Wear OS 5, AI Features Coming to Older Pixel Watches – Here’s How to Update

Pixel Watch update introduces Wear OS 5: Google is rolling out a significant update to the original Pixel Watch and Pixel Watch 2, bringing Wear OS 5 and several new features to enhance user experience and functionality.

Key features of the update:

• A new grid-based app launcher is being introduced, offering a more efficient way to navigate apps
• Users can still opt for the traditional list-based launcher through system settings
• Health Services now supports additional running data types, including Ground Contact Time and Stride Length
• The AI-powered Recorder app from the Pixel Watch 3 is being added, featuring automatic transcription and summary generation
• Improved Camera controls, previously exclusive to the Pixel Watch 3, are coming to older models

Update rollout and availability:

• The update is being released in waves over the next week
• Availability depends on the user’s carrier and specific device
• Users will receive a notification when the update is ready for installation

How to install the update:

• Navigate to the System Updates section in the Pixel Watch’s Settings menu
• The device will check for available updates and install if found
• The smartwatch will restart automatically after the installation process

Additional improvements:

• The update includes numerous bug fixes, though specific details are not yet available
• A comprehensive list of repairs will be added to the Pixel Watch Security Bulletins page in the future

Broader implications: This update demonstrates Google’s commitment to supporting older Pixel Watch models, ensuring they remain competitive with newer smartwatches in the market.

• The addition of Wear OS 5 and new features like the AI-powered Recorder app showcases Google’s focus on bringing advanced functionality to its wearable ecosystem
• By improving the user interface with the grid-based app launcher and enhancing health tracking capabilities, Google is addressing common user pain points and preferences in smartwatch design
• The inclusion of features previously exclusive to newer models may help extend the lifespan of older Pixel Watches, potentially increasing customer satisfaction and loyalty

Looking ahead: As Google continues to refine and expand its smartwatch offerings, users can likely expect more updates and feature parity across different Pixel Watch generations, further solidifying the company’s position in the wearable technology market.