1. 1 Lollipop.
Important news
It's not just an update, but one of the most important since Android Wear was introduced. Along with minor improvements, the big news is the ability to have Native WiFi in watches compatible (such as LG Watch Urbane, Moto 360, Sony SmartWatch 3 and Samsung Gear Live). Thanks to this, the watch can stay synchronized through the cloud when the mobile is far away or without battery, receiving emails and notifications from apps like Twitter or messaging.
Android Wear 5.1.1 also adds much-requested features: always-on apps (they keep the screen in low power mode to continue consulting, for example, a map), a new launcher with faster access and wrist gestures to move through cards without touching the screen. There is also the possibility of respond by drawing emojis, heads-up notifications within apps, quick switching between clocks from the Android Wear app, setting letter size or with a unlock pattern that protects data when the watch detects that it is not on the wrist.
This jump in Android Wear builds on the foundation of Lollipop on the phone: Material Design with fluid animations, the runtime environment ART for smoother performance, support 64 bits and a system of richer notifications (including configurable lock screen). In terms of connectivity, Android 5.x has improved Bluetooth LE, the capabilities of multi-network y NFC for payments and pairings, which translates into better synchronization and lower consumption between mobile and watch.
In the multimedia field, Lollipop introduced OpenGL ES 3.1 and AEP for advanced graphics, new APIs audio (including USB peripherals and codec opus) and one camera more controllable with RAW capture and improvements in HEVC. While these capabilities are primarily enjoyed on mobile, many companion apps on the watch benefit from faster transitions and more efficient content synchronization.
Android 5.1.1 is generally considered a bug fix update (bugfix release) that improves stability, optimizes memory, and polishes system details. On Nexus phones, it is usually available through factory images and by Staggered OTA; if the device is rootedSome OTAs may not appear, and you'll need to wait or install them manually using the official tools. For watches, the rollout is also gradual by model and region.
The function of WiFi on Android Wear It is key because it frees the watch from the range of classic Bluetooth: when both devices have Internet access, notifications and data travel through the google servicesThis way, you can leave your phone charging at home and stay on top of what's important from your wrist without missing a thing.
Android Wear 5.1. 1 Lollipop not only brings watches in line with the options on the market, it also strengthens a more agile, secure and connected, where developers have better APIs and users gain autonomy and real utility in their daily lives.
