Moto 360 and Android Wear 5.1.1: Reasons for the delay and key new features

  • Motorola confirmed performance issues and is working with Google to fine-tune Android Wear 5.1.1 on the Moto 360.
  • Version 5.1.1 adds Wi-Fi, always-on apps, new gestures, locking, and accessibility improvements.
  • Google limits Wi-Fi support to four watches: the Moto 360, LG Watch Urbane, Sony Smartwatch 3, and Gear Live.
  • Safe recommendations: Update apps, restart and re-pair, and check for the OTA in Settings.

Motorola Moto 360 with Android Wear

There are several smart watches that have already received the Android 5.1.1 update, such as the LG G Watch R (which, by the way, it is now possible to activate WiFi connectivity). But there is one that has not received the new firmware yet and, precisely, it is one of the ones that most attracts the attention of users: the Motorola Moto 360.

There are not many details about the reason for this to be the case, or rather there were none ... since the company itself, when asked by a user showing their dissatisfaction with the delay in the arrival of the update, has answered by means of a message on Twitter what is happening.

According to the manufacturer itself, there have been performance issues in the tests that have been done with Android Wear 5.1. 1 and this is what has motivated that for the moment the users who have a Motorola Moto 360 are not enjoying the new features of this iteration. However, in the same message it has been indicated that it is already works with Google To resolve this and ensure it works as it should, all we have to do is be patient.

No concrete data

Well, this is so, since it has not been specifically indicated what happens with the Motorola Moto 360 when using the latest version of Android Wear, which on paper should enable WiFi support. Perhaps the problem is that the processor is a rather particular model - specifically, a Texas Instrument OMAP 3-, which could give some execution failures.

Motorola Moto 360

The point is that the improvements that come with Android Wear 5.1.1, Such as advanced use of gestures or lock the screen using the use of a pattern (without leaving aside the new way to use applications, much more comfortable and intuitive), are not yet part of the Motorola Moto 360. And, it seems, it may take a little longer taking into account that for now the performance when installing the new firmware is not adequate.

What Android Wear 5.1.1 brings to the Moto 360

Android Wear watches including Moto 360

This version is one of the major since the launch of the platform. Among its key features are the support for WiFi connectivity (allowing the watch to continue receiving notifications when Bluetooth is lost, as long as the network is saved on the phone), the mode always-on applications with monochrome display to save energy, and new gestures to check notifications or move through the list of apps more quickly.

It also incorporates a improved contacts menu, the option of pair multiple watches with the same smartphone, the possibility of draw emojis on the clock screen, adjust font size, floating notifications outside the main sphere and automatic lock when you're not wearing it. All of this is supported by a renewed launcher which facilitates access to frequently used apps and actions.

Deployment, WiFi compatibility, and clocks confirmed by Google

Motorola Moto 360 updates

The deployment of Android Wear 5.1.1 is done in a way progressive via OTA, so it doesn't reach everyone at once. It's a good idea to have both the watch and the Android Wear app on your phone. fully updatedRegarding WiFi connectivity, Google has confirmed that only the following compatible models offer it:

  • LG Watch Urbane
  • Motorola Moto 360
  • Sony Smartwatch 3
  • Samsung Gear Live

Recommendations for receiving OTA safely

If the update does not appear, there are some safe practices that can speed up its arrival without resorting to aggressive methods: keep the updated Android Wear app, Reiniciar watch and phone, unlink and relink the clock from the official app, check that the Google services are up to date and force a update search from the watch settings with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth active. User communities have discussed procedures that involve resetting the watch or reinstalling the app, but it is recommended avoid third-party APKs if you don't know exactly what you're doing.

Performance and autonomy after the update

Moto 360 Experience

Users who have already updated on other models highlight a noticeable improvement in fluency compared to previous versions and a management of more consistent battery thanks to the always-on monochrome app mode. On the Moto 360, when the stable OTA lands, a more agile in gestures, faster access to apps, and the extra convenience of stay connected via WiFi when the phone is not nearby. Features such as Maps turn-by-turn navigation, the use of gestures to change cards and pattern lock will bring a clear leap in usability.

That Motorola has publicly acknowledged the focus on performance and is working closely with Google shows an interest in offering a polished experience, without sacrificing key features. With a gradual rollout and additional verifications for its OMAP hardware, the arrival of Android Wear 5.1. 1 for the Moto 360 should result in a more stable update with all the expected benefits.

Source: Twitter.


Wear OS H
You might be interested in:
Android Wear or Wear OS: everything you need to know about this operating system
Add as preferred source in Google