Smart watches with the operating system A They do not offer the possibility of taking photos with them, since they do not have a camera (which is possible with some Samsung with Tizen, for example some watches with camera). But this doesn't mean they're useless when it comes to taking photos, as with the right app, you can turn your smartwatch into a smartphone or tablet's camera shutter.
This as long as the device used has an Android operating system, since otherwise it is not possible to synchronize as it is logical to think. The fact is that the possibility of using the smart watch to take a photo remotely without having to touch the mobile terminal at all. This allows wide possibilities when it comes to giving an extended use of both the smartwatch and the phone or tablet.
Use the right app
To achieve this functionality, it is necessary to install an application that allows adding this option when synchronizing the two devices, and one of those that offers just this is Google camera. By having this development installed, a new card appears on the smartwatch with Android Wear that allows a screen with a large fire button that if it is pressed a photo is taken (with a delay of three seconds to allow time to prepare everything if necessary).
Important: This option is available on watches with Wear OS 2 or higher and requires installation Google camera on the watch and compatible Android phone. Interface and features may vary depending on WearOS 3 or later. Other apps, such as Motorola's Camera app, also offer support for Android Wear.
Quick Start Guide with Google Camera on the Watch
- Activate the watch and open the list of applications.
- Swipe to find and tap Camera on the clock.
- Press the shutter from the center to shoot or start the 3s timer.
- Zoom: move the slider up to zoom in or down to zoom out.
- Timer: en Menu > Timer choose 3 s, 10 s o Disabled.
- Switch cameras: en Menu > Camera alternates between front and rear.
The photo that is taken is previewed on the smartwatch, but it has some limitations. For example, it is not possible to see what the camera will take before shooting and, furthermore, the aforementioned delay is not configurable, which somewhat limits its use.
A second option
There is another development for Android Wear that serves the same purpose as the one we mentioned before. It is called Wear Camera Remote and here you can see in detail how it is. This work has some interesting virtues, such as that yes allows you to preview the photo to be taken. In addition, the timer and the use of the flash is fully configurable.
This is a totally free application, like Google Camera, and it is also possible use it with both the touch screen and voice commands. By the way, this work works even when the phone or tablet screen is off. An excellent choice for watches with A. In addition, from the wrist you can change camera and adjust zoom meeting In a simple way.
Other alternatives and advanced functions
If you need more control, there are third-party apps like CameraOne, Wrist Camera, PixtoCam o Camera Remote Wear. They offer real time preview, control of zoom meeting, flash, exposure, white balance y filters/HDR; some add video, time-lapse, timers (2/5/10 s), save copies to the watch, and even shoot by twisting your wristSeveral are paid or require in-app purchases, but they allow you to try them out and work with your phone's screen off.
Compatibility, permissions and tips
- Install the app on both devices: phone version on mobile and watch version on smartwatch from Play Store.
- Avoid background shutdowns: Turn off battery saving for the app on your phone (brands like Huawei, Xiaomi, Nokia, or others may restrict it).
- Key Permissions: grants camera, storage (for saving photos/videos) and microphone if you record video.
- Connection and range: The preview works within the range of Bluetooth; if you notice delay, reset the clock.
- Third-party limitations: some apps use the APIs of the camera and not the settings in your camera app (exposure or phone filters may not apply).
- Manufacturer exceptions: solutions such as Samsung Camera Controller may require an unlocked mobile screen and a compatible Samsung phone.
With a few tweaks and the right app, your Wear OS watch can become a remote shutter release and viewfinder Very practical: from hands-free group photos to complex framing or recording in hard-to-reach places, all controlled from your wrist with speed and reliability.
